Top reasons to visit Alston
- Scenic Hiking Trails: Alston boasts numerous picturesque hiking routes that cater to outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure amidst stunning landscapes.
- Rich Cultural Heritage: Explore fascinating ruins and local museums that showcase the town's unique history and heritage.
- Charming Accommodations: Enjoy a variety of inviting bed and breakfasts and quaint inns tailored for every type of traveller.
- Friendly Local Atmosphere: Experience the warm hospitality of Alston's locals, making your stay even more enjoyable.
- Tranquil Natural Beauty: Immerse yourself in the breathtaking surroundings of the North Pennines, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Find great hotels near Alston
Discover the charming accommodation options in Alston, where you can find inviting bed and breakfasts and quaint inns tailored for every type of traveller. Whether you're seeking a pet-friendly retreat, an adventurous getaway, or a family-friendly experience, Alston has something to offer. Explore the Alston House Hotel and local hostels, ensuring a delightful stay in this picturesque village in the heart of the North Pennines.
- Langley Castle Hotel: Nestled within a historic castle, the 4-star Langley Castle Hotel offers a unique lodging experience just 19km from Alston. With a remarkable guest rating of 9.4 out of 10, this eco-certified property is perfect for families and pet owners alike, featuring amenities tailored for children and accommodating pets with specific policies. Guests can enjoy a blend of luxury and sustainability, along with a majestic ambiance that transports you back in time, making it a memorable retreat.
- Anchor Hotel: The 3-star Anchor Hotel, situated 21km from Alston, is an inviting inn ideal for adventure seekers. Known for its engaging atmosphere, the hotel provides a range of outdoor activities nearby, including fishing, horse riding, birdwatching, and mountain biking. This property is perfect for those wishing to immerse themselves in the beauty of the surrounding countryside while enjoying comfortable accommodation and a welcoming environment.
- Kellah Farm B&b/cottages: With an impressive guest rating of 9.8 out of 10, Kellah Farm B&b/cottages is a delightful 4-star option located 16km from Alston. This charming bed and breakfast offers a homely atmosphere with rustic cottages, perfect for those seeking adventure. Guests can partake in various activities such as horse riding, fishing, birdwatching, and rock climbing, making it a fantastic choice for nature enthusiasts looking to explore the great outdoors.
Where to stay in Alston
Alston, a charming small town nestled in the heart of the Pennines, offers an idyllic escape for those seeking outdoor adventures and breathtaking scenery. With its friendly locals and rich cultural heritage, you'll find a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration. The town centre is a delightful spot to unwind, while nearby areas present endless opportunities for hiking and discovering the tranquil beauty of nature. Immerse yourself in the welcoming atmosphere of Alston and create unforgettable memories.
- Nenthead: Nestled within the scenic landscapes of Alston, Nenthead is a charming village renowned for its stunning outdoor experiences and breathtaking scenery. The village sees a seasonal influx of visitors, particularly from February to March and during the summer months of July. Outdoor enthusiasts flock to Nenthead, drawn by its vast recreational areas and proximity to a national park, where you can immerse yourself in nature. The allure of nearby wetlands and bays further enhances its appeal, making it an ideal destination for those seeking adventure and picturesque views.
- Ousby: Ousby is a quaint village located near Alston, offering a delightful blend of romantic scenery and outdoor experiences. While visitor numbers peak during the warmer months of July to September, Ousby remains an inviting destination year-round. The village is surrounded by beautiful lakes and serene water features, perfect for leisurely strolls and quiet moments. Its tranquil atmosphere makes it an excellent spot for couples or anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
- Garrigill: Garrigill is another picturesque village in the Alston area, known for its outdoor adventures and breathtaking scenery. With a consistent flow of visitors, particularly in April and the summer months, Garrigill offers a perfect blend of adventure and tranquillity. The nearby national park, hills, and mountains present ample opportunities for hiking, exploring, and enjoying nature's beauty. This village is a haven for those seeking an active holiday amidst stunning landscapes.
Things to do in Alston
Shopping
In Alston, you’ll find charming local shops offering unique gifts and souvenirs. If you’re up for a drive, head to the nearby Penrith where you can visit the Penrith Shopping Centre for a wider selection of shops, including popular high street brands.
Recreation
Alston Spa offers a tranquil setting for relaxation with rejuvenating treatments and a calming atmosphere. For outdoor enthusiasts, the surrounding North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty provides scenic walks, cycling trails, and opportunities for wildlife spotting, ensuring a refreshing connection with nature.
Adventure
Discover exhilarating mountain biking trails at the nearby Whinlatter Forest Park, offering stunning views and varied terrain. For a unique challenge, try your hand at rock climbing at the local crags, where diverse routes cater to different skill levels, ensuring an exciting outdoor experience.
Nightlife
In Alston, enjoy a lively evening at The Angel Inn, where you can savour local ales and hearty pub fare. For a more relaxed vibe, visit The Nook, ideal for unwinding with friends over games and drinks. The atmosphere is friendly, making it a great spot to mingle.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Alston
To save money on your trip to Alston, consider visiting during the cheaper months of January, March, and November, and aim to book your hotel about a month in advance. Tuesdays are generally the least expensive for stays, while Saturdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia's search tool to filter by budget and hotel type, and look for their last-minute deals for potentially lower rates. Additionally, consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for extra savings.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Alston are January, March and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel in Alston about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Alston is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Alston is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you view the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type—if you select the Eco-certified filter, you'll be presented with sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Alston hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions near Alston
Alston, a charming destination perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, offers a variety of scenic adventures. Visitors can explore fascinating ruins, nature reserves, and local museums, which cater to those seeking cultural experiences in a breathtaking landscape. With its stunning surroundings and rich heritage, Alston promises an unforgettable getaway for travellers looking to immerse themselves in nature and history.
- Vindolanda: Explore the fascinating ruins of Vindolanda, located 21km from Alston. This ancient Roman fort offers a glimpse into life on the northern frontier of the Roman Empire, with well-preserved structures and artefacts that reflect its rich history.
- Roman Army Museum: Situated 19km from Alston, the Roman Army Museum delves into the story of the Roman army and its impact on Britain. The interactive exhibits and reconstructions provide an engaging experience, highlighting the lives of soldiers and their families.
- North Pennines: Just 13km from Alston, the North Pennines is a stunning area characterised by rugged hills and breathtaking scenery. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, it offers numerous walking trails and opportunities for adventure amidst its natural beauty.
Best time to go to Alston
The best time to visit Alston can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Alston falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Alston falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Alston
For a visit to Alston, England, you have several airport options. EDInburgh Airport (EDI) is 140km away, with nearby hotels like Crescent House and Virgin Hotels Edinburgh, both 11km from the airport. Newcastle International Airport (NCL) is 53km from Alston, offering convenient hotels such as Delta Hotels by Marriott Newcastle Gateshead and Copthorne Hotel Newcastle, both 10km away. Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) is located 116km from Alston, with accommodations like The Grafton and Timble Inn, situated 10 and 13km from the airport respectively. Each airport provides accessible transport links to these hotels, ensuring a smooth journey to your destination.