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  1. Alston market town
    Alston Eden Valley & North Pennines
  2. Alston market town
    Alston Eden Valley & North Pennines
  3. Alston market town
    Alston Eden Valley & North Pennines
  4. Alston market town
    Alston Eden Valley & North Pennines

You are here: Home > Explore Cumbria > Areas of Cumbria > Eden Valley & North Pennines > Towns and Villages > Alston

Alston

Pretty Alston’s main claim to fame is that, at 1000 feet above sea level, it is England’s highest market town, but it is well worth exploring for its steeply cobbled streets, hidden courtyards and quaint shops that invite 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.

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).

Culture & Heritage


The Romans worked opencast lead mines on Alston Moor (the whole area is honeycombed with old mine workings), while the earliest settlers scratched a living by raising animals and growing hardy crops. It was, to say, the least, a tough existence.
 
Over time, parts of the barren moorland were converted into productive farmland. However, farming alone wasn't enough to survive on and many householders supplemented their income through mining. Life on these upland hills was unremittingly hard, leading to poverty and a high infant mortality rate.
 
Valleys were repeatedly dammed and hushed, creating an overdeepened notch on the fellside - one of the best known being Dowgang Hush, near Nenthead. The difficulties of access created close-knit communities bonded by the common interests of mining, farming and religion. There are numerous Methodist, Quaker and Congregational chapels dotted all over Alston Moor.
 
In 1753 a Quaker-owned London Lead Company took over the mining rights and began to expand production. In 1828, the company designed and built Nenthead, the first purpose built industrial village in England. These small field enclosures remain as distinctive features of the area. Nenthead became the main centre of lead mining in the North Pennines – and the population of Alston Moor grew as a result to be five times what it is now. By the 1880s, however, many of the miners left for North America.
 
Steam train enthusiasts will be familiar with the Alston branch of the South Tynedale Railway, which puffed its way between Alston and Lintley between 1852 and 1976, eventually reopening in parts in 1983.

Surrounding Areas


Nenthead - The village of Nenthead was once one of the main lead mining sites in the North Pennines and here Quaker influence established facilities for schooling, reading, housing and bathing. Nenthead is one of the many villages to have had a huge influence on the North Pennines landscape.

Garrigill - Garigill village lies on the edge of the River South Tyne. In the centre of the village is a green, pub, post office and village store that has changed little since the 1950s.

Did you know?

  1. Example Page
    Underground Canal
    An underground canal of just over 4 miles in length links the Nenthead mines to Alston – the Nent Force Level.
  2. Example Page
    Cross Fell
    This is the highest point on the Pennine fells at 893 m (2930 ft). It used to be called Fiend’s Fell because evil spirits were believed to inhabit it.
  3. Alston
    Waterfalls
    The Nent and South Tyne rivers and their tributaries descend in a series of waterfalls from their source high on Alston Moor.
  4. Alston
    The Reading Room
    The Reading Room in Nenthead, built by the London Lead Company in 1833, was England’s first free library.
  5. Alston
    Highest Town
    Alston is actually the highest market town in England at 1043 ft (318 m).
  6. Alston
    Alstonite
    A very rare mineral called alstonite was first discovered here – found in only a few other places in the world.

 Eden Valley The most peaceful haven of pastoral calm

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Number of results: 16

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  1. Brampton & Haltwhistle Tour
    Brampton & Haltwhistle Tour

    Address

    Alston, Cumbria, CA9 3RF

    Telephone

    01539 822222

    elizabeth.mcdonald@eden.gov.uk

    Cumbria

    This cycle tour heads north from Alston exploiting the breach in the Penines cut by the River South Tyne to explore the stretch of Hadrians Wall between Brampton and Haltwhistle.

    Add Brampton & Haltwhistle Tour to your Itinerary

    More Details
  2. Newshield & West Allendale
    Newshield & West Allendale

    Address

    Alston, Cumbria, CA9 3RF

    Telephone

    01539 822222

    Cumbria

    This route climbs out of Alston and heads down to Nenthead before exploring the fascinating upper reaches of the West Allen Valley.

    Add Newshield & West Allendale to your Itinerary

    More Details
  3. River South Tyne
    River South Tyne

    Address

    Alston, Cumbria, CA9 3RF

    Telephone

    01539 822222

    elizabeth.mcdonald@eden.gov.uk

    Cumbria

    Tracing the course of the River South Tyne downstream from Alston, this route provides an excellent short introductory ride to the area.

    Add River South Tyne to your Itinerary

    More Details
  4. Barn End
    Barn End

    Address

    Low Gill House, Alston, Cumbria, CA9 3BL

    Telephone

    01434 381372 /381428

    ghyllburn@plantswithaltitude.co.uk

    Alston

    A charming Barn Conversion, renovated to a high standard yet retaining old world charm. 2 bedrooms, sleeping 3/4 people.

