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.
Hesleyside Huts
Hesleyside Huts is located in the heart of the Northumberland National Park, within the International Dark Sky Reserve not far from the Kielder Observatory. The huts, cabins and treehouse are nestled within the private woodland and parkland of the Hesleyside Estate. Anna, who runs Hesleyside Huts is passionate about Dark Skies and was a trustee of the Observatory for years. Each hut comes with a telescope to continue your stargazing.
Alpnhaus
A luxurious adult only Alpine chalet for two in the Scottish Borders. Remote and wild…ego free and off grid. A hot tub getaway, Alpnhaus is in the grounds of Singdean which dates back to the 14th century. As snug as a ski lodge with a luxurious Alpine interior, Alpnhaus is a fully self catering retreat that will embrace you in a warm, wondrous hug. Where you can totally relax with your loved one and four legged friend surrounded by breath-taking natural beauty both inside and out of your Alpine chalet. A healing bolthole for body and mind.
Black Burn Lodge Bed & Breakfast
Black Burn Lodge bed and breakfast in Newcastleton is the home of Michael and Jayne who share their eco-friendly house providing 3 en-suite bedrooms and guest lounge with spectacular views of the Liddle Water and it's valley. Guests are encouraged to enjoy the gardens and the fully glazed gazebo perched above the river. The local historical landmarks Hermitage Castle , Kielder Water and Kielder Observatory are 30 minutes away.
Kielder and Border Cottage
An old stone 1800's Cottage with so much character and history, located in the very heart of Kielder dark skies and overlooking the lake! A perfect spot for phenomenal stargazing and the wildlife is right on the doorstep- just keep an eye out for the foxes, deer and birds! Ideally located to visit The Kielder Observatory, just minutes along the road. These cottages are walking distance to a gorgeous quintessential cosy English pub that serves gorgeous food- The Pheasant Inn. Short stays for Observatory visits are available on request. Zena and Simon look forward to welcoming you!
Tarset Tor Bunkhouse and Bothies
The stylish Bunkhouse is a superb social space, offering comfortable, contemporary sleeping quarters for 16/20 guests in 4 separate rooms, together with shared cooking, eating, showering and lounge facilities. The incredibly versatile floorplan can be quickly adapted to create a welcoming venue for events, conferences and parties. A south-facing covered veranda spans the length of the building, capturing the best of the sun and providing additional al fresco space. Our self-catering Bothy Bunkhouses enable guests to enjoy the peace and tranquillity of Tarset Tor in a private setting.
Kielder Cottage
Located on the edge of Kielder Water, our charming self catering cottage offers a peaceful and tranquil haven with breathtaking views of Kielder Water and forest. With 3 bedrooms, we can accommodate up to 6 guests. Two well behaved dogs are also welcome.
Staycation Escapes
Two wonderful cottages in Northumberland. One situated in East Woodburn and one in Rothbury. The cottages are both characterful and full of history with both of them being 150+ years old. Each can sleep up to 4 guests and all those that stay will receive a welcome hamper upon arrival. We pride ourselves on providing the best possible service and aim to help guests explore the wonders of Northumberland.
Kielder Forest Dark Sky Retreat
The perfect place for those looking to take a break from the pace of modern life , ideal for nature lovers , star gazers and outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy life’s simple pleasures: Take long walks and epic rides, log fires and slow cooked meals. Reconnect with yourself, nature and the people who matter in this incredible part of the world. With the darkest skies in England and close to Kielder Observatory and Kielder Water Activity Centre there really is something for everyone to enjoy.
Ferny Rigg Byre and Merryburn Barn
Here at Ferny Rigg Alpacas we have converted our two old stone barns into new holiday cottages. You can relax, watching the alpacas graze in the fields all around you. The alpacas now have a nice new livestock building so you can sleep in their old barns, under an alpaca fleece duvet. Alpaca watch by day, or fish in our stretch of the North Tyne, and take in the dark skys at night. Located within the Northumberland National Park and Northumberland International Dark Sky Park. Unveiled in December 2013, at 572 square miles, it is one of Europe’s largest areas of protected night sky.
GlamPods Northumberland
The cluster of timber pods at GlamPods Northumberland are genuinely luxurious and spacious enough for a small family. Whether you fancy a long weekend getaway, or a full week’s holiday; away from life’s hustle and bustle, we know that you’ll enjoy your glamping experience in our beautifully appointed pods. Each of these glamping pods has thick insulation to keep you warm in the winter chill and cool in the summer heat with underfloor heating and temperature control.
