Haltwhistle History

11 February 2025

Haltwhistle Mining History

editor Haltwhistle News Haltwhistle, Haltwhistle History, Mining, Plenmeller Colliery, South Tyne Colliery

HALTWHISTLE MINING HISTORY

The town has a rich history of mining and industrial activity that significantly shaped its development from the 18th century onwards. The area’s geological composition, featuring deposits of coal, limestone, and fireclay, provided the essential resources for various industries.

COAL MINING

Coal mining was a cornerstone of Haltwhistle’s economy. Established in the 1880s, the Plenmeller colliery had in its heyday a workforce of over 700. The South Tyne colliery, located in the scenic Haltwhistle Burn, was also notable. Its 500-foot shaft reached the Little Limestone coal seam, and at its peak, the colliery produced 600 tons of coal daily, employing around 600 men and boys. The mine closed in 1931, marking the end of significant coal mining activities in the area.

LIME PRODUCTION

The presence of limestone led to the development of lime kilns along the Haltwhistle Burn. These kilns produced lime for agricultural purposes and mortar for construction. Remnants of these kilns can still be seen today, serving as historical markers of the town’s industrial past.

BRICK AND TILE MANUFACTURING

The fireclay deposits in the region were ideal for producing bricks, tiles, and pipes. The South Tyne Brick and Tile Works, operating in the 19th century, utilized this resource extensively. Bricks from this period are evident in many of Haltwhistle’s buildings constructed during the 1860s.

TRANSPORTATION AND TRADE

The Newcastle and Carlisle Railway, which reached Haltwhistle in the late 1830s, played a crucial role in the town’s industrial expansion. It facilitated the efficient transport of coal and other minerals to broader markets, enhancing trade opportunities. Additionally, the railway enabled Haltwhistle to serve as a loading point for metal ores from the Alston Moor mines.

DECLINE AND LEGACY

By the mid-20th century, many of Haltwhistle’s traditional industries had declined due to various economic factors. Today, while the mines and factories have ceased operations, the remnants of these industrial activities are preserved in the landscape. The Haltwhistle Burn, once a hub of industrial activity, is now a picturesque stream, and the town has transformed into a destination for tourists interested in its rich history and natural beauty.

Haltwhistle’s mining heritage is a testament to the town’s resilience and adaptability, reflecting broader patterns of industrial growth and decline in England’s history.

11 February 2025

Haltwhistle Books and Authors

editor Haltwhistle News Haltwhistle Books, Haltwhistle History, Haltwhistle Writers

HALTWHISTLE BOOKS & AUTHORS

One of the most gifted literary figures to hail from Haltwhistle was the poet Ada Smith. Born Ada Elizabeth Smith on March 25, 1875, she was the fourth daughter of Robert Smith, a local varnish manufacturer, and Mary Ann Wood. Her early exposure to the rugged landscapes of South Tynedale deeply influenced her poetic sensibilities.

Smith began writing poetry at a young age, with her first publication appearing when she was just 13. Her early works were noted for their grace and smooth versification. After spending time in Paris and Vienna, where she taught English and immersed herself in European culture, she returned to England, fist settling in London, then returning north to Newcastle where she spent the rest of her tragically short life.

One of her most celebrated poems, In City Streets, reflects her deep connection to nature and the landscapes of her youth. This piece was first published in The Quartier Latin and later included in the anthology London in Song compiled by Wilfred Whitten. Her poem The Earth Lover is another notable work, showcasing her profound appreciation for the natural world. In 1950, The Collected Poems of Ada Elizabeth Smith was published, ensuring that her literary contributions would not be forgotten.

Ada Smith’s poetry, characterized by its vivid imagery and emotional depth, offers a poignant glimpse into the life of a young woman whose potential was evident but unrealized due to her untimely death. Her works continue to be appreciated for their lyrical beauty and the unique perspective she brought to English poetry.

OTHER HALTWHISTLE BOOKS & AUTHORS

: HALTWHISTLE

: LEGENDS OF HALTWHISTLE AND SOUTH TYNEDALE

: HALTWHISTLE, HAYDON BRIDGE & SOUTH TYNEDALE

: HALTWHISTLE AND SOUTH TYNEDALE

: A PAINTED WINTER

11 February 2025

Ghosts, Hauntings and Folklore

editor Haltwhistle News Bellister Castle, Featherstone Castle, Haltwhistle Ghosts, Haltwhistle History, Nelly The Knocker

HAUNTED HALTWHISTLE

Haltwhistle is steeped in tales of the supernatural. Its ancient structures and storied past have given rise to numerous legends of ghosts and hauntings that continue to intrigue both locals and visitors.

BELLISTER CASTLE

Located near Haltwhistle, Bellister Castle is renowned for its spectral inhabitant known as the “Grey Man.” This apparition is believed to be the spirit of a minstrel who once frequented the castle. According to legend, the minstrel was suspected of espionage and met a tragic end within the castle’s walls. His ghost is said to wander the vicinity, especially near the River South Tyne, appearing as a shadowy figure in grey attire.

