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- stanhope circular route two
Stanhope Circular Route Two
Route facts
Waterways:
River Wear »
Distance: 18.64 miles / 30 km
Duration: 3-4 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Circular route from: Stanhope
This route provides a picturesque introduction to Weardale, starting at Stanhope, passing through neighbouring villages, up to the top of Scarsike Head and then gently back down to the River Wear, returning alongside the river all the way back to your starting point.
1.1 Turn right out of Dales Centre at Stanhope and go along along the A689 for 1km (just over half a mile) past Old Stanhope Hall. On the outskirts of the village, on the brow of the hill, Turn right up the minor road beside Toll Cottage (signposted: Greenfoot Caravan Park). There is a long uphill section and two gates to pass through but a magnificent view of the dale. 1.2 Follow this road downhill and give way at the bottom as you are now joining the main road into Rookhope. Turn right and go through the village, passing Rookhope Nursery and Rookhope Arch on left. 1.3 After Rookhope Arch turn left over bridge. Begin the steady climb to the top of Scarsike Head. 1.4 Go straight ahead at the junction downhill, and then up a really steep uphill stretch. The road then levels out, with views into Weardale. 1.5 Continue steeply downhill and then turn right at the T-junction, go downhill over river and left onto the main road. 1.6 Go straight ahead on to village of St. John’s Chapel. Turn left towards Daddry Shield, and once in the village turn right before the bend in the road. Watch out for farm vehicles and the occasional fast car. 1.7 Continue along this pleasant lane for 10km (6 miles), then turn left to cross the bridge over River Wear. Then turn right to Stanhope on A689.
Getting there
Parking: Town centre.
