Stanhope Dene

Valley in Durham

England

Stanhope Dene

Stanhope Tree A preserved Sigillaria tree from the mid Carboniferous coal swamps. Instead of joining its coal friends it rotted away but was covered in sand which left a cast. <span class="nowrap"><a title="http://arthuride.files.wordpress.com/2010/12/sigillaria-tree1.jpg" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="http://arthuride.files.wordpress.com/2010/12/sigillaria-tree1.jpg">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span>

Preserved at a sand quarry it was brought here and erected in front of the church. The bark and root impressions are very good. — Stanhope Tree Credit: Ashley Dace

Stanhope Dene, also known as Stanhope Valley, is a picturesque area located in County Durham, England. This valley is situated in the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, which attracts visitors from far and wide due to its stunning natural scenery and rich history.

The dene stretches for approximately 12 miles and is carved by the River Wear, which meanders through the landscape, creating a beautiful and tranquil environment. The valley is surrounded by rolling hills and dense woodland, providing a sense of seclusion and serenity to those who venture into it.

Stanhope Dene is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts. The wooded areas are filled with ancient oak and ash trees, while the riverbanks support an array of wildflowers and plants, including bluebells and primroses in the springtime.

In addition to its natural beauty, Stanhope Dene boasts a rich cultural heritage. The valley is dotted with remnants of its industrial past, including old lead mines and quarries, which provide a glimpse into the region's history. There are also several charming villages and hamlets nestled within the dene, such as Stanhope and Frosterley, where visitors can explore traditional stone-built houses and enjoy a taste of rural life.

Overall, Stanhope Dene offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and historical significance, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking tranquility and a connection to the past.

Show me another place!

If you have any feedback on the listing, please let us know in the comments section below.

Stanhope Dene Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 54.754774/-2.0195923 or Grid Reference NY9839. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Stanhope Tree

A preserved Sigillaria tree from the mid Carboniferous coal swamps. Instead of joining its coal friends it rotted away but was covered in sand which left a cast. Link

Preserved at a sand quarry it was brought here and erected in front of the church. The bark and root impressions are very good.

Ashley Dace

St Thomas the Apostle Church, Stanhope

The Church is an ancient structure, standing on the north side of the town. It is mainly of the Norman period, with its oldest portion being the lower stages of the tower. It consists of nave, aisles, chancel, south porch, and western tower. The chantry chapel at the east end of the south aisle, and dedicated to St. Mary, was probably added about 1225. (Carol Bleasdale)

Ashley Dace

Stanhope Tree

A preserved Sigillaria tree from the mid Carboniferous coal swamps. Instead of joining its coal friends it rotted away but was covered in sand which left a cast. Link

Preserved at a sand quarry it was brought here and erected in front of the church. The bark and root impressions are very good.

Ashley Dace

Stanhope Railway Station

Steam was due to be running but problems meant no service today. The station was restored in 2004 with reconstruction of the canopy. The Edwardian traveller would notice little difference apart from the footbridge, signal box and signage.

Ashley Dace

Stanhope Railway Station

A view of the footbridge which hasn't changed in many years.

Ashley Dace

Stanhope Railway Station

The preserved railway station on the Weardale railway, a line offering a service to Bishops Auckland. Steam runs to Wolsingham and return. Since 2004 the canopy has been restored and facilities improved. Link

Ashley Dace

Former Weardale Railway

The line to Eastgate is now disused but ready for restoration.

Ashley Dace

Old railway goods van near Greenhead Farm

The location of this old railway goods van is shown in NY9739 : The valley of Allerton Burn near Greenhead Farm.

Mike Quinn

The valley of Allerton Burn near Greenhead Farm

Shows the location of NY9739 : Old railway goods van near Greenhead Farm.

Mike Quinn

Weardale near Greenfoot

Mike Quinn

The Church of St. Thomas, Stanhope

Viewed from Church Lane.

Mike Quinn

Ashes Quarry (2)

The quarry was a mile long and was worked for over 70 years. The North Pennines AONB has produced a leaflet about the quarry that includes a 2 mile walk around the area Link

Mike Quinn

Ashes Quarry

The quarry was a mile long and was worked for over 70 years. The North Pennines AONB has produced a leaflet about the quarry that includes a 2 mile walk around the area Link

. See also NY9939 : Ashes Quarry (2).

Mike Quinn