Weardale Snow Scene

The history and heritage of Weardale has been shaped not only by nature but also by the hand of man. Clothed once more in its rural cloak, Weardale was once at the centre of the world's leadmining industry and prior to that was the hunting ground of the all-powerful Prince Bishops of Durham. In the past, iron ore, limestone and coal were all hewn from the earth but richest of all were Weardale's massive deposits of lead. The upland scenery is quite breathtaking, rising to over 2000 feet. Hardy sheep graze these remote moorlands which are pierced by the headwaters of the River Wear. As the river bisects the Dale, the scenery softens and one travels through attractive stone-built hamlets and market towns - each an excellent touring base.

This view is from Lanehead looking East towards Wearhead. A slight dusting of snow transforms the scene. I used the lead in lines created by the wall and the grasses to take the viewer into the picture.