C2C Route

Run by: Michael & Carole Allchorne

A restaurant with rooms very popular with cyclists - groups return year after year. 'We have lovely spotless rooms all with great views, modern bathrooms some with roll top baths.' Great local ales and range of lagers, hearty homemade food and extensive menu cooked by Michael chef/owner whose generosity of portion is renowned. Sit  in front of the fire or in the cafe with a latte read the papers, or relax in the garden in the summer. 'We have lots of space and are ideal for groups. It's a lovely old building which has been lovingly updated.'  The rest of Alston is just round the corner. There's a beauty room for massages and treatments.

Run by: Pauline Elliott

Open to non-YHA member, Ninebanks was recently refurbished and extended, and provides comfortable year-round accommodation half-way along the route, so is ideal for supported groups who make this their base for the challenge. Great self-catering facilities, excellent and flexible meals for groups. A licensed hostel serving local ales. You can book a Bed, a Room or the whole hostel.

Run by: Celia Pattison

Charming split level bungalow with sweeping views south west across the Cumbrian Fells. Celia has been looking after cyclists for 20 years now and provides a hearty supper and formidable breakfast (all the usual suspects and then some more). It's a leisurely stroll into town, past the police station and down to the Victoria or the Cumberland. Tea, coffee and home-made cakes on arrival.

Run by: Guy & Helen Harmer

Great for evening meals and simply wonderful for beer. Not for nothing was the Cumberland voted CAMRA Pub of the Year for the Solway region for the last several years on the trot. All rooms en-suite, bike storage, drying/cleaning facilities. Only stamping point in Alston. Choice of traditional cask ales and home cooked food. Family run and great cooking. Really friendly service and great atmosphere.

Run by: Local co-operative

Workers' co-operative, run by seven local people. Small local shop specialising in local products (especially cheese). Wide range of drinks, snacks, biscuits, local meats, gluten free items, soaps, candles, mustards, etc.

Run by: Stephen & Gina Beimers

Former barn set in idyllic surroundings a mile up the Middleton road, taking the right fork at the top of the village. In the midst of open fells and wildflower meadows there are two en-suite guest rooms, secure lock-up and outbuildings for wet gear. The Beimers provide evening meals as well as a tea-room for hungry cyclists passing their door.

Run by: Sue Collins

Cosy and comfortable accommodation tucked away in a quiet location just a brief stroll from the market place and town centre. There's a sun-trap courtyard and comfortable full en-suite twin rooms with bath and shower geared up for cyclists and hikers. Secure lock up and you can even clean your bike. There's also secure off-road parking. Breakfast is a continental style help yourself affair, with plenty of choice.

Run by: Richard & Laura Elston

Grade II listed manor house in the heart of a UNESCO Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The C2C passes close by as well as several circular routes around the Alston area. AA Breakfast of the Year award. Cosy bar offering locally produced beers and soft drinks.

Run by: Steve & Tian Smith

Friendly, family run B&B right in the centre of Alston. Warm, clean and comfortable accommodation offering everything you need. Accepts all major credit cards. Full Indian restaurant. Also doing takeaway. Sunday roasts. Really busy stop-off for C2Cers.

Run by: Phil Webster, Dave & Val Lowson

YHA Alston, a 30 bedded Youth Hostel provides 3 star affordable accommodation within 5 minutes walk of the town centre. All bed linen and towels provided. Hot showers and excellent washing and drying facilities. Superb selection of meals or self-catering option. Open all year round.

Run by: Dave Simpson

Ideal for campers or group bookings, though Alston Adventure Centre will accommodate individuals or small groups under the right circumstances. This is the ideal half-way stopping place, overlooking the Alston Valley with stunning views. Warm comfortable dormitories, lashings of food, a superb cooked breakfast, self-catering or camping option available.