At around 1,000 feet above sea level, Alston holds the title of England's highest market town — shared with Buxton in Derbyshire — and its steep cobbled streets still look much as they did when the mining trade was at its peak.
England's highest market town
Alston's steep, cobbled main street climbs past a distinctive market cross and rows of stone buildings dating from the 17th century. Sitting roughly 1,000 feet up in the North Pennines, it's long been billed as England's highest market town, a claim it shares with Buxton.
Built on lead and silver
The fells around Alston have been mined for silver, lead, coal and anthracite since Roman times. By 1718 there were 119 mines producing £70,000 a year, and in 1753 the Quaker-owned London Lead Company took over the mining rights. In 1828 the company built Nenthead nearby — the first purpose-built industrial village in England.
Sweets still arrive the same way as everywhere else
Alston's history is built on lead and silver, not confectionery — so pick 'n' mix, bulk bags and trade cases for the town come by delivery, the same as the rest of Cumbria and the UK.
25,000+ customers, and counting
We've served over 25,000 customers UK-wide, Alston and the rest of Cumbria included, with most orders dispatched within 1-2 business days. The range covers pick 'n' mix by the bag and tub, bulk bags from 1kg to 3kg, trade cases for events and businesses, vegan and halal-friendly sweets, retro favourites, and full chocolate ranges from the major brands.
Frequently asked questions
Do you deliver sweets to Alston?
Yes — the same as the rest of the UK, with most orders dispatched in 1-2 business days.
What makes Alston England's highest market town?
At around 1,000 feet up, it shares the title with Buxton, Derbyshire, and has a 17th-century cobbled main street to match.
Can I buy bulk or wholesale sweets in Alston?
Yes — we deliver bulk bags, multipacks and trade cases direct to Alston addresses.
Browse Pick 'n' Mix and Bulk Bags.