Raven Tower
Northumberland, United Kingdom
Hesleyside Huts
- Our low price promise from £295 €335 p/n
-
Tower
Sleeps 2
- One king-size bed
Not suitable for children
Pets welcome
Overview
Raven might be a homage to the many castles of Northumberland’s historically embattled lands, but you can forget any notion of harsh frontier life. The four-storey watchtower in the woods hides stunning design behind its battlements, inviting you to desert your post and relax completely. Lounge in the massive armchairs by the log fire with some classic tracks on the record player, pour yourself a whisky and watch deer pick their way through birch and pine. View the Milky Way in Gold tier Dark Skies from your private battlement or whilst bathing in the huge handcrafted wooden bathtub. Sink into the comfort of a 6000-spring mattress with crisp linen sheets and listen to the sound of silence punctuated by a few neighbouring owls.
There are walks all through the woods when you feel like venturing out, and while the nearest shops and pubs are a drive away, you can make them part of day trips to Hadrian’s Wall, Alnwick Gardens or the coast. You might find though, that when you return to Raven at the end of the day to take up watch on the woods again, you wonder why you ever left.
Read more
Essentials
The important stuff
- Check in: 4 PM
- Check out: 10 AM
- Please bring wellies, walking boots, waterproof clothes and a good book with you
- The tower is located within woodland at the edge of the site, 70m from the nearest building
- Dedicated guest parking next to the tower
- Tracks to the tower are lit at night
- Initial firewood is provided with extra available to purchase onsite for £5 a bag
- Plug sockets with USB charging points
- Good 4G phone signal, depending on network
Sleeping arrangements
- One king-size bed
Extra space available
Space for 1 pet from £25 per pet per stay
Kids & Pets
Dogs are allowed. Towels, dog bed, treats and poo bags are provided and there is an outdoor enclosure. Children are not allowed.
Cooking
- Kitchen equipped with a gas hob, oven, coffee machine, toaster, kettle, electric fridge and a small freezer box
- Cooking utensils, crockery and glassware provided
- Firepit for outdoor cooking
Washing
- Bathroom with a freestanding wooden bath tub, shower, sink, and flushing toilet
- Toiletries provided including shampoo, shower gel and conditioner
Heating, lighting & bedding
- Bed linen, robes and towels provided
- Full central heating
- Electric lighting
- Wood burner in the lounge
- Hot water available throughout tower
Entertainment
- Record player and records
- Board games
- Books
Read more
We have gathered information from the owner about this space to help you decide if it is the right place for you. We would always encourage you to contact us before booking to discuss your accessibility needs. We’re dedicated to helping everyone access our spaces and enjoy the outdoors. Visit our Disability Inclusive page for more information on our journey.
Getting there
Hesleyside, Bellingham, Hexham, Northumberland, NE48 2LA
///parked.extreme.reward - What3Words is a new more accurate version of a postcode. This will take you directly to where you need to park so we recommend using this in your Sat Nav, but always remember to look at the owners’ directions too!
By public transport
The nearest station is Hexham, about 20 minutes' drive away (17 miles).
There is a bus stop in Bellingham, which is about 30 minutes' walk from Hesleyside.
By car
Hesleyside is 1.5 miles west of Bellingham on the south side of the North Tyne river. From the A69 (1 mile south of where it joins the A696) take the B6320 west to Bellingham. Drive through Bellingham on the B6320 and 200yds after crossing the North Tyne river, turn first right. Follow the road, which is lined by trees, after 1.1 miles the entrance to Hesleyside Huts is on the left.
If travelling north on B6320 from Hexham or Carlisle via Wark then take left (signed Dunterley & Hesleyside) 200yds before bridge.
Arrival at your hut is via a private tree lined avenue. You will see a green “Hesleyside Huts” sign on a pair of wooden gates. An apple and pear mark the position of the main gates. Please do not turn into the steep uphill driveway marked Raven hut. Please be careful and close all gates behind you. The gates are on a sharp bend in the road so easily missed (if you get to the main iron gates to Hesleyside you have gone 300yds too far).
