An AONB is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and has to meet certain criteria by Natural England before it is designed as one.  The factors include the quality of the landscape and scenery, the relative wildness, tranquillity, together with its natural and cultural heritage. 

The North Pennines was designated an AONB in 1988 and in 2003 the area also became Britain’s first UNESCO Global Geopark.   The area is simply beautiful, with swathes of open heather moorland (in late summer / Autumn turning a spectacular purple), striking dales and impressive wildlife – there are a huge range of activities to enjoy.  

The North Pennines AONB website is a great resource with an interactive map of the area to help you explore and plan activities from walking, cycling, bird watching, fishing, sailing, horse rising, picnicking, nature watching, cultural activities and stargazing.  

The North Pennines has 16 official Dark Sky Discovery Sites – the closest to the cottage is a mere 3 miles away at Pow Hill, which is a Dark Sky Discovery Site (Milky Way class).  All of this on your doorstep!

Useful websites:

North Pennines AONB  and a downloadable pdf pocket guide booklet on the area

Explore the North Pennines (including interactive map)

Dark Sky Discovery Sites