Kidlandlee Holiday Cottages
Sitting 1400 feet above sea level deep in the heart of the Northumberland National Park, this is a place of big sky views and never-ending walking and cycling from the doorstep. Surrounded by the beautifully rugged hills of the Upper Coquet Valley in the heart of the National Park, this really is a place to escape the crowds and get away from it all. Eleven off-grid, eco-conscious cottage/ barn conversions are located in a hamlet nestled deep within the Northumberland Dark Sky Park. ‘Spa to You’ Rest and Unwind Treatment packages provided by GLo Pamper are also available from Kidlandlees dedicated treatment room on site.
Battlesteads
Nestling in the picturesque village of Wark in Northumberland we offer our guests a warm and friendly welcome, a place to unwind and relax, attentive service in luxurious surroundings. We are a Pub, Hotel and Restaurant, passionate about our ales, beers and wines. We offer beautifully appointed accommodation in our individually styled rooms. We pride ourselves on serving locally sourced produce, complimented by our own home grown fruit and vegetables, prepared to an exceptional standard by our chefs and kitchen team.
Wannies Retreat
Wannies Retreat is a luxury self-catering accommodation nestled within 600 acres of tranquillity. Just off the A68 it is in an enviable position with far reaching views over The Cheviots. Wannies Retreat is a lovingly converted rail carriage measuring 18.5 metres long. It has 2 separate en-suite king size bedrooms and can sleep up to 5. A 7 seater hot tub is the perfect space to take in our dark skies or why not try out our 2 telescopes on our purpose built viewing platform.
Stanegate Hideaways
Whether you want to Walk the Wall, explore historical sites or just hide from the rat-race, Stanegate Hideaways provide the perfect places for escape in the beautiful South Tyne Valley. We have our luxury Hideaway Huts or our family friendly Stable Cottage and are close by to some of Northumberland’s best attractions.
Clear Sky Caravan and Motorhome Park
Clear Sky is an all weather site and accessible in winter to enjoy the dark skies. It’s a small site with top class facilities which have been built from locally sourced materials within Kielder.
The shower block has underfloor heating, large showers, dish washing and food preparation area as well as a washing machine and tumble dryer. Large pitches, all with 16amp electrical supply and water.
Riverdale Hall Hotel
Three star Victorian country house hotel with award winning restaurant, bar, indoor heated swimming pool and sauna. Based in the outskirts of Bellingham, all their rooms are en-suite and, some of our rooms are dog friendly.
Juniper Lodge and Willow Lodge
Two holiday lodges available in the grounds of Otterburn Hall, Northumberland with facilities such as hot tubs, wifi and beautiful local scenery as we are situated within the Northumberland National Park. Both lodges sleep 6 people and have 2 bathrooms and TV's within every bedroom. Stunning local walks and daytrips due to our location in the Redesdale valley, Northumberland.
Redesdale Arms
The Redesdale Arms is a 16th century coaching inn known as the "First & Last" Inn on route to Scotland and has been providing a warm welcome to visitors for centuries. We are in the heart of the national park and on a clear night you can enjoy the stars from your room!
Gibshiel Farm Bed and Breakfast
Gibshiel Farm Bed and Breakfast offers unrivalled Off-Grid hospitality and comfort in a unique setting of unspoilt Northumberland countryside and Dark Skies Park. The Farm is in a very remote location at the head of the valley, If you want to get away from everything then this is the perfect place.
Stuart and Alex guarantee a warm welcome to all guests staying in their fully renovated farmhouse. The Farm house has been transformed into a highly efficient Off Grid property. All rooms have ensuite bathrooms and toiletries, towels, bathrobe, tea and coffee making facilities, TV, hairdryer. We have three rooms, two double and one twin. Breakfast is served every morning in the farm kitchen with views down the valley. On a clear day you can see for over 30 miles.
Kielder Kip Cottage
Situated in the centre of Kielder Village 5 mins form the Observatory. This is a superb home from home staycation in this cosy cottage. With 2 bedrooms for either 2 couples in King Size beds or a family with 2 children. A luxury bathroom with slipper bath and shower unit allows for pure relaxation after a long day.
Castle Cottage
Only 2.5 miles from the award winning Kielder Observatory. Castle Cottage is equally perfect for a peaceful relaxing break or an adventure packed holiday. The cosy cottage has a log burner and can comfortably accommodate 4/5 guests, dogs are also welcome.
They have a large enclosed rear garden and a summerhouse, red squirrels and a wide variety of birds are regular visitors.Secure bike storage and private parking for 3 cars, together with EV charging point.
