Bantling Lime Kilns

Let's be honest - writing about lime kilns for the Fabulous North feels like a bit of a free hit, because I think most of us are a bit partial to a good lime kiln here, aren't we? Ruined, restored, or somewhere in between, there's just something about them that ticks all the boxes: industrial history ? cracking stonework ? usually found on a decent walk ?. So, when the chance came to dive into the Bantling Lime Kilns, I couldn't resist.

Located just outside Leadgate, not far from Consett and conveniently located on the C2C path, these impressive structures are more than just a nice photo stop - they're a proper time capsule from County Durham's heavy-duty industrial heyday.

A Castle of Kilns

Built in 1835-1836 by the Stanhope and Tyne Railway Company, the Bantling Lime Kilns were designed to produce lime for the growing iron industry. A total of six kilns stood here in a wide arc, rising around 35 feet tall, and they've got a real presence - thanks in part to their unique castellated tops, which earned them the nickname 'Bantling Castle'.

These weren't just standalone structures either - they were cleverly plugged into the region's industrial network. Limestone came in from quarries nearby, coal was hauled in from local pits, and a handy railway siding right behind the kilns made loading and transporting the finished lime nice and efficient. Most of it was destined for the Consett Ironworks, just up the line, where it helped turn out the steel that built railways, bridges and ships around the world.

Despite all that infrastructure, the kilns only operated for around 15 years before production moved elsewhere. By the early 1850s, they'd gone quiet, and over time the site became overgrown and weather-worn. But unlike so many other industrial relics, these beauties were never completely lost.

From Ruin to Restoration

Fast forward to the early 2000s and the kilns were in a sorry state. But thanks to some brilliant restoration work in 2007, the site was stabilised, cleaned up and made safe for the public. And today? While still looking glorious, they're starting to crumble again.

If you're walking or riding past on the C2C cycle route, part of the Consett to Sunderland Railway Path, they can be easily missed, but a sign has been put up to point you in the right direction and there are information boards nearby, and a couple of little paths that take you up close for a nosey. Bring a camera - they're properly photogenic, especially when the light's hitting the stonework just right.

A Changing Landscape

The land around the kilns has had a few stories of its own in recent years. In early 2024, the site made local headlines when the land was listed for sale, bringing a mix of concern and curiosity from locals and mining history geeks like me, I understand it was purchased for just £5000.

While the kilns themselves are a Grade II listed structure, meaning they're protected, the future of the surrounding land raised a few eyebrows. Thankfully, as it stands, they remain publicly visible and accessible, so let's hope it stays that way!

A Few Theories and Tall Tales

There's even a bit of local folklore mixed in. Some reckon the name 'Bantling' refers to the small stature of the men who once worked the kilns - though that might just be a bit of old Durham storytelling. What's certain is that this little stretch of pathway hides one of the area's most atmospheric industrial relics.

There's even a brilliant David Kemp sculpture - the Old Transformers - just a short walk away, if you fancy adding a dash of modern art to your wander and also down the bank is an old Fan House that was part of Eden Colliery, though out of bounds, you can still see it from the gate.

Why It's Worth a Visit

Whether you're on two wheels, two feet, or just on the hunt for somewhere with a bit of a wow factor, the Bantling Lime Kilns are well worth the detour. They've got the scale, the history, and a slightly eerie charm that makes them stand out from the crowd. And let's be honest who here doesn't love looking round an old lime kiln, and this one is a beaut!