For Raven
From the A69 (1 mile south of where it joins the A696) take the B6320 west to Bellingham. Drive through Bellingham on the B6320 and 200yds after crossing the North Tyne River, turn first right. Follow the road, which is lined by trees, and after 1.1 miles the entrance to Raven is on the left. If travelling north on B6320 from Hexham or Carlisle via Wark then take left (signed Dunterley & Hesleyside) 200yds before bridge.
Arrival at Raven is via a steep offtrack road. You will see a green “RAVEN” sign on a wooden gate. This gate is on the left and just before a steep bend in the road. Please do not turn into the main Hesleyside Huts entrance marked by an apple and pear which is the next gate on the left (if you get to the apple and pear or main iron gates to Hesleyside you have gone too far!) Please close all gates behind you.
You have a choice of parking for Raven. Most cars can get to the top of the track but if you don’t think your car will get up the hill (i.e. you have a sport’s car), please park in the parking bay at the bottom of the track but do not obstruct the main track. Parking for Raven is at the top of the track and is in front of the gate entrance into the tower. Please don’t drive your car through this second gate). There will be a button at the gate which when pressed will illuminate the pedestrian path to the tower. This is on a timer and will give you ample time (20 mins) to move in and get settled. Please note there is only space for one car.
Read more
Food & Drink
At Hesleyside
The basics for a welcoming cuppa will all be provided in your hut.
For special occasions you might like to order a champagne bucket - ask Anna for more details.
Local shops
The nearest shop for supplies is in Bellingham, 20 minutes' by foot or a short drive away.
Pubs & Restaurants
The Pheasant (7.5 miles) - a cosy and friendly country pub with good food and on the way to Kielder.
The Holly Bush (5.5 miles) - an old Drovers Inn and tiny little friendly pub serving mainly home cooked food sourced as locally as possible, a well stocked bar and real ales.
The Battlesteads (6 miles) - serving primarily modern British food but always add some international choices for those with a more cosmopolitan palate. look out for dishes including oak smoked duck, chicken and salmon from their on-site smokery. Vegetarian choices are always available.
The Rat (18 miles) - an award winning food in a relaxed country pub atmosphere, the Northumberland Foodie's favourite.
Bouchon (17.1 miles) - an award-wining French bistro.
Read more
Activities
At Hesleyside
Hesleyside is within the gold tier Northumberland Dark Sky reserve. A complete star-gazing kit is available so that you can take full advantage of this rare opportunity to witness the night sky without light pollution.
Hesleyside Huts makes a perfect fisherman’s lodge during the fishing season (Aug-Oct). Rent a rod on the well regarded Hesleyside Beat.
Make use of a number of private walks, many in ancient woodlands, which are only available to guests at Hesleyside.
Places to Visit
Hadrian’s Wall (29.6 miles) - no visit to this area would be complete without a trip to Hadrian’s Wall. As Hesleyside is within savage territory you’ll need to travel a short distance south. The drive to Vindolanda itself is stunning.
Alnwick Garden - reputedly the finest contemporary garden in the UK, b. If you are a lover of gardens and grand stately homes, then Northumberland has plenty to offer.
Northumberland Coast (50 miles) - It’s a good drive but one with near constant views to the horizon and where you are unlikely to see another car. The Northumberland Coast offers stunning & deserted beaches, ruined castles, rocky islands and wonderful fish. Highly recommended for those here for a longer stay.
Beamish Museum (42.6 miles) - a world famous open air museum which brings the history of North East England to life at its 1820s Pockerley, 1900s Town, 1900s Pit Village, 1940s Farm, 1950s Town and 1950s Spain’s Field Farm exhibit areas.
