Beechgrove

Settlement in Durham

England

Beechgrove

Steps and path in Watergate Forest Park The path climbs steeply out of the valley towards Washingwells. — Steps and path in Watergate Forest Park Credit: Oliver Dixon

Beechgrove is a picturesque village located in the county of Durham, England. Situated amidst rolling countryside, this charming settlement offers a tranquil and idyllic escape from the bustling city life. With a population of around 500 residents, Beechgrove is a close-knit community that prides itself on its strong sense of community spirit.

The village is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, characterized by lush green fields, meandering rivers, and ancient woodlands. Beechgrove is particularly popular among nature enthusiasts, who can enjoy long walks along the scenic trails that crisscross the area. The village is also home to a variety of native wildlife, including deer, foxes, and a diverse range of bird species.

Despite its small size, Beechgrove boasts a number of amenities that cater to the needs of its residents. These include a local pub, a village hall, and a small convenience store that stocks essentials. The village also has a primary school, providing education for children in the area.

Beechgrove boasts a rich history, with evidence of settlement dating back centuries. The village is home to several historic buildings, including a medieval church that stands as a testament to the area's heritage. The local community takes great pride in preserving these historical landmarks, ensuring they remain an integral part of the village's identity.

Overall, Beechgrove is a charming and close-knit village that offers a peaceful retreat for those seeking a slower pace of life. With its stunning natural surroundings and strong community spirit, it is no wonder that Beechgrove is cherished by both residents and visitors alike.

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Beechgrove Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 54.949075/-1.669755 or Grid Reference NZ2161. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Steps and path in Watergate Forest Park

The path climbs steeply out of the valley towards Washingwells.

Oliver Dixon

Footbridge over the Black Burn

The higher of two at the western end of the Watergate Forest Park.

Oliver Dixon

Footbridge over the Black Burn

The lower of two at the western end of Watergate Forest Park.

Oliver Dixon

Entry to Watergate Forest Park

Watergate Forest Park is in Gateshead, owned and maintained by the metropolitan borough's council; it's on the site of the former Watergate Colliery. There's a small, (very small indeed), car parking area at this entry point from the A692; there are of course other entry points.

Trevor Littlewood

Broad path, descending

The path is in Gateshead's Watergate Forest Park which is on the site of the former Watergate Colliery. There are many paths in the area which is classified as access land and a surprisingly deeply incised stream.

Trevor Littlewood

Swalwell Bridge

This is alternatively known as the New Derwent Bridge, although it is now nearly a century old. It was built in 1927 to replace the old turnpike bridge over the Derwent, and now carries the B6317 to Blaydon and beyond.

Robert Graham

Derwent Walk at Swalwell Bridge

Swalwell Bridge was built in 1927 to carry the road over the River Derwent and the adjacent Derwent Valley Railway. This is now the Derwent Walk footpath.

Robert Graham

Notice board at Derwenthaugh

This board is beside the Lady's Steps weir at Swalwell and is about the fish pass which was installed here in 2012. It enables fish to migrate up the river Derwent.

Robert Graham

Derwenthaugh weir

Known locally as the Lady's Steps weir, this is on the river Derwent. It was built during the Industrial Revolution in the 18th century when this part of the Derwent Valley was a hive of industry. In 2012 a fish pass was built here to enable fish to migrate to the upper reaches of the river.

Robert Graham

Shibdon Pond Nature Reserve

Shibdon Pond is an ideal site for bird watching with plenty of open water, marshland, grassland and scrub habitats.

Steve McShane

Weir on the River Derwent

In Derwenthaugh Park near Swalwell in County Durham.

Chris Tweedy

The Fellsider Pub, Fellside

Alan Fearon

Blaydon Rugby Club

Brian Abbott

Swalwell Country Park Visitor Centre

Brian Abbott

The Derwent Walk

The Derwent Valley Railway between Swalwell and Consett was converted into a path / bridleway after it was closed in 1963. Today it forms part of Derwent Walk Country Park. The passenger platform of the old Swalwell Station can be seen on the right of the photo.

Brian Abbott

Weir on the River Derwent

Reasonably clean water. Children play here in the summer.

Brian Abbott

Swalwell Cricket Club

Their ground is in Derwenthaugh Park. Link

Rugby, tennis and football grounds are close by, with Lottery money appearing to have funded several.

Brian Abbott

Model train near Swalwell

This photograph shows a model train located on the remains of an old railway bridge on the B6317 road near Swalwell. The picture was taken looking in a south-easterly direction from near the public footpath that leads to the start of the Derwent Walk.

Philip Barker

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Beechgrove is located at Grid Ref: NZ2161 (Lat: 54.949075, Lng: -1.669755)

Unitary Authority: Gateshead

Police Authority: Northumbria