Visit & explore
Winter sports
Winter sports in the North Pennines AONB
The North Pennines has some of the best winter sport opportunities in England, with well established ski clubs in Weardale, Allenheads and Yad Moss. Both day skiing/snowboarding and annual memberships are available from the clubs.
The Weardale Ski Club facilities are situated on Swinhope fell above Westgate in County Durham. Established in 1963, it now has a spacious two storey ski lodge, a snowmobile, a piste basher as well as two over lapping Doppelmayr button tows. At the ski club there is skiing, snowboarding and snow kiting on offer. The club arranges an answer phone with information about opening times, snow, access and weather conditions – 01388 317 767.
The Yad Moss Ski Slope in Cumbria is also a good place to visit. Yad Moss is situated seven miles south-east of Alston. It has a day lodge with a club room, toilet facilities and garaging for the piste groomer which makes the most of any snow. To find out about snow conditions at Yad Moss, call 01228 561 634.
The ski club in Allenheads, Northumberland, has facilities provided by the Ski-Allenheads Club. The site is only a 150m walk from the facilities of Allenheads village. The club has two slopes, both of which are suitable for beginners. To check the conditions before visiting call the club answerphone message service on 0191 597 4174.
Cross-country skiing
The rights associated with open access include cross-country skiing. Much of the area of the North Pennines is ideal for cross-country within the broad dales and open high plateaus.
Winter walking
Winter walking is undertaken by a hardy few in the North Pennines. Those willing to venture out on cold bright days are rewarded with stunning experiences. Investigate our open access and walking pages for more information.