Stanhope is a small market town in County Durham in England. Set in The Durham Dales along the River Wear, this little market town is a popular place for walkers and cyclists alike. A special tourist attraction here is the 12th Century church of St Thomas, a reminder of the Dale’s Christian heritage. Medieval stained glass can be found in the west window but older still is the church’s Roman altar. The Victorian font is remarkable as it is made of polished Frosterley marble. Another fascinating relic is the famous fossil tree which is approximately 320 million years old. There is also the Durham Dales centre, full of locally crafted gifts and out-door heated swimming pool, for those who like to be ‘out in the open.