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Places to stay
In and around the Kielder Water and Forest Park, there is a range of superb visitor accommodation facilities. These offer comfortable accommodation under some of the darkest skies in the whole of Europe, and many are classed as "Dark Sky Friendly". The accommodation providers below range from cosy cottages to glamping pods, campsites to hotels and everything in betwen. Some are situated within 10 minutes of Kielder Observatory, whilst others are further afield and may suit your holiday needs if you're looking to explore wider Northumberland or the North East.
Kielder Observatory is proud to provide links to many of these facilities and hope that if you are visiting us, you can also grace them with your time and company. If you are a local provider of such accommodation then please don’t hesitate to contact us and we’ll endeavour to add you to this list.
For a more comprehensive search of accommodation providers, places to eat and things to do see the Visit Kielder website.
Twice Brewed Inn
Nestled on Hadrian’s Wall, The Twice Brewed Inn is a welcoming pub & B&B combining rustic charm with stargazing opportunities. Enjoy hearty home-cooked meals and cosy evenings, then retreat to comfortable rooms under dark Northumberland skies. The on-site Twice Brewed Observatory is run by our Kielder Observatory team, offering guided stargazing experiences. With friendly service and easy access to Kielder Observatory, it’s perfect for couples, families, and star-lovers seeking a countryside escape.
Quick facts:
✨ Distance from Kielder Observatory: approx. 40–45 minutes by car
✨ Dog friendly: Yes, dogs welcome in the bar and certain bedrooms.
✨ Type: Pub with on-site accommodation (rooms & cabins)
Hesleyside Huts
Set in the heart of Northumberland National Park and within the Dark Sky Reserve, Hesleyside Huts offer huts, cabins, and a treehouse surrounded by private woodland. Each comes with a telescope for stargazing, blending eco-friendly design with comfort and style. Escape the modern world, enjoy wildlife, and immerse yourself in tranquillity, with easy access to Kielder Observatory and Hadrian’s Wall. Ideal for couples or solo retreats in stunning natural surroundings.
Quick facts:
✨ Distance from Kielder Observatory: approx. 20–25 minutes by car
✨ Dog friendly: No, adults-only retreats
✨ Type: Huts, cabins, and treehouse glamping
Alpnhaus
Alpnhaus is a luxurious, adult-only Alpine-style chalet for two in the Scottish Borders. Remote and off-grid, it features a private hot tub, cosy Alpine interior, and breathtaking mountain scenery. Guests enjoy a freshly-prepared Alpine breakfast basket, peace, and total relaxation. Dog-friendly and fully self-catering, it’s a perfect hideaway for couples seeking tranquillity, nature, and stargazing opportunities, with the start of the hill to Kielder Observatory just 15 minutes away.
Quick facts:
✨ Distance from Kielder Observatory: approx. 15 minutes to the start of the hill leading up to the Observatory by car
✨ Dog friendly: Yes, bring your four-legged friend
✨ Type: Adult-only Alpine chalet for two, self-catering
Black Burn Lodge B&B
Set in Newcastleton, Black Burn Lodge B&B is an eco-friendly retreat run by Michael and Jayne, with three en-suite bedrooms and spectacular views over the Liddle Water valley. Guests can relax in the lounge or riverside gazebo, enjoy the gardens, and savour breakfast at the nearby ‘Olive Tree’ café. Just 30 minutes from Kielder Observatory, it’s ideal for stargazing, history, and peaceful Northumberland escapes.
Quick facts:
✨ Distance from Kielder Observatory: approx. 30 minutes by car
✨ Dog friendly: No
✨ Type: Eco-friendly B&B with en-suite rooms and guest lounge
Clear Sky Lodge Park
Bought in 2017 and fully renovated, Clear Sky Lodge Park is a family-run, dog-friendly holiday park set in 47 acres of private parkland. With 26 private lodges, all with hot tubs and panoramic valley views, it’s a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature and some of the UK’s darkest skies. Whether you’re renting or purchasing a lodge, it’s the perfect base for relaxation, stargazing, and exploring Kielder and the surrounding countryside.
