The valley of Weardale is a delightful 'forgotten corner' running west to east between the Cumbrian market town of Alston and the Prince Bishops' seat at Bishop Auckland.
Upper Weardale is located in the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, one of Britain's most outstanding landscapes.
The North Pennine Dales comprise the seven river valleys of Tyne, Tees, Eden, East and West Allen, Derwent and Wear. Weardale is the "Land of the Lead Men", and above the valley to north and south are extensive remains of ore extraction, particularly lead, dating from the 18th and 19th centuries.
It is a rugged area, a lot like Yorkshire, with an austere beauty and drama of its own. A paradise for walkers, explorers and budding archaeologists and naturalists. Between and behind the villages of Weardale, winding down to the river or up the fellsides, is a rich network of footpaths, making this a marvellous area for walking. Access by public transport is excellent - the little red and cream Weardale bus meanders up and down the valley every hour from Bishop Auckland and Crook. |
brightsmall.jpg)