Le Petit Chateau
Le Petit Château is a 30 bed boutique hotel and truly unique wedding venue. Located in Otterburn, Northumberland, North East UK, this luxury French, country manor is a great example of shabby chic, blended with elegance, nature and beauty, wrapped up in a historical story. Le Petit Château is a dog-friendly, meaning you don’t have to leave your four legged companion at home during the big occasion or for that special Northumbrian break with our dog-friendly accommodation and grounds. As well as a beautiful wedding venue, Le Petit Chateau is open all year for relaxing leisure stays, private parties and corporate events.
Kielder Kip House
A truly home from home staycation, located 5 mins away in the centre of Kielder village. Sleeps 4 adults in Kingsize beds and 3 children in the bunkers. A cheerful and modern house which boasts a beautiful garden and all the comforts of a new modern house.
Wild Northumberland Glamping
Wild Northumberland Glamping is a small family owned business comprising of three luxury glamping pods situated in the heart of Northumberland. The pods a surrounded by fields and farmland and are perfect for a quiet relaxing get away.
Fountain Cottage
Fountain Cottage Cafe and B&B is a family-run, rural B&B within close driving distance to Kielder. With 6 country rooms and a yummy breakfast. We offer a comfortable night stay and tasty food.
Holly Bush Inn
A 300 year-old drovers in in the picturesque hamlet of Greenhaugh less than half an hour from the observatory
We have seven comfortable en suite rooms and serve excellent food along with our cask marque awarded range of five real ales fine wines and a great whisky selection. Enjoy a drink in our cozy bar with its real fire and chat to the friendly locals. We can serve food at times that suit your visit to the observatory and offer access at all hours to the property so late night returns are never a problem. Plenty of parking outside and with a fantastic scenic beer garden for those sunny evenings or afternoons. We even have our own astronomical telescope for those clear nights.
Brown Rigg Lodges and Guest Rooms
Set in the Northumberland International Dark Sky Park and awarded Dark Sky “Stay and Gaze,” Brown Rigg consists of 4 x 3 bedroomed self-catering lodges and 6 individual en-suite guest rooms. Each lodge can sleep up to 6 guests and are suitable for short breaks or longer stays. The double/twin guest rooms sleep up to 2 guests each and can be booked for a single night. Brown Rigg can accommodate up to 36 guests in total so is also suitable for group bookings.
Granny's Cottage
Granny’s cottage is a comfortable well equipped holiday cottage nestled in the village of Newcastleton. The cottage sleeps 4, lounge,1 double bedroom and 1 twin bedroom, dining kitchen, sunroom which looks on to garden and decking area. Open all year. Secure storage in large barn for cycles, canoes etc. Sorry no pets. 15 miles to Kielder National Park.
Demesne Farm Campsite and Granary Cottage
The campsite and Granary Cottage is based at Demesne Farm in the village of Bellingham on a working farm. We are 20 miles east of the Observatory. The Campsite is open 1st May until and 30th September. We can accommodate 30 pitches on the campsite within 2 minutes walk of the village of Bellingham. Granary Cottage is a 5 star holiday cottage which sleeps 4 people and is open all year.
The Buteland Stop Shepherd Huts
The Buteland Stop off grid Shepherd huts (Rosie & Lizzie) are located near Bellingham on a private 2 acre landscaped site. Free parking outside the shepherd huts. Both huts include double bed, gas hob, tv, shower, cassette toilet and wood burning stove. Only half an hour from Kielder Observatory!
Kielder Cottage- Clear Sky
Built 1848 this cottage is a stable conversion with 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms cottage and a hot tub! Kielder Cottage is 10 minutes drive from the Observatory.
Sorbietrees B&B
Dark Sky Friendly B&B in a beautiful 18th Century farmhouse with spectacular views by day and spectacular skies by night. The darkest of skies with no light pollution and dark sky binoculars available for guests use. Large garden where you can set up your own telescope if you'd like to. A proper B&B where you get a cooked to order breakfast of your choice and are free to come and go as you please once you are checked in.
Kielder Village B&B
Kielder Village B&B - closest to the observatory (10 minute drive). Email -This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call - 01434250822/mobile 07811905334
Ostlers Cottage
A lovely cosy holiday cottage based in Bellingham, around 30 minutes from Kielder Observatory. Sleeps up tp 3.
Week2Week Serviced Apartments
Week2Week Serviced Apartments is a family run business, providing fully furnished, high-quality apartments and houses designed for both short and extended stays. With a focus on comfort, convenience and flexibility. These apartments are ideal for anyone looking for a 'home away from home', whether your stay is for business or leisure. Each property is accredited and regulated to meet the highest standards of safety, comfort and security, ensuring a reliable and stress-free experience. Conveniently located in prime locations in Newcastle city centre, Jesmond / Gosforth, Gateshead Quays and coastal locations including Sunderland, South Shields and Tynemouth. Week2Week offers a personalised service, flexible booking options, and a 24/7 guest support service.
