Host & Stay | Potters Cottage @ Beamish Museum — Guest Reviews

Beautiful cottage inside Beamish museum. Felt authentic but also very comfortable with just the right amount of modern conveniences. There is an enclosed garden which was ideal for the dog. The cottage has a parking space adjacent to the garden, easy to find - just follow the ‘Accommodation’ signs which are in place. Overall, really enjoyed the cottage and of course the museum itself.

Had a great stay at Potters cottage! It was easy to find and well sign posted, externally it has lovely views over the landscape and a fenced area for the dog to play. Internally the cottage was beautifully decorated with antique furniture giving it a real authentic feel. Being able to wonder out of the garden and enjoy free entry into the museum was a real treat. It was a lovely experience but just a few areas could be improved. As the cottage is dog friendly not having a bin with a lid was a problem as the dog was tempted to see what was inside. There was also some confusion on the final day if free entry to the museum was included or not. In a previous review I noted someone saying it was great to be able to leave their car at the cottage after checkout and explore the museum before heading home however when I enquired about this I was told to move my car to the main car park and pay for entry so it appears to be a little inconsistent which was disappointing.

Beautiful property in fantastic surroundings. Spotlessly clean. Direct access to the Beamish museum (Pockerley Hall) included in the price. Georgian living with all mod cons. Nice enclosed garden for the dog. One word of advice: be careful with the hand held shower. The merest splash ends up dripping in the kitchen below.

Gorgeous cottage in beautiful surroundings, a real escape from busy life. Lots of lovely walking trails and secure garden for the dog. Absolutely would stay again!

Over all just stunning. Heating and water now fixed (previous review from someone). Loved every min Positive: The location was stunning. Right next to the Drovers Tavern. Trams around the site at the bottom of the road. Comfy beds. Sitting outside with a drink watching the wildlife ❤️. Clean and tidy. Overall the experience was AMAZING. Love love love. We wished we had booked longer. Negative: The TV and internet needs improving. You also need a sign on the entrance to the cottages saying private as a couple of people tried to follow us in. Easier instructions of how to get into and out of the museum.

the location is literally inside the beamish museum,so for a true history lover it's a dream come true . the house is located in the 1820's area, which was our favourite in the park . the house was decorated in this style,but with modern amenities. a few softer touches could be added , so softer seating inside and out . the bed and bedding were so comfy,and it's beyond peaceful. the garden area was so welcome on the sunny days we were lucky to have ! we can't wait to go back . if you love beamish get booked in!!!!

Nice private Garden at the front with seats and good views from the house and excellent access to the museum. Nice furniture and flooring on the ground and good bathroom and bedroom tv was a bit small and had bird noises coming from the chimney at certain times during the day. And check out time was too early at 10 good areas for walks in the forest next to the property.

Potters cottage is extremely special we loved our stay over New Year - absolutely fantastic.\n\nAs many guests have said previously the directions to the cottage aren't straightforward and the map links take you to a different part of the museum! \nAlso lacking is any info on the Museum, and the best way to get in and out if walking ! \n\nBut despite that absolutely fantastic - thoroughly recommend

such a lovely place to stay, it has period furnishing but all the mod cons you would need very tastefully done, the views from the door and bedroom windows were fantastic, and been able to just walk about 5 yards and go thru the gate you would find yourself in Beamish museum , would definitely recommend this stay to anyone and to sleep in a four poster bed was luxury,

I booked this stay on behalf of my parents. The amenities listed are basic fitting with the surroundings. On arrival it was discovered that the tv didn’t work. Host said they would come the next day they did not. Lighting in the property is very dim. Microwave didn’t work, internet was inconsistent. No printed user guide in the property, which would be beneficial for older guests. It’s a fair distance from the main entrance which would have been nice to know in advance. It lacks all the basics you would expect. 6 night stay cost nearly £1000 to provide guests staying this long with 4 coat hangers minuscule toiletries, no kitchen cleaning products in such a remote location is frankly puzzling. They abandoned their stay after 3 nights. I reached out to Host & Stay they called apologised & acknowledged the above & promised action. Several automated responses & 14 days I have had no further contact. Property is grossly overpriced & the hosts level of customer service is diabolical.

