Bollihope Common

Downs, Moorland in Durham

England

Bollihope Common

Archaeological dig north of Bollihope Burn A group led from Newcastle University had excavated what was thought to be a seventeenth century dwelling or possibly an old mine shop on the west side of an enclosure north of Bollihope Burn. When the image was recorded the digging out had been completed; the on-going activity was to re-cover what had been exposed and to reinstate the site. Beyond the dig site grassy slopes rise to the north-west and the ridge leading to Carrs Top. — Archaeological dig north of Bollihope Burn Credit: Trevor Littlewood

Bollihope Common is a vast expanse of moorland located in County Durham, England. Spanning approximately 1,000 hectares, it is situated in the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The common lies around 12 miles southwest of Durham city and is easily accessible via the B6278 road.

The landscape of Bollihope Common is characterized by rolling hills, heather-clad moors, and deep valleys, creating a picturesque and rugged terrain. The area is renowned for its natural beauty and is a haven for wildlife and plant species. Visitors can expect to see a variety of birdlife, including buzzards, curlews, and grouse, as well as an array of wildflowers in the summer months.

In addition to its natural wonders, Bollihope Common boasts a rich cultural heritage. The common was once dotted with lead mines, evidence of which can still be seen today in the form of mine shafts and ruins. These remnants serve as a reminder of the area's industrial past and offer a glimpse into the lives of the miners who once worked here.

Bollihope Common is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering numerous walking and hiking trails. The Bollihope Burn, a small river that winds its way through the common, provides a scenic backdrop for leisurely strolls. The common also offers opportunities for picnicking, wildlife spotting, and photography.

Overall, Bollihope Common is a captivating and unspoiled landscape that offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and rich heritage of the Durham countryside.

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Bollihope Common Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 54.700904/-2.0374726 or Grid Reference NY9733. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Archaeological dig north of Bollihope Burn

A group led from Newcastle University had excavated what was thought to be a seventeenth century dwelling or possibly an old mine shop on the west side of an enclosure north of Bollihope Burn. When the image was recorded the digging out had been completed; the on-going activity was to re-cover what had been exposed and to reinstate the site. Beyond the dig site grassy slopes rise to the north-west and the ridge leading to Carrs Top.

Trevor Littlewood

Slope of northern side of upper Bollihope

The Bollihope Burn is a significant tributary of the River Wear. The view here is along the grassy northern flank of the upper valley with the hill, Catterick in view left of centre. The Bollihope Burn is of course down-slope to the right.

Trevor Littlewood

A 'Watter Rord' east of Carr's Top

Once when walking in the area east of Carr's Top between the Bollihope Burn and Weardale, there was shepherding activity and coming upon a farmer we were asked to avoid disturbance by keeping to the 'watter rord' - the water road - meaning a water cut or leet around the slope of the hill; this is not that cut but another. The purpose of these leets was two fold; to intercept streams draining down hill and to transport their water to another location for use. In this part of County Durham that would almost certainly be in the metal mining industry.

Trevor Littlewood