Killingworth Air BnB
A well equipped 2-bed, 2.5-bath home in Killingworth, North Tyneside - just 1.5 hours drive away from Kielder Observatory. With the inclusion of a home office setup, it's perfect for professionals, wanting to enjoy stylish living in a quiet residential area close to local parks, lakes and shopping centres, with the addition off-road private parking for up to 2 cars. You can relax in the landscaped garden, take a quick trip to the coast, shop-til-you-drop in the city, or explore the wonders that Northumberland has to offer.
The Gun at Ridsdale
We are a community owned traditional country inn which has undergone a massive refurbishment using over 20,000 hours of volunteer time. We are located on the edge of the Dark Skies Park in the heart of the beautiful Northumberland countryside boasting 4 en-suite rooms, a cosy bar and a restaurant with unrivalled views. We pride ourself on a friendly welcome.
Kelvinside
Kelvinside is a traditional 3 bedroom holiday cottage in Northumberland located in the pretty fishing village of Seahouses. Kelvinside can sleep up to six people and is suitable for both small children and dogs.The sheltered large south west facing garden gets sun all day weather permitting and has a terrace with outdoor furniture.Shops, restaurants and pubs in Seahouses are a 5 minute walk, as is Seahouses Golf Club and the beautiful south beach.
Crabtree & Crabtree - Stargazing Collection
Crabtree & Crabtree are experts in escapes to the North of England and South of Scotland. Set within some of the most beautiful landscapes to be found in the British Isles, our holiday homes are the finest places to make memories with friends and family. Browse our handpicked portfolio of diverse properties, from remote country cottages to contemporary coastal retreats, and discover your new favourite place to get away from it all. Our dedicated collection of stargazing holiday homes provides the ideal escapes to experience cosmic displays, with many equipped with purpose-built stargazing windows, telescopes, and binoculars so you can enjoy an unforgettable night under the stars.
Bellingham Camping and Caravanning Club Site
A touring campsite located just within Northumberland National Park, close to the lovely small town of Bellingham and the several amenities it offers. We are a beautiful, very well maintained campsite with space for 43 vans on hardstanding pitches, together with 10 grass pitches for caravans (as well as tents) and an additional 15 tent pitches. >90% of pitches are reasonably level. All pitches have access to electric hook-up (note tents that do not need electric should book direct by phoning the site). We also have 4 basic camping pods with heating and light.
Fairway View Lodge
Located at Swarland, Northumberland, Fairway View Lodge is set in Percy Wood Country Park in a secluded position at the edge of the park. With minimum light pollution guests can enjoy dark skies from a private wrap around balcony. The 2 bedroom lodge is equipped with all home comforts with 2 bathrooms, one ensuite and full size with bath. The property has a private hot tub in the garden.
Birks Stable Cottage
For those seeking a peaceful rural escape, Birks Stable Cottage is hard to beat with its tranquil setting within the Northumberland National Park between Hadrian’s Wall and the Scottish border. For all its blissful isolation in the rugged upland hill farming Tarset valley, the property is less than a half hour drive from Kielder Observatory and ten minutes’ drive west of the historical market town of Bellingham. The cottage sits within Europe’s largest International Dark Sky Park, making it a prime spot from which to enjoy unparalleled stargazing. With only two streetlamps in the entire Tarset valley, you’ll also be able to soak up views of thousands of stars, the Milky Way and Andromeda Galaxy from the comfort of the cottage garden.
Greystead Old Church
This family's multi-award winning, 5 star luxury cottage, with Gold Awards, is in the North Tyne valley in the heart of Northumberland National Park and Dark Skies area, near Kielder Water and Forest Park, Kielder Observatory and Hadrians Wall. They are also within easy reach of Hexham, the Northumberland Heritage Coast and the Scottish Borders. Greystead Old Church (sleeps 8) is an outstanding recent 5 star conversion of a Grade 2 listed former Georgian church which has recently been awarded a Visit England ROSE Award.
Greystead Coach House
Our 4 star Gold Award Georgian Coach House (sleeps 6), which overlooks the superb Walled Garden, dates to 1817. Our family's multi-award winning, 4 star luxury cottage, with Gold Awards, are in the North Tyne valley in the heart of Northumberland National Park and Dark Skies area, near Kielder Water and Forest Park, Kielder Observatory and Hadrians Wall. They are also within easy reach of Hexham, the Northumberland Heritage Coast and the Scottish Borders.