North Pennines
Holiday Cottages Northumberland - North Pennines
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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. Slightly to the south is the Allendale Valley with quiet roads and forgotten hamlets.
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.