Alston & the Cumbrian North Pennines

The countryside around Alston, England’s highest market town, provides some of the area’s finest walking country, including the lofty Cross Fell – the highest English hill outside the Lake District!

North Pennines escarpment

The imposing North Pennines escarpment represents an unmistakable western frontier for the North Pennines and is a dramatic backdrop to the attractive, red sandstone-built, fellfoot villages.

Alston

Alston is well worth a visit – a wealth of small independent shops await you, galleries, unspoilt street scenes and a choice of quality eateries to while away an hour or three!

Get involved in a range of walking, cycling, adventure, bird watching and nature opportunities.

Places to visit, things to do

Railway enthusiasts can hop on the South Tynedale Railway in Alston and enjoy a scenic ride along the South Tyne Valley. Nearby are the remains of Epiacum, one of the best preserved examples of a Roman fort in Europe. While further north, The RSPB Geltsdale Nature Reserve is a good place to see the rare Black grouse.

South Tynedale Railway – Train rides along the gorgeous South Tyne Valley from Alston – 01434 382 828 (talking timetable), 01434 338 214. Why not take the train out and wander back along the South Tyne Trail?

High Cup Nick – Take a wander from Dufton up to this classic U-shaped valley.

The Hub Museum, Alston. Vibrant local history and transport museum, packed full of bygone forms of transport.

Epiacum Roman Fort – Discover the remains of Epiacum Roman Fort, in the South Tyne Valley, near Alston.

Brough Castle – The starkly impressive Brough Castle stands on a ridge commanding the strategic Stainmore Pass, on the site of a Roman fort.

Hartside Viewpoint – Stunning views await you from Hartside – across to the Lake District and to the Solway Coast AONB and Scotland!

The Village Bakery, Melmerby – (01768 881 811). Organic cafe, bakery, bake shop and gallery.

Talkin Tarn Country Park – (01228 817 200 and talkintarn@carlisle.gov.uk). Explore ancient woodlands, easy footpaths, glacial tarns. Enjoy tearoom treats, stunning views, family adventures. Experience fun activities, peace & tranquility, unique wildlife.

The Poetry Path, near Kirkby Stephen – call Kirkby Stephen Information Centre on 017683 711 99 for details.

Kirkby Stephen Walkers are Welcome – Kirkby Stephen was the first town in Cumbria to be awarded Walkers are Welcome status. Alston Moor became a Walkers are Welcome Town in 2013.

Farmers’ Markets at Brampton, Brough and Penrith.

Go Lakes – the official tourism website for Cumbria.

Visit Alston Moor – excellent website for the Alston and surrounding area – places to stay, things to see and do, food and drink, events.

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