Pet friendly and on the site of the museum, you stay includes entry and you enjoy the heritage museum. Only downside of the stay was the lounge area and not being able to get comfortable to relax in the evening but that’s more my choice of Lounging on a comfy sofa.

Superb location - was offered another 2 nights upon arrival. when we originally booked it stated only 3 nights at a time for any stay. Hope that nights to stay can be more than 3 in future as we had a wonderful time. Very peaceful and relaxing stay

We stayed in Potters Cottage. It was quaint cosy and warm on arrival. The area is stunning. The weather when we stayed was also lovely so we had breakfast outside at the table in the little garden. The only criticism that I would have are the directions on arrival, once inside the main gate, especially as we arrived in the evening, when the museum was closed.

We obviously bought an experience but would have expected higher quality kitchenware and more comfortable seating in sitting room. After walking all day in the lovely Museum us pensioners want to relax with feet up ( for benefit of circulation). No visitor book to comment and lack of instructions for cooker, heating or TV unless we just missed them.

The cottage is quaint in the 1820 style, stone flags/floorboards with rugs. Dim lighting (not candles though). Period furniture. Bathroom and kitchen have all the modern facilities you’re likely to need, plus tv and Wi-Fi. Great location just round the corner from Pockley old hall (it’s on Beamish map), drive there is interesting on an unmade road.

We absolutely loved our stay at Potter’s Cottage at Beamish. We’d read a few previous reviews mentioning that the cottage was difficult to find, but we actually found it really easy to locate. The accommodation signposts were clear and made finding the cottage very straightforward. The track up to the cottage is a little rough, but perfectly fine if you’re in a 4x4. Once you arrive, the location is amazing — so peaceful and secluded, yet with the fantastic bonus of having access straight into the Beamish museum site. The cottage itself is beautiful, full of character and really comfortable. We loved being able to stay somewhere so peaceful while still having Beamish right on the doorstep. It made our visit feel really special and was the perfect base for exploring the museum. We had a fantastic stay at Potter’s Cottage and would definitely come back. Highly recommended!

Absolutely gorgeous place to stay . It's easy to find as long as you take the first right after going through the red archway. Then follow the green notice board for Guest Accommodation. Do not follow the sat nav location that is given to you. It keeps getting raised with Host & Stay that it is totally incorrect. But it hasn't yet been changed. Beautiful cottage though and the service received from Host & Stay online was terrific. Communication was brilliant. Thank you Charlie !

Beautiful location and brilliant access to museum. But road definitely needs updated (potholes).

Cottage great, location great, within Beamish Museum, road from Museum Entrance a bit challenging, ok to half way then multiple pot holes and very low central ground clearance for the last 200 yards, didn’t expect a pristine drive, but a bit of gravel and cutting down the grass etc. for the last 200 yards would have helped. There is an EV Charger immediately in front of the cottage parking space, why can’t it be used, it was live. I messaged Host and Stay, no response so phoned, very little help, however they seemed very good at sending multiple texts, trying to sell accidental damage insurance. The property and Beamish Museum is great, but not convinced by Host and Stay management.

Really enjoyed the location and the cottage but felt for the price it could be better. Positive: Amazing location. Beautiful cottage. Very peaceful. Wonderful views. Great for visiting Beamish and Durham city. Really comfy bed and loved the bath. Very clean. Negative: Sofa not comfy. Dustbin needs a lid. Plates chipped. Mugs for tea could be better…felt china was a very mismatched assortment of left overs.. Need a scourer. Have paid much less for a cottage and found a welcome tray of milk etc. Could really do with a welcome book with maps and instructions. Wi-Fi wasn’t great for finding out things.

NIGHTMARE to find. The given location co-ordinates are totally incorrect as others have stated. Took us one hour to find it. But the accomodation was spot on. Perfect location to visit museum. Well stocked with everything we needed. A hair dryer would have been handy though.

It is an amazing place, beautiful and peaceful surroundings. Amazing walks and of course access to the museum is a bonus. The only snag was not recieving any codes to unlock the keys prior to arrival or main gates if you leave on an evening but the communication is so responsive these things where sorted before becoming a bigger issue.

