Ferry

Approximate location / Grid Reference: NZ32002 54568

Google Maps: approximate location: 54.884831,-1.502708

A ferry boat service operated across the river from a landing on the south side of the river just east of the Victoria Viaduct. This crossing was in addition to another ferry which plied further down-river at Cox Green. The former was know as the Victoria Ferry or Low Lambton Ferry, the area to the immediate south of the viaduct being known as 'Low Lambton.' The ferry was used frequently by miners from Penshaw, Penshaw Staithes and Cox Green who worked at the North Biddick Colliery which was located on the north bank of the river at a short distance west of the viaduct. An old picture of the colliery is below. The colliery closed in 1931. The ferry had an overhead cable and wheel system which was used to cross the river safely in times of flood.

The ferry boat man in the 1911 census was Mr Thomas Bradshaw, aged 39, born Cox Green. His residence was given as Victoria Cottage, North Biddick, Washington.

Above: Victoria Bridge / Low Lambton Ferry landing taken from the north bank of the river, looking south towards Low Lambton

Above: the ferry landing on the north riverbank, viewed from the south bank

Above: a closer view of the ferry landing on the north bank, viewed from the south. Remains of a wooden structure are still visible

Above: Miners abord the ferry at Low Lambton c.1920

The ferry steps on the south bank today. They are still in relatively good condition and visible at low-water:

Above: the two ferry landing points viewed from the top of the Victoria Viaduct. The south bank of the river is to the right.

Above: North Biddick Colliery with the Victoria Viaduct in the background. This colliery was also known as "Botany Bay", or "Butney" in the local dialect. The colliery closed in the 1930's as it had become uneconomical to work and the workmen were dispersed to other collieries in the area. In around 1900, approximately 350 men and boys were employed here, hence the large demand for the ferry. The two seams worked were the Maudlin seam and the Hutton seam. The colliery had a massive spoil heap which in later years was landscaped.