Stanhope is a small historic market town in County Durham, located in the upper Wear Valley near the western edge of the North Pennines. The town has a long history as a local centre for the surrounding rural communities and former lead-mining areas. Its setting among hills, rivers and open moorland gives it a distinctly rural character. Stanhope is also an important gateway to the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Stanhope: Historical sights and information
Facts about Stanhope
- Latitude:
- 54.749750
- Longitude:
- -2.011760
- GPS Coordinates:
- 54°45' N, 02°01' W
The historical and tourist significance of the town
St Thomas's Church is one of the town's principal landmarks and contains a rare Saxon cross shaft. The remains of Stanhope Castle and the historic market area reflect the town's medieval past. The surrounding North Pennines provide excellent opportunities for walking, cycling and wildlife watching, while the River Wear runs through the valley. The nearby Weardale Railway offers a heritage railway experience and connects the area with other attractions in the valley.
Food and leisure
Stanhope has traditional pubs, cafés, restaurants and small independent shops serving both residents and visitors. Local produce and traditional northern English dishes are common in the area. Spring through early autumn is the best period for exploring the surrounding hills and valleys, while autumn offers particularly attractive colours. Stanhope is a useful rural stop when travelling between County Durham, the North Pennines and Cumbria.
Locations & Tours
Discover famous landmarks, historical sites and tourist attractions in Stanhope.