Quick facts:
✨ Distance from Kielder Observatory: approx. 10–15 minutes by car
✨ Dog friendly: Yes
✨ Type: Holiday park with private lodges (3 lodges available via Hoseasons)
Kielder and Border Cottages
Discover the Kielder & Border Cottages collection, three charming Northumbrian retreats ideal for stargazing and countryside escapes. Lake View Cottage sleeps 5 with rustic charm, modern comforts, and views over Kielder Lake. The Liddel Haven sleeps 4–6 beside the River Liddel, with log burners and abundant wildlife. The Liddel Dutch Barn is a luxury retreat for two, with a log burner, infrared sauna, roll-top bath, and valley views. All offer peace, tranquillity, and easy access to Kielder Observatory.
Quick facts:
✨ Distance from Kielder Observatory: approx. 7 minutes by car
✨ Dog friendly: 1 well-behaved dog to Lake View Cottage and The Liddel Dutch Barn.
✨ Type: Traditional cottages & luxury shepherd’s hut-style barn
Wannies Retreat
Wannies Retreat is a luxury self-catering accommodation set within 600 acres of tranquil Northumberland countryside. This unique 18.5m converted rail carriage sleeps up to 5 in two en-suite king bedrooms, with a 7-seater hot tub, telescopes, and a purpose-built viewing platform for stargazing. Guests can enjoy farm-fresh meat and eggs, cosy evenings, and nearby pubs. Ideal for families, friends, or couples seeking a peaceful, personal, and unforgettable getaway.
Quick facts:
✨ Distance from Kielder Observatory: approx. 15–20 minutes by car
✨ Dog friendly: No
✨ Type: Luxury converted rail carriage, self-catering
Holly Bush Inn
Holly Bush Inn is a 300-year-old drovers’ inn in the picturesque hamlet of Greenhaugh, less than 30 minutes from Kielder Observatory. With seven comfortable en-suite rooms, excellent food, and a cask-marque-awarded selection of ales, wines, and whiskies, it’s perfect for a relaxing stay. Guests can enjoy the cozy bar, scenic beer garden, and access to an on-site astronomical telescope for stargazing under Northumberland’s dark skies.
Quick facts:
✨ Distance from Kielder Observatory: approx. 25–30 minutes by car
✨ Dog friendly: Dog friendly rooms available
✨ Type: Traditional inn with en-suite rooms
Staycation Escapes
Staycation Escapes offers two historic Northumberland cottages, one in East Woodburn and one in Rothbury, each sleeping up to 4 guests. Built in the 1800s, both are full of character and comfort, with welcome hampers on arrival. Guests can explore Northumberland’s countryside, castles, coast, and the nearby Kielder Observatory. Perfect for families or couples seeking a charming, relaxing, and memorable escape in the heart of the county.
Quick facts:
✨ Distance from Kielder Observatory: approx. 30–35 minutes by car
✨ Dog friendly: Yes, upto two pets welcome at the Old Stables
✨ Type: Historic stone cottages, self-catering
Kielder Cottage
Kielder Cottage is a charming self-catering retreat on the edge of Kielder Water, offering stunning views of the reservoir and surrounding forest. With 3 bedrooms, it sleeps up to 6 guests, and two well-behaved dogs are welcome. Just 7 miles from Kielder Observatory, it’s perfect for stargazing, walking, and cycling. Unique touches include a working open coal fire, local artwork, and curated guides from the owners to make every stay memorable.
Quick facts:
✨ Distance from Kielder Observatory: approx. 7 miles (15 minutes by car)
✨ Dog friendly: Yes, up to 2 dogs
✨ Type: Self-catering cottage, 3 bedrooms
Ferny Rigg Byre and Merryburn Barn
Ferny Rigg Alpacas offers two charming converted stone barn cottages in the heart of Northumberland National Park and Dark Sky Park. Guests can relax watching alpacas graze, fish in the North Tyne, or enjoy the night sky. Ferny Rigg Byre and Merry Burn Barn feature underfloor heating, log burners, en-suite bedrooms, and panoramic views. Ideal for families, couples, or stargazing enthusiasts seeking a peaceful countryside escape.
