The Official Visitor Site for Northumberland
Isaac's Tea Trail is a signed walking route following the footsteps of the tea seller, philanthropist and lead miner Isaac Holden (1805-1857). The booklet about him also gives details of the route over the North Pennines between Allendale and Alston. Copies are available for £2.00 from Tourist Information Centres or with postage from Isaac’s Tea Trail c/o 69 Fernlea Close, Washington, NE38 8RR.
The guide book needs to be used with OS Landranger 87 Hexham and Haltwhistle.
The route summary (1) Allendale Town with Nenthead (11 miles), up the East Allen valley and over the moors to the Nent Valley. (2) Nenthead to Alston (5.5 miles), (3) Alston down the South Tyne and back over the fells to Ninebanks (9.5 miles), (4) Ninebanks over river West Allen to Allendale.
Some sections are strenuous, walkers need boots and outdoor clothing appropriate to the weather.
From Haydon Bridge Newcastle/Carlisle A69 take A686 then B6295 from Langley to Allendale. To Alston A686 from Penrith or from Haydon Bridge.
The Trail can be commenced from either Allendale with bus connections from Hexham (889, 688) and Tyne Valley railway or Alston with bus link (888) from Penrith (no Sunday services).
Tel: +44 0191 4194471