Carrshield Camping Barn and the surrounding North Pennines has so much to offer within its ancient landscape. The scenery can get the heart racing or relaxing and Carrshield Camping Barn makes the perfect affordable base for seven days of amazing activities. Read on to find out more.
Day 1
We have a series of ten walks or runs in the North Pennines, that will take you around the surrounding hills, moors and valleys. The walks go direct from the door and all but one are circular, so bring you back again. All walks are available for free download from either the Ordnance Survey or OutdoorActive apps, they can also be seen and printed from our website. One of the wonders of this part of the world is the solitude that can be experienced when walking, a little different from some places. There is plenty to see whilst out there, as well as listening for the birds. Help can be given if required, just ask.
Our friends at The Hemmel, Allenheads not only do great food but will also soon be having similar walks, or runs, from the centre of their village. So a great way to get some exercise and food as well.
For those who would like a bigger challenge, there is the long-distance footpath Isaac’s Tea Trail, a 58 km or 36-mile waymarked route. Details can be found on the Isaacs Tea Trail website. This can be done as an ‘ultra’ event all in one go, or in the four stages as presented in their pamphlet. We are located within the circuit so ideally based to radiate out or use our accommodation along with our friends in the area.
Day 2
History abounds in the valleys and on some of the hills as well. Evidence has been found on the moors in the area that dates back to people living in the area as far back as the Bronze Ages, unfortunately not much now remains. However, the Romans and subsequent people have left a great deal to explore in the area. There is the hill fort at Epiacum, Vindolanda fort pre-dates the building of the nearby Hadrian’s Wall. The building that now houses Carrshield Camping Barn is designated as a Scheduled Ancient Monument as it was the largest Mine Shop in the area during its heyday, so you will actually be living in a piece of history.
During the industrial revolution, the North Pennines was a hive of activity with a population far in excess of the current numbers. Many of these people were employed in the mining and associated industries. Two experiences that should not be missed are the museums at Nenthead and Killhope, to give an insight as to the conditions in lead mines during Victorian times. At the time the railways were being developed, now sadly all gone from the area, with the exception of the South Tyne Narrow Gauge Railway at Alston, why not take a ride into the past.
During this latter period, Methodism was born in the hills of the north with people such as John Wesley preaching on the moors and also within the newly built chapels. Many of these buildings still exist, some as obscure ruins, others as barns and yet more converted into modern housing. On a more modern theme, there is also the Museum of Classic Sci-Fi in Allendale where there are displays dedicated to such things as Doctor Who, Babylon 5, Tron, Star Wars and other classics.
Day 3
Due to the climate and geography of the North Pennines AONB and UNESCO Global Geopark there is an abundance of rivers, with the South Tyne, Tees and Wear all having their sources close by.
Associated with these mighty rivers are many smaller tributaries and spectacular waterfalls. There is High Force, where the river Tees plummets 21 metres over a 300 million-year-old rock formation. A little closer is Ashgill Force, where a small tributary of the South Tyne plunges 15 metres into a narrow gauge, there are subsequent smaller cascades and a picnic area to enjoy this beautiful spot. For the intrepid adventurer, there is a ledge that runs at the back of the falls that can be accessed relatively easily.
A walk along one of the great rivers of northern England can be achieved from our location, the 23-mile South Tyne Trail goes from its source south of Garrigill to Haltwhistle. Impressive scenery, passing along a narrow-gauge railway and then over the amazing Lambley viaduct. The Weardale Way is another alternative with the start literally just over the hill at Killhope. What a great way to spend your holiday, with family, friends or just searching solitude on your own.
Day 4
On your bike!
There are many adventurous souls who have cycled around our quiet country lanes, and some use the bridleways to escape onto the moors of the North Pennines. We are fortunate to have the combination of quiet roads and plenty of open countryside, without too many other people to share with. So pump up those tyres and get pedalling, we will give you a warm welcome whether for one night or several as you explore the area.
The fabulous Sea to Sea, C2C, cycle route that traverses England from one coast to another passes close to our door. The highest point on the whole route is actually at the top of the valley, so an easy way to finish the day, freewheeling down to your bed. Carrshield is also conveniently located approximately halfway along the route is the ideal place to stopover for the night and re-charge your batteries for the next day. The roads in the area are much quieter than in many parts of the country, which make it an excellent location for cycling and enjoying tremendous views from the high points and some wonderful river valleys as well. If you would like to be more adventurous the moors in the area have a network of bridleways making it a great place to get off-road.
Day 5
What better way to spend a relaxing few hours than by going around the area looking at what the gifted craftspeople of the North Pennines are able to create. Oh, and the best bit is that you can have a great cup of tea or coffee and a crafty cake whilst there. Most of those mentioned are within walking distance.
Crafty cafes. If you enjoy a gentle amble through art galleries and craft shops, then you will be pleased with the number that can be found within close reach of Carrshield. Some even incorporate a café as well, cake and crafts what could be better. At nearby Nenthead the converted Methodist Chapel in the centre of the village has a gallery where local artists display their works, whether paintings or pottery there is always something interesting. In neighbouring Allenheads The Hemmel Cafe has a beautiful little craft shop stocked with locally hand-created delights.
A little further afield in Allendale is The Forge Studios in the centre of the village, with a range of arts displayed around the ground floor. There are studios within the building where some local artists may well be creating their next masterpiece. Also, a convenient location for a bite to eat in their café. Approximately the same distance, but the opposite direction is The Cane Workshop in Alston where commissions can be made to your own specification. Further afield in the beautiful village of Blanchland is Jaspah Crewe, again all local craftspeople selling their wares. A delightful little café is close by as well.
Day 6
We are nestled in a valley within the North Pennines AONB and Global Geo Park, as well as this much of the moorland is also designated Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), due to both the flora and fauna. Fortunately, much of the area is also Open Access land so you can wander and enjoy all aspects.
During the Spring and Summer the moors and valleys come alive with birdlife. There are several endangered species such as Curlew, and Golden Plover that come to the area to breed. So please keep dogs on a short lead and under control as your walk and enjoy these delights. Keep your eyes open to the skies as there is the chance of seeing Hen Harriers, Red Kites and Short-Eared Owls soaring overhead looking for a quick snack. The sounds of Sky Larks hovering in the sky carries over the moors.
The valleys with their rivers and streams over a different habitat, where Dippers and Grey Wagtail may be spotted along the stream. The rare Black Grouse is known to nest in the valley close to the village. One thing to remember is that although there is Open Access rights to the moors, dogs are only permitted on Public Rights of Way, and during the nesting season must be on a lead. Rest assured this will not stop you enjoying all the area has to offer.
Day 7
After a week of sightseeing, and visiting craft shops and cafes, the final day is one to sit back reflect upon a fantastic week away from the crowds.
Rest and relaxation should be the key to every break or holiday, how we all achieve this is different for each of us. At Carrshield there is the opportunity to indulge in all types of activities, or just sit by the river and watch the world go by listening to the water as it rushes towards the sea. There are even a few places along the river where the brave can venture in for a quick refreshing dip, there is not the expanse for much swimming but a cool plunge may be all it needs.
As the sky draws darker then sit around the fire circle chatting about the day’s adventures and watching the stars gradually appear in the dark sky above. Maybe use some backwoods skills to cook your evening meal.
Whatever you enjoy in the outside world, I am sure we can help find something for you, book a break with us to play and rest in this peaceful wilderness that is the North Pennines.