Ireshopeburn is a pretty village at the western end of Upper Weardale. The name pronounced locally as "Eye-sup-burn" may derive its meaning from ironstone deposites in the area or from nearby Irish settlers. This was once part of the high Forest of Weardale where Bishop's of Durham brought their rich friends to hunt deer and boar. It was later given over to farming and became the headquarters for the Blackett and Beamont lead mining operations in Weardale during the 18th and 19th centuries.

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Ireshopeburn also became a centre for 'dissenting' communities as first the Presbyterians built a 'Scots Kirk' in the village and then the Methodists built their preaching house. Wesley made many journeys out into Weardale to visit his Methodist Society in Ireshopeburn and High House Methodist Chapel is now the oldest Methodist Chapel to have continuous weekly services since its foundation in 1760. The Chapel can be viewed by visitors during the opening hours of the adjoining Weardale Museum which is bursting at the seams with stories of local life.

The Weardale Museum is seasonal and only open in the afternoon from 2pm - 5pm at Easter and then between 1st May and 31st October, but a a visit is highly recommended.

Above the village lies Burnhope Reservoir which affords beautiful views especially from May to August, the seasons of nesting wading birds and wildflower meadows.

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