Skip to content

The Allenheads Smelt Mill Traditional Cache

Difficulty:
2 out of 5
Terrain:
2 out of 5

Size: Size:   small (small)

Join now to view geocache location details. It's free!

Watch

How Geocaching Works

Please note Use of geocaching.com services is subject to the terms and conditions in our disclaimer.

Geocache Description:

A short walk in what was formerly a lead smelt mill.

Note: 2nd October 2005. I have replaced this cache in a less 'obvious' place near to the original location. The cache is well hidden as it is a popular footpath. It is only necessary to move the triangular shaped stone to which the cache sits beneath. Please ensure it is well hidden before you leave - the previous cache was muggled!
This cache is the fifth in my Allendale Challenge series. The complete challenge comprises of 6 traditional caches each containing information needed to find The Allendale Challenge multi-cache. If you are planning to look for the Challenge cache, don't forget to take a notebook to record the clues!

It's hard to believe now that 150 years ago this area was a smelt mill where ore extracted from mines at Allenheads, Coalclough and Weardale was processed to produce lead, silver and other minerals. Just about all that remains is the peat-house and small reservoirs used for washing ore and powering the industry. Easy parking at the end of the bridge - N54 48.774 W002 14.052 (NY850464) next to the sewage works! The names hereabouts - Slag Hill and Dirt Pot suggest something of the industrial heritage of the area.

Go through the gate and follow the track for a short way.

Additional Hints (Decrypt)

Uvqqra ol n ghes bs tenff orybj n gevnathyne funcrq ebpx. Nyfb ersre gb fcbvyre qngrq 29.04.18

Decryption Key

A|B|C|D|E|F|G|H|I|J|K|L|M
-------------------------
N|O|P|Q|R|S|T|U|V|W|X|Y|Z

(letter above equals below, and vice versa)