Kielder Observatory (18.8 miles) - You’ll be able to see the Milky way from your hut but if you fancy viewing the rings of Saturn why on visit the famous Kielder Observatory which is only 20 mins drive away.
Outdoor & Active
Kielder Water and Forest Park (17.7 miles) - visit the largest man-made dam in western Europe, it is filled with hidden works of art, walks and experiences (the Charlton family love the Kielder Birds of Prey Centre) but the real reason people are flocking to Kielder is the adventure.
Calvert Trust Adventure Centre (12 miles) - off-road mountain bike trails, go sailing, water-skiing and kayaking are among the options for those looking for a bit more of an adrenaline rush during their stay at Hesleyside.
Go Ape (20 miles) - choose from Treetop Challenge, a Goliath of a high ropes course with super-fast and super-high zip wires. If you prefer to keep your feet on the ground, why not try Axe Throwing?
The lack of traffic and breath-taking new view around each bend has meant makes Northumberland a great place to explore on 2 wheels! Anna and William can arrange bike hire if required or suggest routes from 9 – 90 miles.
Read more
Meet your hosts
Meet William and Anna
Now the home of William and Anna Charlton and their young children, the historic Hesleyside Hall has been continuously inhabited by the Border Reiver Charlton family in an unbroken line, since 1346 and the reign of Richard the Lionheart. It is a magnificent historic house set within grounds landscaped by Capability Brown and located in the heart of the Northumberland National Park.
Wildlife & Environment
The Hesleyside Huts are set in 4000 acres of land, including SSSI woodland with ancient oaks, with red squirrels, roe deer, hawks and owls.
Read more
-
Overview
Raven might be a homage to the many castles of Northumberland’s historically embattled lands, but you can forget any notion of harsh frontier life. The four-storey watchtower in the woods hides stunning design behind its battlements, inviting you to desert your post and relax completely. Lounge in the massive armchairs by the log fire with some classic tracks on the record player, pour yourself a whisky and watch deer pick their way through birch and pine. View the Milky Way in Gold tier Dark Skies from your private battlement or whilst bathing in the huge handcrafted wooden bathtub. Sink into the comfort of a 6000-spring mattress with crisp linen sheets and listen to the sound of silence punctuated by a few neighbouring owls.
There are walks all through the woods when you feel like venturing out, and while the nearest shops and pubs are a drive away, you can make them part of day trips to Hadrian’s Wall, Alnwick Gardens or the coast. You might find though, that when you return to Raven at the end of the day to take up watch on the woods again, you wonder why you ever left.
Read more
-
Essentials
The important stuff
- Check in: 4 PM
- Check out: 10 AM
- Please bring wellies, walking boots, waterproof clothes and a good book with you
- The tower is located within woodland at the edge of the site, 70m from the nearest building
- Dedicated guest parking next to the tower
- Tracks to the tower are lit at night
- Initial firewood is provided with extra available to purchase onsite for £5 a bag
- Plug sockets with USB charging points
- Good 4G phone signal, depending on network
Sleeping arrangements
- One king-size bed
Extra space available
Space for 1 pet from £25 per pet per stay
Kids & Pets
Dogs are allowed. Towels, dog bed, treats and poo bags are provided and there is an outdoor enclosure. Children are not allowed.
Cooking
- Kitchen equipped with a gas hob, oven, coffee machine, toaster, kettle, electric fridge and a small freezer box
- Cooking utensils, crockery and glassware provided
- Firepit for outdoor cooking
Washing
- Bathroom with a freestanding wooden bath tub, shower, sink, and flushing toilet
- Toiletries provided including shampoo, shower gel and conditioner
Heating, lighting & bedding
- Bed linen, robes and towels provided
- Full central heating
- Electric lighting
- Wood burner in the lounge
- Hot water available throughout tower
Entertainment
- Record player and records
- Board games
- Books
-
Location
Getting there
Hesleyside, Bellingham, Hexham, Northumberland, NE48 2LA
///parked.extreme.reward - What3Words is a new more accurate version of a postcode. This will take you directly to where you need to park so we recommend using this in your Sat Nav, but always remember to look at the owners’ directions too!
