Kidd's Dam

Lake, Pool, Pond, Freshwater Marsh in Durham

England

Kidd's Dam

Furniture on Killhope Cross County sign, Weardale sign, watershed and the old stone cross stand beside the highest point an &quot;A&quot; Road attains in England. — Furniture on Killhope Cross Credit: Chris Heaton

Kidd's Dam, located in Durham, is a man-made structure that serves as a freshwater reservoir and recreation area for the local community. Situated near the Kidd's Hill neighborhood, the dam was constructed in the early 1950s to provide a reliable water source for the surrounding region.

Covering an area of approximately 30 acres, Kidd's Dam creates a picturesque lake, pool, and pond complex. The water body is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a serene environment for various recreational activities. The calm waters of the lake are perfect for boating, kayaking, and fishing enthusiasts, providing ample opportunities to catch species such as bass, catfish, and sunfish.

The dam also features a sandy beach area, attracting visitors during warmer months who enjoy swimming and sunbathing. Picnic tables and shaded areas are available for those seeking a relaxing spot to unwind and enjoy a meal amidst the natural beauty.

Apart from its recreational value, Kidd's Dam supports a thriving freshwater marsh ecosystem. The marshland adjacent to the lake is home to a diverse array of plants and wildlife, including water lilies, cattails, turtles, and various bird species. Nature lovers can explore the marshland and observe its inhabitants, making it a popular spot for birdwatching and nature photography.

Kidd's Dam is maintained by the local authorities to ensure the safety and enjoyment of visitors. It remains a cherished destination for residents and tourists alike, providing a tranquil escape and an opportunity to connect with nature in the heart of Durham.

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Kidd's Dam Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 54.78185/-2.2846057 or Grid Reference NY8143. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Furniture on Killhope Cross

County sign, Weardale sign, watershed and the old stone cross stand beside the highest point an "A" Road attains in England.

Chris Heaton

The A689 climbing eastward to the watershed at Slate Hill

Leaving Nentdale and approaching the head of Weardale

Tim Heaton

The A689 crossing the Cumbria/Durham county boundary at the top of Slate Hill

The 'Kilhope Cross' stone cross in front of the sign is a Listed Grade II "Boundary marker of uncertain date but possibly medieval; moved to its present site in C18." Link

Tim Heaton

Boundary stone near fence angle on Slate Hill

Slate Hill is a location close to the A689 at Killhope Cross, the highest point reached by any A-classified road in England. The stone is cleanly and deeply cut, 'C 1863'. It's on the County Durham / Cumbria boundary which in 1863 would have been between Durham and Cumberland. It's possible then, but not certain that the C denotes the county; there's no corresponding D on the other side, nothing in fact. Knoutberry Hill is in the distance.

Trevor Littlewood

Old Boundary Marker

County Boundary Marker against the boundary fence on Slate Hill, north of Killhope Cross CBED_ALS. On the boundary of Alston Moor, Cumbria, was Cumberland, and Stanhope, County Durham. Milestone Society National ID: CU_ALMSTA02cb

Colin Smith

Heading away from Killhope Law

A hill walker heading along the broad moorland ridge separating Weardale lying to the right, and West Allendale. Killhope Law's summit is around 300 metres behind the camera position.

Trevor Littlewood

Washing Floor at the Killhope Lead Mining Museum

At the time of my visit, entrance was free to this well preserved lead mining museum. This shows the washing floor where trucks full of ore were wheeled out of the Park Level Mine to be processed beside the track.

Chris Heaton

Mine Shop at Killhope

Part of the restored Killhope Lead Mining Museum, the Mine Shop provided accommodation for workers in this remote location. At the time of my visit - entry to the exhibits and location was free.

Chris Heaton

Killhope Water Wheel

Part of the Killhope Lead Mining Museum is this fully restored 10 metre waterwheel. Unfortunately on my visit the Jigger House, Buddle House and wheel were temporarily closed - though entrance to the museum was free.

Chris Heaton

Headwaters of Killhope Burn

One of the main feeders of the River Wear, flowing east downstream

Chris Heaton

Descending East off Killhope Cross

A689 descending off Killhope Cross into County Durham and towards Weardale

Chris Heaton

Killhope Bank

The A689 descending off Killhope Cross into Weardale

Chris Heaton

White Hall

Remote dwelling as seen from the A689, beside the upper reaches of the Killhope Burn

Chris Heaton

Weardale Way descending towards Killhope Lead Mining Museum

This is very close to the western terminus of the Weardale Way. The track is in the Weardale Forest, which has been recently been felled in this location.

Chris Heaton

Upper Reaches of the Killhope Burn

As seen from the ford which serves the access track for the Killhope Lead Mining Museum. The A689 Alston/Upper Weardale Road can be seen on the far side of the watercourse.

Chris Heaton

Weardale Way approaching Kidd's Dam

The long distance footpath in a felled portion of the Weardale Forest - approaching a small reservoir, a relic from the long passed lead mining activities that once thrived here.

Chris Heaton