Situation and Character
This venue is a collection of boulders and small edges in two locations on
Middleton Common. Standing at the top of Monk’s Moor, an area of moorland
situated north-east of Middleton-in-Teesdale and nearby above and behind
Coldberry Mine workshops. Although the rocks are small they comprise of good
quality Gritstone but, as no brushing was undertaken during the development, it
is still a little lichenous in places. The problems have been graded as of their
current state. Landings are variable in quality and generally a mat would be
sensible. The outlook, which encompasses the High Pennines, is superb and, given
the westerly aspect. So far the obvious lines have given easier or mid-grade
problems but the potential for harder variations (especially traverses) suggests
some interest for those seeking greater technicality. A walk across the moor of
about thirty minutes duration connects the two sites.
History
Long before climbers explored Hudeshope the valley it was exploited for its minerals and there is an interpretative display and self-guided trail based around Coldberry Mineshop . The most prosperous period of lead mining spanned almost the whole of the nineteenth century, creating one of the largest mine complexes of the North Pennines. This industry transformed forever the landscape of Hudeshope Valley. Scattered around the valley are numerous mine entrances and associated buildings that suggest the extent of the intricate system of shafts and levels that exist below the surface. On the valley sides are reservoirs and the remnants of a man-made water system that was used to power the mine machinery. Coldberry Gutter, the largest hush in the North Pennines, cuts through Hardberry Hill to form a distinctive scar on the horizon that can be seen from miles around.
Alan Dougherty and Kevin Flint visited in late July 2005, when the first
problems were ascended and recorded. Three subsequent visits, during August of
that year, by Carol and Alan Dougherty, resulted in the discovery of further
problems.
Download the Hudeshope Bouldering Miniguide as a PDF.
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