Discover the Wonders of Cumbria: Lovelady Shield Hotel and Cottages

Explore Alston, Cumbria, and the Northern Pennines while staying at Lovelady Shield Hotel and Cottages for a truly historical and relaxing getaway. Unwind, relax, and enjoy. Nestled in Cumbria, Alston is a charming town with a rich history, offering spectacular landscapes and views that serve as a magnificent backdrop showcasing nature's beauty.

What to see and where to go in Alston

Alston's renowned scenery draws numerous visitors throughout the year, particularly those who have a passion for outdoor activities like walking, hiking, cycling, fishing, and bird watching.

Whether you're planning a weekend getaway, a three-day excursion, or a week-long vacation, visitors and guests will undoubtedly create memorable experiences during their trip. The Northern Pennines offer some of the best outdoor activities for all ages in the UK. 

Things to do in Alston and around Lovelady Shield Hotel and Cottages

South Tynedale Railway in Alston

The South Tynedale Railway is England's highest narrow-gauge railway and offers a wonderful experience through some of Northern England’s most beautiful scenery. Book a ticket on these preserved steam and diesel locomotives and sit back and enjoy a steep climb through the Tyne Valley, which is at the centre of the North Pennines.

Originally opened in 1852, it efficiently and effectively ran for over a century until closing in 1976. In the 1980s, a team of keen volunteers restored much of the route and the old railway buildings, bringing back a feel of the original charm, and creating a true Pennine attraction. The Tynedale Railway is a great day out for families and is dog friendly.

The Hub Heritage and Transport Museum

Are you a transport enthusiast? This quaint and quirky museum is packed with over a thousand artefacts. The exhibits feature classic old cars, motorbikes, bicycles, and even road signs and train sets. Take a tour through the ages and enjoy the extensive collection of photographs of Alston's history.

Ashgill Force is a marvel of Geology

The spectacular waterfall of Ashgill Force showcases breathtaking and incredible forces of nature. This 17-meter-high waterfall cascades its splendour and force for all to see. You can reach the falls via a brief footpath from the Ashgill Bridge. The charming woodland gorge hosts a sequence of smaller waterfalls, making a morning spent exploring the falls truly enjoyable.

The soft sedimentary rock, composed of sandstone and limestone, has eroded over thousands of years to create an impressive clearing. If you are lucky, you will get some impressive snapshots framed by the naturally flowing water.