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Alston, the highest market town in England, sits at the junction of several trans-Pennine routes; its steeply cobbled streets, hidden courtyards and quaint shops inviting exploration at every turn.  Surrounding the town is Alston Moor, a beautiful and diverse area known for its rare alpine flora and moorland birds, but 250 years ago it was all very different. This was once one of the richest mining areas in Britain and reminders of this industry are everywhere. Grassed-over spoil heaps, sunken pits, rusting machinery and a myriad of tracks and byways all speak of the riches once gleaned from underground. Nestling in these upland valleys are the lead-mining villages of Nenthead and Garrigill, while Nenthead Mines Heritage Centre brings the world of lead mining to life.

Historically, this harsh landscape nurtured close-knit, self-sufficient communities but it has now become an inspiration for the many craftspeople that live and work in this scenic corner of Cumbria. Today, the special combination of open moorlands and dales, scattered communities and a rich mining heritage defines the North Pennines AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty).

 

Alston is an ideal base from which to explore the numerous public footpaths and bridleways of the area. The Pennine Way, South Tynedale Trail and Isaac's Tea Trail all pass through the town and there is ample opportunity to create your own circular routes.

Isaac's Tea Trail
Following in the footsteps of Isaac Holden, a travelling tea seller who sold door to door throughout Alston Moor in the 1830s. The circular waymarked trail starts at Ninebanks Youth Hostel (NY 772 514), with one section following the course of the Nent river between Nenthead and Alston. http://www.northumberlandlife.org/teatrail/

Pennine Way
A 268 mile (431 km) long-distance walk along the Pennine roof of England. The route passes over Cross Fell, descends to Garrigill and follows the South Tyne to Alston and on to Gilsland. www.nationaltrail.co.uk/PennineWay

South Tyne Trail
A 23-mile (37 km) walking and cycling route following the course of the South Tyne River from its source upstream of Garrigill to Haltwhistle. http://bit.ly/IY2XHx

A Walk around Alston
Self-guided trail looking at features of interest in the town. Leaflet from Alston Tourist Information Centre and South Tynedale Railway.

Nenthead Walks
Short heritage walk around the village of Nenthead. Leaflet from Nenthead Mines.