The route can be done as an Ultra run in one go, event planned for the first weekend in August, or as a more leisurely pace in relatively easy stages. This particular one is the ten miles from Alston to Ninebanks.
On a sunny but frosty February day we did this 10 mile stretch of Isaac’s Tea Trail long-distance, but circular walk. Starting from the centre of Alston the well signed route takes you along the beautiful South Tyne Valley with extensive views around all the higher fells, some were still covered in snow! Then up through the Ayle Burn valley before passing over the moors into the West Allen Valley at Ninebanks.
Along the way we were fortunate to see a wide variety of bird life, some such as Lapwing and Curlew moving into the area looking for their Spring breeding grounds. Passing old fortified Bastle Houses, Epiacum Roman Fort and the last coal mines in the area. The timing was perfect to have an excellent lunch at The Nook, nestled below Epiacum and above the South Tyne Railway.
Isaac’s Tea Trail can be done in four stages with stops at Carrshield, Alston and Ninebanks along the way.
