If Carlsberg Did Drone Adventures: Teesside to Weardale Wonders

Some days are just meant to be unforgettable, and today was one of those days. As the famous tagline goes, "If Carlsberg did," this might just be their version of a perfect drone exploration day—packed with history, stunning views, and diverse locations. With the iconic landmarks of Teesside in the morning and the rugged beauty of Weardale in the afternoon, today was a celebration of everything the Northeast has to offer.

Armed with my drone, camera, and an endless sense of curiosity, I explored everything from bridges and churches to industrial relics and breathtaking night skies. Here's how the day unfolded:

Windmill Near Aycliffe Village: A Rural Sentinel

This historic windmill stands as a symbol of the agricultural heritage of County Durham. Built in the early 19th century, it was once part of a thriving rural economy, grinding grain to feed the local community. Though its sails are long gone, the sturdy stone structure has weathered time, offering a glimpse into the past. Windmills like this were vital before industrialization, often acting as local landmarks and meeting points.

The drone captured sweeping views of the windmill surrounded by fields, the frost-covered ground adding a sense of tranquillity. From above, its cylindrical design contrasted beautifully with the natural contours of the landscape.

St Andrew’s Church, Sadberge: A Norman Treasure

Dating back to the 12th century, St Andrew’s Church is a stunning example of Norman architecture. Its rounded arches and sturdy stonework reflect the simplicity and strength of early medieval church design. The church has been a focal point for the village of Sadberge for centuries, and its quiet graveyard tells the stories of generations past. The tower, added later, gives the church an enduring sense of character.

Aerial photos highlighted the church’s position within the village, nestled among cottages and fields. The drone captured the intricate stonework and the serene churchyard from angles that are otherwise impossible to appreciate.

Preston Hall: A Mansion Steeped in History

Built in 1825, Preston Hall was originally a Georgian country house for a wealthy family. Now a museum, it showcases the industrial and social history of Teesside, offering visitors a chance to explore everything from Victorian interiors to local crafts. Its location by the River Tees enhances its grandeur, with carefully maintained gardens that invite reflection.

The drone footage showed the hall’s commanding presence, with wide shots capturing its riverside setting and symmetrical Georgian architecture. Panoramic views highlighted its landscaped grounds, even in their winter guise.

Yarm Viaduct: A Testament to Victorian Innovation

Constructed in 1851, Yarm Viaduct is one of the region’s most impressive railway structures. Spanning the River Tees with 43 arches, this brick-built marvel is still in use today, connecting the North East with the wider rail network. Its design showcases the ingenuity of Victorian engineers, balancing function and beauty in equal measure.

The drone captured stunning reflections of the viaduct in the River Tees. Aerial video traced the arc of the railway line as it soared over the valley, highlighting the viaduct’s harmonious integration into the landscape.

St John The Baptist Church, Egglescliffe: A Sacred Hilltop Haven

Perched on a hill overlooking the River Tees, this church has stood since the 12th century. Its Norman origins are evident in its thick walls and rounded windows, while later additions have blended seamlessly into its design. The surrounding churchyard, with its weathered gravestones, offers a peaceful setting that feels timeless.

The drone captured the church’s elevated position, emphasizing its commanding views over the valley. Close-ups of the structure showcased its architectural features, while wide shots revealed its role as a sentinel above the river.

Holy Trinity Church, Stockton: Gothic Revival Excellence

Built in 1835, this Gothic Revival masterpiece is a standout feature in Stockton’s urban landscape. Its detailed stonework reflect the Victorian era’s ambition and pride. Though no longer in use as a church following a fire, it remains a cherished landmark, telling the story of Stockton’s growth and aspirations.

The drone focused on the intricate details of the spire and the symmetry of the building’s design. Wider shots placed the church within its bustling urban surroundings, a reminder of Stockton’s layered history.

Middlesbrough Riverside Stadium: A Beacon of Modern Teesside

Home to Middlesbrough FC since 1995, this sleek stadium symbolizes the town’s resilience and sporting spirit. Its location on the River Tees provides stunning views and easy access, making it a key feature of Middlesbrough’s skyline. The stadium has hosted countless memorable matches, firmly rooting itself in the hearts of locals.

