Explore

Come for the day…

You can simply wander around the picture-perfect village imagining you’re acting in a historical epic. In Blanchland Abbey, you can soak up the tranquility of the church and find out how the medieval monastery shaped the village’s unique footprint. On a fine summer’s day, bring the family for a riverside picnic next to our playground.


Walking

There are lots of walks to enjoy, from a family-friendly wildlife stroll along the riverbank & through woodlands (with additional information for birders), right up to the long distance Way of Light Northern Saints’ Trail. Information can be found in the Village Shop and on OS maps OL43 (Hadrian’s Wall) and Explorer 307 (Consett and Derwent Reservoir). The North Pennines AONB’s Blanchland Geotrail leads you up the fell for a 3.5mile circular walk with spectacular views over the village and valley.

Eat, drink and shop

No trip to Blanchland would be complete without sampling the home-baking of the White Monk Tearooms, or the gourmet food and drink at the Lord Crewe Arms, with its medieval cellar bar and ‘cloister’ garden. You’ll also be given a warm welcome in Felons, the community-run bar. The Village Shop is also a Post Office and stocks essential supplies, great ice cream, postcards and local information. And just up the road is the Jaspah Crewe gift shop with cards for that special occasion and unique handcrafted gifts. 

Nearby

Pow Hill Country Park and Carrick Nature Reserve are both on the edge of the Derwent Reservoir offer countryside walks, sailing and fishing. The North Pennines AONB showcases many things to do locally, including walks, star gazing, horse riding, mountain biking, and birdwatching in this Dark Sky Area and GeoPark.