Newbiggin Common

Downs, Moorland in Durham

England

Newbiggin Common

Sheepwash beside Wester Beck Wester Beck is a tributary of the River Tees which lies in the direction of the view. The sheepwash is a disused farming feature; water, (perhaps with &#039;additives&#039;) would be let into the trough and the sheep fed in from the high step at the far end of it. The remains of sheepfolds can be seen at the end of the trough where animals would be kept to await their turn; the river is eroding the bank below the folds and there&#039;s been some collapsing of their stonework. — Sheepwash beside Wester Beck Credit: Trevor Littlewood

Newbiggin Common is a picturesque area located in Durham, England. It is known for its stunning downs and moorland, which attract nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers alike. With its diverse landscape, this common offers a wide range of activities and sights for visitors.

The downs of Newbiggin Common are characterized by their rolling hills and expansive grasslands. The area is ideal for hiking and walking, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. The downs are also home to various species of flora and fauna, making it a popular spot for nature photography and birdwatching.

Adjacent to the downs, Newbiggin Common boasts extensive moorland. This rugged terrain is covered in heather and moss, creating a unique and wild atmosphere. The moorland is often frequented by hikers and nature enthusiasts who enjoy exploring the area's hidden valleys and ancient ruins.

In addition to its natural beauty, Newbiggin Common is rich in history. The area has been inhabited for centuries, and remnants of its past can still be seen today. Ancient stone circles and burial mounds dot the landscape, offering glimpses into the region's ancient past.

Overall, Newbiggin Common is a haven for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty. Its downs and moorland provide a range of outdoor activities, from hiking to wildlife spotting. Whether visitors are looking to immerse themselves in nature or delve into the area's history, this common offers a captivating experience for all.

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Newbiggin Common Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 54.682541/-2.1403955 or Grid Reference NY9131. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Sheepwash beside Wester Beck

Wester Beck is a tributary of the River Tees which lies in the direction of the view. The sheepwash is a disused farming feature; water, (perhaps with 'additives') would be let into the trough and the sheep fed in from the high step at the far end of it. The remains of sheepfolds can be seen at the end of the trough where animals would be kept to await their turn; the river is eroding the bank below the folds and there's been some collapsing of their stonework.

Trevor Littlewood

Minor road on Newbiggin Common

Just below the summit at Swinhope Head which, at 609 metres above sea level, I believe is the highest public motorable road in England.

Oliver Dixon

Road summit at Swinhope Head

Cattle grid at the summit of the road from Newbiggin (Teesdale) to Westgate (Weardale) at Swinhope Head which, at 609 metres above sea level, I believe is the highest public motorable road in England.

Oliver Dixon

Electric transmission line at Swinhope Head

On the watershed between Teesdale (to the left) and Weardale.

Oliver Dixon

Moorland on Ettersgill Common

peter robinson

Cattle grid on minor road at Swinehope Head

peter robinson

Minor Road at Swinhope Head

The road begins a long descent into the Upper Tees Valley from here.

Philip Cornwall

Road summit at Swinhope Head [2]

Quite a contrast to the last time I took a photograph here [22/03/18] as the temperature on that occasion was only a little above freezing, but on this occasion it was 33°C, even at 2000ft. Taken on a day of record breaking temperatures across Britain. Not much point in coming up here to keep cool.

Gordon Hatton

The start of a long descent

The minor road from Newbiggin to Westgate begins a long descent here from the 2000ft contour to below 1000ft in Weardale.

Gordon Hatton

Moorland south of Swinhope Head

Looking south west towards Mickle Fell (left) and Meldon Hill (right).

Mike Quinn

Moorland around Hare Law Sike

Mike Quinn

Small covered reservoir above Watson's Bridge

On the mountain road between Newbiggin (Teesdale) and Westgate (Weardale). A small wind turbine provides power for control and telemetry.

Oliver Dixon

Flushiemere Beck

A remote valley high on the northern flank of Teesdale. The track leads to the ruined Flushiemere House NY9031.

Oliver Dixon

Flushiemere Beck

A remote valley high on the northern flank of Teesdale. The track leads to the ruined Flushiemere House NY9031. Westernhope Moor NY9033 on the skyline.

Oliver Dixon