Location and Scenery

Industrial Heritage

The finest remains of the Roman Wall lie just to our north along the beautiful Haltwhistle Burn gorge - a unique mix of historical industrial sites and nature.

The quiet valley of the River South Tyne is easy to access with its fine scenery and castles (Bellister and Featherstone). East towards Hexham is the Allen river valley through Allen Banks and the Staward Gorge.

Countryside to the west is different again with softer Cumbrian fells and the quiet valley of the River Irthing. Thirlwall Castle stands over the Tipalt Burn.

Wild country immediately to the north of Haltwhistle is accessible through Keilder Forest Park with its large man-made lake in a spectacular setting.

East is the ancient market town of Hexham with its Abbey, massive stone-built gaol and moot hall.

South from Hexham is the unspoiled village of Blanchland, like Alston, a favourite location with film makers. West from Alston is Hartside Fell with stunning views of the distant Lake District. You can reach the northern lakes in about an hour.

The Centre of Britain PhotoWorkshops Partnership is close to the England/Scotland border and is superbly located to take advantage of some of the best scenery in the North of England.

The small market town of Haltwhistle is near the crossing point of the Pennine Way and the new Hadrian's Wall National Trail.

Vast Northumbrian skies
over the South Tyne
Trail - with refreshment
at the Wallace Arms pub
in sight!

All pictures
by David Präkel

There is now little trace of the industry that once dominated the countryside around Haltwhistle.

But a little further afield there is plenty still to discover - the remains of lead mines, fluorspar mines and the branch line railways that once penetrated deep into the Northumbrian wilds.

The route of the Haltwhistle to Alston branch line is now walkable over the slender arches of Lambley viaduct.

To the south the land rises to the hills and rough fells of the North Pennines with breathtaking fell-top views and the dramatic remains of man's activity.

Here is the old lead mining town of Nenthead and England's highest market town, the picturesque Alston. The walk along the short River Nent from the town is a spectacular introduction to the waterfalls and views of limestone country.

The cities of Newcastle and Carlisle are readily accessible offering a major contrast in life style and architecture. The famous castles and seascapes of the east coast above and below Newcastle take a little longer to reach.
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