Barclays Bank

The old Barclays Bank building in Stanley is one of those solid Victorian structures that tells you everything about a town's former prosperity. It's a proper piece of Edwardian architecture - all red brick and stone detailing - that sits as a reminder of when Stanley had genuine commercial clout. You won't spend hours here, but it's worth a look if you're passing through town, particularly if you're interested in how regional banking shaped the North East.

Historically minded visitors will find it interesting enough as a symbol of Stanley's industrial heyday, though the building itself isn't open to the public in any formal capacity. It's more of a landmark to appreciate from the street - a solid, no-nonsense affair that reflects the character of the place.

Stanley itself is compact and easy to navigate, making it a reasonable stopover if you're basing yourself at one of the nearby glamping spots. Beamish Glamping, just over a mile away, offers five-star accommodation and puts you within easy reach of both the town and the wider Tyne and Wear attractions. If you're looking for something slightly less polished but well-located, Beamish Holiday Park sits even closer at under a mile. The proximity of these parks means you can explore Stanley's heritage without it feeling like a dedicated trip - more of a casual wander while you're in the area.