Rookhope to Stanhope
| 25th April 2025 | This general update for walkers concerns current access and navigation on Section 4 of the Weardale Way (Rookhope to Stanhope) with particular regard to where it differs from what might be published elsewhere on this site or in our Weardale Way Pocket Guide.
Local conditions and heavy use quickly degrade infrastructure – particularly timber – causing impromptu and possibly persisting access and/or navigation issues. The chances of the trail changing in some way – short and long-term – is even more likely in urban areas. If your experience is different to what we’ve published here, you can help by leaving your insights in the comments.
Rookhope
Everything that needs to be said for now, regarding the situation in Rookhope, has been said in the update for Section 3 so I won’t repeat myself.
Eastgate to Stanhope
The route through and after the caravan park at Eastgate has a slightly different character to that published in the guide book though it’s probably more noticeable to me than anyone else. While the caravan park has expanded somewhat, the route through it is exactly the same (the WW fingerpost at the entrance is the only way-marking). The transition out of the park – into a narrow strip of riparian woodland – is seamless after which the trail stays a bit closer to the river than it used to but only by a few metres. It’s even more tranquil now and there appears to be little chance of it being used for cattle again.
Conclusion
Apart from the continued issues with Rookhope and a superficial variation in the route after the caravan park at Eastgate, this section remains as published in the guide book. Specific Weardale Way way-marking has improved, being more extensive and predictable than it’s ever been, but more could be done. A GPS file from The Durham Cow should help with navigation. Some infrastructure – stiles, gates and steps – has been repaired but some still requires maintenance so, as I’ve said elsewhere, take care when using it.
That’s it for Section 4. We hope this helps. If you have anything to add please feel free to do it in the comments. Happy Walking!
Gallery
View a comprehensive selection of images for Section 4 taken on the day(s) of the update in our Google Gallery.