Discover Weardale, the home of the Stanhope Weekender Music Festival
Weardale stands as a jewel in the crown of County Durham, England, a dale that boasts the tranquil beauty and rich historical tapestry characteristic of the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) – one of the largest designated areas of such distinguished landscapes in England and Wales. With its upper dale cradled by imposing fells and expansive moors, Weardale is a conduit for the River Wear’s tranquil flow towards the historic city of Durham, and its final embrace with the sea at Sunderland.
At the very heart of the Durham Dales, Weardale shares its heritage and natural splendour with neighbouring Teesdale to the south and Derwentdale to the north, interconnected by tranquil side valleys affectionately known as ‘hopes.’ These dales collectively form part of the North Pennines AONB, a region unified by its dramatic landscapes, geological wonders, and remnants of a bygone era of lead mining, standing in contrast to the turbulent history of the Border country and the more peaceful lands to the south.
Weardale itself radiates a distinctive charm, with its gentle landscapes and the quaint towns and villages that line the dale, all set against a backdrop of the more untamed Pennine scenery. This blend of gentle charm and wild beauty is what makes exploring Weardale a truly unique experience, starting from the east and venturing westward up the valley.
Weardale is not just a place; it’s an experience where history, community, and the beauty of nature converge, creating an unforgettable backdrop for the Stanhope Weekender Festival, where the rhythms of music and the tranquillity of the landscape meld in perfect harmony.
