Blaeberry Cleugh Lead Mine Buddle, On West Bank Of Blaeberry Cleugh

The Blaeberry Cleugh lead mine buddle is located on the west bank of Blaeberry Cleugh and dates from the probably the second half of the 18th century. It is constructed of roughly coursed sandstone rubble, using long stones in a dry construction method. The walls are about 40 centimeters high and create an enclosure measuring approximately one by five meters, with an opening at the south end that allowed water to drain after washing lead ore. Along with the knocking wall and bingstead to the south, this site represents a complete and rare example of primitive ore-dressing techniques. The Westernhope mines were operated by the Blackett family from the early 18th century until 1861.