Things to do in Alston, Cumbria

Ashgill Force is a picturesque waterfall located on the Ash Gill stream near the historic market town of Alston in Cumbria, England. Situated at OS grid reference NY758405, this cascade can be found in the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a landscape renowned for its dramatic moorland scenery, mineral-rich geology, and network of upland streams. The waterfall itself is formed where Ash Gill tumbles over exposed bedrock in a series of drops and cascades, creating a scenic feature characteristic of the many small watercourses that drain the high fells surrounding Alston. The exact height and character of the falls can vary considerably depending on recent rainfall, as is typical of these upland streams, with the waterfall displaying its most impressive flow during periods of wet weather when the peaty moorland catchment is saturated. The Ash Gill rises on the high moorland to the east of Alston, one of England's highest market towns, and flows westward through a landscape shaped by centuries of lead mining and agricultural activity. The stream drains a relatively small catchment area typical of the North Pennines, where numerous small becks and gills descend from the watershed to join larger rivers. The geology of the area is dominated by Carboniferous limestone and millstone grit, with mineral veins that were extensively exploited during the region's industrial heyday. This geological character influences both the appearance of the waterfall and the quality of the water, which flows over and through these ancient rock formations before reaching Ashgill Force. Alston and its surrounding area have a rich industrial heritage dating back to Roman times, though the peak of activity came during the 18th and 19th centuries when the North Pennines were one of Britain's most important lead mining districts. The London Lead Company, a Quaker-owned enterprise, dominated mining operations in the region and left an indelible mark on the landscape and communities. While Ashgill Force itself may not have played a direct role in industrial operations, the surrounding landscape is dotted with evidence of this mining heritage, including shafts, levels, spoil heaps, and the remains of ore processing facilities. The streams and gills were sometimes harnessed for their water power or affected by the discharge from mining operations, though many have since recovered their natural character. The landscape surrounding Ashgill Force is典型的 North Pennine moorland, characterized by rough grassland, heather, and blanket bog communities on the higher ground, with improved pasture in the valley bottoms where farming continues today. The area supports a range of upland wildlife including wading birds such as curlew and lapwing, while the streams themselves provide habitat for brown trout and aquatic invertebrates. The botanical interest includes various moorland plant communities adapted to the acidic, nutrient-poor soils, though the influence of past lead mining has left its mark on the vegetation in some areas where heavy metal contamination persists. The North Pennines AONB designation reflects the importance of this landscape for both its natural and cultural heritage. Access to Ashgill Force depends on rights of way and the land management in the immediate vicinity of the waterfall. Alston itself serves as a natural base for exploring the area, offering accommodation, refreshments, and facilities for visitors. The town is accessible by road via the A686, which crosses the North Pennines between Penrith and Hexham. Several parking areas are available in and around Alston, and the town serves as a starting point for numerous walking routes into the surrounding fells and valleys. The South Tynedale Railway, a narrow-gauge heritage railway, also operates from Alston and provides an alternative way to experience the local landscape, though it does not directly serve the waterfall itself. Reaching Ashgill Force typically involves walking from Alston or nearby locations along public footpaths or permissive paths, depending on the specific route chosen. Visitors should be prepared for upland conditions with appropriate footwear and clothing, as the terrain can be rough and weather conditions changeable even in summer. The area experiences high rainfall throughout the year, which is precisely what keeps the moorland waterfalls flowing but also means paths can be muddy and stream crossings occasionally challenging. Ordnance Survey maps, particularly the Explorer series covering the North Pennines, are valuable for navigation in this area where multiple paths and tracks intersect across open moorland. The wider Alston area offers additional attractions for visitors including the town's historic market square, independent shops, and cafes, as well as the nearby Nenthead Mines Heritage Centre which interprets the region's lead mining history. Several other waterfalls can be found in the vicinity, as the network of streams draining from the high Pennines creates numerous cascades and falls of varying size and accessibility. The Pennine Way, Britain's first long-distance national trail, passes through the area, and many shorter circular walks explore the valleys and moorland around Alston. The region's reputation for dark skies also makes it attractive for stargazing, with the North Pennines designated as an International Dark Sky Park.