Quick facts:
✨ Distance from Kielder Observatory: approx. 25–30 minutes by car
✨ Dog friendly: No, for the well-being of the alpacas
✨ Type: Converted stone barn cottages
Kidlandlee Holiday Cottages
Kidlandlee is a collection of 11 off-grid, eco-conscious cottages and barn conversions nestled 1,400ft above sea level in Northumberland National Park and Dark Sky Park. Guests enjoy stunning big-sky views, walking and cycling from the doorstep, stargazing with telescopes or kit hire, and indulgent on-site spa treatments. Just under an hour from Kielder Observatory, it’s perfect for families, couples, or anyone seeking a sustainable, peaceful, and luxurious countryside escape.
Quick facts:
✨ Distance from Kielder Observatory: less than 1 hour by car
✨ Dog friendly: Yes, dogs are welcome
✨ Type: Eco-friendly cottages and barn conversions, off-grid
Clear Sky Caravan and Motorhome Park
Clear Sky Caravan & Motorhome Park is a small, well-equipped site just opposite Kielder Castle, 900m from Kielder Observatory. Open year-round, it offers large pitches with 16amp electricity and water, underfloor-heated shower block with washing facilities, and chemical disposal points. Guests enjoy panoramic sunset views and easy access to the surrounding countryside. Ideal for caravans, motorhomes, and tents seeking a peaceful, nature-filled stay under Northumberland’s dark skies.
Quick facts:
✨ Distance from Kielder Observatory: 900m (approx. 2–3 minutes by car)
✨ Dog friendly: Yes
✨ Type: Caravan, motorhome, and tent pitches
Stanegate Hideaways
Stanegate Hideaways offers a peaceful escape in the South Tyne Valley, perfect for walking Hadrian’s Wall, exploring historical sites, or simply unwinding. Choose from luxury Hideaway Huts or the family-friendly Stable Cottage, each combining comfort with scenic surroundings. Located close to Northumberland’s top attractions and just a short drive from Kielder Observatory, it’s ideal for families, couples, and groups seeking a relaxing countryside retreat with history and natural beauty on the doorstep.
Quick facts:
✨ Distance from Kielder Observatory: approx. 35–40 minutes by car
✨ Dog friendly: No
✨ Type: Luxury huts and family cottage
Sorbietrees B&B
Set in a beautiful 18th-century farmhouse, Sorbietrees offers a warm welcome and true Dark Sky hospitality. Enjoy spectacular daytime views and incredible stargazing at night, with minimal light pollution and dark sky binoculars provided for guests. A traditional cooked-to-order breakfast awaits each morning, and guests are free to come and go as they please.
Quick facts:
✨ Distance from Kielder Observatory: approx. 20–25 minutes by car
✨ Dog friendly: No
✨ Type: Bed & Breakfast in a historic farmhouse
Riverdale Hall Hotel
Set on the North Tyne River, Riverdale Hall Hotel is a charming Victorian country house offering comfort, character, and countryside views. Guests can enjoy the award-winning restaurant, bar, and leisure facilities including an indoor heated pool and sauna. Each en-suite room is individually styled with Egyptian cotton bedding. With dog-friendly options and a welcoming team, it’s the perfect base for exploring Northumberland’s dark skies and tranquil rural surroundings.
Quick facts:
✨ Distance from Kielder Observatory: approx. 30–35 minutes by car
✨ Dog friendly: Selected rooms available
✨ Type: Country house hotel
Battlesteads
Battlesteads Hotel in Wark combines a welcoming pub, restaurant, and luxurious accommodation with Northumberland’s spectacular dark skies. Guests can enjoy 22 individually styled en-suite rooms, locally sourced cuisine, and stargazing opportunities on-site. Sustainability is at the heart of the hotel, from carbon-neutral heating to organic kitchen gardens. Just a short drive from Kielder Observatory, it’s perfect for stargazing, countryside adventures, and a relaxing, eco-conscious escape.
Quick facts:
✨ Distance from Kielder Observatory: approx. 30–35 minutes by car
✨ Dog friendly: Pets welcome by prior arrangement
✨ Type: Hotel with en-suite rooms
Le Petit Chateau
Nestled in the Northumbrian countryside, Le Petit Château is a 30-bed boutique hotel and unique wedding venue blending shabby chic elegance with historical charm. Dog-friendly accommodation and grounds mean you can bring your four-legged companion along for a leisure stay, private event, or special celebration. Whether enjoying a peaceful retreat or celebrating life’s big moments, this luxury French-style manor offers comfort, style, and memorable Northumberland experiences.