We had a fabulous time at Potter's Cottage in the Beamish museum complex. Beamish was an added bonus! An extremely interesting place to visit. We would recommend Beamish living museum to anyone. Potters cottage was the icing on the cake. All modern facilities in an 1800's home. Walking in the country side around the cottage was also idylic. Couldnt fault any of it. An excellent break. Colin and Val

We had a lovely stay at Potters Cottage it was just perfect for my husband and I. There are lovely views and we took advantage of the weather and sat outside in the small garden to relax. We loved the fact it was on the grounds of the museum and we could relax and take our time to see everything without the pressure of rushing home. The only small downside was that it was a bit of a bumpy road To find it take the first right car park bay as you enter the museum grounds, right to the end of the bay and follow the green signs for guest accommodation when you see them, feels like a long way but trust the signs. The hosts provided plenty of recommendations for local eateries and attractions but very little about Beamish itself, and were very responsive when we needed anything. Would highly recommend staying here

Beautiful well equipped period cottage in a fantastic peaceful scenic location in 1820 area of Beamish museum. Great communication with host .Would happily stay again and recommend to others .

A perfect location Positive: The location was perfect for visiting Beamish Museum. A gate from the garden and you're there! The cottage was furnished in keeping with the museum area it is located in- but with modern facilities.

We had a lovely stay at Potters Cottage. Great atmosphere. Lovely views and just along the short path into the museum. Bit of a bumpy road to find it but well worth it . Very comfy bed!

Lovely peaceful location with tremendous views, however it is very easy to miss the sign posting when entering the complex. No further signage until you are way past the car parks. We had to twice ask directions before we were put on the right track. Cottage is comfortable but only had radiators upstairs so downstairs was quite chilly at times. Could not access all TV channels without signing in on personal accounts so had to rely on I Player. Easy access from the garden into the museum. Car parking fine.

Very disappointed no heating down stairs, as it was very cold and draft howling through door (draft excluder fitted to bottom of the door but could see daylight around the rest of it). Very dull and poor lighting, luckily had Kindles to read, as wouldn't have been able to read a real book. Could only get about 4, what seemed Scottish bbcchannels, on TV and what limited streaming channels available keep cutting out or continuously kept scrolling. Very weak Wi-Fi. Lack of instructions on how to use the thermostat. Never did get down stairs warm but sweated buckets upstairs. Other than that, lovely location and good way to see the museum unhurried.

We booked the cottage due to the location on site of Beamish museum and really enjoyed it. I wouldn’t recommend booking if you aren’t visiting the museum, as the cottage is a good distance away from anything else. The good: - Very clean - Bed was beautiful and comfy - Lovely views - Very warm - Location within the museum grounds (although be aware if you have mobility issues you are a long walk away from most attractions) Needs improvement: - We were booked for two nights and only provided with one tiny pouch of body wash. Bubble bath would have been a nice touch given there is no shower. - Kitchen supplies are extremely limited. No scourer to wash up, no draining rack, one tea towel, no recycling bin. You’d struggle to cook all meals in here. - A map of the museum should be provided. - Location of the cottage on the map provided is wrong, which multiple people have pointed out but remains so. Perhaps stop asking ChatGPT to reply to reviews and fix the issues raised?

What a fantastic location and the accommodation really fits in with the museum surroundings. We loved the minimalist interior but with a few modern features. It was a very comfortable place and would definitely stay there again!

what a lovely little cottage, it was just perfect for my partner and I, even the dog loved it. we loved the fact it was on the grounds of the museum and we could relax and take our time to see everything without the pressure of rushing home the only small downside was it was hard to find, maybe a few clearer instructions would help, for us it was take the first right car park bay as you enter the museum grounds, right to the end of the bay and follow the green signs for guest accommodation when you see them, feels like a long way but trust the signs. we will be back x

We had a lovely stay at the Beamish Museum accommodation. The cottage itself is charming and exactly as described—simple and traditional, yet maintained to a high standard to reflect the authentic 1920s experience. It felt cosy and homely, truly allowing you to step back in time. The bed was a little smaller than what we’re used to (we normally have a king size), but it was in keeping with the period and added to the overall authenticity. The location is fantastic—right on the museum site. You’re essentially just steps away from everything, which made the whole experience even more special. We’ve been visiting the museum for many years, and it’s a particularly meaningful place for my daughter and me, so staying on site was a real treat. The hosts were very responsive and efficient in their communication. However, the tone felt quite business-like, with a strong emphasis on additional charges (such as the accidental damage fee and reminders about check-out times). This did make us a lit

