Sightseeing attractions in Alston

England, United Kingdom

Alston, the highest market town in England, is located in the heart of the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and offers visitors a wealth of attractions that combine historical significance with natural beauty.

Historical attractions:

St. Augustine's Church: This 19th-century church built in the neo-Gothic style houses the Derwentwater Clock from the 17th century and is a significant example of the region's religious architecture.

The Butts: A historic quarter with steep cobbled streets and old buildings, once used as a practice area for archery and providing a glimpse into medieval life.

Brewery Bridge: A striking stone bridge connecting various parts of the town and offering views of the surrounding landscape.

Industrial heritage:

High Mill: A water mill building built around 1767 with an intact waterwheel, providing insight into Alston's industrial past.

Epiacum: A Roman fort from the 2nd century AD, once used to protect the lead mines and now visitable as an archaeological site.

Natural beauty:

South Tynedale Railway: England's highest railway, running from Alston through the picturesque landscape of the North Pennines and offering a unique view of the surroundings.

Nenthead Mines: A former mining area now protected as a monument, offering visitors the opportunity to learn more about the mining history of the region.

Alston thus offers a rich blend of history, culture, and nature that appeals to history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.