walk in the footsteps of the legendary tea seller Isaac Holden
Isaac's Tea Trail has been described as England's last great undiscovered wilderness trek. The trail runs over 36 miles and is mainly in Northumberland and entirely within the North Pennines Natural landscape.
Following in Isaac's footsteps is a great way to discover the comparatively unexplored far North of England. Other walkers are few and far between, unlike the busier parts of the Lake District and on Hadrian's Wall.
The trail starts in Allendale at Isaac's Well in the Market Place and goes over to Nenthead and Alston and returns by Ninebanks. The higher moorland sections offer a challenge, with easier going along the tree fringed river valleys. The trail can be completed over two to three days or longer by doing shorter distances in a more leisurely style. Discover hidden valleys and cross wild moors with stunning views across Northumberland and Cumbria.
Isaac’s Tea Trail links Alston, England’s highest town, with Allendale and includes romantic hamlets like Ninebanks and the old lead mining village of Nenthead. The route follows public rights of way where livestock graze, and walkers are asked to follow the country code and keep dogs on a lead at all times. A moderate degree of fitness is required, reasonable navigation skills and clothing and footwear suitable for hill walking in potentially poor weather conditions.
Isaac's Tea Trail is named after Isaac Holden, an itinerant tea seller and local philanthropist.
Image Credit
Photo by Roger Morris