Outdoor Activities
Opportunities for enjoying the spectacular landscapes and features found in the North Pennines abound - walking, cycling, horse riding, canoeing, fishing, sailing, orienteering and many more outdoor activities are all here to be enjoyed
Route finding
Even if you are following a route in a walks booklet it is advisable to carry an Ordnance Survey map. If you are venturing out onto the open moorland make sure you have a compass (and know how to use it!) with you. Make sure you tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.
Weather
The North Pennines is an upland area, and weather conditions can be unpredictable. Be sure to obtain up-to-date weather information. Take sensible precautions and do not go onto moorland and high ground in misty, stormy or snowy weather. Click on the Met Office link below for current weather forecasts for the area.
Clothing
The weather is always variable, so whatever the forecast, take warm and waterproof clothing. Even when hot and sunny in the valleys, the moor tops can be dramatically cooler.
Respect the countryside
Please follow the Countryside Code and the Moorland Visitor's Code during your visit to the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and European Geopark.
In this section
Walking
The North Pennines offers a huge variety of walking experiences in a nationally designated landscape full of character and features to enrich your visit!
Updated: 27/04/10
Cycling
The North Pennines abounds in two-wheeled excitement and adventure! If your passion is moorland tracks beneath your wheels then look no further! Alternatively if road routes are more your style - the AONB has quiet country roads a plenty!
Updated: 10/05/10
Horse Riding
The North Pennines offers a range of opportunities for horse riding, from leisurely, guided pony rides for beginners to technical upland hacks across historic pack-horse trails for the more experienced
Updated: 23/02/10
Accessible Countryside
The North Pennines has some very remote inaccessible places, however, there are some excellent opportunities for easy access into the great outdoors.
Updated: 27/04/10
Fishing
The North Pennines boasts some of the finest upland reservoirs and rivers, renowned for the quality of their fishing. You can choose to fish in some of England's most spectacular landscapes and opportunities abound for complete beginners as well as experts
Updated: 22/02/10
Water Sports
Three major northern rivers, the Tyne, Wear and Tees, all have headwaters in the North Pennines. At certain times of year these rivers offer great sport for experienced kayakers. In addition, there are opportunities for canoeing at Talkin Tarn and sailing at both Derwent and Grassholme reservoirs.
Published: 14/01/08
