“We fell in love with Northumberland while living in Newcastle, after staying in a shepherd’s hut and discovering the magic of wild landscapes, wood fires, dark skies – and a good pub within walking distance. It became a bit of an obsession, and in 2022 we finally left city life in search of somewhere we could create that same experience for other people. When we found this spot, with Hadrian’s Wall at the bottom of the garden and some of its most spectacular scenery on our doorstep, we knew. We had the hut made locally by a Northumberland carpenter, using traditional materials and based on the shepherds’ huts of the Victorian era, then filled it with everything we’d want ourselves. We still can’t quite believe we get to live here – and we love sharing a little bit of it with people who appreciate it as much as we do.” Owners, Sarah & Andy
They love
“Watching the stars slowly appear above the Wall every night, and fill the sky completely.”
We love
The tiny stained-glass window above the bed. And the contrast of being able to spend the day amongst Roman ruins, then be back by the logburner – or drinking a beer brewed down the road – almost immediately.
You may not love
Sorry, no pets or children, no TV or WiFi – all a deliberate choice to keep this peaceful. You’re near other buildings but pretty private.
Surrounds.
- Lace up your boots and head onto Steel Rigg, where Hadrian’s Wall rides along the craggy Whin Sill, with huge views over meandering, sheep-filled countryside. Follow the 4-mile Crag Lough circular route, climbing over crags and past Roman Milecastle 39, before looking down over Crag Lough, a glacial lake tucked beneath the cliffs. Expect steep bits, stone steps and spectacular picnic stops.
- You’ll pass Sycamore Gap en route. Its famous tree was devastatingly felled in 2023, but this is still an extraordinary spot: a deep natural dip between the crags with Hadrian’s Wall climbing dramatically away on either side. The original trunk now has a permanent home at The Sill visitor centre.
- Back at the Hut, soothe sore legs in the sauna then reward your day’s walking at the pub. The Twice Brewed Inn is just 2 mins down the road, and serves hearty, seasonal pub grub, plus its own beers. There’s a conservatory with countryside views and a beer garden for sunny evenings.
- The hut is in an International Dark Sky Park, and clear nights bring startlingly good stars. For something more expert, Twice Brewed has its own observatory and planetarium; otherwise take a blanket outside and see what appears. The Milky Way is often visible to the naked eye, and sightings of the Northern Lights are becoming more frequent.
- Go Roman at Vindolanda. One of Britain’s most fascinating Roman sites is walkable from the hut: explore the excavated fort and settlement and see finds unearthed here in its archaeological museum.
- The owners know some beautiful wild-swimming spots in Northumberland’s rivers and waterfalls, while cyclists can hire bikes locally and pick up National Cycle Route 72.
- If you fancy a bigger day out, Hexham, the Lakes and Northumberland’s beaches are all within reach.
Details.
- Shepherd’s hut in a private section of the owners’ garden
- Open-plan interior heated by a woodburner
- Raised kingsize bed
- Ensuite shower bathroom with eco toiletries & robes
- Basic kitchenette with induction hob, fridge, kettle & toaster
- Starter supplies
- Indoor table & armchairs
- Outdoor cushioned armchairs and bistro dining
- Firepit & BBQ
- Hammocks
- Sauna hut and cold shower overlooking the fields
- Walk to a pub & The Sill visitor’s centre with maps, walking routes and cafe (both 2 mins)
- Drive or ask for a lift to Bardon Mill / Haltwhistle for shops and other eateries (7 mins)
- Booking conditions: a 2-night min stay, check in any day
- Remember to pack: walking boots, a head torch for walking back from the pub, waterproofs
Simple
30% deposit, with the balance due 8 weeks prior to stay.
Cancellations permitted 8+ weeks prior to stay, with deposit refunded minus a £40 processing fee.
No refunds if booking cancelled within 8 weeks of stay. These terms also apply to any booking amendments or date changes.
See our full booking Ts & Cs
FAQs.
In 4-6pm / out 11am
Sorry, no – due to livestock in the nearby fields, this is a pet-free escape.
Yes, there’s one 2 mins’ walk away – plus others a scenic walk away. Once you’ve booked your Kip stay, the owners will send you through further recommendations.
Still have a question?
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