High up in the North Pennines, Alston claims to be the highest market settlement in England, being about 1000 feet above sea level. From every direction Alston is approached over broad, heather-clad moorland that has been designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Set on the upper reaches of the River South Tyne, it lies within the Eden district of Cumbria. The Town has many buildings dating from the 17th Century. The Angel pub is dated 1611.