Attractions and Places To See around Alston Moor - Top 20

Alston Moor, nestled within the North Pennines AONB, offers stunning natural landscapes. You can visit High Cup Nick, a spectacular glaciated U-shaped valley, or witness the powerful Cauldron Snout Waterfall where the River Tees descends through a rocky ravine. Other notable waterfalls include Ashgill Force, where you can walk behind the cascades, and those at Gossipgate, Skelgill, and Thortergill. The area also features Cow Green Reservoir and Dam, surrounded by important habitats for rare alpine plants.

Yes, Alston Moor is rich in history. You can explore the dramatically-sited Epiacum Roman Fort (Whitley Castle), known for its impressive multiple ramparts. The area also features numerous historic buildings and bastle houses, such as Clarghyll Hall, which are fortified farmhouses from the border regions. The Hub Museum in Alston showcases the area's past through photographs and artifacts, while The Hive at Nenthead, housed in a restored Wesleyan Chapel, serves as an arts and visitor centre.

Alston Moor is a popular region for outdoor enthusiasts. For hiking, you can find routes like the Ashgill Force loop from Garrigill or the Isaac's Tea Trail. More challenging options include the Cross Fell and Greg's Hut Bothy loop. Cyclists can enjoy scenic road cycling routes such as the 'Newbiggin and Allenheads loop' or the 'Alston Cobbles on Front Street – Lambley Viaduct loop'. You can find detailed routes and guides for hiking, road cycling, and running around Alston Moor.

Families can enjoy several attractions in Alston Moor. The South Tynedale Railway offers scenic rides on narrow-gauge steam and diesel engines, providing a fun experience for all ages. Many natural sites like Cauldron Snout Waterfall and Lambley Viaduct are accessible for family walks, though some paths may be challenging for very young children. The Hub Museum also offers an engaging look into local history with its collection of vintage vehicles and artifacts.

To delve into Alston Moor's industrial past, visit Nenthead Mines, once a significant lead and zinc mining enterprise. On special open days, you can take underground tours, explore extensive industrial remains, and view mineral displays. Nenthead itself was the first purpose-built industrial village in England, offering a glimpse into the lives of miners. The Lambley Viaduct also stands as a testament to the region's railway history, having carried coal and lead from the mines.

Beyond the well-known spots, Alston Moor offers other natural wonders. Consider visiting Ashgill Force, a stunning waterfall where you can walk behind the water. The North Pennines AONB itself is characterized by fells, moorland, and vast skies, providing numerous mountain streams and smaller waterfalls to discover. The area around Cow Green Reservoir is also notable for its rare alpine plants.

Absolutely! The North Pennines, where Alston Moor is located, boasts some of the darkest skies in the country due to minimal light pollution. This makes it an excellent location for stargazing, with more Dark Sky Discovery Sites than anywhere else in the UK. On clear nights, you can enjoy exceptional views of the stars and celestial phenomena.

Alston, recognized as the highest market settlement in England, is a charming town worth exploring. Its steep cobbled main street features a distinctive Market Cross and is lined with historic stone buildings dating back to the 17th century. You can browse quaint shops, enjoy local cafes and pubs, and soak in the unique atmosphere of this historic market town.

Yes, the Lambley Viaduct is a prominent architectural landmark. This elegant, Grade II listed bridge spans the River South Tyne with a series of arches and carried the Haltwhistle to Alston railway for over a century. Additionally, Alston Moor is home to numerous listed buildings, including houses, shops, public houses, and churches, showcasing the area's rich architectural heritage.

For an easy and relaxed walk, consider the Alston to Garrigill riverside walk. Another option is the 'Ashgill Force loop from Garrigill', which is rated as easy and allows you to visit the unique waterfall. The 'Nenthead and its Mines loop' is also an easy trail, offering a gentle exploration of the historic mining village. These routes provide scenic beauty without requiring strenuous effort.

For those seeking a challenge, Alston Moor offers several demanding hikes. The ascent to Cross Fell Summit, the highest point in the Pennines, provides far-reaching views but is a difficult undertaking. The 'Cross Fell and Greg's Hut Bothy loop from Garrigill' is another difficult route. The approach to High Cup Nick from Dufton is also considered a challenging but rewarding walk, offering breathtaking views of the glaciated valley.

Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking views and unique geological formations. The 'utterly breathtaking' view from High Cup Nick is a highlight, with its epic glaciated valley. The spectacular descent of the River Tees at Cauldron Snout Waterfall is also highly regarded. The vast, rolling moors and fells of the North Pennines provide a sense of wild beauty and tranquility that many find captivating.

While primarily known for its spring, summer, and autumn outdoor activities, Alston Moor can offer winter pursuits. When there's sufficient snow, skiing is available at Yad Moss. However, it's important to note that conditions can be challenging, especially on higher fells like Cross Fell, where fog can make navigation tricky. Always check weather conditions and be prepared for cold and potentially treacherous terrain during winter visits.

Yes, beyond Alston itself, the nearby villages of Garrigill and Nenthead are well worth a visit. Garrigill serves as a starting point for scenic walks, including the route to Ashgill Force. Nenthead is notable for its industrial heritage, being England's first purpose-built industrial village, and offers opportunities to explore the Nenthead Mines and The Hive arts centre.