    Add Barn End to your Itinerary

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  5. Explore the Pennines Weekend - Alston
    Explore the Pennines Weekend - Alston

    Address

    Alston Youth Hostel, Alston, Cumbria, CA9 3RW

    Telephone

    01653 740 400

    hello@largeoutdoors.com

    Alston

    The Pennine Way might be the famous part of this Cumbria, but how about some of the lesser-explored walking routes that radiate off from the National Trail at the Northern tip of the Pennines? Absolutely worth exploring, we say!

    For this weekend,…

    Add Explore the Pennines Weekend - Alston to your Itinerary

    More Details
  6. Ghyll Scrambling at Ashgill Force with Aquaventures in Cumbria
    Ghyll Scrambling at Ashgill Force with Aquaventures in Cumbria
    Ghyll Scrambling at Ashgill Force with Aquaventures in Cumbria
    Ghyll Scrambling at Ashgill Force with Aquaventures in Cumbria
    Ghyll Scrambling at Ashgill Force with Aquaventures in Cumbria
    Ghyll Scrambling at Ashgill Force with Aquaventures in Cumbria
    Ghyll Scrambling at Ashgill Force with Aquaventures in Cumbria
    Ghyll Scrambling at Ashgill Force with Aquaventures in Cumbria
    Ghyll Scrambling at Ashgill Force with Aquaventures in Cumbria
    Ghyll Scrambling at Ashgill Force with Aquaventures in Cumbria
    Ghyll Scrambling at Ashgill Force with Aquaventures in Cumbria
    Ghyll Scrambling at Ashgill Force with Aquaventures in Cumbria
    Ghyll Scrambling at Ashgill Force with Aquaventures in Cumbria
    Ghyll Scrambling at Ashgill Force with Aquaventures in Cumbria
    Ghyll Scrambling at Ashgill Force with Aquaventures in Cumbria
    Ghyll Scrambling with AquaventuresUK

    Address

    Alston, Cumbria, CA9 3YH

    Telephone

    07539640475

    aquaventuresuk@gmail.com

    Alston

    An exhilarating ghyll scrambling experience delivered at one of the most stunning locations in the north of England. Hidden amongst ancient woodland lies Ash Gill Waterfall: a site of epic adventure within an hours' drive from either Newcastle or…

    Add Ghyll Scrambling with AquaventuresUK to your Itinerary

    More Details
  7. Cycling in the Lake District Cumbria
    Cycling in the Lake District Cumbria
    Alston Cycle Route 4 - Nenthead & Garrigill

    Address

    Nenthead, -

    Telephone

    01539 822222

    website@cumbriatourism.org

    -

    The high rolling hills of Alston Moor separate two deep valleys which hold the upper reaches of the River South Tyne and the waters of the River Nent.

    Add Alston Cycle Route 4 - Nenthead & Garrigill to your Itinerary

    More Details
  8. Mine Exploration with Go Cave in Cumbria
    Mine Exploration with Go Cave in Cumbria
    Mine Exploration with Go Cave in Cumbria
    Family Day Out Exploring a Mine with Go Cave in Cumbria
    Fun for the Whole Family at Mine Exploration with Go Cave in Cumbria
    Mine Exploration with Go Cave in Cumbria
    Mine Exploration with Go Cave in Cumbria
    Mine Exploration with Go Cave in Cumbria
    Mine Exploration with Go Cave in Cumbria
    Family Day Out Exploring a Mine with Go Cave in Cumbria
    Fun for the Whole Family at Mine Exploration with Go Cave in Cumbria
    Mine Exploration with Go Cave in Cumbria
    Mine Exploration with Go Cave in Cumbria
    Mine Exploration with Go Cave

    Address

    Nenthead, Cumbria

    Telephone

    07849 398 288

    info@gocave.com

    Nenthead

    To be able to walk the track taken by the miners of old, to explore the hidden gems beneath our feet and experience the skill and workmanship demonstrated by these men, is indeed a privilege.

    Add Mine Exploration with Go Cave to your Itinerary

    More Details
  9. The Cumberland Inn
    The Cumberland Inn

    Address

    Townfoot, Alston, Cumbria, CA9 3HX

    Telephone

    01434 381875

    stay@cumberlandinalston.com

    Alston

    Family-run hotel with 5 en suite letting rooms. Real ales a speciality. Menu offering a wide choice of dishes giving real value for money. Solway CAMRA Pub of the Year 2009 & 10.

    Add The Cumberland Inn to your Itinerary

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  10. Exterior at Ghyll Burn Cottage in Alston, Cumbria
    Exterior at Ghyll Burn Cottage in Alston, Cumbria
    Living Room at Ghyll Burn Cottage in Alston, Cumbria
    Living Room at Ghyll Burn Cottage in Alston, Cumbria
    Double Bedroom at Ghyll Burn Cottage in Alston, Cumbria
    Living Room at Ghyll Burn Cottage in Alston, Cumbria
    Bathroom at Ghyll Burn Cottage in Alston, Cumbria
    Twin Bedroom at Ghyll Burn Cottage in Alston, Cumbria
    Double Bedroom at Ghyll Burn Cottage in Alston, Cumbria
    Kitchen and Dining Space at Ghyll Burn Cottage in Alston, Cumbria
    Double Bedroom at Ghyll Burn Cottage in Alston, Cumbria
    Exterior at Ghyll Burn Cottage in Alston, Cumbria
    Living Room at Ghyll Burn Cottage in Alston, Cumbria
    Living Room at Ghyll Burn Cottage in Alston, Cumbria
    Double Bedroom at Ghyll Burn Cottage in Alston, Cumbria
    Living Room at Ghyll Burn Cottage in Alston, Cumbria
    Bathroom at Ghyll Burn Cottage in Alston, Cumbria
    Twin Bedroom at Ghyll Burn Cottage in Alston, Cumbria
    Double Bedroom at Ghyll Burn Cottage in Alston, Cumbria
    Kitchen and Dining Space at Ghyll Burn Cottage in Alston, Cumbria
    Double Bedroom at Ghyll Burn Cottage in Alston, Cumbria
    Ghyll Burn Cottage

