The Local Area

Hudgill Farm Barn Cottages are conveniently located two miles from the market town of Alston. Alston retains its traditional country character, with a selection of welcoming coffee shops and pubs serving real ale and good food. The Pennine Way passes through the town, which is also on the Coast to Coast (C2C) Cycle Route. During the summer months you can visit the South Tynedale Railway and enjoy a scenic trip through the majestic North Pennines landscape. Immerse yourself in the local history at the Killhope Lead Mining Museum, the Nenthead Lead Mines and the Epiacum Roman Fort.

 Local walking routes are plentiful with stunning views over the local landscape, including the nearby Ashgill Force, which is a stunning waterfall offering a calm spot for a picnic and the idyllic Beldy Waterfall. In the colder months, Yad Moss Ski Tow offers an exciting day out on the slopes for both skiing novices and pros alike. For a touch of serene spirituality coupled with fascinating local heritage, visit the Weardale Museum and High House Chapel.

A little further afield, you will find attractions such as Hadrian’s Wall, Beamish Open Air Museum, Durham Cathedral, Newcastle and the MetroCentre.

The stunning Lake District National Park with its rugged fells and mountains are also within easy reach.

Walking

At a height of 1200 feet above sea level, the cottages enjoy excellent views over the local fells. The area is crisscrossed with public footpaths that were historically used by the local postman. You can enjoy a leisurely stroll among the hills or along the banks of the nearby river Nent.

For the serious hill walker, Blencathra and Skiddaw in the North Lake District are the nearest “Wainwright” peaks. For those looking to avoid the busy Lakes’ routes, Teesdale is a delight; wonderfully rugged and with a serious peak in Cross Fell at 2785 feet and the “Grand Canyon of the North”, High Cup Nick.

There is also the less strenuous but equally pleasant walk along the South Tyne trail starting at Tyne Head, near Garrigill and following the river South Tyne to Haltwhistle, a distance of 23 miles. The path goes alongside the South Tynedale railway as it passes through Alston.

Cycling

Cyclists are welcome at Hudgill Barn cottages. The cottages are well placed for the popular Coast to Coast (C2C) route and the nearby South Tyne Trail.

Other activities in the local area include golf at the Alston Golf Course and horse racing at nearby Hexham, Newcastle and Carlisle.

The Night Sky

 The area around Hudgill Farm is recognized as a “Dark Sky Area” and there are spectacular views to be seen in the night sky as light pollution is minimal. For night sky enthusiasts who thrive on total darkness, a trip to Cow Green Reservoir in Teesdale is a must.

For those wishing to enjoy an organised stargazing experience, nearby observatories and High Force in Teesdale, run events throughout the year.

The North Pennines Stargazing Festival takes place during the autumn at various locations across the North Pennines National Landscape. Events include “Pop-up” Planetariums, Talks, Stargazing and Astrophotography.

More information can be found at https://northpennines.org.uk