At The Heart Of The Dale
Discover Stanhope
From its ancient roots and rural traditions to independent shops, cafés and attractions, Stanhope offers a relaxed base for exploring Weardale and the wider North Pennines.
A Historic Market Town
Stanhope is a green and tranquil market town at the heart of the Durham Dales, set amid open moorland within the North Pennines National Landscape. Its village plan is thought to date back to Saxon times, with much earlier roots still evident today.
Bronze Age settlers once lived here, leaving behind a remarkable hoard discovered at Heatheryburn Caves, now housed in the British Museum.
The Romans also frequented the area, hunting in the surrounding countryside and leaving an altar to their hunting god, which can still be seen in St Thomas’ Church. During Norman times, the village supported the Bishop of Durham, who used the Weardale Forest as a hunting ground.
A Welcoming Hub for Visitors
Centrally located within the valley, Stanhope offers a welcoming range of facilities for visitors, including a post office, independent shops, cafés, pubs and a petrol station. The Durham Dales Centre is a focal point for the area, featuring a courtyard of craft shops showcasing work by talented Weardale makers, alongside an information point, café, toilets and long-stay parking.
Hear What Our Visitors Say
John T
Made to feel welcome here. Worth a visit if in the area.
Eddie730
Exceptionally friendly staff make your visit worthwhile.
Christine4521
The staff were lovely, very friendly, and it was a great stop for us - we will definitely return.
Cam
I can recommend this place to everyone . Well done Dales Centre.
Penny H
The facilities are warm, welcoming and I don't think we could have found a better place for what turned into a two hour + visit! I highly recommend it.
Ann E
Good parking facilities, clean toilets, nice little gift shops with lots of local crafts and gifts. Well worth a visit.