The Cumbrian market town of Alston, at 1,000 feet above sea level said to be the highest in the country, is something of a paradox. With a population of just over 2,000 it is the size of a village, yet in layout, aspect and shopping facilities it is a town. The greater paradox is that this isolated settlement, so distant from the Lakes to the west, is at the centre of so many routes. There are roads running north-east to Hexham, east to Durham, south-west to Penrith, and north-west to Carlisle and Scotland. It even stands on the Pennine Way, and the Sea to Sea cycle route. Alston is on the South Tyne, and the Nent, Black Burn and Gilderdale Rivers all pass nearby. And though British Rail closed the line here in 1976, there has been a narrow gauge railway from Alston to Kirkhaugh since 1984, with plans to extend the line to Slaggyford. In Roman Times this place was already a hub, Maiden Way passing close by. The Romans were interested in lead and silver mining, industry which endured until it became uneconomic in the early 19th century. The Hub Exhibition in Alston records the area’s social history. The last paradox is that from the 10th century until Edward I defeated Scotland’s King John de Balliol, Alston and Alston Moor, though in England, were possessions of Scotland’s king. In the town itself there is a watermill (there has been one here since the 14th century), an interesting Victorian gothic Town Hall, and a Market Cross, but it is the moors and mountains around it that attract visitors, many of them serious walkers seeking quieter paths than can be found in Lakeland. The lucky ones will see deer, red squirrels, and moorland birds like peregrine falcons themselves on the lookout for grouse.
Attraction
Nenthead Mines Heritage Centre
South Tynedale Railway
Classes
Cottage
Dales Holiday Cottages
Jasmine Cottage
Dentist
Doctor
Golf Club
Health and Fitness Club
Inn
Pub and Bar
Blue Bell Inn
Crown Inn Overwater
George & Dragon Inn
Miners Arms
Turks Head
School
Alston Primary School
Nenthead Primary School
Samuel Kings Secondary School
Taxi
Vet
Sports Clubs
Dalston LTC (Tennis)
Shops
Gossipgate Gallery
Alston Wholefoods Ltd
Country Kitchen Cafe
Cumbrian Pantry
Blueberrys
Hartside Top Cafe
The Moody Baker
Blackstocks Butcher
Incredible
Alston Pharmacy
Activities
Alston Training & Adventure Centre(Adventure)
Naworth Fishery(Fishing)
Places to Stay near Alston
Victoria Inn (0.06 miles)
The Victoria Inn is a traditional town centre hostelry. Comprising of 8 rooms, offering a range of clean, comfortable, affordable bed and breakfast accommodation, from single to family rooms.Situated in ... More
Angel Inn (0.08 miles)
Only an hour away from Scotland, The Lake District and Hadrian's Wall. ... More | visit website
The Cumberland Hotel (0.08 miles)
Cumberland Inn (0.08 miles)
The Cumberland Hotel offers facilities to suit you, whatever your reason for visiting Alston Moor. All of our bedrooms have en-suite facilities, and our five bedrooms can accommodate up to fourteen guests at a time, ... More | visit website
Alston House (0.12 miles)
This family run hotel in tranquil Alston offers you locally sourced, home cooked food, in an area of outstanding natural beauty that is a paradise for walkers and cyclists.
There are recognised ... More
Lowbyer Manor Country House Hotel (0.23 miles)
Lowbyer Manor Country House is a 4-star guesthouse, offering you accommodation of exceptional value. We are sure that you will find your stay at Lowbyer Manor a relaxing and enjoyable experience. Our ... More
Nent Hall Country House Hotel (2.31 miles)
Nent Hall offers a charming destination to enjoy a relaxing break. Set in peaceful gardens, we are only a short drive from the Lake District, Hadrian's Wall and much more.
Nent Hall ... More
Lovelady Shield Country House Hotel (2.34 miles)
Approached by a long tree lined drive, offering complete seclusion and unspoiled views of the surrounding countryside. Ideal for visiting the lakes, Hadrians Wall, ... More | visit website
Thornley House (9.19 miles)
Hadrian's Wall is only 20 minutes ... More | visit website
Allendale B&B (9.39 miles)
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