Derwent Valley
The Derwent Valley, one of the Durham Dales, is sometimes an overlooked corner of the North Pennines - but if you venture into its hidden depths you won't be disappointed!
White lands
The small village of Blanchland with its honey-coloured cottages, is perhaps the most attractive settlement in the whole of the North Pennines. Blanchland means the 'white lands' - almost certainly a reference to the white habits of the Premonstratensian canons of the old Blanchland Abbey. Today the village, abbey and surrounding countryside are well worth a visit.
Derwent Reservoir
Downstream from Blanchland the flow of the River Derwent is interrupted by the three mile long Derwent Reservoir. It was built in 1967 and is the second largest reservoir in Northumberland. There is a choice of three excellent picnic sites on the bank of the reservoir - with trails (including new easy access paths), bird hides, nature reserves and fishing opportunities to entice you to stay a while longer.
Places to visit, things to do
Blanchland - former Abbey and attractive village. Don't miss the new easy access path, created by the AONB Partnership, in Blanchland. Visit the recently restored Shildon Engine House.
Derwent Reservoir - second largest man-made lake in Northumberland. New easy access path, created by the AONB Partnership and Northumbrian Water, from Pow Hill Country Park to the dam.
Pow Hill Country Park - on the banks of Derwent Reservoir.
Muggleswick Grange - spectacular medieval monastic grange.
Visit Northumberland - Discover things to do throughout Northumberland, all types of accommodation, where to eat, special offers and itineraries.
This is Northumberland - Online travel and tourism magazine for Northumberland, Newcastle/Gateshead and the Borders.
This is Durham - Durham Tourist Information - Find things to do in Durham City and County, hotels and accommodation, what's on, restaurants, special offers and itineraries.
Further afield
Tanfield Railway - 0845 4634938 - Working steam railway - see the world's oldest surviving railway bridge, Causey Arch.
Beamish - the Living Museum of the North - 0191 3704000 - an unforgettable insight into life in the North East in the late 1800s and early 1900s.
Beamish Wild - 01207 233733 - Birds of Prey Conservation Centre and Ropes Activity Centre set within the grounds of Beamish Hall Country House Hotel.
Hexham Abbey - 01434 602031
Hexham Old Gaol - 01434 652351. Bronze Green Tourism Business Scheme (GTBS) Award.
Hexham Farmers Market
Hadrian's Wall
Northumberland National Park