Do you see the building behind me? That is the entrance to Harehope Quarry.

I was fascinated to discover that limestone has been quarried at Harehope for more than 900 years.


Bishopley Limekilns are a little way upstream from Harehope quarry,
and were mainly fed by the other quarries in the Bollihope valley
including the Bishopley and Fineburn quarries.

The 12 kilns were built around 1847 and closed in the 1920's or 30's.
One kiln was working during the second world war and up to about 1975 to provide lime for farming.

The later development of Harehope quarry cut through the railway line which would have been used to take the lime away from the quarries and kilns.


The Frosterley Marble found within the limestone was quarried for its ornamental value
and can been seen in the Chapel of the Nine Altars in Durham Cathedral
as well at churches in Weardale and further afield.