The Best Places to Visit When Driving from Allendale Town to Hungerford

If you're looking for a picturesque driving route in England that's full of gorgeous scenery and historical landmarks, then look no further than the journey from Allendale Town to Hungerford. Starting in Northumberland, you'll drive through some of England's most stunning countryside before reaching Hungerford, a historic market town known for its charming architecture. Along the way, there are several must-see places that you shouldn't miss.

In this blog post, we'll take you through the top places you must visit during your drive from Allendale Town to Hungerford. So, buckle up and let's get started!

Breathtaking Views in the North Pennines

As soon as you leave Allendale Town, you'll be driving through the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, which stretches across 2,000 square kilometers of breathtaking hills, valleys, and moors. The scenery here is nothing short of spectacular, with vivid hues of green, brown, and purple as far as the eye can see.

As you drive through the Pennines, take a break from the wheel to go for a hike along the Pennine Way, which starts in Derbyshire and ends in Scotland. Even if you don't trek the entire Pennine Way, there are plenty of hikes of varying lengths and difficulty that you can enjoy. If hiking isn't your thing, stop at the High Force Waterfall to see the 21m waterfall plummet into a deep plunge pool below. The waterfall is located just off the B6277 between Middleton-in-Teesdale and Alston.

The Cathedral of Durham

As you continue south on the A68, make sure to plan a stop in Durham, a historic city that's home to one of the most impressive landmarks in northern England: the Cathedral of Durham. This stunning Norman cathedral dates back to 1093 and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The cathedral's magnificent architecture is sure to leave you in awe, from the detailed stonework to the impressive stained-glass windows. Be sure to take a guided tour of the cathedral or attend a choral performance to fully appreciate the beauty of this iconic landmark.

The Historic City Walls of York

Next on our list is the city of York, known for its rich history and vibrant culture. The city's most iconic feature is its medieval walls, which date back to the Roman times. The walls encircle the city center and offer stunning views of the city and its landmarks.

While in York, be sure to visit the famous York Minster, the largest medieval Gothic cathedral in northern Europe. The stained-glass windows alone are worth the visit, and you can take an audio tour to learn more about the cathedral's history.

Discovering Ancient Fossils in Winchester

A bit further south on the A34, you'll reach Winchester, another historic city with plenty to offer visitors. One of the highlights of Winchester is the Natural History Museum, where you can see a vast collection of fossils, gemstones, and other geological specimens.

Don't miss out on the chance to visit the Winchester City Mill, a 1,000-year-old working mill that's open to the public. Take a guided tour to learn about the history of the mill and how it used to operate.

Exploring the Countryside of the Chiltern Hills

As you approach Hungerford, take some time to stop and explore the Chiltern Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The hills cover 324 square miles of stunning countryside, dotted with quaint villages and historical landmarks.

One must-visit spot in the Chiltern Hills is the Hughenden Manor, a historic mansion that was once the home of former Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli. The house is now a museum where you can learn about Disraeli and the Victorian era. After visiting the house, take a stroll around the beautiful gardens and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding hills.

Conclusion

From the stunning views of the North Pennines to the ancient fossils of Winchester, there's no shortage of amazing places to visit on your journey from Allendale Town to Hungerford. Whether you're a nature lover or a history buff, this route has something for everyone. Be sure to make time to stop at each of these fantastic destinations and experience all of the beauty and culture that England has to offer. Bon voyage!