Alston (United Kingdom)
Alston in short
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Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
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Highest market town in England
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Gorgeous views of the North Pennines
Nestled in the rugged North Pennines among old lead mines and quiet farmhouses is the Yad Moss ski area. Although there is evidence that local lead miners may have skied here back in the day, the ski area as we know it was founded in the 1970’s when a group of volunteers rented a steep fell from a local farmer. The top of the ski area offers stunning views of the rolling peat moorland, and while the terrain is limited, intermediate skiers especially will have fun carving out trails down the uneven snow.
Just a short ten-minute drive from Yad Moss is the quaint market town of Alston, one of the highest in England at over 300m altitude. This picturesque town still has buildings dating back to the 1600’s, when the market used to serve the lead miners and their families. Thanks to the fantastic views over rolling hills and fields of heather, the area is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Alston is fairly isolated but as far as British ski towns go, it is one of the easiest to access, just a 40-minute drive from Penrith. The tiny village of Garrigill is also close by and has a few B&B’s as well as views of Cross Fell, the highest point in the Pennines.
Alternate activities
The starting point of the South Tynedale Railway, the landscape and wildlife surrounding Alston are renowned for their beauty. It’s a wonderful place for nature walks. Alston also has several small shops where you can buy traditional Cumbrian delicacies such as Cumberland mustard and Alston Cheese. Other things to explore include ancient lead mines, museums and Roman ruins.
Restaurants and bars
The Blueberry’s Tea Shop, which was founded in 1603 and also serves as a B&B, offers fresh local breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea. The Alston House and the Crown Hotel both do a good Sunday lunch, while those in search of fancier meals might want to try the Lovelady Shield House. A bit of après cheer can be found at the Angel Pub, dating from 1611.
Families
The ski hill at Alston does not rent out equipment and since the rope tow is so difficult to use, children must be of a certain age to really enjoy the facilities. A few minutes’ drive from Alston in Haltwhistle are a children’s indoor play centre and a swimming pool. The nearest day nursery is Kiddlywinks, in Penrith.