The cottage its self was amazing. Really enjoyed being in such a fantastic setting. Beamish museum is amazing and its staff very helpful. The fixtures and fittings were of a high quality and reflective of the period. My only issue is with the information supplied by Host and Stay. Many previous reviews have mentioned the same problems which have not been corrected and actioned. The information supplied by Host and Stay is good but it is only sent 6 hours before your stay. The Google map link in the supplied information sends you to the wrong area of the museum. Not helpful when you arrive by public transport with baggage. Also many of the previous reviews asked for museum maps to be available in the cottages. They were not available during our stay. All in all a great stay but please action the above suggestion rather than posting an AI response.

The potter’s cottage exceeded our expectations. It’s such a special experience staying within Beamish Museum that we are surprised the museum doesn’t advertise this more. We loved getting to return to it at any time of day for a cup of tea and a break away from the crowds at the museum. Not to mention unlocking the central gate to Beamish at night or wandering the empty streets early in the morning before the first guests arrived + not having to rush out of town around closing time and having a last chat with the actors. Such a unique experience! What’s more, the cottage is spotless with the comfiest bed, the coziest bathtub and very modern kitchen. The furniture otherwise feels authentic to the 1820s section the cottage is based in, but floor heating makes it nice and toasty. Only as other reviewers have said, this was the hardest Airbnb we’ve ever had to find - not sure why this isn’t fixed with some clearer instructions and a road that won’t have us worried for our rental car…

the accomodaation was fantastic.. view and museum was amazing also.. only slight issue was i emailed regarding using the coal fire which i was told was fine.. unfortunately there is no companion set for this and the set up off the fire is not complete for using.. seemed to have been a mis understanding somewhere with this. overall great break to get away for a few days.

A lovely, clean cottage right in the heart of Beamish museum. I was surprised how easy it was to get into the museum, but also be so calm and quiet. Would happily come back again.

Great location , ideal for Beamish Museum.loved the period fixtures and feel but with all the things you need for a stay , kitchen well equipped. Bed was comfortable ,bathroom spotless and warm overall a great sort break

Cottage was tricky to find as we arrived around 6pm during winter months so no staff available and no sign posted either, given it was dark, icy paths and raining, dragging our suitcases whilst holding ambrellas and phones looking at the map trying to find the cottage in dark was difficult. I went up the hill to pockerly hall and still couldn't find the cottage and was unsure if I was even looking in the right place. Simple instructions such as the cottage is at the back of the tavern would be helpful. However, the cottage was nice and clean and met our expectations. In future, I would choose this location in summer months instead to get the most out of it. Also, it would be more suited for someone driving to this destination rather than taking public transport but overall, it was a nice getaway.

There was initial confusion as I booked through Air B&B who were slightly cheaper, and not direct with them. They said on 2 occasions that I hadn’t paid for the break when I had paid in full at the time of booking, six months earlier. We also did not receive the check in details until 1 1/2 hours before arrival and this was not until I had contacted them because we had already started our journey. All this cast a shadow over the start of our break and caused unneeded stress. However following this experience, I will book direct with Host & Stay even if slightly more expensive to eliminate the stress caused as the remainder of the communication, the property and our stay was great. The property was as listed and it was a delight to walk through the garden gate and step back in time at Beamish Museum. We will certainly be recommending this cottage to others and hope to return ourselves in the future.

We had an incredible ‘experience’ holiday - especially as our visit coincided with their Hallowe’en celebrations! The cottage was a perfect base for us to explore the whole site from.

Easy booking & great email communication from "Hosts". Clear, precise instructions re directions, cottage information & key/ code entry. Super cosy Cottage, authentically Georgian with modern indoor plumbing & kitchen. Underfloor heating with radiators upstairs; towels & bedding provided plus everything you would possibly need in the kitchen to include tea/ coffee sachets (milk pouches & sugar too), soap/ body wash in bathroom (bring your own if staying more than 1 night). Bed very comfy with good quality bedding & decent pillows. TV has access to all platforms if you can remember passwords! We stayed "on site" for our four day stay, taking our time in each historic section; best area is definitely the Georgian Pockerley Farm & recommend the Drovers Tavern's Rarebit & Drovers Ale - the tavern is perfectly adjacent to the Cottage but does not affect the peace & tranquility of your stay. All Beamish Staff we came into contact with were incredibly friendly & helpful with info re area.

