Allendale is a beautiful area for a quiet country holiday or a more active break. The banks of the river East Allen, lying within two hundred metres of the park, offer gentle walks where a huge variety of wildlife can be seen. The walk upstream takes you to Allendale, which includes several shops, pubs, cafes and a library. The village is served by a good bus service and several people regularly visit the park by public transport.

For those with more active ambitions, the fells of Hexhamshire common and the North Penines beckon. Mike and Verona will be happy to discuss routes for walking and cycling, many of which can be started directly from the park. Within two or three miles there are venues for golfing, fishing and horse-riding and, given suitable weather, skiing is possible at Allenheads, about 10 miles away.

Further afield, yet still within a short drive you can visit the Roman Wall (the best, central section being easily accessible within a short drive), while Hexham offers a variety of historic sites together with shopping opportunities. Mining museums at Killhope and Nenthead offer a great insight into the area’s (now invisible) industrial heritage

For visitors from outside the North-East, historic Durham City and the excellent Beamish Industrial Museum should be high on the priority list and some may wish to visit the huge Metro Centre shopping complex at Gateshead.

Activities Links
Cycling - Cycle Routes around Allendale
Golfing - Allendale Golf Club
Skiing at Allenheads - British Norwegian Ski Club