Hangingwells Common

Downs, Moorland in Durham

England

Hangingwells Common

Plantation east of Weather Hill This is a small rectangular plantation lying north of an area known as Heights Pasture which is in turn north of Heights Quarry, (a large excavation on the north side of the Wear valley). It&#039;s seen here from the local high point - Weather Hill - just a few tens of metres to the west. — Plantation east of Weather Hill Credit: Trevor Littlewood

Hangingwells Common, located in Durham, England, is a picturesque and expansive area of downs and moorland. Spanning approximately 100 acres, it offers a varied landscape of rolling hills, open grasslands, and heather-covered moors.

The common is a popular destination for both locals and visitors, attracting nature enthusiasts, hikers, and photographers. Its diverse flora and fauna make it a haven for wildlife, with an array of bird species, butterflies, and small mammals calling it home.

The grassy downs provide ample space for leisure activities such as picnicking, kite flying, and playing sports. The area's undulating terrain also offers opportunities for walking and hiking, with several well-marked trails that showcase the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Hangingwells Common is particularly renowned for its vibrant display of heather, which blooms in late summer, covering the moorlands with a stunning purple hue. This spectacle attracts photographers and nature lovers who come to capture its beauty and immerse themselves in the peaceful ambiance.

The common is well-maintained, with designated areas for parking, picnic spots, and public facilities. The local authorities also ensure the preservation of the site's natural beauty and wildlife habitats, promoting responsible use and conservation.

Overall, Hangingwells Common in Durham offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, providing a place of natural beauty and recreational opportunities for all to enjoy.

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Hangingwells Common Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 54.760007/-2.1127393 or Grid Reference NY9240. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Plantation east of Weather Hill

This is a small rectangular plantation lying north of an area known as Heights Pasture which is in turn north of Heights Quarry, (a large excavation on the north side of the Wear valley). It's seen here from the local high point - Weather Hill - just a few tens of metres to the west.

Trevor Littlewood

Sheep in fields east of farm at Rose Hill

Expectant sheep occupy and graze these fields; at least one of them, nearest the camera, has already produced a lamb.

Trevor Littlewood

Westgate Heights Pastures

On the run down from Scarsike junction to Westgate.

Stanley Howe

Dry stone wall near to Park Burn

Park Burn is on the far side of the wall and descends close to the line of it into Weardale. The hillside in the distance is the southern slope of Weardale and there can be seen the now disused and landscaped quarry which once supplied limestone to the Blue Circle cement works at Eastgate. There's a working quarry - Heights Quarry - just out of view to the left side of the image; it's likely that the small building is connected with that or another extractive operation.

Trevor Littlewood

Road between Rookhope and Eastgate

Clive Nicholson

Boundary wall near Crow's Cleugh

Andrew Curtis

Guide stone and fence line at Scarsike Head

Scarsike Head is a crossing point of a minor road between Rook Hope and Weardale reaching 539 m. The boundary stone there had been noted by the photographer many years ago; there were inscriptions on some of the faces, perhaps all of them. And then some time ago the stone was seen to be missing, perhaps stolen for use as a display ornament! On this visit however, the stone was found to have been replaced following an absence of many years. It appears to have been cleaned but perhaps too thoroughly; the inscriptions seem to be decidedly less clear than previously!

Trevor Littlewood

Church House Farm Ford

This irish bridge ford is found on the driveway to Church House Farm.

John Walton

Circular reservoir above Rookhope village

The small reservoir lies on the moorland of Smailsburn Common south-west of the village.

Trevor Littlewood

Old Guide Stone by Scarsike Head, Stanhope parish

Eggleston Guidestone by the UC road, in parish of Stanhope (Wear Valley District), Scarsike Head, North of Westgate; East of T-junction, at corner of first wall. See listing for inscriptions. Grade II listed. List Entry Number: 1232200 Link

Surveyed Milestone Society National ID: DU_XSSH