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The parish church was built in 1869 on the site of two earlier churches. The church spire was completed in 1886. A unique item in the church is a clock which belonged to James Radclyffe, 3rd Earl of Derwentwater, who was beheaded for treason. It is believed to be of 16th-century origin, and was restored in 1978.
A local museum dedicated to transport and history of Alston. Although small, it has some impressive exhibits and knowledgeable staff.
The beck downstream of the main fall features several small cascades. It is a home to several wildlife species, including a much loved staple of British streams: dippers. There are ruins of former industrial buildings nearby, possibly from lead working, which the area was once famous for. Ashgill Force is an impressive fall, plunging 55 feet over a rocky shelf.
The railway used to run from Alston to nearby Haltwhistle, but was closed in 1974. Since then narrow-gauge track has been laid and steam trains run to Gilderdale, some 4 miles from Alston, offering a short journey through pleasant scenery.
This popular event draws musicians from all around Cumbria, Northumberland and Durham and is popular with the locals. Anyone is welcome to join in.
From its mighty endings in Newcastle, Garrigill is very close to Tynehead where the river originates from springs. The small square in the centre of the village makes a tranquil place to sit outside. Roundtrip: 8 miles.