By public transport
The nearest station is Hexham, about 20 minutes' drive away (17 miles).
There is a bus stop in Bellingham, which is about 30 minutes' walk from Hesleyside.
By car
Hesleyside is 1.5 miles west of Bellingham on the south side of the North Tyne river. From the A69 (1 mile south of where it joins the A696) take the B6320 west to Bellingham. Drive through Bellingham on the B6320 and 200yds after crossing the North Tyne river, turn first right. Follow the road, which is lined by trees, after 1.1 miles the entrance to Hesleyside Huts is on the left.
If travelling north on B6320 from Hexham or Carlisle via Wark then take left (signed Dunterley & Hesleyside) 200yds before bridge.
Arrival at your hut is via a private tree lined avenue. You will see a green “Hesleyside Huts” sign on a pair of wooden gates. An apple and pear mark the position of the main gates. Please do not turn into the steep uphill driveway marked Raven hut. Please be careful and close all gates behind you. The gates are on a sharp bend in the road so easily missed (if you get to the main iron gates to Hesleyside you have gone 300yds too far).
For Raven
From the A69 (1 mile south of where it joins the A696) take the B6320 west to Bellingham. Drive through Bellingham on the B6320 and 200yds after crossing the North Tyne River, turn first right. Follow the road, which is lined by trees, and after 1.1 miles the entrance to Raven is on the left. If travelling north on B6320 from Hexham or Carlisle via Wark then take left (signed Dunterley & Hesleyside) 200yds before bridge.
Arrival at Raven is via a steep offtrack road. You will see a green “RAVEN” sign on a wooden gate. This gate is on the left and just before a steep bend in the road. Please do not turn into the main Hesleyside Huts entrance marked by an apple and pear which is the next gate on the left (if you get to the apple and pear or main iron gates to Hesleyside you have gone too far!) Please close all gates behind you.
You have a choice of parking for Raven. Most cars can get to the top of the track but if you don’t think your car will get up the hill (i.e. you have a sport’s car), please park in the parking bay at the bottom of the track but do not obstruct the main track. Parking for Raven is at the top of the track and is in front of the gate entrance into the tower. Please don’t drive your car through this second gate). There will be a button at the gate which when pressed will illuminate the pedestrian path to the tower. This is on a timer and will give you ample time (20 mins) to move in and get settled. Please note there is only space for one car.
-
Food & Drink
At Hesleyside
The basics for a welcoming cuppa will all be provided in your hut.
For special occasions you might like to order a champagne bucket - ask Anna for more details.
Local shops
The nearest shop for supplies is in Bellingham, 20 minutes' by foot or a short drive away.
Pubs & Restaurants
The Pheasant (7.5 miles) - a cosy and friendly country pub with good food and on the way to Kielder.
The Holly Bush (5.5 miles) - an old Drovers Inn and tiny little friendly pub serving mainly home cooked food sourced as locally as possible, a well stocked bar and real ales.
The Battlesteads (6 miles) - serving primarily modern British food but always add some international choices for those with a more cosmopolitan palate. look out for dishes including oak smoked duck, chicken and salmon from their on-site smokery. Vegetarian choices are always available.
The Rat (18 miles) - an award winning food in a relaxed country pub atmosphere, the Northumberland Foodie's favourite.
Bouchon (17.1 miles) - an award-wining French bistro.
-
Experiences
At Hesleyside
Hesleyside is within the gold tier Northumberland Dark Sky reserve. A complete star-gazing kit is available so that you can take full advantage of this rare opportunity to witness the night sky without light pollution.
Hesleyside Huts makes a perfect fisherman’s lodge during the fishing season (Aug-Oct). Rent a rod on the well regarded Hesleyside Beat.
