From newcastlecitybreaks.com
The western edge of this upland plateau ends sharply in a steep escarpment above the Eden Valley, whilst the Tyne, Tees, Wear, Derwent and Allen rivers drain from the plateau, forming valleys that each have their own distinct character.
The North Pennines is rich in biodiversity. Parts of the area are protected as National Nature Reserves and Sites of Special Scientific Interest. The AONB also includes areas of international importance, such as the North Pennine Moors Special Protection Area and five candidate Special Areas of Conservation.
Management of land for sheep farming and grouse shooting has moulded the landscape, whilst lead mining remains are an intrinsic part of its heritage.The largest settlements within the AONB are Allendale Town and Alston. The Area is administered by three County and six District Councils. Each have adopted Planning Policies to help protect this special environment and have jointly produced good practice guides for buildings.
The North Pennines comprise a distinct and clearly identifiable geological unit with an abundance of features of regional, national and international interest. The geological importance of the area is not just in those features that can be seen today, but through its long history of mining and associated exploration. The North Pennines AONB Geodiversity Action Plan gives recommendations to help conserve and interpret this world class earth heritage.
