Carter Fell

Downs, Moorland in Roxburghshire

Scotland

Carter Fell

Rock outcrops by the Bateinghope mine track There are a number of outcrops in this area, some of which appear to have been quarried, possibly for a surfacing for the mine track although there appears to be little evidence remaining of this.

This photograph was taken during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic of 2020. — Rock outcrops by the Bateinghope mine track Credit: James T M Towill

Carter Fell is a stunning area located in Roxburghshire, Scotland, known for its picturesque downs and moorland. It is situated in the southern part of the country, near the border with England. This area boasts breathtaking natural beauty, with rolling hills and expansive open spaces.

The downs in Carter Fell are characterized by their gently sloping terrain and lush green grasslands. They provide a perfect backdrop for leisurely walks, picnics, and outdoor activities. The moorland, on the other hand, offers a more rugged and wild landscape. It is covered in heather and scattered with rocky outcrops, creating a dramatic and captivating scene.

Carter Fell is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. Visitors can spot various species of birds, including birds of prey such as kestrels and buzzards, as well as smaller woodland birds like robins and tits. The moorland is also known for its wildlife, with deer and mountain hares often seen roaming freely.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Carter Fell offers numerous opportunities for exploration and adventure. Hiking and cycling trails crisscross the area, allowing visitors to discover the hidden gems of this beautiful region. The views from the top of the downs are particularly breathtaking, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside.

Overall, Carter Fell in Roxburghshire is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility in a stunning natural setting. Its downs and moorland provide a unique and unforgettable experience, with their diverse landscapes and rich wildlife.

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Carter Fell Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 55.323379/-2.5238422 or Grid Reference NT6603. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Rock outcrops by the Bateinghope mine track

There are a number of outcrops in this area, some of which appear to have been quarried, possibly for a surfacing for the mine track although there appears to be little evidence remaining of this. This photograph was taken during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic of 2020.

James T M Towill

On a firmer track

The former mine track from Carter Bar to near the head of the Bateinghope Burn was rather waterlogged along most of its course, this section was somewhat firmer. An excellent view was afforded towards the Cheviot massif in the distance. This photograph was taken during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic of 2020.

James T M Towill

An outcrop near Buzzard Crags

As shower clouds pass overhead this photograph was taken just off the former Bateinhope mine track. This photograph was taken during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic of 2020.

James T M Towill

Coal mine spoil above the Bateinghope Burn

Remains of early to mid 19th century coal mining activity above the Bateinghope Burn. This photograph was taken during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic of 2020.

James T M Towill

Remains of coal mining activity above the Bateinghope Burn

The remains of coal mining activity above the Bateinghope Burn as clouds roll overhead threatening rain. The route of the access track from Carter Bar to this site which included lime kilns and clay workings as well as coal mines can be noted in the middle distance. This photograph was taken during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic of 2020.

James T M Towill

Dilapidated

'Dilapidated' would be one word to describe the fence line on Carter Fell, just inside Scotland! This is heather moorland, interspersed with boggy grassland and peat hags. This image was taken as clouds rolled north after a beautiful start to a late November day. This photograph was taken during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic of 2020.

James T M Towill

A former mine track nearing the Wauchope Forest

The term 'track' is used very loosely; it is little more than slightly different vegetation from the predominantly heather moorland characteristic of the area. The mines were in use in the first half of the 19th century and provided coal for Jedburgh. This photograph was taken during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic of 2020.

James T M Towill

Old Boundary Marker on Knox Knowe

Estate Boundary Marker on Knox Knowe. On the boundary of Plashetts and Tynehead chapelry in Falstone parish, from 1811 Plashetts and Tynehead parish, from 1955 Kielder parish in Northumberland, and Southdean parish in Roxburghshire. Inscribed N on the south face and D in reverse on the north face. Marking the boundary of lands owned by the Duke of Northumberland and the Douglas family. See also Link and Link. Milestone Society National ID: NB_KIESDE03em

J Glew

Bateinghope Burn

Bateinghope Burn is seen running downstream from a public footpath; the path can be seen rounding the hill slope at the left side of the image.

Trevor Littlewood

Low crag on Carter Fell

Andrew Curtis

Sunrise over the eastern Cheviot Hills

Andrew Curtis

Disused mine shafts, Carter Fell

There is an array of disused mine shafts on the Scottish side of the Border fence. They are served by a track to the north that stops near this location and were probably dug to provide coal for use in local limekilns. "The Carter coal where worked is said to have been about 13 ins. thick." "The Carter Fell coal was largely worked, especially on the English side of the Border, about 40 years ago. Very much of it was carted away to Jedburgh for house coal : it is said that as many as 90 carts were sometimes there in the morning waiting to be filled. The esteem in which it, together with the upper Carter lime, was once held, may be estimated by the length of good road, made expressly to them, across the desolate fell from the Redesdale coach road." The Geology of the Plashetts and Kielder (1889): Link

Andrew Curtis

Cairn south of Carter Fell

The Kielder Stone can just be seen below the summit Peel Fell on the right over the head waters of Carry Burn and a ridge of land called The Trouting.

Andrew Curtis

Boundary stone on Carter Fell

The England-Scotland Border is only marked in this section by occasional, small boundary stones and old wooden stakes. The stone is carved with a letter 'N' on the English side (Duke of Northumberland's estate) and a reversed letter 'D' on the Scottish side (Douglas estates) NT6502 : Boundary stone on Knox Knowe. They were erected soon after 1769. It is thought that the letter may have been reversed by an illiterate mason or perhaps an English mason with a point to make. In this place even the thin trod along the Border line seems to have disappeared and there is no clear ridge or geographical feature marking the Border. The old sticks and stones are essential to keep you on the line.

Andrew Curtis

Bog asphodel (Narthecium ossifragum), Carter Fell

Andrew Curtis

Small water course, Carter Fell

Carpets of yellow-orange Bog Asphodel NT6603 : Bog asphodel (Narthecium ossifragum), Carter Fell in the marshes, and the orange tips of Deergrass in the drier areas NT6502 : Deergrass (Tricophorum sp.), Duntae Edge produce a bright orange glow to the moorland vegetation in early morning sunlight.

Andrew Curtis

Shake hole west of Carter Fell

This large shake hole or swallow hole is shown on the 1:25,000 OS Map and shows that limestone rock lies close to the surface although mainly covered by a layer of peat.

Andrew Curtis