Although only a small hill, Allenheads can produce quite remarkable skiing conditions on its day. It is a bit of a snow magnet, and I have enjoyed fun days on the hill when other places have no snow or, particularly, have no snow left following a decent fall. The rope lift is well described as being 2 ropes. It is undoubtedly well suited (if not literally perfect) for beginners, however, if there's about a foot of snow there's enough drop on the hill to build a half decent kicker and spend a day launching yourself off it and laughing about the fact that it cost you 20 quid to go skiing for the day- a result of the credit crunch. Apres-ski at Allenheads pub is also highly recommended, as is getting there early and taking a shovel.
Allenheads is about 45 minutes from Newcastle and about 55 from Durham depending on your route and road conditions.