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Beamish, The Living Museum of the North is giving visitors a chance to spend a night at the museum with the launch of its first overnight accommodation.

Guests can enjoy a trip back in time and stay in the Georgian-style holiday cottages, which are located in the County Durham museum’s stunning 1820s Landscape, in renovated original buildings.

The self-catering accommodation, Potter’s Cottage and Drover’s Rest, has been curated by the museum’s team, featuring furniture and items from its collection (along with modern conveniences for modern-day guests!).

Award-winning open air museum Beamish is famous for bringing the North East’s history to life, and is delighted to be unveiling the unique new additions.   

Samantha Shotton, Beamish’s Chief Operating Officer, said: “We’re thrilled to be launching our first overnight accommodation at the museum, offering this unique opportunity to stay overnight at Beamish.

“We’re really looking forward to welcoming guests to stay and have put a lot of work into creating these Georgian-style cottages in original farm buildings, in a beautiful location in our 1820s landscape.

“Beamish is a charity, so the income from guests staying in the cottages will support the work of the museum in preserving the region’s heritage while also helping today’s communities including through our health and wellbeing, and learning work.”

Stays in the accommodation will include admission to the museum during opening hours (check website for opening dates).

The cosy cottages reflect Beamish’s immersive experience and are designed to make guests feel as though they’ve stepped back into Georgian times. The traditional furniture and décor have been carefully chosen by the museum team, while there are also concealed modern appliances and a TV, along with a bathroom with free-standing bath. The cottages have a garden with stunning views over the Georgian landscape, and are located near the new Georgian tavern and pottery, and Pockerley Old Hall.

The cottages can each accommodate up to two guests, and Potter’s Cottage is dog-friendly.

Duncan Peake, Chair of Visit County Durham, said: “It's great to see County Durham achieving a notable increase in the number of visitors to the area over recent years, yet the need for more accommodation in the area continues to rise. The self-catering cottages at Beamish Museum are a much-welcomed addition to the region, providing a charming experience and an alternative way to enjoy all that County Durham has to offer. Congratulations to all at Beamish Museum for creating such a fantastic new offering.”

The overnight accommodation is part of the Remaking Beamish project, which included a 1950s Town, 1950s Farm and additions to the Georgian landscape. The Remaking Beamish project is supported by an £11.8million grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, with thanks to National Lottery players.

Beamish is the North East’s most visited attraction and among the top paid-for attractions nationally. Set within 400 acres, the museum also includes The 1900s Town, 1900s Pit Village and 1940s Farm, in addition to The 1820s Landscape and 1950s developments.

Visitors to the museum experience history coming to life, from riding on a tram or bus, taking a tour down a mine, visiting the Edwardian dentist, exploring the 1950s cinema, tucking into fish and chips and other traditional treats and meeting costumed staff and volunteers in the homes and historical businesses across the museum.

The museum is working with North East-based holiday let management agency Host & Stay on bookings for the cottages.

Dale Smith, CEO of Host & Stay, said: "We are absolutely thrilled to be partnering with Beamish Museum on this truly unique project. Managing the first-ever overnight accommodation at such an iconic attraction for the region, is an exciting milestone for Host & Stay. 

“These beautifully restored Georgian cottages offer guests a rare opportunity to step back in time and fully immerse themselves in the Beamish experience. We can’t wait to welcome visitors, deliver bookings, and contribute to the success of this incredible addition to the museum’s Remaking Beamish project."