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.

Epiacum Roman Fort – History perfectly preserved 

Epiacum, renowned for its distinctive shape, is a Roman fort that experts believe the Romans constructed to safeguard local lead-mining enterprises and reinforce the border defences of the nearby Hadrian's Wall.

The fort erected in the 2nd Century is heralded as one of the best-preserved in the United Kingdom. Legend has it that it was partly demolished and rebuilt around 200 AD.On the steep walk to the fort, you will find educational information as well as a Family Clue Trail. After the walk to the top viewing point, you can experience the spectacular views of the fort and the faultless North Pennines. You may not be alone on your walk, as along the way you could encounter hares, curlews, and skylarks. 

Cow Green Reservoir, with flora and fauna for days on the Pennine Way

Cow Green, built in 1971, is a 2-mile-long reservoir and one of England's highest. The reservoir was built to meet the needs of growing industries. Cow Green is also home to rare rock formations such as Whin Sill and sugar limestone. For a rugged walk surrounded by wild moorland and dramatic views of the North Pennines, enjoy the Cow Green Reservoir walk.

Nenthead Mines, centuries of industry history

The landscapes of Alston, rich in materials like limestone, sandstone, and shale, bear the influence of a thriving mining industry from years gone by. The Nenthead Mines is a geological site showcasing the history of the then lucrative and busy lead and zinc mining industry of the North Pennines. Booked and guided underground tours are offered through a network of paths and trackways. The conserved buildings on the site include a small museum and an interesting interpretation display. 

St Augustine of Canterbury Church with its 16th-century Derwentwater Clock

Known as 'The Cathedral of the North Pennines,' St Augustine's is open daily to visitors and holds regular services. Constructed in 1869, this building holds a Grade II listing. However, historical records suggest the presence of a prior church at the same site as far back as 1145 AD. St. Augustine's boasts a gorgeous building adorned with stunning stained-glass windows and elegant marble columns. The structure also features a lofty spire that provides a commanding view over the quaint town.

Let’s go shopping in an authentic market town

Alston has an eclectic range of shops and little stores to suit everyone’s taste.
While strolling along cobblestone streets and exploring the town's numerous nooks and crannies, it's advisable to wear comfortable shoes. This way, you can fully enjoy shopping and exploring everything that Alston has to offer. Find that special memento or shop for a unique gift for a special person back home. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or just good food and a place to relax, there's something for everyone in this charming town. 

Relax, breathe, explore and enjoy the great outdoors while staying at Lovelady Shield Hotel and Cottages

Walking, hiking, cycling, fishing, bird watching, and exploring don’t get much better than in the Northern Pennines. Plus, hospitality doesn’t get much better than the warm welcome at Lovelady Shield Hotel and Cottages. 

Book directly and experience the beauty of the Pennines while enjoying Lovelady Shield Hotel and Cottages and the Coffee Lounge. 

For more information or to book contact +44 (0)1434 723213 or email enquiries@loveladyshieldhotel.com and one of the friendly team will assist you in booking the perfect getaway.

Discover, relax, and enjoy