    Address

    Hartside Nursery Garden, Alston, Cumbria, CA9 3BL

    Telephone

    01434 381372 /381428

    ghyllburn@plantswithaltitude.co.uk

    Alston

    A secluded cottage within a specialist nursery garden. Ideal for walkers, bird watchers and plant enthusiasts. Children and dogs welcome.

    Add Ghyll Burn Cottage to your Itinerary

    More Details
  11. Garrigill
    Garrigill

    Address

    Garrigill, The Village Green, Garrigill, Alston, Cumbria, CA9 3DS

    Telephone

    01539 822222

    shane@northpenninesaonb.org.uk

    Garrigill, Alston

    Cross Fell and its near neighbour Great Dun Fell are ringed by an amazing network of high-level bridleways.

    Add Garrigill to your Itinerary

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  12. Isaacs Byre Holiday Cottage
    Isaacs Byre Holiday Cottage
    Isaacs Byre Holiday Cottage
    Isaacs Byre Holiday Cottage
    Isaacs Byre Holiday Cottage
    Isaacs Byre Holiday Cottage
    Isaacs Byre Holiday Cottage
    Isaacs Byre Holiday Cottage
    Isaacs Byre Holiday Cottage
    Isaacs Byre Holiday Cottage
    Isaacs Byre Holiday Cottage
    Isaacs Byre Holiday Cottage
    Isaacs Byre Holiday Cottage
    Isaacs Byre Holiday Cottage
    Isaacs Byre Holiday Cottage
    Isaacs Byre Holiday Cottage
    Isaacs Byre Holiday Cottage
    Isaacs Byre Holiday Cottage
    Isaacs Byre Holiday Cottage
    Isaacs Byre Holiday Cottage
    Isaacs Byre Holiday Cottage
    Isaac's Byre Holiday Cottage

    Address

    Loaning Head, Garrigill, Alston, Cumbria, CA9 3EY

    Telephone

    01434 381013

    info@isaacsbyre.com

    Alston

    Isaac's Byre holiday cottage is a recent barn conversion providing well equipped accommodation for all the family with ground floor accommodation. Pet friendly. Ideal for walking, cycling, or simply relaxing.

    Add Isaac's Byre Holiday Cottage to your Itinerary

    Tripadvisor

    Tripadvisor Traveller Rating

    Tripadvisor Traveller Rating - 39 reviews39 reviews
    More Details
  13. Car Park
    Car Park
    Alston Town Hall Car Parking

    Address

    Front Street, ALSTON, Cumbria, CA9 3RF

    ALSTON

    Car parking spaces at Alston Town Hall, Front Street.
    Parking is free and there are 13 spaces.
    Public toilets located at the adjacent Town Hall.

    Add Alston Town Hall Car Parking to your Itinerary

    More Details
  14. Car Park
    Car Park
    Front Street Car Park, Alston

    Address

    Front Street, ALSTON, Cumbria, CA9 3SE

    ALSTON

    Free parking area with 10 spaces.

    Add Front Street Car Park, Alston to your Itinerary

    More Details
  15. Alston Art Apartments
    Alston Art Apartments
    Millstream Living Room
    Millstream superking bedroom
    Naworth Kitchen
    Sowerberry dining kitchen
    Sowerberry living area
    Alston Art Apartments
    Millstream Living Room
    Millstream superking bedroom
    Naworth Kitchen
    Sowerberry dining kitchen
    Sowerberry living area
    Alston Art Apartments

    Address

    Pigeons, The Butts, Alston, Cumbria, CA9 3JQ

    Telephone

    01434 382975

    enquiries@holidaycottagesalston.co.uk

    Alston

    Three award winning cottages situated in a secluded corner of historic Alston, in the heart of the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. All furnished to a very high standard.

    Add Alston Art Apartments to your Itinerary

    More Details
  16. Electric Bike Charging Point
    Electric Bike Charging Point
    Electric Bike Charging Point, Nenthead

    Address

    The Hive, Nenthead, ALSTON, Cumbria, CA9 3PF

    ALSTON

    Electric bike charging point, located at The Hive, Nenthead, Alston.

    A £1 Donation to Air Ambulance is requested for use of this facility.

    Add Electric Bike Charging Point, Nenthead to your Itinerary

    More Details

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