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The North Pennines are
known as England's last wilderness because of its thinly spread population
and wild and beautiful landscape which provides a habitat for many
rare species of birds and plants. This was previously an industrial
area, with mining operations for lead and other minerals commencing
in Roman times and continuing in varying degrees until, in the early
19th century, when it was the wealthiest lead mining centre in Europe.
It was here that schooling was first compulsory and where England's
first free library was established. All mining ceased almost a century
ago but there are still fascinating reminders of this industrial past
in the reconstructed, water-powered Killhope Wheel in Weardale which
drove ore crushing machinery and a similar water wheel at the High
Mill in Alston.
The rivers Tyne, Wear and Tees all have their source in this area and their fertile valleys provide a dramatic contrast with the wild moorland and rolling hills. The Pennine Way which extends from Derbyshire to the Scottish border passes through this region and there is an abundance of footpaths and bridleways making this an excellent area for walking.
Click on the following
link for accommodation we can offer in the Hadrian's Wall region:
Self
catering holiday cottages North Pennines
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