Walking

We are situated directly on a number of superb long distance footpaths:

– Pennine Way 

– Roof of England Walk

– Isaac’s Tea Trail

– Westmorland and Furness Way

– Pennine Journey

and is perfectly located in the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural beauty, home to some of the best and most beautiful walking routes in the country.

Check Availability

Long Distance Walking Routes

A Pennine Journey

Beginning in the market town of Settle in North Yorkshire, nestled in the Yorkshire Dales National Park, the route travels north along the eastern side of the Pennines.

It passes through the charming Yorkshire Dales and the moorlands of County Durham before reaching Hadrian’s Wall.  This World Heritage site, located in the Northumberland National Park, is followed for 21 miles.

The path then turns south along the western side of the Pennines.

After crossing the Pennines just below Cross Fell’s highest point, it descends into the Eden Valley, skirts the Howgill Fells, and returns to Settle.

The walk is divided into 18 daily stages of varying lengths, offering several options.

It can be completed as one continuous journey; split at Housesteads on Hadrian’s Wall (Alfred Wainwright’s main goal) into two sections of about 120 miles each; or divided into three segments – eastern, northern, and western – each roughly 80 miles long.

South Tyne Trail

The South Tyne Trail traces the River South Tyne from its source to Haltwhistle.

Open to both walkers and cyclists, this nearly 23-mile (36.5 km) trail offers a fantastic two-day experience in the North Pennines.

Following the South Tyne Trail, whether on foot or by bike, provides an excellent way to explore the River South Tyne. Starting from the river’s source on the remote moors, the trail leads all the way to Haltwhistle.

This 23-mile route is perfect for a two-day adventure.

Day One:

The journey from the river’s source to Alston is 9.5 miles (15.5 km) long, accompanied by the sights and sounds of curlews and golden plovers.

Admire the miles of stone walls, or dykes, characteristic of the North Pennines landscape.

Visit Ashgill Force and, during low water, slip behind the cascade to experience a watery world.

Stop for refreshments at the George and Dragon in Garrigill before continuing the final stretch to Alston.

Day Two:

From Alston to Haltwhistle, the trail covers 13 miles (21 km) of beautiful walking. Initially, you’ll follow a path alongside the narrow-gauge railway operated by the South Tynedale Railway between Alston and Kirkhaugh.

Beyond Kirkhaugh, the route continues along the disused Haltwhistle railway line, closed in 1976. Take in the impressive Lambley Viaduct as it spans the river, offering spectacular views east and west as far as the eye can see.

 

Hadrian's High Way

The Hadrian’s High Way trail offers a fresh perspective on the northernmost frontier of the Roman Empire, highlighting the majestic landscapes traversed by Roman garrisons for 300 years.

There is no better way to experience the fell country than by following the Roman road east from Ravenglass, the maritime gateway to the Roman Empire.

The route passes through wild mountains before tracing the frontier along the Great Whin Sill, where the Wall stands proudly on a dramatic escarpment within Northumberland National Park.

This journey of discovery links ten forts, each a crucial connection supporting life along the Wall.

The trail spans just over 100 miles, showcasing the ever-changing, captivating, and stunningly beautiful landscapes of the Lake District, Cumbria, and Northumberland.

Hadrian’s Wall Path

The Hadrian’s Wall Path is an 84-mile (135 km) National Trail that spans coast-to-coast across northern England, from Wallsend in Newcastle upon Tyne in the east to Bowness-on-Solway in Cumbria on the west coast.

This National Trail follows the route of the Hadrian’s Wall UNESCO World Heritage Site, passing through some of England’s most beautiful landscapes – ranging from rolling fields and rugged borderlands to the vibrant cities of Newcastle and Carlisle. Along the way, there are numerous fascinating museums to explore.

The Hadrian’s Wall Path is accessible to anyone reasonably fit and is relatively easy to walk. The most challenging section is the 23 miles (37 km) between Chollerford and Birdoswald, featuring numerous short climbs and descents.

The route is well-marked, and you can choose to walk from east-to-west, following the direction in which the wall was originally built, or from west-to-east, which often offers more favorable weather conditions.

The Trail is delicate and can become muddy in wet weather, so the best time to walk the Hadrian’s Wall Path is between May and October. It is particularly popular in the summer months, especially in July and August.

Isaac’s Tea Trail

Isaac’s Tea Trail connects Alston, England’s highest town, with Allendale, and passes through charming hamlets like Ninebanks and the historic lead mining village of Nenthead. The route follows public rights of way where livestock graze, so walkers are asked to adhere to the countryside code and keep dogs on a lead at all times. A moderate level of fitness is required, along with reasonable navigation skills and clothing and footwear suitable for hill walking in potentially poor weather conditions.

Isaac’s Tea Trail can be completed in four or more stages, depending on the time available. It is meant to be enjoyed for its variety of wildlife and diverse landscapes, rather than as a challenge walk. Historical features such as chapels, farmsteads, field patterns, and remnants of the lead mining industry are prevalent along the trail.

For those unable to walk each stage from start to finish, there are many alternative ways to experience the trail. You can complete short sections and return the same route or create your own circular walk to explore the Tea Trail and other beautiful and spectacular scenery in the area.

For more information, please visit their official website at https://isaacs-tea-trail.co.uk

Lands End to John O’Groats

The journey from Land’s End to John o’Groats spans approximately 874 miles, with Alston marking the halfway point at around 450 miles. Many walkers follow the Pennine Way for this segment of the trek.

One of the best aspects of walking from Land’s End to John o’Groats is the freedom to make all the decisions yourself, from the route you take to the pace you set. The only requirement is to start at one end and finish at the other; the path you choose in between is entirely up to you.

You can follow A-roads for the entire journey if you prefer tarmac, or opt for a more scenic route that includes some of the most breathtaking walks the country has to offer.

Alston Youth Hostel

With Alston being centre of most large walking routes, we are the ideal hostel for stop-overs. Relax with an evening meal and explore our town before your next day's travel.

We also have drying rooms with towel hire available and we provide baggage transfers. Please ask at reception for more information.

Learn More About Local Walks

Local Walks

Monty’s walk

Named after one of our favourite guests (Monty the dog!), this short circular walk is perfect to wake up the legs in the morning, or

Read More »
Local Walks

Ashgill Force

This was our first walk after we bought Alston Hostel, and remains one of our favourites. If you have transport to Garrigill, it is a

Read More »

Plan an Unforgettable Experience in Alston Today!

We can help you fit your stay and experience within your allotted budget.

Book Your Stay Now