Discover the Best of Alston & the North Pennines

From breathtaking walking routes and scenic cycling trails to historic attractions and family-friendly days out, there’s no shortage of things to do during your stay at Lowbyer Manor. Situated on the edge of Alston in the heart of the North Pennines National Landscape, our location provides easy access to some of Cumbria’s most spectacular countryside, charming market towns and fascinating heritage sites.

Whether you’re planning an active holiday, a relaxing countryside escape or a family adventure, you’ll find plenty of nearby attractions to explore throughout the year.

 

 

 

 

 

Explore the Best of Alston & the North Pennines

Whether you’re planning scenic walks, discovering local history or searching for family adventures, use the sections below to explore the very best attractions and experiences waiting just a short distance from Lowbyer Manor.

Walking & Cycling

History & Heritage

Family Holidays

Golf Breaks

Stargazing

Waterfalls & Outdoor Adventures

Lowbyer Manor Events
Walking & Cycling

Walking & Cycling

The North Pennines is one of England’s finest destinations for walkers and cyclists, offering everything from gentle riverside strolls to challenging hill walks with unforgettable views.

Discover famous routes including the Pennine Way and Isaac’s Tea Trail, enjoy scenic walks to Ashgill Force or High Cup Nick, or explore the peaceful lanes surrounding Alston by bike. Cyclists can also tackle the renowned Hartside Pass or enjoy quieter routes through the South Tyne Valley, all while taking in the beautiful landscapes that make this area so special.

Walking

  • Pennine Way
  • Isaac’s Tea Trail
  • South Tynedale Railway Walk
  • Ashgill Force Walk
  • Epiacum Roman Fort Walk
  • Cross Fell (experienced walkers)
  • High Cup Nick
  • Hartside Pass

Cycling

  • C2C (Sea to Sea) Cycle Route
  • Hartside Pass climb
  • Quiet lanes around Alston Moor
  • South Tyne Valley routes
  • North Pennines cycling routes
History & Heritage

History & Heritage

Step back in time and discover the rich history that surrounds Alston and the North Pennines. Explore Alston’s historic cobbled streets, visit the fascinating South Tynedale Railway, or uncover Roman history at Epiacum Roman Fort and nearby Hadrian’s Wall.

The area’s mining heritage can be experienced at Killhope Lead Mining Museum and Nenthead Mines, where visitors can learn how lead mining shaped the local communities for centuries.

  • Alston’s historic cobbled streets
  • South Tynedale Railway
  • Epiacum Roman Fort (Whitley Castle)
  • Hadrian’s Wall
  • Killhope Lead Mining Museum
  • Nenthead Mines Heritage Centre
  • Hub Heritage & Transport Museum
  • St Augustine’s Church
Family Holidays

Family Holidays

The North Pennines offers something for visitors of all ages, making Lowbyer Manor an ideal base for family holidays. Enjoy a journey on the South Tynedale Railway, explore spectacular waterfalls, discover fascinating museums or spend the day spotting wildlife across the surrounding countryside.

With open spaces, gentle walks and plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures, there’s something new to discover every day.

  • South Tynedale Railway
  • Ashgill Force
  • High Force Waterfall
  • Low Force
  • Killhope Mining Museum
  • Alston playground and riverside walks
  • Nature spotting in the North Pennines
  • Local cafés and ice cream stops
Golf Breaks

Golf Breaks

Golfers are well placed to enjoy several picturesque courses within easy reach of Lowbyer Manor. Surrounded by rolling countryside and peaceful landscapes, courses including Alston Moor Golf Club provide an enjoyable challenge for players of all abilities.

Whether you’re planning a dedicated golf break or combining a round with a relaxing countryside holiday, our location makes an excellent base for exploring the region’s hidden golfing gems.

Waterfalls Outdoor Adventures

Waterfalls & Outdoor Adventures

Adventure awaits around every corner in the North Pennines. Discover spectacular waterfalls including Ashgill Force, High Force and Low Force, explore the dramatic landscape of High Cup Nick or venture into the beautiful Moor House National Nature Reserve.

Whether you’re hiking, photographing wildlife or simply enjoying the scenery, the surrounding countryside offers unforgettable experiences throughout every season.

  • Ashgill Force
  • High Force
  • Low Force
  • Cauldron Snout
  • Cow Green Reservoir
  • High Cup Nick
  • Cross Fell
  • Moor House National Nature Reserve
Stargazing

Stargazing

The North Pennines is one of the best places in England to experience truly dark skies. As part of the North Pennines International Dark Sky Reserve, the area offers exceptional opportunities to admire thousands of stars, photograph the Milky Way and watch seasonal meteor showers.

On clear evenings, guests staying at Lowbyer Manor can simply step outside and enjoy spectacular night skies away from the glow of city lights.

  • North Pennines National Landscape International Dark Sky Reserve
  • Stargazing from Lowbyer Manor gardens
  • Meteor showers
  • Milky Way photography
  • Winter constellations
  • Aurora opportunities during strong solar activity
  • Nearby dark sky viewpoints

Map of Attractions Around Alston

Alston Tourist Locations
Events at Lowbyer Manor

Events at Lowbyer Manor

There’s always something to look forward to at Lowbyer Manor. Throughout the year we host a variety of retreats, workshops and special events designed to help guests relax, learn new skills and enjoy everything the North Pennines has to offer.

Our Guitar Retreat, taking place in July 2027, will be one of the highlights of our events programme. Whether you’re looking to improve your playing, meet fellow musicians or simply enjoy a relaxing break in the North Pennines, this promises to be a memorable experience. Further details will be available soon, so keep checking back for the latest events, courses and exclusive experiences at Lowbyer Manor.

 

 

Plan Your North Pennines Escape

Whether you’re looking for scenic walks, historic attractions, family days out or a relaxing countryside break, Lowbyer Manor is the perfect base for exploring Alston and the North Pennines.

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