Kingswood Common

Downs, Moorland in Northumberland

England

Kingswood Common

Kingswood Common is a picturesque natural area located in the county of Northumberland, England. Spread across a sprawling landscape, it encompasses a diverse range of terrains, including downs, moorland, and woodland. The common is situated in close proximity to the village of Kingswood, adding to its charm and accessibility.

The downs of Kingswood Common are characterized by their gently rolling hills and expansive grasslands. These open spaces offer breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, making it a popular spot for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The downs are dotted with wildflowers during the spring and summer months, creating a vibrant and colorful display.

Moving towards the moorland areas of Kingswood Common, visitors will be greeted by a more rugged and untamed landscape. Here, heather-covered hills stretch as far as the eye can see, providing a habitat for a variety of wildlife. The moorland is home to numerous bird species, including the iconic red grouse, which can often be spotted darting across the heath.

Nestled within the common are pockets of ancient woodland, adding a touch of enchantment to the area. These woodlands are a haven for flora and fauna, with towering trees, mossy rocks, and babbling brooks creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere. Walking trails meander through the woods, allowing visitors to explore and discover the hidden treasures within.

Kingswood Common, with its diverse landscapes and natural beauty, provides a tranquil escape for those seeking solace in nature. Whether it's the rolling downs, the wild moorland, or the enchanting woodlands, this common offers something for everyone to enjoy.

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Kingswood Common Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 54.936979/-2.3808467 or Grid Reference NY7560. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Fell House Farm

David Purchase

Moorland of Beacon Hill with trig point

Beacon Hill is part of Fellhouse Fell, close to Whitfield in West Allendale.

Trevor Littlewood

The lane to Whitfield

As others have noted, it is a bit of a switchback!

David Purchase

The lane to Beltingham

As others have pointed out, this is a real 'switchback' road. Ahead is the dip for the Kingswood Burn.

David Purchase

Start of the steep descent to the Kingswood Burn

Steep descent and an even steeper ascent on the other side of the burn. The road is much steeper than is apparent in the photograph, 1 in 4 in places.

G Laird

Bridge over the Kingswood Burn

At the foot of very steep descents on both sides of the burn.

G Laird

The cleugh of Kingswood Burn (6)

Mike Quinn

Plaques on Plenmeller Common

The left hand plaque reads "Plenmeller Site opened b Mr John H Northard CBE Deputy Chairman British Coal Corporation 19th September 1991" The right hand plaque reads "1.91 Million tonnes of coal recovered Site completed May 2002 UK Coal Mining Ltd"

Oliver Dixon

Public byway to Whinshield Side

A good stone road was constructed along the line of this byway to facilitate open cast mining over the period 1991 to 2002.

Oliver Dixon

The Cleugh of Kingswood Burn

A little-used road descends by a 1 in 4 hill to the floor of this valley before climbing almost as precipitously on the far side.

Oliver Dixon

Looking across the Cleugh of Kingswood Burn

A little-used road descends by a 1 in 4 hill to the floor of this valley before climbing almost as precipitously on the other side.

Oliver Dixon

Field of buttercups near Huntershield Farm

Buttercups seem to be particularly rampant this year.

Oliver Dixon

Switchback road

In the middle distance, the road descends precipitously to cross the Kingswood Burn before climbing by a 1 in 4 hill to regain the plateau. The far field to the right can also be seen at NY7760 : Field of buttercups near Huntershield Farm.

Oliver Dixon

Old bridge on Blackcleugh Burn

Primitive bridge composed of slabs of stone.

Oliver Dixon

Flooded quarry in the valley of the Blackcleugh Burn.

Oliver Dixon

War memorial cairn on Plenmeller Common

This unusual cairn poised on an overhang was constructed to commemorate the fallen of the 1914-18 war by the Tynedale Shepherds. The plinth nearby contains the dedication. The Ordnance Survey map apparently identifies this cairn as a currick, although this is hardly a correct identification, The nearby moorland to the north is called "Curricks Rigg" and there is a much older cairn on the summit which might well be a currick (see NY7461 : Currick on Curricks Rigg).

Oliver Dixon