Make use of a number of private walks, many in ancient woodlands, which are only available to guests at Hesleyside.
Places to Visit
Hadrian’s Wall (29.6 miles) - no visit to this area would be complete without a trip to Hadrian’s Wall. As Hesleyside is within savage territory you’ll need to travel a short distance south. The drive to Vindolanda itself is stunning.
Alnwick Garden - reputedly the finest contemporary garden in the UK, b. If you are a lover of gardens and grand stately homes, then Northumberland has plenty to offer.
Northumberland Coast (50 miles) - It’s a good drive but one with near constant views to the horizon and where you are unlikely to see another car. The Northumberland Coast offers stunning & deserted beaches, ruined castles, rocky islands and wonderful fish. Highly recommended for those here for a longer stay.
Beamish Museum (42.6 miles) - a world famous open air museum which brings the history of North East England to life at its 1820s Pockerley, 1900s Town, 1900s Pit Village, 1940s Farm, 1950s Town and 1950s Spain’s Field Farm exhibit areas.
Kielder Observatory (18.8 miles) - You’ll be able to see the Milky way from your hut but if you fancy viewing the rings of Saturn why on visit the famous Kielder Observatory which is only 20 mins drive away.
Outdoor & Active
Kielder Water and Forest Park (17.7 miles) - visit the largest man-made dam in western Europe, it is filled with hidden works of art, walks and experiences (the Charlton family love the Kielder Birds of Prey Centre) but the real reason people are flocking to Kielder is the adventure.
Calvert Trust Adventure Centre (12 miles) - off-road mountain bike trails, go sailing, water-skiing and kayaking are among the options for those looking for a bit more of an adrenaline rush during their stay at Hesleyside.
Go Ape (20 miles) - choose from Treetop Challenge, a Goliath of a high ropes course with super-fast and super-high zip wires. If you prefer to keep your feet on the ground, why not try Axe Throwing?
The lack of traffic and breath-taking new view around each bend has meant makes Northumberland a great place to explore on 2 wheels! Anna and William can arrange bike hire if required or suggest routes from 9 – 90 miles.
-
Your Hosts
Meet William and Anna
Now the home of William and Anna Charlton and their young children, the historic Hesleyside Hall has been continuously inhabited by the Border Reiver Charlton family in an unbroken line, since 1346 and the reign of Richard the Lionheart. It is a magnificent historic house set within grounds landscaped by Capability Brown and located in the heart of the Northumberland National Park.
Wildlife & Environment
The Hesleyside Huts are set in 4000 acres of land, including SSSI woodland with ancient oaks, with red squirrels, roe deer, hawks and owls.
-
Reviews
Our guests say...
melissa
The Raven is a fantastic place to stay. It is quirky and incredibly well thought out with great attention to detail. It is peaceful and private. The design and decor are wonderful. We very much enjoyed the area and the grounds are great to explore.
19/06/2024Linda
Raven Tower is an incredible piece of architecture and design sympathetically situated in a forest. There are beautiful views from all the windows on all four floors - from glimpses of the forest to panoramic scenes. Inside is full of gorgeous design details too. The owners have really thought about your needs and and wishes for a peaceful delightful mini break.
27/05/2024Marion
Best night’s sleep in ages! Loved looking out over the trees - forest bathing in the comfort of our armchairs.
26/04/2024Melanie
Lovely stay in an amazing place. Very chilled.
27/12/2023Neil
We loved Raven tower
08/11/2023Alex
Fantastic - Ideal location, excellent property a perfect mix of 'WOW' factor and relaxed comfortable living. High quality fixtures and fittings, Owners very helpful and invested in their quests holiday experience. Couldn't recommend more highly
25/09/2023david
Amazing! Such a unique place in the most beautiful setting. So many cool features and everything we needed for a short stay. The interior was incredible and well thought out, with views of the surrounding woodland from almost every angle. The bathroom is stunning and felt like a spa! The living room with picture window is lovely to while away a few hours. We loved watching the stars at night in this beautiful dark sky reserve. Can’t wait to return and perhaps try one of the other Hesleyside Huts properties.
