Whorlton, County Durham facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Whorlton |
|
|---|---|
 Whorlton
|
|
| Population | 302 (including Westwick .2011) |
| OS grid reference | NZ105149 |
| Unitary authority | |
| Shire county | |
| Region | |
| Country | England |
| Sovereign state | United Kingdom |
| Post town | DARLINGTON |
| Postcode district | DL12 |
| Police | Durham |
| Fire | County Durham and Darlington |
| Ambulance | North East |
| EU Parliament | North East England |
Whorlton is a small village located in County Durham, England. It sits close to the River Tees and is found to the east of Barnard Castle.
Contents
Whorlton Bridge: A Historic Crossing
Whorlton is famous for its special bridge. The Whorlton Bridge is a 183-foot long suspension bridge. It stretches across the River Tees. This bridge is very important because it's the second oldest suspension bridge in Britain. It still uses its original chains! Only the Union Bridge over the River Tweed is older.
Life in Whorlton Village
The village of Whorlton has a local pub. It is called 'The Bridge Inn'. Two notable people were born in Whorlton. They were Arthur Headlam and James Wycliffe Headlam.
History of Whorlton Bridge
Building the Bridge
The first Whorlton Bridge was being built in October 1829. But a big flood on the River Tees caused a lot of damage. The flood washed away the bridge while it was still under construction.
A New Design
After the flood, a skilled engineer was called in. His name was John Green. He was from Newcastle upon Tyne. John Green was asked to design a new bridge. He used his earlier design for the Scotswood Bridge as a guide.
Opening the Bridge
Building the new Whorlton Bridge began in 1830. The construction went well this time. The bridge was officially opened in July 1831. It has been an important crossing ever since.
