Uncover the layered history of the Durham coalfield with this striking high-resolution aerial photograph of the Cockfield Fell Spoil Heaps, a dramatic industrial landscape frozen in time. Situated on Cockfield Fell, near Bishop Auckland in County Durham, these distinctive mounds are the remains of centuries of coal extraction — forming part of what is thought to be England’s largest scheduled ancient monument in terms of area.
These unique terraced heaps and ridged formations reflect both early bell pit mining and later colliery spoil tipping, stretching across one of the most historically rich post-industrial commons in the country. Now overgrown with grass and blending into the surrounding moorland, they stand as haunting and beautiful reminders of the region’s mining heritage. Perfect for lovers of industrial archaeology, local history, or aerial landscape photography, this print-ready image captures the harmony between human impact and natural reclamation.
📸 Format: JPEG (High Resolution, Print-Ready)
📐 Dimensions: Suitable for prints up to A1 size
🏞️ Location: Cockfield Fell, County Durham, England
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This image is licensed for personal use only. Commercial reproduction, resale, redistribution, or digital sharing is strictly prohibited. Copyright remains with the photographer.