Quick facts:
✨ Distance from Kielder Observatory: approx. 45–50 minutes by car
✨ Dog friendly: Yes, dogs welcome in accommodation and grounds
✨ Type: Boutique hotel & wedding venue
Gibshiel Farm B&B
Gibshiel Farm Bed and Breakfast offers off-grid comfort in the unspoilt Northumberland countryside within the Dark Skies Park. Set at the head of a remote valley, it’s the perfect escape for peace and tranquillity. Stuart and Alex provide a warm welcome in their fully renovated, energy-efficient farmhouse with ensuite rooms, underfloor heating, and breathtaking valley views. Enjoy a hearty breakfast each morning and marvel at the clear night skies.
Quick facts:
✨ Distance from Kielder Observatory: approx. 40–45 minutes by car
✨ Dog friendly: No
✨ Type: Off-grid farmhouse B&B
Castle Cottage
Castle Cottage sits in Kielder Forest Park with stunning views of Kielder Castle and is just 2.5 miles from the award-winning Kielder Observatory. Perfect for a peaceful break or adventure-filled holiday, the cosy cottage sleeps 4–5 guests and welcomes dogs. Enjoy the log burner, large rear garden with summerhouse, and watch red squirrels and birds. Private parking, EV charging, and secure bike storage make it a convenient base for exploring the dark skies and surrounding countryside.
Quick facts:
✨ Distance from Kielder Observatory: approx. 5–10 minutes by car
✨ Dog friendly: Yes, two well-behaved dogs welcome
✨ Type: Self-catering cottage
Redesdale Arms
Steeped in history, the Redesdale Arms is a 16th-century coaching inn known as the “First & Last” Inn on the road to Scotland. Family-owned and recently refreshed, it offers cosy rooms, hearty meals, and a warm Northumberland welcome. Set in the heart of the National Park, guests can enjoy stunning views by day and sparkling dark skies by night, the perfect base for Kielder Observatory visitors.
Quick facts:
✨ Distance from Kielder Observatory: approx. 45–50 minutes by car
✨ Dog friendly: Check with the property
✨ Type: 16th-century coaching inn with rooms & restaurant
Black Bull Hotel
Nestled in the heart of Bellingham, Northumberland, The Black Bull Hotel combines the charm of a traditional country pub with the magic of stargazing. Enjoy hearty, warming pub food and a friendly local atmosphere, then retreat to one of their four freshly modernised rooms, including two special Observatory Rooms designed for guests to admire the night sky from the comfort of their bed. Perfect for stargazing enthusiasts and anyone looking for a cozy countryside escape.
Quick facts:
✨ Distance from Kielder Observatory: approx. 40–45 minutes by car
✨ Dog friendly: Yes, dogs welcome (please enquire for details)
✨ Type: Country pub with on-site accommodation (hotel rooms & Observatory Rooms)
Tarset Tor Bunkhouse & Bothies
Tarset Tor is a stylish, family-run self-catering retreat in Northumberland, offering versatile accommodation for groups, families, and couples. The Bunkhouse sleeps 16–20 with shared facilities, while three self-contained Bothies each accommodate 8 guests, and two new Bothies cater to couples or small families. Perfect for stargazing, outdoor adventures, and exploring Hadrian’s Wall and the Northumberland coast.
Quick facts:
✨ Distance from Kielder Observatory: approx. 50 minutes by car
✨ Dog friendly: Yes
✨ Type: Self-catering bunkhouse & bothies
The George Hotel
Set on the banks of the River Tyne in Chollerford, The George Hotel offers comfort, charm, and riverside views near Hadrian’s Wall. Guests can enjoy hearty meals in the restaurant, relax in the lounge bar, or unwind in the leisure club with indoor pool and sauna. It’s a great base for exploring Northumberland’s countryside, Roman heritage, and dark skies.
Quick facts:
✨ Distance from Kielder Observatory: approx. 50–55 minutes by car
✨ Dog friendly: Yes, selected rooms welcome dogs
✨ Type: Riverside hotel with leisure facilities
9 Castle Drive
9 Castle Drive is a charming self-catering home offering a peaceful retreat on the edge of Kielder Forest, just minutes from Kielder Observatory. The three-bedroom property includes one en-suite, a family bathroom, a living room, dining kitchen with utility, and a downstairs toilet. Guests can relax in the secure garden with lawn and patio, enjoying birdsong and tranquil surroundings. Ideal for stargazing, walking, biking, or simply unwinding.
