When staying at Carrshield Camping Barn there is always something to do, a short drive away to Alston will bring you to the South Tynedale Railway. A preserved 2-foot narrow gauge railway that is the second highest in England along the route of the old Alston to Haltwhistle line that was built in the mid-1800. By planning your day, it is possible to visit a Roman hill fort overlooking the valley, three different cafes and take a cooling dip into the South Tyne River.
When staying at Carrshield Camping Barn there is always something to do, a short drive away to Alston will bring you to the South Tynedale Railway. A preserved 2-foot narrow gauge railway that is the second highest in England along the route of the old Alston to Haltwhistle line that was built in the mid-1800. By planning your day, it is possible to visit a Roman hill fort over-looking the valley, three different cafes and take a cooling dip into the South Tyne River.
Tickets for the railway can be return, single journey or station hopper, to allow you to explore the area either side of the track. Running along side the track is the River Tyne Trail, which starts at the source of the river above nearby Garrigill and follows the course to where it meets the North Tyne River and then onwards to the sea. Soon after leaving Alston Station, perhaps having had a breakfast in the café, you are soon into the country with the moors rising on either side, wildflowers growing on the embankments and birds singing in the trees and meadows that dot the nearer landscape.
To the south of Kirkhaugh station there is a pathway signed to the nearby Nook Café and Farm Shop as well as Epiacum (Whitely Castle on maps) Roman hill fort just above. It is only a short detour and well worth a visit, with informative signs placed around the site. A donations box is in the car park that leads to the café.
Just to the north of Kirkhaugh station it is possible to follow a footpath (signed as part of the long-distant route Isaac’s Tea Trail) down to the river. Crossing over the recently renovated bridge will give you access to the water, a great spot for cooling off on a warm summer’s day.
On arriving at Slaggyford railway station go to the northern ned of the platform where The Little Buffet Car will be awaiting to serve you refreshments prior to your return journey to Alston, or maybe as you continue along the River Tyne Trail.
To explore this and much more go to our website for further information and booking.
