Stanley is a friendly and welcoming place with a great local community and camaraderie. Like many towns and villages in County Durham coal mining was once central to life here – remnants of this way of life can be found throughout the area. Easily commutable from Newcastle or Durham and even visiting from London is an easy journey when staying in the area. There are a host of popular Stanley attractions and restaurants to visit when staying in the area – we’ve added a few below to help get you started planning your trip.
The Beamish Museum experience offers an amazing experience to step into the past and get up close and personal with history and step into the past. Explore 350 acres dedicated to telling the stories of the people of North East England in the 1820s, 1900s and 1940s. Take the opportunity to taste traditional food, hop on board a tram or steam train, play schoolyard games and visit the Co-op shops. For more information on planning your visit take a look here – adult tickets are available from £21, children from £12, and family tickets from £37. Well-behaved dogs are welcome at the museum and entry is free for dogs!
This wonderful location is for those interested in history and nature. Enjoy a wander and visit this railway bridge built in 1727 as a wagonway from a nearby colliery. It’s in a beautiful setting with wonderful walks in the area, offering an ideal day out.
The White Room Gallery is an Art Gallery and Coffee Shop combined with a creative hotspot encouraging emerging local and North Eastern Artists, Photographers & Craftsmen to Stanley. Discovered the wealth of local talent exhibited in this warm and friendly gallery.
Il Cancello Italian Restaurant
This popular Italian restaurant offers excellent service along with excellent food and an inviting atmosphere. Try Sicilian and Southern-Italian fare in this family-friendly restaurant including pizza, pasta, and a whole host of starters and desserts for every taste.
This rustic-inspired cafe and bistro pride itself on fresh, home cooking using the finest of local ingredients offering a range of freshly made pies, quiche, sandwiches, scones, soup and cake.
The Shepherd & Shepherdess Inn Restaurant
This traditional country pub proudly serves quality home-cooked locally sourced food, cask ales and fine wines by a highly skilled, friendly team. Enjoy quality food and a relaxed family atmosphere.
Where to Stay Near Stanley
If you are looking for a holiday home, cottage, or self-catering apartment for your next escape in Durham, Plawsworth Hall has everything you could need and more. More than a few of the spaces are even dog-friendly! Situated in the idyllic Plawsworth village and surrounded by beautiful Durham countryside, the vista and acres of natural surroundings alone will help you relax and unwind. You may even see the sheep or cows roaming from your accommodation. The accommodation offered by Plawsworth Hall is close to so many sights in Durham including Durham City keeping you central to the action.