Quick facts:
✨ Distance from Kielder Observatory: approx. 5–10 minutes by car
✨ Dog friendly: Yes, but only on the ground floor
✨ Type: Self-catering holiday home
Killingworth Air B&B
Killingworth Air B&B is a stylish 2-bedroom, 2.5-bath home in North Tyneside, just 1.5 hours from Kielder Observatory. Ideal for professionals, it features a home office setup, private off-road parking for 2 cars, and a landscaped garden. Guests can enjoy nearby parks, lakes, shopping, or take trips to the coast. Comfortable and well-equipped, it’s a perfect base for city escapes or exploring the beauty of Northumberland.
Quick facts:
✨ Distance from Kielder Observatory: approx. 1.5 hours by car
✨ Dog friendly: Please Enquire
✨ Type: Self-catering B&B
Kielder Campsite
Kielder Campsite offers a scenic and peaceful camping experience within Kielder Forest, perfect for nature lovers and stargazers. The site accommodates tents, campervans, and motorhomes, with well-maintained facilities including showers, toilets, and electric hook-ups. Guests can enjoy easy access to walking and cycling trails, nearby Kielder Water, and the dark skies above. It’s an ideal base for exploring Northumberland’s natural beauty and Kielder Observatory.
Quick facts:
✨ Distance from Kielder Observatory: approx. 10 minutes by car
✨ Dog friendly: Yes, dogs welcome
✨ Type: Campsite (tents, campervans, motorhomes)
The Whistle Stop
A brand-new Shepherd’s hut tucked in the peaceful Northumberland countryside, The Whistle Stop offers a cozy home-from-home retreat designed for comfort and stargazing. With a luxurious king-size bed, a log burner, and a private outdoor stargazing bath, it’s the perfect spot to unwind under some of the UK’s darkest skies. Homemade treats, a fully equipped kitchen, and soft furnishings make every stay feel welcoming and indulgent.
Quick facts:
✨ Distance from Kielder Observatory: approx. 40–45 minutes by car
✨ Dog friendly: No, adults-only and animal-free
✨ Type: Shepherd’s hut / glamping retreat with outdoor bath for dark sky observations
Kielder Cottage- Clear Sky
Kielder Cottage is a modernised 1848 stable conversion offering a cosy, peaceful retreat in the heart of Kielder Forest. The upside-down layout places the kitchen and lounge on the first floor, maximising views of the surrounding countryside. Relax in the hot tub under dark Northumberland skies, enjoy scenic walks, and immerse yourself in nature. Perfect for stargazing, wildlife spotting, and a tranquil getaway.
Quick facts:
✨ Distance from Kielder Observatory: approx. 10 minutes by car
✨ Dog friendly: Yes
✨ Type: Self-catering cottage
Bellingham Camping & Caravanning Club Site
Bellingham Camping and Caravanning Club Site is a well-maintained touring campsite located within Northumberland National Park, close to the charming town of Bellingham. The site offers 43 hardstanding van pitches, 10 grass caravan pitches, 15 tent pitches, and 4 basic heated pods. With electric hook-ups, service points, and walking and cycling route guides, it’s perfect for enjoying the surrounding countryside and dark skies, including occasional auroras and stargazing events.
Quick facts:
✨ Distance from Kielder Observatory: approx. 40–50 minutes by car
✨ Dog friendly: Yes
✨ Type: Touring campsite and pods
Bridge End Cottage
Bridge End Cottage is a charming riverside retreat in the picturesque village of Wark, Northumberland, near the Northumberland National Park. With 2 bedrooms, it accommodates up to 4 guests and 2 pets. Enjoy breathtaking views of the River North Tyne, off-road parking, and a peaceful outdoor space perfect for alfresco dining or morning coffee. Ideal for families or friends seeking a serene countryside escape.