The drone captured 360-degree panoramas of the stadium, with the river reflecting its sharp lines. The footage emphasized its modernity while situating it within Middlesbrough’s industrial backdrop.

Temenos: Art Meets Industry

This striking steel sculpture by Anish Kapoor is both a nod to Middlesbrough’s industrial past and a statement of its cultural future. Its geometric elegance contrasts with the rugged Teesside skyline, creating a thought-provoking interplay of art and environment.

Aerial footage captured the sculpture’s delicate interplay with its surroundings, highlighting its unique shape from every angle. The drone emphasized its role as a bridge between the industrial and the artistic.

Middlesbrough Hydraulic Clock Tower: Timekeeping and Innovation

Built in 1912, the Hydraulic Clock Tower once played a crucial role in managing the operations of Middlesbrough’s bustling docks. This striking brick structure housed the hydraulic systems that powered cranes and other dock machinery while serving as a timekeeper for the port’s workers. Its unique blend of function and style made it a standout feature of Middlesbrough’s industrial landscape.

The drone captured stunning close-ups of the clock tower’s intricate brickwork and its bold, utilitarian design. Wide shots revealed its strategic placement near the old dock areas, reminding us of its role in keeping Middlesbrough running efficiently in its industrial heyday. The tower stands as a proud reminder of the ingenuity that fueled Teesside’s growth.

Middlesbrough Transporter Bridge: Teesside’s Iconic Skyline Feature

Opened in 1911, the Middlesbrough Transporter Bridge is a masterpiece of Edwardian engineering. At 851 feet long and towering 160 feet above the River Tees, it is the longest working transporter bridge in the world. Designed to ferry workers and goods across the Tees, its unique gondola system remains a marvel. Over a century later, it stands as a proud symbol of Middlesbrough’s industrial heritage.

The drone brought out the grandeur of the bridge, highlighting its intricate steel framework from multiple angles. Panoramic views captured its sweeping span over the river, with the Teesside skyline framing the shot. The drone video included glimpses of the gondola below, emphasizing the bridge’s enduring functionality.

St Matthew's Church, Waskerley: A Quiet Beacon on the Moors

Tucked away in the windswept landscapes of Waskerley, St Matthew's Church is a humble yet striking building that once served the local community. Built in the 19th century, it reflected the growing need for spiritual services for workers in the nearby quarries and railways. Although no longer active as a parish church, its solid design and simple architecture still capture the character of the moorland communities.

The drone captured the church standing in serene isolation, surrounded by undulating hills dusted with snow. Aerial shots revealed its commanding position on the moors, with its grey stone walls blending harmoniously into the wintery surroundings. It’s a truly peaceful and reflective location.

Bolts Law Standing Engine: Snow-Draped Legacy

The Bolts Law Standing Engine, a relic of Weardale’s mining heritage, once hauled lead ore from the mines to processing areas. Situated on the windswept moors, it’s a haunting reminder of the toil and triumph of industrial pioneers. Snow-covered today, it stood as a stark monument to a bygone era.

The drone’s wide-angle shots framed the engine house against the snow-covered moorland, emphasizing its isolation and endurance. Panoramic views captured its historical significance in the broader landscape.

Starry Skies Over Weardale: A Celestial Finale

With no light pollution, Weardale’s skies offered a stunning view of the stars and the Milky Way. The evening’s clarity was perfect for capturing celestial wonders, and the cold air only heightened the drama of the night sky.

Using my phone, I captured the stars against silhouettes of Weardale’s rugged terrain. The breathtaking views were a fitting end to an unforgettable day.

Reflections on the Day

"If Carlsberg did drone adventures," today would be their masterpiece. From Teesside’s industrial giants to Weardale’s serene snow-covered relics, each stop offered something unique. The variety of landscapes and stories reminded me why I love capturing the Northeast’s essence from above.

Here’s to many more adventures like this! 🚁✨