FEATHERSTONE CASTLE

Approximately three miles southwest of Haltwhistle lies Featherstone Castle, a site with its own haunting tales. The castle is reputedly haunted by the ghosts of a wedding party who were slain amid a bloody romantic feud.

NELLY THE KNOCKER

In the fields near Haltwhistle, there stands a large stone associated with the legend of “Nelly the Knocker.” Described as a melancholy lady in loose grey clothing, Nelly is said to appear nightly, feebly knocking at the stone. Local folklore suggests that she is a harmless spirit, and her presence has been a topic of conversation among residents for generations.

These tales contribute to Haltwhistle’s rich tapestry of folklore, offering a glimpse into the town’s mysterious and enchanting past. Whether one is a skeptic or a believer, the stories of these hauntings continue to captivate the imagination.

THE RED PATH

The Red Path, the ancient road that runs south from Haltwhistle toward Featherstone, is said to be haunted by the ghosts of a legion of Roman Centurions, who were slain in a bloody battle with the Picts. On quiet, moonless nights, it is said that their marching foosteps and the rattle of their armour can be still heard.

FEATHERSTONE CASTLE - HAUNTED BY THE WEDDING PARTY

10 February 2025

Visitor Guide

editor Haltwhistle Featherstone Castle, Hadrian's Wall, Haltwhistle, Haltwhistle History, Thirlwall Castle

VISITOR GUIDE

HOUSESTEADS FORT AND HADRIAN’S WALL

Perched amid scenic grandeur on Hadrian’s Wall, Housesteads Fort (Vercovicium) is one of the best-preserved Roman military sites in Britain. Built around AD 124, it was part of the vast network of fortifications designed to defend the northern frontier of the Roman Empire. Housesteads is a major attraction for history enthusiasts and walkers exploring the famous Hadrian’s Wall Path. The on-site museum displays artifacts excavated from the fort, including weapons, pottery, and personal items from Roman soldiers.

HALTWHISTLE BURN

Haltwhistle Burn offers a stunning blend of history, geology, and natural beauty. Flowing from the rugged landscapes of the North Pennines towards the River South Tyne, this scenic burn winds through deep gorges, wooded valleys, and open moorland, making it a favorite spot for walkers and nature enthusiasts. The Haltwhistle Burn walk follows a well-marked trail, offering spectacular views of waterfalls, rock formations, and wildflower meadows. It’s also a great place to spot wildlife, including birds of prey, deer, and red squirrels.

THIRLWALL CASTLE

Located outside the nearby village of Greenhead, Thirlwall Castle stands as a reminder of the region’s turbulent past. Perched on the banks of the River Tipalt and built in the 14th century, the castle was strategically positioned near Hadrian’s Wall, utilizing Roman stones in its construction. Surrounded by rolling countryside, Thirlwall Castle is a popular stop for walkers exploring Hadrian’s Wall. The site offers stunning views and a fascinating glimpse into the region’s history. Despite its ruinous state, the castle continues to captivate visitors with its rugged charm and tales of borderland battles.

LAMBLEY VIADUCT

The Lambley Viaduct is a striking railway viaduct spanning the South Tyne River at nearby Lambley. Completed in 1852, it was originally built to carry the Alston Branch Line of the Newcastle and Carlisle Railway. Designed by engineer Sir George Barclay Bruce, the structure consists of nine impressive stone arches, each rising to a height of around 33 meters (108 feet) above the valley floor. This impressive example of Victorian engineering offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Tynedale countryside, attracting walkers and history enthusiasts alike.

TALKIN TARN

Talkin Tarn, a stunning glacial lake near Brampton in Cumbria, is a popular destination for nature lovers, walkers, and water sports enthusiasts. Surrounded by 120 acres of woodland and parkland, this scenic tarn offers breathtaking views and a peaceful retreat from everyday life. The Talkin Tarn Country Park features a cozy tearoom, providing refreshments with a view, and ample picnic spots for those wanting to soak in the tranquility. Whether visiting for exercise, relaxation, or wildlife spotting, Talkin Tarn is a gem of the Cumbrian countryside, perfect for a day out in nature.

ALSTON

Nestled in the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Alston is England’s highest market town, sitting at around 1,000 feet above sea level. This historic town in Cumbria is renowned for its picturesque scenery, rich mining heritage, and well-preserved cobbled streets lined with stone-built houses. Alston has a long history back to Roman times. However, it flourished during the lead mining boom of the 17th and 18th centuries. The South Tynedale Railway, a charming narrow-gauge heritage railway, offers visitors a nostalgic journey through the stunning countryside.

KIELDER WATER & FOREST PARK

Kielder Water and Forest Park, located 36 miles from Haltwhistle, is one of the UK’s most spectacular outdoor destinations. Home to the largest man-made lake in Northern Europe and the largest working forest in England, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and adventure. Kielder Water, created in the 1980s as a reservoir, provides opportunities for sailing, kayaking, and fishing. The Kielder Observatory is located in one of the UK’s dark sky areas and attracts stargazers from all over with its unparalleled view of the heavens.