Bearpark facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Bearpark |
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 The centre of Bearpark village |
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 Bearpark
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| Population | 2,283 (2011 Census) |
| OS grid reference | NZ238431 |
| Unitary authority |
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| Ceremonial county | |
| Region | |
| Country | England |
| Sovereign state | United Kingdom |
| Post town | DURHAM |
| Postcode district | DH7 |
| Dialling code | 0191 |
| Police | Durham |
| Fire | County Durham and Darlington |
| Ambulance | North East |
| EU Parliament | North East England |
| UK Parliament |
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Bearpark is a village and civil parish in County Durham, England. It's located about two and a half miles west of the city of Durham. You can find it a short distance north of Ushaw Moor. This friendly village has a fascinating past, especially linked to an old priory and coal mining.
Contents
Discover Bearpark
What's in a Name?
The name "Bearpark" might sound a bit unusual! It could come from an old French phrase, Beau Repaire. This means "beautiful retreat." This makes sense when you learn about the area's history.
A Look at Bearpark's History
Just half a mile north of the village, you can find the ruins of Beaurepaire Priory. This special building was constructed in 1258. It was built by Bertram de Middleton, who was the head of the Durham Priory. He intended it as a peaceful home for his retirement.
Over the next three centuries, the priory grew bigger. It became a quiet place for the monks from Durham to relax. It was similar to another nearby retreat called Finchale Priory. Sadly, the priory was mostly destroyed in the 1640s. This happened during the British Civil War, when Scottish forces caused a lot of damage.
Bearpark's Mining Past
In 1872, a man named Theodore Fry helped start the Bearpark Coal and Coke Company. This company opened a coal mine right in Bearpark. Coal mining was a very important industry in this area for many years. The mine provided jobs for many people in the village. However, the mine eventually closed down in 1984.
The Village Today
The heart of Bearpark village is the Bearpark Community Centre. This red brick building was first built in 1921. It started as a welfare hall for the miners. Today, it's a place where the community gathers.
In front of the building, you'll see an old pit wheel. This wheel is a memorial. It reminds everyone of the village's long and important history with coal mining. It honors the hard work of the miners.
Bearpark in Pop Culture
Bearpark has even appeared on television and radio! The BBC series Uncanny once featured a story from the village. It talked about a Victorian boy who was said to haunt a house there.
Also, a band from Durham called Prefab Sprout wrote a song about Bearpark. It shows how the village has inspired artists.
