A land of moor and mountain, of hidden valleys and ancient woodland, the North Pennines are one of the most appealing, yet least discovered, areas of England. Nestling between the neighbouring National Parks of Cumbria and North Yorkshire, the North Pennines are officially designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and are a haven for some of the rarest plants and wildlife in Britain. Exploring the seven dales of the North Pennines, this book reveals their history, talks to their people, and above all sets out to capture the spirit of some of the highest, wildest scenery in the country. Taking the reader on a journey easily followed by a car-travelling family, and also suggesting walks at the end of each chapter, with accompanying maps, the authors make their way through a richly varied landscape of dramatic contrasts. Their conversations with the people of the dales produced accounts of ancient folk traditions, customs and songs.