Greentraveller Guide to the North Pennines AONB
A stunning landscape of open heather moorland, vibrant hay meadows, dramatic dales and traditional villages - the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is a wonderful rural place to visit all year round.
This Greentraveller Guide to Holidays in the North Pennines is your guide for a sustainable holiday in this stunning Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and European and Global Geopark. We've scoured the region looking for some of the best places to stay - from luxury castle hotels to rural campsites - plus the best places for local organic food, natural and cultural attractions and exhilarating outdoor activities, from walking and cycling to exploring the region's unique and rare ecosystems.
We also provide all the information on how you get to the North Pennines AONB without your car, as well as how to get around using bikes and public transport...
Less Carbon, More Fun!
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From a lavish 14th century castle hotel to a traditional shepherd's hut at the heart of the Eden Valley - take a look at the top green places to stay in the North Pennines.
Make the most of the region's fantastic local produce, whether you visit an award-winning restaurant, quaint tearoom or a bustling farmers' market.
Scenic nature reserves, medieval castles and England's largest waterfall - the North Pennines is packed with a whole range of natural and cultural delights.
Walk, cycle, canter and kayak your way around high moorland and broad upland dales, or take the time to discover the AONB's unique wildlife and landscapes.
Interactive map of the North Pennines AONB
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Nearest national cycle network
The North Pennines is one of England's most special places, an unspoilt landscape with a rich history and vibrant natural beauty. It is a place of significant cultural heritage; JMW Turner painted here and W H Auden, Phillip Larkin and Dickens drew inspiration from this stunning landscape. It is a place of rare and beautiful wildlife, home to 80% of England's Black grouse and important arctic-alpine flowers.
The communities of the North Pennines care for and celebrate the landscape. Much of the land here is managed through environmental stewardship schemes, making space for nature and supporting farmers for their role in looking after the land and its wildlife. There are some excellent local products available too, from food to fleece and original arts and crafts.
The area is an ideal destination for visitors who want to explore this wild and beautiful countryside, with outdoor activity opportunities for people of all abilities. The attractions of the North Pennines allow visitors to travel back in time to the hey day of lead mining, or to discover stately homes and renowned art collections. There are also thousands of miles of footpaths and open country for you to use to experience our breathtaking landscapes.
Our accommodation providers are champions of sustainability, and many of them are members of the Green Tourism Business Scheme. Their pride in their environmental achievements is matched only by their love of their locality and their desire to help you enjoy your stay in the North Pennines.
Did you know?
- The North Pennines AONB contains around 40% of the UK's upland hay meadows
- Around 36% of the AONB is designated as Sites of Special Scientific Interest
- The North Pennines spans three counties - Northumberland, County Durham and Cumbria
- In 2003 the AONB was awarded European Geopark Status in recognition of its world-class geology
- The 122km Wheels to the Wild Cycle Route is specially designed to help visitors discover the AONB's landscapes and geology
Video of the North Pennines AONB
North Pennines AONB, England
© Durham County Council
