Local Attractions / Things to do
Activities
The Hemmel Cafe in Allenheads is in the middle of the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The AONB website has more information about the many places to visit, things to do and activities to experience but here is a taste of what is on the doorstep of the Hemmel Cafe:
Walking
Walks from Allenheads – 5 circular walks of varying length and strenuousness, all starting and finishing in the middle of the village of Allenheads, yards from the Hemmel cafe. They provide excellent examples of the beauty and variety of the landscapes of the moors and valleys around Allendale.
Isaac’s Tea Trail – a 58 Km circular walk in the footsteps of the legendary tea seller Isaac Holden. You can discover hidden valleys and cross wild moors with stunning views across Northumberland and Cumbria. The trail links Alston, England’s highest town, with Allendale and includes romantic hamlets like Ninebanks and the old lead mining village of Nenthead.
The Pennine Way – a long distance walk along the backbone of England from the Peak District to the Scottish Borders. The route passes a few miles away through Alston and the South Tyne valley.
The Weardale Way – a long distance walk from Killhope – the hill above Allenheads – to Wearmouth on the coast.
The South Tyne Trail – a 23 mile walk or cycle ride from the head of the South Tyne river to Haltwhistle.
Cycling
The North Pennines is a very popular cycling area which is crossed by one of the most famous UK cycle trails.
The Coast to Coast – The C2C cycle route passes through Allenheads and the Hemmel Cafe is a favourite refreshment stop on the way, especially as it lies between the highest point on the route and a very steep climb out of the village en route to the North Sea.
Skiing
The North Pennines is home to 3 ski areas, one of which is in the village of Allenheads. They all offer the chance to enjoy snowsports when the snow has fallen.
Ski-Allenheads – A couple of hundred metres from the Hemmel Cafe, with 2 ski tows and a beginner friendly slope.
Weardale Ski Club – Across the hill, in the Wear valley, this club also has 2 tows reaching to the top of the hillside at a height of 650 metres.
Yad Moss Ski Club – Near the head of the River Tees, this club has a long poma tow reaching a height of 720 metres.
Heritage
The North Pennines was once a major industrial area and its legacy can be seen on the moors and in all of the valleys around Allenheads, including at the Heritage Centre next door to the Hemmel cafe. Other museums include: