Stanhope to White Kirkley
| 23rd April 2025 | This general update for walkers concerns current access and navigation on Section 5 of the Weardale Way (Stanhope to White Kirkley) 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.
White Kirkley Footbridge
Since September 2024 the footbridge (pictured above) over the Bollihope Burn near White Kirkley has been assessed as unsafe by Durham County Council and barred to walkers. This is a big blow to the Weardale Way ‘experience’ for this section and while work was to have been completed in March 2025, none has yet started. With no further information available it’s impossible to know when the bridge will be reopened. Alternative routes are available for which we offer GPS options.
There are 3 options: the ‘normal’ route, for which the link to the GPS route file remains on the web page for Section 5. Otherwise Option A descends to the Bollihope Burn at Low Bollihope before diverting at Pye Close footbridge which is also closed (not that it matters); Option B descends directly to Low Bishopley Farm from Hilltop House, avoiding the Bollihope Burn altogether.
Bear in mind that when water levels are low – as they often are – the normal route can still be used as the burn alongside the bridge is easily fordable, particularly when wearing waterproofed boots/gaiters or when you’re prepared to (possibly) get your feet damp. In wet, wintry conditions or during heavy downpours, the burn runs much faster and deeper, during which times fording isn’t advised and would be uncomfortable at the very least.
Conclusion
Apart from the situation with White Kirkley footbridge, this section remains as published in the guide book. Specific way-marking for this section is fairly good, as it has been for a few years now. Summer vegetation can be a problem around Parson Byers Quarry when it encroaches on and covers the trail. A GPS file from The Durham Cow will undoubtedly help with navigation. Infrastructure – stiles, gates and steps – is in decent repair but always cross with care.
That’s it for Section 3. 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 5 taken on the day(s) of the update in our Google Gallery.