top of page

Rookhope Business Centre Opens Doors to Local Entrepreneurs and Freelancers

Nicki Downey and Kathryn Lowe-Oliver, Rookhope Business Centre Managers, with Christian Pape, Business Property Director at Business Durham
Nicki Downey and Kathryn Lowe-Oliver, Rookhope Business Centre Managers, with Christian Pape, Business Property Director at Business Durham

Business Durham is inviting local businesses, entrepreneurs, freelancers, and community organisations to attend a relaxed Open Day at Rookhope Business Centre on Wednesday 30th July, from 10am to 3pm.


Set in the heart of the Durham Dales, Rookhope Business Centre is a welcoming, flexible workspace designed to support people living and working in rural areas. The Open Day is a chance to explore the space, meet others, and access free business support — all over a cup of tea in a stunning setting.


A Rural Workspace with Big Potential

Whether working from home, running a business, or starting something new, it can be hard to find the right space to focus, meet and grow — especially in more remote areas.

Rookhope Business Centre offers a practical and peaceful alternative. The centre includes hot-desking areas, a bookable meeting room, high-speed broadband, Chromebooks for public use, and a cosy book and jigsaw swap corner that reflects the community spirit of the space.

The on-site café, The Rookhope Kitchen, serves light bites, paninis, sandwiches and hot drinks — perfect for working lunches, informal catch-ups or simply taking a break in a friendly setting.

There are also a small number of self-contained offices available to rent — ideal for small businesses or teams looking for an affordable, professional base in the Dales.


What’s Happening on the Day

The Open Day is a relaxed drop-in event from 10am to 3pm. Attendees can look around the space, chat with the Business Durham team, enjoy refreshments, and speak to advisors offering free business support. Whether someone has a clear plan or just a few early ideas, it’s a great chance to get friendly guidance and learn more about what’s available locally.

It’s also a brilliant opportunity to meet others who live and work in the area — from fellow freelancers to local organisations and entrepreneurs. No pressure, no formalities — just a welcoming space to explore and connect.


Who Should Come Along?

This event is open to anyone curious about working differently in Weardale and the Durham Dales. It may be especially helpful for:

  • Freelancers or remote workers looking for a change of scene

  • Start-ups and sole traders in need of support or connection

  • Small business owners seeking flexible workspace options

  • Community organisations looking for occasional use of professional space

  • Anyone with an idea or ambition to take forward

You don’t need to book a tour or prepare anything — just pop in and see what’s possible.


A Space to Work, Connect and Grow

The centre is part of Business Durham’s wider commitment to supporting businesses across County Durham, including rural communities. Rookhope Business Centre offers more than just a place to work — it’s a place to build ideas, make connections, and feel supported in whatever comes next.

With one of the private offices already let, there are still opportunities for those interested in taking up more permanent space — but the Open Day is first and foremost about community, discovery and support.


Event Details

Date: Wednesday 30th JulyTime: 10am – 3pmLocation: Rookhope Business Centre, County Durham

Cost: Free


Whether you're launching something new, looking for support, or just fancy working somewhere different for the day, the Rookhope Business Centre Open Day is the perfect excuse to come and see what’s available.



Other Business News

Business Durham

Catch up with the latest regional business news

Property (1).png

Add Your News

At Business Durham, we believe that sharing positive news stories about successful businesses in County Durham is important for fostering a supportive and thriving business community. We want to encourage business owners to send us their success stories so that we can share them on our website and celebrate their achievements. We are committed to promoting the county as a great place to do business and providing a platform for businesses to showcase their successes.

Contact us today to share your story!

bottom of page