Beautiful place, would stay again

Fabulous cottage within Beamish grounds , beautiful cottage with great views

Beautiful cottage in a perfect location for visiting Beamish Museum. We had everything we needed and the stunning views were a bonus!

Once through the entrance to the museum the accommodation is well sign posted (both for in and out). Check in easy. The cottage is quirky and the furniture comfier than I was expecting. We didn't have any WiFi issues and watched the TV via iPlayer, itvx etc. The cottage was warm and heating controls easy to use. Under counter fridge has an ice box. There seems to be plenty of kitchen utensils so we had no problem cooking a simple meal . I agree with others that a museum map should be waiting for each guest. Great views from the secure garden. But beware, we made the mistake of entering Pockerley Old Hall at 9.56 on our first morning and were told off. We sat on the naughty step for a few minutes and when we heard the Siren from the Pit Village to say "we are open" headed back in. We did have some lovely early morning chats with the ground staff. On our second day it was great to be the first visitors in the 1950s town which made it feel quite special.

The setting was beautiful and its location at Beamish Museum is inspired. I have only one criticism of the entire stay. Although the cottage is a Beamish Museum property and free access to the museum is provided, no information about the museum was provided by email or at the cottage itself. It would have helped us if this could have been provided.

Positive: Great location in beamish museum, found it okay following the signs and map on the link they send, it is up a rough track but we managed it even in our low car, its like a step back in time but in a good way, as others have said tv is limited but wasn't really an issue, Lighting is dim but on purpose. We ate in the museum during the day and went out to the village for dinners, lots of options there. Couldn't have stayed in a better location made it nice a chilled out break, lovely views too

lovely place to stay

We really enjoyed staying at the museum, we didn't leave the site so it felt like living in a different era. I'd agree with others that the seating isn't very comfortable but it's a small inconvenience for the unique experience and we would definitely stay again

Beautiful cottage, furnished in period style but with everything needed for a comfortable stay. Clean and immaculately presented, we loved it. Spent two days exploring the museum which was perfect as we could meander and take our time around the exhibits.

The cutest cottage, just a walk from Beamish . Wonderful views , would definitely recommend

What an amazing place to visit. The cottage was exactly as described and extremely clean. the view from the garden was beautiful and so peaceful. the bed was one of the most comfy we have slept in. We were able museum grounds outside of regular hours which we find quite special. We did find the cottage hard to locate and in the end staff from the museum had to drive in front of us to get us there. The TV was not watchable at all due to buffering as the Internet signal was low. all in all amazing experience and we will be back. thank you

I head about the beamish cottages and booked it right away, and we were NOT disappointed! The cottage was perfect. Right next to the museum with access to the Georgian Landscape, but also secluded for privacy. Beautiful views, and a beautiful interior with modcons hidden but present to preserve the Georgian aesthetic without sacrificing convenience. The place was clean and the bathroom especially was excellent— we used the claw foot bathtub every night. Hosts provided plenty of recommendations for local eateries and attractions and were very responsive when we needed anything. Would highly recommend staying here— we’ll definitely be back!

Lovely cottage with access to Beamish Museum, the decor reflected the period but with all modern conveniences. The views were amazing across the countryside. Would highly recommend.

Great guests who communicated very well throughout their stay. We would love to welcome you back in the future!

Beamish have done a really good job with their cottages and we enjoyed our stay on the whole. One thing they need to do is put a private sign on the museum side of the garden gate as people think they can come in and the gate is not secure. Host and Stay however were not great: directions to the cottages once on Beamish site are not clear at all - for all other guests - you need to go to level 7 car park, follow signs for overflow car park and you will pick up the accommodation signs from there. This vital information is missing from check in. Host & Stay are very stingy with cleaning products in both kitchen and bathroom; kitchen needs a pan scrub and anti bac spray and 2 people for 4 days need more than 30ml of body wash and 30ml of shampoo. Take your own products.

If you're a fan of Beamish museum this is the stay for you! A beautiful cottage in a picturesque location. You can really see the hard work that has gone into the set up!

A really wonderful stay. A gorgeous cottage furnished with lovely period furniture and with such a beautiful, peaceful view. An absolute must do for any fan of Beamish Museum!