PLACES OF INTEREST, TOWNS & VILLAGES, BUILDINGS & MUSEUMS, HISTORIC HOUSES

The Tourist Information Office's have detailed knowledge of all of these sites, but here is a guide on the net .....

ALLENHEADS LEAD MINING CENTRE ~ This is one of the many villages that produced so much of Europe's lead in centuries past. Take a close look at the beauty of the valleys in this area, under much of the heather you will find spoil from the numerous lead mines. Other centres are at ROOKHOPE, KILLHOPE and NENTHEAD. To look at this beautiful place now, you would never guess at the depth of industry here a hundred years ago. Allenheads is said to be the highest village in England and is situated 20 miles south of the main town HEXHAM. Call 01 388 537 505 for more details. (Killhope), or 01 434 382 037 (Nenthead). Note see also Special Events for the Allendale Tar Barrel Ceremony. If you are in the area, have a look at Rookhope Nurseries for a superb collection of alpines and hardy plants. call 01 388 517 272 for details.

APPLEBY CASTLE ~ is in the old historic county of Westmorland. This well preserved castle has extensive earthworks by the river in large grounds. The Keep in 12th Century Norman and there is a 17th Century Great Hall. More details available on 01 768 351 402

BARNARD CASTLE ~ Located in County Durham on the A688 south west of Bishop Auckland. This is an imposing Norman ruin by the river and was the former stronghold of John Baliol, who took the throne of Scotland in 1292. More details can be obtained from the local office on 01 833 638 212

BLANCHLAND ~ You have probably seen this picturesque village in period films especially those of the great Northeast author, Catherine Cookson. The Lord Crew Hotel was an abbey and homes can now be found on all sides of the square. Small, but perfect in a very beautiful setting. The village is situated on the B6306 about 20 miles south of Hexham

BOWES CASTLE ~ Near to Barnard Castle on the A66 (Scotch Corner to Brough), this is a 12th century Keep which guarded the approach to to the Pass Of Stainmore where the Rey Cross was erected as a memorial to that man Eric Bloodaxe, last of the great Viking kings of England. More details on 01 91 261 1585

BOWES MUSEUM ~ This imposing French chateau style mansion is the home to nationally important collections. From Goya to El Greco, to Canaletto, plus fine ceramics, glassware, furniture, costumes and toys. This really is one of the most impressive collections art outside of London. Call 01 833 690 606 for details.

BROUGH CASTLE ~ Situated on the A66 in the west, this is a ruined castle dating back to the 12th century and was a former Roman fort. The castle was smashed by those canny Scots around 1174, but built again in 1200 with further building in the 17th century by Lady Anne Clifford. Telephone 01 768 341 260

CARLISLE ~ is a major city just outside of the North Pennines region, but well worth a visit for it's fine history, castle and places of interest such as Tullie House which tells the story of Carlisle and the Borders.

DURHAM CITY~ This world heritage site is strictly not in the North Pennines, but if you have the time, try to pay a visit to the magnificent Norman Cathedral, siting proud above the River Wear. Getting to Durham City is easy, it's on the main train line between Edinburgh and London and the A1 Trunk Road.

EGGLESTONE ABBEY ~ located near to Barnard Castle this 12th century ruin stands above the River Tees. Lots of interesting walks and "the meeting of the waters", a beautiful spot where two rivers merge. Call 01 91 261 1585 See also the excellent Eggleston Hall Gardens which is 4 acres of walled gardens and nursery. There is a garden shop for the sale of fresh produce and of course a cup of tea. Call 01 833 650 378 for details

ESCOMBE CHURCH ~ this is a fantastic find, a genuine 7th century Saxon Church part built from stone 'taken' from Roman sites further north. As one of the oldest churches in Europe, this is well worth the visit. For those interested in more recent history, the nearby Etherly Incline is superb reminder of the early age of how the railways were a vital link in the growth of the regions coal mining. Escombe is located off the A68 near Barnard Castle.

HADRIANS WALL ~ Just north of the North Pennines region, Hadrians Wall is one of the greatest monuments to Roman history that can be found anywhere in the world. The Wall and the scenery are truly spectacular, the forts such as Chesters, Housesteads and Vindolanda are exceptional. Originally stretching from Wallsend in the east to the Solway Firth in the west, there are many parts which are in splendid condition. The route is north of the A69 trunk road which runs between Newcastle Upon Tyne and Carlisle. Beware of winter timetables, call 01 434 344 363.

LANERCOST PRIORY ~ The original nave of this 12th century Augustin priory is part of the parish church. The priory is in a superb setting alongside the river Irthing and is an ideal place for a picnic. Take the A69 trunk road east from Carlisle. See map opposite. Call 01 697 730 30

LITTLE SALKELD WATER MILL ~ 18th century Corn Mill, near Penrith in Cumbria which mills stoneground organic flour using waterpower. For details of guided tours and coffee shop and the best time to see the mill working, call 01 768 881 523

LONG MEG & HER DAUGHTERS ~ Also at Little Salkeld this regarded as England's second largest stone circle using 68 stones dating from the late Neolithic Age. A very interesting site. For more details, call 01 768 867 466

RABY CASTLE ~ On the A688 south west of Bishop Auckland, the castle is in the midst of a 200 acre Deer Park. Although this is a very impressive medieval castle, it is still a family home. One of the best places to visit in this part of the region. Call 01 833 660 202 for opening details.

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Last modified 30/07/03