The best walks and hikes around Alston Moor

Yes, Alston Moor has many excellent circular routes. For a moderately challenging loop that showcases the area's history, consider the Whitley Castle loop on the Pennine Way from Alston. This 7-mile (11.3 km) walk takes you through open countryside to the impressive earthworks of a Roman fort.

The area is known for its beautiful waterfalls. A highly regarded option is the walk to Ashgill Force, the highest waterfall in the area. You can even walk behind the cascade. For a shorter, easier walk that includes this feature, the River Nent Waterfall – South Tynedale Railway loop is a great choice.

Absolutely. The region offers several walks suitable for families. A great option is the Nenthead and its Mines loop. It's a relatively short and easy walk of about 2.4 miles (3.9 km) that explores the area's rich lead mining heritage, which can be fascinating for all ages.

Yes, dogs are welcome on most public footpaths in Alston Moor. However, this is an upland area with livestock and sensitive wildlife, such as ground-nesting birds. It is essential to keep your dog on a lead, especially during lambing and nesting seasons (typically spring and early summer).

Alston Moor is a fantastic destination for experienced hikers. The famous Pennine Way National Trail runs directly through the area. For a demanding day hike, the Cross Fell and Greg's Hut Bothy loop is a 15-mile (24.2 km) trek to the highest point in the Pennines, offering incredible views on a clear day.

The weather in the North Pennines can change very quickly. It's essential to be prepared. Always carry waterproof clothing (jacket and trousers), extra warm layers, sturdy walking boots, and a hat and gloves. For navigation, bring a map and compass, even if you have a GPS device. Plenty of food, water, and a fully charged phone are also crucial.

The town of Alston has several car parks, which are good starting points for many local walks. Smaller villages like Garrigill and Nenthead also have some parking, often near the village centre or a pub. For specific routes, such as the popular walk to Ashgill Force, there is limited roadside parking available near the trailhead, so arriving early is recommended.

While both offer stunning scenery, the experience is quite different. Alston Moor, part of the North Pennines AONB, is characterized by its wild, open moorlands, rolling hills, and a sense of solitude. It feels more remote and less crowded than many parts of the Lake District. The landscape is deeply marked by its lead mining history, which adds a unique historical element to the walks.

The trails in Alston Moor are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Hikers often praise the sense of remoteness, the dramatic upland scenery, and the well-preserved historical features from the region's mining past that are visible from the paths.

There is a wide variety of trails to explore. On komoot alone, you can find over 40 curated hiking routes around Alston Moor, ranging from easy valley walks to difficult mountain ascents, ensuring there's a suitable option for every fitness level.

Accessing Alston Moor by public transport can be challenging due to its remote location. Bus services connect Alston to larger towns like Hexham and Carlisle, but they may be infrequent. From Alston, many walks can be started directly from the town. For a unique experience, the South Tynedale Railway, a heritage narrow-gauge line, offers scenic journeys through the valley and access to some trailheads.