9.26 miles.
Explorer Map 307, - Consett and Derwent Reservoir
A walk that takes in the Stanhope Burn, and a delightful
waterfall at Shield Hurst. The route then crosses farmland and moorland
to reach Eastgate, where the final section is beside the River Wear
along the Weardale Way.
Although most of the paths are well-defined, we found some of the going
to be quite difficult, especially due to the heavy ground and thick
mud encountered in parts.
The section of the Weardale Way between Eastgate and Stanhope had clearly
been subject to severe flooding. In poor weather this section may, therefore,
be closed.
For a Memory Map overlay of the walk described, please select the above
link.
(Overlay made with Version 4 of Memory Map)
Set out from the Dales Centre in the middle of Stanhope
(NY9958039287). Free car parking.
Walk West along the A689 to the Stanhope Hope Hotel, and take the footpath
North along the West bank of the Stanhope Burn.
As you emerge from the Beech woods, there is a waterfall in front of
you. Continue along the path to the track (NY9845941035) leading to
the farm of Shield Hurst. Continue along this track to descend to the
ruins of the Fluorspar mine (NY9862541431) by the Stanhope Burn. Cross
the Burn, and follow the path along the East bank of the Burn. With
Hope House farm in sight, cross the Burn again and head along the footpath
(indistinct) to the Farm. Pass through the farm yard to the right of
the house, and leave by the gate at the farm track (NY9827741951).
Follow the farm tracks and footpath South West to Mount Pleasant Farm,
to PityMe Spring at NY9694240397.
Continue South West along the indistinct footpath to the minor road
on Bewdley Plain. Head West to Hill Top House. (NY9584139872).
From here, take the footpath South West to the ruins of High Farm. and
continue to Eastgate.
Return to Stanhope from Eastgate along the waymarked Weardale
Way.