This is a pretty unremitting stretch with the steepest climb coming directly out of Nenthead, so if you are staying overnight avoid one of those typically generous and massive Cumbrian breakfasts.

Turn left off the A689 after just over a kilometre of hellish gradient, past the disused lead mineshafts, and soon you will be crossing the highest point on the route - Black Hill. At 609 metres (just a tad under 2000 feet) it is 29 metres (nearly 100 feet) higher than Hartside. Once you have conquered the climb up past Killhope Law it's pretty plane sailing down to Allenheads.

This is a truly delightful village nestling amongst the trees. Its focal point is a marvellous little pub called the Allenheads Inn where a cornucopia of fascinating nick knacks are suspended from ceilings and walls, doors and passageways.

A century ago this prosperous and peaceful little haven was a toneless grey valley of slag heaps shrouded by smog, for it too was a mining community which provided one sixth of the nation's requirement for lead. The village slipped into decline when the bottom fell out of the industry but has done amazingly well in recent years to revitalise itself. There is now a Trust, a visitor centre plus mining exhibitions and a shop and café.

This is the home of the British Norwegian Ski Club. There are three tow ropes taking you to the top of the run at 540 metres. Annual family membership is £30, which covers towing, hire of the rope and passes; facilities on the piste also include a small bait hut where there is a BYO glühwein facility.

Apres ski is in the pub. An ideal place for celebrities, it is usually free of paparazzi and gossip columnists. A popular haunt with the beau monde of Carlisle and Newcastle, Allenheads is once again a coming place.

PLACES OF INTEREST

Woodland Nature Trail - walks that take you around the village.

Old Blacksmith's Shop - smithy with display.

The Allenheads Trust, Allenheads Heritage Centre, T/F: 01434 685043

17. Allenheads		Back to
Julie Macdonald		Thorn Green Accommodation, Thorn Green, Allenheads, Hexham NE47 9JQ
Tel/Fax		01434 685234
Mob		07977 728328
Email		hammershields@btopenworld.com
Rooms		2 - 6 Bunks Each + 2 Showers
B&B		£18 pppn
Packed lunch		Please give a day or so advance warning
Distance from C2C		On route
Pub nearby		Drying facilities and secure lock-up

Bunkhouse, campsite and holiday cottage right on C2C about a mile before Allenheads. Bunkhouse has seating area and television plus drying room. Locked bike shed holds 12 bikes. The Allenheads Inn just up the road provides evening meals. The bunkhouse is opposite Thorn Green quarry. There are six beds in each of the two rooms, room for 4 to 6 in the holiday cottage (ideal for those spending a little more time in the area). There is also a campsite with showers.

Ann & Phil Homer		The Allenheads Inn, Allenheads, nr Hexham, Northumberland NE47 9HJ
Tel		01434 685 200
Web		www.theallenheadsinn.co.uk
Email		philann@phomer.fsbusiness.co.uk
Rooms		1D,4T,2F
B&B		£27-£31
Meals		Main courses £7.50
Distance from C2C		On route
Packed Lunch		£4.50

18th century village inn renowned reputation. A must for many cyclists who enjoy atmosphere, hospitality and all-round comfort. Fine ales and big helpings of tasty food. Camra & Good Pub Guide. Single occupancy restricted during the busy season.

Allenheads Lodge		Allenheads, Northumberland, NE47 9HW
Tel		0191 564 0291
Email		allenheadslodge@springboard-ne.org
Web		www.springboard-ne.org
Rooms		4 (Total of 22 beds)
B&B		£20.50
Packed Lunch		£4.50
Evening Meal		On Request
Distance from C2C		On route
Pub		700m

Central heating, secure bike lockup, drying room, separate showers.

Jacquie Robson		Hemmel Cafe, Allenheads
Tel		01434 685568
Web		www.thehemmel.com
Email		jacquie.robson@btinternet.co.uk
Main courses		£5.50-£8.50

Somewhere between a cafe and a restaurant serving wine, coffee and tea, Jacquie's home cooking offers up dishes from chicken and pasta bake to steak pie and all-day breakfast. Vanilla sponges and home baked cakes jostle for space in this charming converted cattle byre with its airy courtyard tucked away behind the car park.

Pat & Terry McMullon		New Houses, Allenheads, Northumberland NE47 9HX
Tel/Fax		01434 685 260
Email		zookon@aol.com
Rooms		1S, 2T
B&B		£20-£30
Packed Lunch		From £3.50
Distance from C2C		On route
Drying facilities		Secure lock-up

Warm, spacious and very comfortable cottage with all amenities. Walking distance to pub.