Consett Cottages with Hot Tubs

Get More From Your Consett Hot Tub Cottage Break

Sightseeing

Consett sits in a prime position for exploring both County Durham's highlights and the North Pennines. The town itself has undergone massive regeneration since its steelworks closed, with the former industrial site now home to modern shopping facilities and the Genesis Project heritage trail.

Beamish Museum (DH9 0RG) is just 8 miles away and consistently rates as the region's top attraction (4.5/5 on TripAdvisor). This open-air museum lets you experience life in North East England during the 1820s, 1900s, 1940s and 1950s. Open daily 10am-5pm, it's worth dedicating a full day to explore.

Derwent Reservoir (DH8 9TT) offers wonderful walks, fishing and water sports just 5 miles from Consett. The 3-mile circular route is perfect for a morning stroll before returning to your cottage for lunch and a dip in the hot tub.

History buffs will enjoy Tanfield Railway (NE16 5ET), the world's oldest railway. Operating steam train rides on Sundays year-round and more frequently during school holidays, it scores 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor. Check their website for current timetables.

Durham Cathedral and Castle (DH1 3EH) form a UNESCO World Heritage Site just 14 miles away. The cathedral opens 10am-4pm Monday-Saturday and 12:30pm-4pm Sundays. I recommend taking the tower tour for spectacular views across the city.

Pet Friendly

Consett is brilliant for dog owners with numerous pet-friendly cottages featuring enclosed gardens and hot tubs. The surrounding countryside offers endless walking opportunities where dogs can run free.

Derwent Reservoir welcomes dogs on leads around its shores, while the Waskerley Way provides an 10-mile traffic-free route along a former railway line. The C2C cycle path also makes a great dog walking route with stunning views.

When you need refreshments, The Shepherd and Shepherdess pub (DH8 9BG) welcomes dogs in its bar area and garden. They serve good hearty food and have water bowls available. The Land of Oak & Iron Café at Winlaton Mill (NE21 6RU) is another dog-friendly option with outdoor seating and woodland walks from the door.

Pets Corner at Blackhill & Consett Park (DH8 5TA) is worth visiting with children and dogs (on leads). The park also has a play area and pleasant walking paths.

For any emergency vet needs, Consett Veterinary Centre (DH8 6LR) is open weekdays 8:30am-6:30pm with emergency cover available.

Top 3 attractions you have to see in Consett

The Empire Theatre (DH8 5SE) is Consett's cultural hub housed in a beautiful art deco building. They show films, live performances and comedy nights. What makes this place special is its community feel - it's run as a charitable trust and staffed partly by volunteers. One visitor noted: "Lovely little theatre with comfortable seating and great value tickets compared to bigger venues."

Allensford Country Park (DH8 9BA) sits on the banks of the River Derwent with woodland walks, picnic areas and a children's play park. The riverside location is perfect for paddling in summer months and the autumn colours are spectacular. The park has free parking and is rarely crowded even in peak season. A recent visitor commented: "Beautiful spot for a family day out with plenty of space for the kids to run around."

Hownsgill Viaduct (DH8 7NU) is an impressive 46-metre high railway bridge spanning the Howns Gill valley. Now part of the C2C cycle route, it offers spectacular views and photography opportunities. The structure's 12 arches stretch 165 metres across the valley. Sadly, it has a darker history as a suicide spot, but safety measures have been installed. Park at the Lydgetts Junction car park for easy access.

Is Consett good for walking holidays?

Yes! Consett is excellent for walkers with the North Pennines AONB on the doorstep. The Waskerley Way, C2C route and paths around Derwent Reservoir offer routes for all abilities. Many cottages provide maps and walking guides and having a hot tub to soak in after a long hike is a real bonus.

When is the best time to visit Consett?

Spring and summer offer the best weather for outdoor activities, but autumn brings stunning colours to the surrounding woodlands. Winter can be quite harsh with snow not uncommon, but this creates beautiful landscapes and makes returning to a warm cottage with a hot tub even more appealing.

Can I get around Consett without a car?

While having a car is advantageous, Consett has reasonable bus connections to Durham and Newcastle. The Go North East 'Red Kite' service runs regularly. Taxis are available but should be booked in advance, especially for evening returns to your cottage.

Are there good restaurants in Consett?

Yes, despite its size Consett has some excellent eating options. Sambuca Italian (DH8 5RT) gets consistently good reviews, while The Steel Town Café (DH8 5SE) serves great breakfasts. The Court Inn at Castleside (DH8 9AR) offers excellent pub food just outside town.

Is Consett suitable for children?

Absolutely! Kids love Consett's outdoor spaces and many cottages have games and entertainment. Beamish Museum is fantastic for children, as is Hall Hill Farm (DH8 9LX) where they can feed animals. The Empire Theatre often runs children's films and shows during school holidays.

How far is Consett from major attractions?

Consett is well-positioned for exploring the North East. Durham is 14 miles away (25 minutes), Newcastle 15 miles (30 minutes) and the Northumberland coast about an hour's drive. The Lake District can be reached in under 2 hours, making day trips possible.

1. Visit Durham Official Tourism Site
2. Beamish Museum
3. North Pennines AONB
4. Tanfield Railway