Witton-Le-Wear

Witton-le-Wear is a village situated on the north bank of the River Wear, 6 km from Bishop Auckland. Originally a farming hamlet, it was part of the Witton Castle estate. Home of the Victoria Inn. The Weardale Railway runs between Stanhope and Bishop Auckland, and has a halt at Witton-le-Wear.

The village holds a Village Show every September showcasing produce and goods produced and grown by the residents. There is a great network of walks including the Weardale Way which passes alongside the village.

Newby Lowson, who lived in Witton Towers was the companion of JMW Turner on his first continental tour in 1802, he sketched “Witton Castle with Witton Tower Witton le Wear across the wear valley and beyond.” Newby Lowson’s tomb is situated at the rear of the church of St Philip and St James in the village. A church has been on this site since Saxon times.

Witton-le-Wear is a good base to stay if visiting the popular Kynren outdoor show.