Quick facts:
✨ Distance from Kielder Observatory: approx. 35 minutes by car
✨ Dog friendly: Yes
✨ Type: Riverside self-catering cottage
Ostlers Cottage
Ostlers Cottage is a cosy countryside retreat with 2 bedrooms, including a twin that can be zipped together to form a super-king bed. The fully equipped kitchen, spacious lounge with TV, and bathroom with bath/shower provide comfort for up to 3 guests. Enjoy front and rear gardens with seating, a BBQ, and secure bike storage. Overlooking peaceful fields, it’s ideal for a relaxing Northumberland getaway.
Quick facts:
✨ Distance from Kielder Observatory: approx. 35 minutes by car
✨ Dog friendly: Please Enquire
✨ Type: Self-catering cottage
Fountain Cottage
Fountain Cottage is a family-run rural B&B and café, just a short drive from Kielder Observatory. Guests can enjoy six cosy country rooms, hearty breakfasts, and a welcoming, homely atmosphere. Ideal for stargazers, walkers, and those seeking a peaceful countryside escape, it offers comfort, friendly service, and delicious homemade food — the perfect base to explore the surrounding Northumberland countryside.
Quick facts:
✨ Distance from Kielder Observatory: approx. 25–30 minutes by car
✨ Dog friendly: One dog friendly room
✨ Type: B&B with café
The Gun at Ridsdale
The Gun at Ridsdale is a community-owned country inn on the edge of Northumberland Dark Sky Park. Lovingly refurbished with over 20,000 volunteer hours, it offers four en-suite rooms, a cosy bar, and a restaurant with stunning countryside views. Guests can enjoy warm hospitality, hearty meals, and peaceful surroundings — an ideal base for stargazing, walking, or exploring the beauty of rural Northumberland.
Quick facts:
✨ Distance from Kielder Observatory: approx. 50 minutes by car
✨ Dog friendly: Please Enquire
✨ Type: Country inn with accommodation
Greystead Old Church
Greystead Old Church is a multi-award-winning, 5-star luxury cottage in the North Tyne Valley, set within Northumberland National Park and the Dark Sky Park. This Grade II-listed Georgian church conversion sleeps 8 and blends historic charm with modern comforts. Perfect for stargazing, exploring Kielder Water, Hadrian’s Wall, and nearby heritage sites, it offers an unforgettable rural retreat in a spectacular Northumbrian setting.
Quick facts:
✨ Distance from Kielder Observatory: approx. 40–45 minutes by car
✨ Dog friendly: Yes
✨ Type: Luxury self-catering cottage
Greystead Coach House
Greystead Coach House is a 4-star Gold Award luxury cottage dating back to 1817, overlooking the beautiful Walled Garden. Sleeping 6, it combines historic charm with modern comforts, set in the North Tyne Valley within Northumberland National Park and Dark Sky Park. Perfect for stargazing, exploring Kielder Water, Hadrian’s Wall, and surrounding heritage sites, it provides a tranquil and scenic base for a memorable Northumberland escape.
Quick facts:
✨ Distance from Kielder Observatory: approx. 40–45 minutes by car
✨ Dog friendly: Yes
✨ Type: Luxury self-catering cottage
Sykes Holiday Cottages
Sykes Holiday Cottages offers a wide range of charming properties across Northumberland, from cosy coastal retreats to countryside lodges and dog-friendly cottages. Perfect for exploring golden beaches, historic castles, wild moorland, and dramatic coastlines, each stay provides comfort, character, and access to the region’s natural beauty. Whether seeking a relaxing escape or an adventure-filled holiday, Sykes cottages offer the ideal base to enjoy Northumberland’s scenery and stargazing opportunities.
Quick facts:
✨ Distance from Kielder Observatory: Varies by property
✨ Dog friendly: Many properties welcome dogs
✨ Type: Self-catering cottages and lodges
Campsites.co.uk
Cottages.co.uk and Campsites.co.uk offer over 20 unique glamping options across Northumberland, including ensuite pods, shepherd’s huts, and Lotus Belle tents, some with hot tubs. Many are family- and dog-friendly, providing a comfortable and memorable stay. Perfectly located near Kielder Observatory, these sites are ideal for stargazing and enjoying the region’s dark skies. Whether for a family adventure or a romantic escape, these glamping spots promise a magical countryside experience.
Quick facts:
✨ Distance from Kielder Observatory: Varies by site
✨ Dog friendly: Many options welcome dogs
✨ Type: Glamping accommodations (pods, huts, tents)
