Alston Travel Guide — Things to Do, Food & Hotels

About Alston

It shares the title of the 'highest market town in England', at about 1,000 feet (300 m) above sea level, with Buxton, Derbyshire. The landscape of the area is built up from limestone, sandstone and shale. The area is rich in minerals, in particular lead deposits, and the landscape has been heavily influenced by the effects of varying methods of mining over the centuries. Historically the area has been mined for lead, silver, zinc, coal and fluorspar. The nearby Roman fort of Whitley Castle (Epiacum) may in part have been sited to control and protect the lead mines there.

Top Attractions in Alston

Explore the best things to see and do in Alston:

• ★Alston Town Hall
• ★Ashgill Force waterfall
• ★Events at the Town Hall
• ★Friday 'early doors', The Cumberland
• ★Garrigill Walk
• ★Open Mike night at the Turks Head
• ★South Tynedale Railways
• ★St Augustine of Canterbury Church

Where to Eat in Alston

Must-try local food and restaurants:

• 🍴Alston House Hotel
• 🍴Alston Wholefoods
• 🍴Country Kitchen
• 🍴The Moody Baker Co-op

Where to Stay in Alston

• 🏨Alston Art Apartments
• 🏨Alston House Hotel
• 🏨Alston Youth Hostel
• 🏨Cumberland Hotel
• 🏨Lovelady Shield Hotel and Cottages
• 🏨Lowbyer Manor

Alston Travel Guide Sections

Our comprehensive guide covers 9 sections including: