Weardale

Weardale, one of the Durham Dales, was once the hunting ground of County Durham's Prince Bishops.

Stanhope Deer Park

Eastgate and Westgate marked the boundary of the Stanhope Deer Park where the famous 'Great Chases' were held. Weardale is also famous as the source of a unique form of 'marble' - known as Frosterley Marble. It's actually a type of limestone and when highly polished the fossilized remains of sea creatures are plain to see.

Stanhope

Stanhope is the largest settlement in Upper Weardale and is a good spot to spend a while planning your next move as you explore the North Pennines. Don't miss the spectacular Stanhope Fossil Tree (originally from a quarry near Edmundbyers) in the churchyard. Take a walk by the River Wear and find out more about the area, including local walks, at the Durham Dales Centre.

Lead mining landscape

The poet WH Auden loved the North Pennines, especially the area around Rookhope. It was here in the lead mining landscapes of Weardale that he first felt his creative juices flowing. Visit the arch to the northwest of Rookhope - a reminder of the area's lead mining past and the inspiration that Auden drew from the fascinating part of the North Pennines.

Places to visit, things to do

Weardale Railway - Runs between Bishop Auckland, Wolsingham, Frosterley and Stanhope - the only heritage railway based on part of the Stockton and Darlington Railway.

Walking and cycling routes in Weardale

Killhope - the North of England Lead Mining Museum - Multi-award winning museum with many opportunities for hands-on experiences of what life was like in the lead mines.

Weardale Museum & High House Chapel - Ireshopeburn. Independent folk museum telling Weardale's story. Catch a glimpse of home life for lead miners a century ago.

Swimming Pools: Weardale Open Air Swimming Pool, Stanhope - 01388 528466; Wolsingham Community Pool - 01388 528198.

Ride of Your Life - 01388 488191 - chauffeured motorcycle and trike tours around the North Pennines and the North of England.

Durham Dales Centre - information, tearooms, shops and grounds.

Harehope Quarry Project, Frosterley - restored quarry with geology trail and interpretation and volunteer-built eco-classroom.

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