Images by the Calcot Collection

Situated on the northern edge of the North Pennines AONB in the heart of Northumberland, the Lord Crewe Arms is the place to be.

Nestled in the honey-stone village of Blanchland, beneath a cloak of forests and heath, the Lord Crewe Arms offers great comfort food, cooked to the highest order.

Especially after a long day outdoors, it is such a treat to cuddle up next to the fireplace and enjoy a proper meal.

The location is ideal because you can discover Northumberland National Park and the North Pennines AONB.

Or head for Durham Cathedral and explore the Durham Heritage Coast.

The places to visit are endless.

So why not stay the night in one of the inviting rooms and explore this beautiful part of England.


Walking

On a rainy day we visited Moor House National Nature Reserve and walked along the river Tees.

This 5-mile circular walk takes you through the stunning landscape of Upper Teesdale.

It includes Low and High Force waterfalls – the most spectacular natural features in the Durham Dales.

Afterwards we had an amazing lunch at the Lord Crewe Arms.

If you like a challenge, then you could join a section of the Pennine Way and complete an 18-mile circular.

Starting at the lead-mining village of Middleton-in-Teesdale, this long walk follows the River Tees upstream.

It passes Low and High Force waterfalls and Cronkley Scar before returning by a drove way.

Or have lunch first! And stretch your legs afterwards at Allen Banks & Staward Gorge.


Long-distance paths

Two trails are worth mentioning.

First, the Isaac’s Tea Trail.

This 36-mile circular trail links Alston, England’s highest town, with Allendale.

It includes romantic hamlets like Ninebanks and the old lead mining village of Nenthead.

The route is way marked and has distinctive Isaac signs.

Second, the South Tyne Trail.

This 23-mile trail runs from the source of the River South Tyne, on high and lonely moors, all the way to Haltwhistle. It makes an ideal two-day outing.



Cool Places to Explore: Hadrian’s Wall | Allen Banks & Staward Gorge | Cherryburn.