Exploring The Local Area
There are plenty of things to do in Alston and around Alston Moor with a lot of historical attractions and many places where you can eat and drink.
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The town is a self contained little community including 4 public houses, 2 supermarkets, 2 petrol stations, cafes, Jack’s Takeaway, gift shops, hairdressers, wholefood shop, post office, library and tourist information and much more! All facilities are within 5 to 10 minutes walk from the Hostel.
The nearest large towns are Penrith – 21 miles to the west, Hexham – 25 miles north east or Carlisle approximately 28 miles north west.
Things to do in Alston and around Alston Moor
Alston is a pretty town with a market cross and historical houses set in the heart of the North Pennines. It is surrounded by rolling, heather covered fells and is listed as England’s highest market town. Its remote location makes it an ideal area to ‘get away from it all’ and yet is close to numerous areas of beautiful unspoilt countryside, historical features and beautiful coastlines. The surrounding roads are quiet and challenging making them a cyclist’s heaven!
Historical Attractions
Killhope Mine Museum – (currently free entry but own wellies required for mine tour – check the website 1st) (8 miles from Alston) Award winning North of England Lead mining museum with lots of activities for all the family including a trip into the mine! www.killhope.org.uk
Nenthead Mines Special Open Days See website for more information www.nentheadmines.com/
Hadrian’s Wall ( approx. 18 miles from Alston). The famous wall was begun in AD 122 by the Emperor Hadrian. Visit Housesteads Fort or Vindolanda or simply park up at Cawfield Craggs just north of Haltwhistle and walk along the Hadrian’s Wall path to take in the fabulous scenery. www.hadrians-wall.org
South Tynedale Railway – (Trains running again at weekends from Alston town station to Slaggyford) The South Tynedale Railway is the North of England’s highest narrow gauge railway. It runs from its home in Alston in Cumbria for 5 miles through stunning scenery into Northumberland to the tiny hamlet of Slaggyford. www.south-tynedale-railway.org.uk/
Places to Eat and Drink in Alston
Hungry and Thirsty?
Alston Youth Hostel is just a few minutes walk from 2 pubs and a hotel that serve food, 2 supermarkets open until 10pm, a Wholefood shop and Jack’s Takeaway so getting something to eat is not a problem.
Pre-booking the pubs is strongly recommended especially at weekends and Bank Holiday
It is always advisable to book in advance with the pubs and restaurant as they have limited space and may not be able to accommodate large groups at short notice – especially in the peak season and at weekends.
Activities
Alston Golf Course (approx. 2 miles outside Alston on the B6277 road to Garrigill). Alston has the highest golf course in England. Set high above Alston town with fantastic views of Alston Moor! Visitors are welcome to pay and play. Anyone staying in one of Alston’s accommodations can play for £10 a round (33% off the normal rate!) www.alstonmoorgolfclub.org.uk/
Yad Moss Ski Slope (approx. 6 miles from Alston) Yes! Alston Moor has its own ski resort when snow permits! (experienced skiers only) Check out their live webcam to see what the piste conditions are like! www.yadmoss.co.uk/
Epiacum Roman Fort and The Nook Farm Shop & Cafe (3 miles from Alston). Alston’s very own Roman fort described as ‘The best preserved Roman Fort in the Empire’ by Time Team’s Stuart Ainsworth. Visit The Nook Farm shop and cafe for delicious food and drinks along with local produce and gifts. www.epiacumheritage.org/ www.thenookfarmshop.com/
Ashgill Force (4 miles from Alston). Near the village of Garrigill is the stunning waterfall of Ashgill Force. The water drops over 50 feet from the beck above over the natural gorge. You can walk behind the falls and look through the tumbling water – but don’t forget your water proofs!
High & Low Force Water Falls & Bowlees Visitor Centre (17 miles from Alston) Spectacular water falls in County Durham (High Force with a 21 metre drop) on the Pennine Way route.
Kielder Water & forest (approx. 47 miles from Alston). Britain’s largest man made lake surrounded by forest. Famed for its ‘dark skies’ status. www.visitkielder.com/visit
The Lake District (approx. 30 miles to Ullswater). You are only about 50 minutes away from the north lakes and peaks of the Lake District. The nearest mountains are Blencathra (32 miles) Skiddaw (40 miles) and Helvellyn (40 miles).
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