Get More From Your Alston Hot Tub Cottage Break
Booking cottages with hot tubs in Alston gives you access to England's highest market town along with the kind of luxury retreat you simply won't find in standard holiday accommodation. We think this remote corner of Cumbria offers something genuinely special for anyone seeking secluded self catering with character.
Alston sits at 1000 feet above sea level in the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The town's stone buildings and cobbled streets create an atmospheric base for exploring some of Britain's most dramatic landscapes. Whether you're after romantic breaks for 2 or large family getaways, the combination of a private hot tub and this wild moorland setting makes for unforgettable cottage breaks.
What to do on a family or couple's hot tub break in Alston
Alston earned its wealth from lead mining during the 18th and 19th centuries. Today the town retains that industrial heritage whilst serving as a gateway to the North Pennines. The area attracts walkers, cyclists and anyone wanting to escape into proper wilderness.
We love how Alston combines outdoor adventure with cosy retreats. After a day exploring waterfalls and ancient trails, returning to your holiday cottage with a steaming jacuzzi waiting feels absolutely perfect. The town itself offers independent shops, traditional pubs and enough character to fill a rainy afternoon.
Sightseeing in Alston
The town centre clusters around a steep main street lined with 18th-century buildings. St Augustine's Church dominates the skyline whilst the old market cross marks the town's historic trading heart. Walking these streets gives you a real sense of how remote communities thrived in the Pennines.
Top 5 attractions you have to see in Alston
From heritage railways to dramatic natural features, Alston and the surrounding North Pennines pack in attractions that suit everyone from young families to couples seeking isolated beauty.
South Tynedale Railway
This narrow-gauge railway runs along the scenic South Tyne valley for three miles. The steam and diesel locomotives operate from Easter through October, offering stunning views across moorland and through ancient woodland. It's England's highest narrow-gauge railway and a brilliant way to see landscape you can't reach by road.
Ashgill Force
Just two miles from Alston, this 30-foot waterfall crashes into a wooded gorge. The short walk from the road makes it accessible for most visitors. We find it particularly impressive after heavy rain when the force of water becomes genuinely dramatic. It's one of those natural features that photographs never quite capture properly.
Nenthead Mines Heritage Centre
This former lead mining village sits three miles from Alston at over 1400 feet. The heritage centre lets you explore underground workings and learn about the harsh realities of Pennine mining. The surrounding landscape of spoil heaps and ruined buildings creates an atmospheric backdrop for understanding the area's industrial past.
Hartside Pass
The A686 climbs to 1903 feet at Hartside, making it one of England's highest paved roads. The café at the summit serves bikers, cyclists and drivers who come for the panoramic views across the Eden Valley to the Lake District peaks. On clear days you can see as far as Scotland.
Pennine Way
Britain's first National Trail passes within easy reach of Alston. Whether you tackle a full day's section or just a few miles, walking the Pennine Way gives you access to some of the most remote countryside in England. The sense of space and solitude up here feels rare in our crowded island.
Don't Miss These...
| Attraction | What you'll experience | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| South Tynedale Railway | Scenic narrow-gauge steam train journey through moorland valleys | Families |
| Ashgill Force | Impressive waterfall in wooded gorge with easy access | Everyone |
| Nenthead Mines Heritage Centre | Underground mine tours and industrial heritage exploration | Everyone |
| Hartside Pass | Spectacular mountain views from England's highest café | Couples |
| Pennine Way | Remote moorland walking on Britain's most famous trail | Groups |
Visitor FAQs
How do I get to Alston?
The nearest train station is Haltwhistle, 13 miles away. Most visitors drive via the A686 from Penrith or the A689 from the east. The roads are scenic but can be challenging in winter weather.
What family activities are available?
The South Tynedale Railway tops the list for families. Walking to Ashgill Force works well with children and the heritage centre at Nenthead offers educational interest. Many dog friendly cottages mean you can bring pets along too.
Where are the best romantic spots?
Hartside Pass at sunset offers incredible views. The quiet valleys around Garrigill provide secluded walking. We think the real romance comes from returning to your boutique cottage with its private hot tub after a day in the hills.
Is there good shopping in Alston?
The town has independent shops including craft galleries, a wholefood shop and traditional stores. Don't expect big chains but do visit for unique local products and artwork.
Why choose hot tub cottages here?
After walking the Pennines or exploring in cold weather, a hot tub becomes essential rather than luxury. The remote location means you get genuine privacy. Many luxury cottages and lodges offer this along with log fires and quality furnishings.
Booking holiday homes or a log cabin in this corner of Cumbria gives you access to landscape that feels genuinely wild. Whether you're looking for cheap cottages for last minute deals or large holiday villas for a big group, places to stay with hot tub facilities transform a good break into something memorable.
We recommend booking well ahead for new year and peak summer when the best properties fill quickly. Sykes cottages and similar agencies offer everything from 1 bedroom retreats to large cottages sleeping extended families. Forest holiday vibes meet proper mountain scenery here.
Hot tub stays in Alston work brilliantly for romantic breaks or as a base for group cottages exploring the North Pennines. The combination of coastal cottages being hours away means you get that isolated feeling without the crowds. Book your cottage with hot tub and discover why this unique corner of England rewards those who make the journey.