north pennines

peaceful landscapes, rich heritage & welcoming communities await

The North Pennines National Landscape is recognised as one of England's most special places. It offers a peaceful and unspoilt setting of open heather moors and peatlands, attractive dales and hay meadows, tumbling upland rivers, beautiful woods and welcoming communities.

The area also displays intriguing imprints from its mining and industrial past, and is home to distinctive birds, animals, plants and much more. The North Pennines form the northernmost section of the Pennines, a range of hills that extend north - south through northern England. This area runs along the border between County Durham and Northumberland in the east and Cumbria in the west. It is bounded to the north by the Tyne Valley and to the south by the Stainmore Gap. Much of the terrain is characterised by moorland, and the region is notable for its significant industrial archaeology.

Several major rivers originate in the North Pennines, including the Tees and Wear. The County Durham part of the area, including Teesdale and Weardale, is known as the Durham Dales. The North Pennines boasts dramatic dales, stone built villages, snaking stone walls and friendly faces. The impressive landscape, from High Force on the River Tees to the sweeping valley of High Cup Gill above Dufton, has been shaped by millions of years of geological processes. The worldwide significance of its geology is highlighted by its status as both a European Geopark and an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

At the heart of the North Pennines is Alston, with its steep cobbled street and market cross. Alston is said to be the highest market town in England, standing about 1,000 feet above sea level. It is also the home of the South Tynedale Railway, England’s highest narrow-gauge railway, which winds its way from Alston into the South Tyne Valley between Alston and Slaggyford. Alston Moor developed as a lead mining community over four centuries ago, there is even some evidence that the Romans based at Epiacum Roman Fort were involved in the extraction of lead and other minerals. The history of the lead mining industry in the area can be explored at the Nenthead Mines heritage centre. Additional evidence of the region's lead mining heritage can be found at Allendale and Allenheads, which were once among the most productive mines in the North Pennines.

Whether you're exploring dramatic landscapes, uncovering local heritage, or simply enjoying the peace and tranquillity, the North Pennines offers a warm welcome and unforgettable scenery. It's a place to slow down, breathe deeply, and discover one of England's most beautiful hidden gems.