Bardon Mill

Civil Parish in Northumberland

England

Bardon Mill

Small enclosed area of lazy-beds south-west of Greenlee The fertility of the soil here is shown in the foreground molehills.

Lazy bed is a traditional method of arable cultivation. Rather like cord rig cultivation, parallel banks of ridge and furrow are dug by spade although lazy beds have banks that are bigger, up to 2.5 metres (8 ft 2 in) in width, with narrow drainage channels between them. It was used in southern parts of Britain from the post-Roman period until the post-medieval period, and across much of Ireland and Scotland until the 19th century.

Although it is largely extinct, it is still to be found in parts of the Hebrides and the west of Ireland. In these places, the method used is normally to lift up sods of peat and apply desalinated seaweed fertiliser to improve the ground. Potatoes were often grown in this way in these regions, until the potato blight Phytophthora infestans caused potato famine in the Highlands and Ireland.
<span class="nowrap"><a title="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazy_bed" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lazy_bed">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span> — Small enclosed area of lazy-beds south-west of Greenlee Credit: Andrew Curtis

Bardon Mill is a civil parish located in the county of Northumberland, England. Situated in the Tyne Valley, it lies approximately 4 miles to the east of Hexham and is surrounded by stunning countryside and picturesque landscapes. The parish covers an area of about 24 square kilometers and is home to a population of around 1,000 residents.

The village of Bardon Mill itself is a small, close-knit community with a rich history dating back centuries. It is perhaps best known for its proximity to the Roman fort of Vindolanda, which attracts a significant number of tourists each year. The fort, located on Hadrian's Wall, offers visitors a glimpse into Roman life with its well-preserved ruins and fascinating artifacts.

In addition to its historical significance, Bardon Mill is also renowned for its natural beauty. The surrounding area offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities, such as walking, cycling, and birdwatching. The village is located near the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, providing residents and visitors with breathtaking views and tranquil surroundings.

The parish of Bardon Mill is well-served by local amenities, including a primary school, a post office, a village shop, and a pub. The community spirit is strong, with various clubs and societies offering opportunities for social engagement and participation.

Overall, Bardon Mill is a charming and vibrant civil parish, offering a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and community spirit.

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Bardon Mill Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 55.013184/-2.349625 or Grid Reference NY7768. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Small enclosed area of lazy-beds south-west of Greenlee

The fertility of the soil here is shown in the foreground molehills. Lazy bed is a traditional method of arable cultivation. Rather like cord rig cultivation, parallel banks of ridge and furrow are dug by spade although lazy beds have banks that are bigger, up to 2.5 metres (8 ft 2 in) in width, with narrow drainage channels between them. It was used in southern parts of Britain from the post-Roman period until the post-medieval period, and across much of Ireland and Scotland until the 19th century. Although it is largely extinct, it is still to be found in parts of the Hebrides and the west of Ireland. In these places, the method used is normally to lift up sods of peat and apply desalinated seaweed fertiliser to improve the ground. Potatoes were often grown in this way in these regions, until the potato blight Phytophthora infestans caused potato famine in the Highlands and Ireland. Link

Andrew Curtis

Sheepfold near East Stonefolds

Andrew Curtis

Pastureland north of Greenlee Lough

Andrew Curtis

Site of well below Greenlee

Andrew Curtis

The Pennine Way near Cragend

Dave Kelly

The Pennine Way near East Stonefolds

Dave Kelly

Track on the moor

Quad bike track and carrying a path.

Jeremy Bolwell

Path across moorland

We have this path all to ourselves.

Jeremy Bolwell

National Trail waymarker acorn on the Pennine Way near East Stonefolds farm

The patina of weathering caught my eye.

Jeremy Bolwell

Walking near East Stonefolds

A farmyard has to be traversed. No problem as it turned out. My ninja lead scout assesses the lie of the land, the likely presence of a one-eyed farm dog, the restlessness of the native population and the nearest exit points as we approach. I relax in the resulting cocoon of ever vigilant protectiveness and follow along safe in the knowledge that the best nose in the business is constantly whiffling the wind in front of me, a pair of never-resting beady peepers are scanning windows, doors, gateways and cracks in fences for any attempt to repel boarders and we pass through like two shadows with barely a creak of boot leather, a scent of sweaty oxter and are soon through and approaching a second farmstead.

Jeremy Bolwell

Barns at East Stonefold

Nice old barns.

Jeremy Bolwell

Path detouring around West Stonefold farm

This farm is boxed around by the path now.

Jeremy Bolwell

Natural "Rock Art"

Les Hull

Rhododendrons on a Bield (sheepfold)

Les Hull

Mud and Ice

What looks like a field entrance is the access to the next stage of the Pennine Way. The mud is ankle deep and the water in the ruts is frozen over. Pretty off-putting, really.

Anne Burgess

Wildflower meadow below Greenlee

The footpath from the farm south towards Greenlee Lough descends through this meadow thick with buttercups and yellow rattle. It is owned by the National Trust and stands out in views from afar.

Karl and Ali

East Stonefolds Farm

The farm did not seem to be active. I recall passing this way some ten years ago and being accosted by a very tatty (but surprisingly friendly) farm cat who accompanied me almost to the Pennine Way before saying goodbye. Sadly, probably long gone.

Karl and Ali