Stanhope

02Geography

Stanhope is situated along the River Wear, positioned between Eastgate and Frosterley in the Weardale region. The town is surrounded by moorland and is part of the North Pennines AONB, which is recognised for its stunning landscapes and biodiversity.

03History

The name Stanhope originates from the Old English term stānhop, meaning 'stone valley'. The town has a rich historical background, including its involvement in the Weardale campaign of 1327, where skirmishes occurred between Scottish and English forces.

• 12th–13th centuries Construction of the parish church dedicated to St Thomas.
• 1798 Construction of the current Stanhope Castle by Cuthbert Rippon.
• 1834 Inception of the annual Stanhope Agricultural Show.
• 1941 Stanhope Castle adapted as a school for boys.
• 1980 Conversion of Stanhope Castle into apartments.

Stanhope is a historic market town in County Durham, known for its scenic beauty and notable landmarks like Stanhope Castle.

04Attractions and Community

Stanhope is home to several points of interest, including the Durham Dales Centre, which offers a tea room and craft shops. The town also features one of the few heated open-air swimming pools in the North East and the historic Stanhope Bridge, a scheduled monument.

• Stanhope Agricultural Show Held annually on the second weekend of September.
• Stanhope Castle 18th-century structure with possible medieval origins.
• Weardale Railway Heritage line terminating in Stanhope, operating mainly on weekends.
• Stanhope Bridge 15th-century bridge, widened in 1792.
• Petrified tree stump Located in the churchyard, with others displayed in the Great North Museum.