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The monument includes the remains of two lead mines and an ore works, situated on the base and lower slopes of the valley of the West Allen at Carrshield. The visible remains of the lead industry at Carrshield are complex and represent several phases of mining over three centuries. The latest phase of the mining dominates, although earlier remains will survive beneath these, as well as in the areas untouched by later mining. The earliest known mining activity at the site was the Barney Crag Horse level, situated at the southern end of the complex; this mine was opened during the 1760s and continued in use throughout the 19th century. The access to this mine was through an adit, or horizontal tunnel into the valley side.

The second mine at the complex was Scraithole Mine which was operated during the 19th century by the Beaumont Company, and was reopened in the 1950s when it continued to be operational until 1981. Access to this mine was also through an adit; the entrance is situated on the left bank of the river immediately east of the track to Greenpit, opposite Bluerow Cottages.

Historic England Scheduled Monument (1015849): Link

Barney Crag Industrial Complex, RCHME Report (1992): Link Archive Link

Carne, P. and Jenkins, C. (2015). Barney Craig Mine Water Treatment Scheme, Carrshield, Northumberland - heritage assessment. Archaeological Services, Durham University.
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In 2016, Northern Archaeological Associates was commissioned to assist with the remedial works at Carrshield designed to redirect water into the River West Allen away from the spoil heaps of the former mine workings. This consisted of the archaeological monitoring of soil removal, repair of the mine tailings retaining wall and the partial demolition of a miner’s cottage at nearby Low Blue Row to make it safe.
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