VISITOR GUIDE
HOUSESTEADS FORT AND HADRIAN’S WALL
Perched amid scenic grandeur on Hadrian’s Wall, Housesteads Fort (Vercovicium) is one of the best-preserved Roman military sites in Britain. Built around AD 124, it was part of the vast network of fortifications designed to defend the northern frontier of the Roman Empire. Housesteads is a major attraction for history enthusiasts and walkers exploring the famous Hadrian’s Wall Path. The on-site museum displays artifacts excavated from the fort, including weapons, pottery, and personal items from Roman soldiers.
HALTWHISTLE BURN
Haltwhistle Burn offers a stunning blend of history, geology, and natural beauty. Flowing from the rugged landscapes of the North Pennines towards the River South Tyne, this scenic burn winds through deep gorges, wooded valleys, and open moorland, making it a favorite spot for walkers and nature enthusiasts. The Haltwhistle Burn walk follows a well-marked trail, offering spectacular views of waterfalls, rock formations, and wildflower meadows. It’s also a great place to spot wildlife, including birds of prey, deer, and red squirrels.
THIRLWALL CASTLE
Located outside the nearby village of Greenhead, Thirlwall Castle stands as a reminder of the region’s turbulent past. Perched on the banks of the River Tipalt and built in the 14th century, the castle was strategically positioned near Hadrian’s Wall, utilizing Roman stones in its construction. Surrounded by rolling countryside, Thirlwall Castle is a popular stop for walkers exploring Hadrian’s Wall. The site offers stunning views and a fascinating glimpse into the region’s history. Despite its ruinous state, the castle continues to captivate visitors with its rugged charm and tales of borderland battles.
LAMBLEY VIADUCT
The Lambley Viaduct is a striking railway viaduct spanning the South Tyne River at nearby Lambley. Completed in 1852, it was originally built to carry the Alston Branch Line of the Newcastle and Carlisle Railway. Designed by engineer Sir George Barclay Bruce, the structure consists of nine impressive stone arches, each rising to a height of around 33 meters (108 feet) above the valley floor. This impressive example of Victorian engineering offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Tynedale countryside, attracting walkers and history enthusiasts alike.
TALKIN TARN
Talkin Tarn, a stunning glacial lake near Brampton in Cumbria, is a popular destination for nature lovers, walkers, and water sports enthusiasts. Surrounded by 120 acres of woodland and parkland, this scenic tarn offers breathtaking views and a peaceful retreat from everyday life. The Talkin Tarn Country Park features a cozy tearoom, providing refreshments with a view, and ample picnic spots for those wanting to soak in the tranquility. Whether visiting for exercise, relaxation, or wildlife spotting, Talkin Tarn is a gem of the Cumbrian countryside, perfect for a day out in nature.
ALSTON
Nestled in the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Alston is England’s highest market town, sitting at around 1,000 feet above sea level. This historic town in Cumbria is renowned for its picturesque scenery, rich mining heritage, and well-preserved cobbled streets lined with stone-built houses. Alston has a long history back to Roman times. However, it flourished during the lead mining boom of the 17th and 18th centuries. The South Tynedale Railway, a charming narrow-gauge heritage railway, offers visitors a nostalgic journey through the stunning countryside.
KIELDER WATER & FOREST PARK
Kielder Water and Forest Park, located 36 miles from Haltwhistle, is one of the UK’s most spectacular outdoor destinations. Home to the largest man-made lake in Northern Europe and the largest working forest in England, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and adventure. Kielder Water, created in the 1980s as a reservoir, provides opportunities for sailing, kayaking, and fishing. The Kielder Observatory is located in one of the UK’s dark sky areas and attracts stargazers from all over with its unparalleled view of the heavens.