A wonderful month to be surrounded by mother nature in the North Pennines

With the valleys becoming a beautiful verdant green and the moors blossoming, the birds raising their young what is not to like about the North Pennines at this time of year? We may well be in the heart of England’s last wilderness, but we are conveniently located to explore this amazing area that teems in wildlife and has heritage sites around every corner. The latter starts with the accommodation being a Scheduled Ancient Monument that played its part in the Industrial Revolution to Hadrian’s Wall and other Roman sites being close by.

With wide-open spaces on the moors where you can walk without seeing anybody for hours, and have amazing views across northern England, to the small valleys and villages that have craft shops, art galleries and museums, not forgetting cafes for coffee and cake! The sunsets can be quite spectacular at this time of year, so an evening spent atop the moors watching the sun go down over southern Scotland. Or just sitting by the fire pit listening to the river bubbling over the rocks.

Carrshield in the West Allen Valley in the south-western corner of Northumberland is truly a place to escape the world and recharge yourself.

We still have vacancies for the Spring Half Term where you can come and enjoy the unique experience within the North Pennines AONB and UNESCO Global Geo Park, by staying in a Scheduled Ancient Monument

Travel back in time by booking a break with us to stay in a converted 18th Century Mine Shop that was once the centre of this busy Lead Mining area. The location is within the North Pennines AONB and surrounded by Sites of Special Scientific Interest, due to the flora and fauna that live here.
There is so much to do in the area from touring historic sites going back to Roman times, including Hadrian’s Wall, and two Lead Mining Museums within a few miles. If you are feeling more energetic then choose one of our walks (or runs) to follow that will take you along valleys or over moors with amazing views and wonderful wildlife. The quiet country lanes and bridleways also make for excellent cycling around the area. Call in Art Galleries, Craft Shops, and cosy Cafes in almost every village you go through.
At the end of the day enjoy the quiet sitting by the river listening to the water bubble over the rocks or enjoy the pleasure of an open fire to sit beside as the sky darkens to give you a spectacular experience of our Dark Skies.
All the fun of camping without the hassle of a tent in England’s last wilderness.

Stay in a converted Mine Shop now a Scheduled Ancient Monument surrounded by wonderful unspoilt countryside and wildlife.

Our building was originally where the local mines had their blacksmiths and living accommodation on the first floor. In its heyday, the Barney Craig Mine Shop was the largest in the area. The mines closed, and people moved away from the area, with mother nature returning and reclaiming the land. The upper floor now provides accommodation for those looking to explore and enjoy this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
The river West Allen flows by, with the moors and fells rising above the valley. These areas are now home to some beautiful wildlife, including endangered birds that migrate here each Spring to raise their family.
Alongside the natural wonders that the area has to offer, there are museums that give an insight into the mining that took place in these valleys. Going back further in time there are Roman remains to be found at places such as Epiacum, Vindolanda, Housesteads and Hadrian’s Wall.
There are a range of walks or runs that will take you along valleys or over the moors; alternatively, take to your bike and enjoy the quiet country lanes with a new view around every corner.