04/09/2023Cat
We stayed for 2 nights at the Raven Tower. It was just as impressive in person as in the pictures. The building, furnishings and location were all beautiful and we found the stay very relaxing
12/07/2023Jacob
Won our hearts immediately. Beautifully put together dwelling. We spent our days exploring the surrounding area and our evenings watching the barn owl in the opposite field. Our mornings were spent bird watching. Peacefully surrounded by nature it was perfect for us.
28/06/2023Ruth
Amazing property in a perfect setting. Finished to a very high standard indeed with some really nice touches.
29/05/2023James
This is a truly special place to stay if you want to relax, unwind and reconnect with nature. It is quiet, secluded and peaceful but with everything you need in the tower as well as nearby. Raven is super dog friendly, spotless and has lots of hidden gems and finishing touches on every floor.
12/05/2023Stephanie
We loved it here. The setting is amazing and every last detail has been considered. It was so relaxing and we loved being under the dark skies. The bed was super comfy and the views from all the windows are incredible.
22/02/2023Nic
Lovely place
04/01/2023Liz
Reviews
We had an excellent stay, great facilities and personal touches like dog treats, lemon drizzle and we had fantastic walks around the area.
18/09/2024melissa
The Raven is a fantastic place to stay. It is quirky and incredibly well thought out with great attention to detail. It is peaceful and private. The design and decor are wonderful. We very much enjoyed the area and the grounds are great to explore.
19/06/2024Linda
Raven Tower is an incredible piece of architecture and design sympathetically situated in a forest. There are beautiful views from all the windows on all four floors - from glimpses of the forest to panoramic scenes. Inside is full of gorgeous design details too. The owners have really thought about your needs and and wishes for a peaceful delightful mini break.
27/05/2024Marion
Best night’s sleep in ages! Loved looking out over the trees - forest bathing in the comfort of our armchairs.
26/04/2024Melanie
Lovely stay in an amazing place. Very chilled.
27/12/2023Neil
We loved Raven tower
08/11/2023Alex
Fantastic - Ideal location, excellent property a perfect mix of 'WOW' factor and relaxed comfortable living. High quality fixtures and fittings, Owners very helpful and invested in their quests holiday experience. Couldn't recommend more highly
25/09/2023david
Amazing! Such a unique place in the most beautiful setting. So many cool features and everything we needed for a short stay. The interior was incredible and well thought out, with views of the surrounding woodland from almost every angle. The bathroom is stunning and felt like a spa! The living room with picture window is lovely to while away a few hours. We loved watching the stars at night in this beautiful dark sky reserve. Can’t wait to return and perhaps try one of the other Hesleyside Huts properties.
04/09/2023Cat
We stayed for 2 nights at the Raven Tower. It was just as impressive in person as in the pictures. The building, furnishings and location were all beautiful and we found the stay very relaxing
12/07/2023Jacob
Won our hearts immediately. Beautifully put together dwelling. We spent our days exploring the surrounding area and our evenings watching the barn owl in the opposite field. Our mornings were spent bird watching. Peacefully surrounded by nature it was perfect for us.
28/06/2023Ruth
Amazing property in a perfect setting. Finished to a very high standard indeed with some really nice touches.
29/05/2023James
This is a truly special place to stay if you want to relax, unwind and reconnect with nature. It is quiet, secluded and peaceful but with everything you need in the tower as well as nearby. Raven is super dog friendly, spotless and has lots of hidden gems and finishing touches on every floor.
12/05/2023Stephanie
We loved it here. The setting is amazing and every last detail has been considered. It was so relaxing and we loved being under the dark skies. The bed was super comfy and the views from all the windows are incredible.
22/02/2023Nic
Lovely place
04/01/2023Liz
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We had an excellent stay, great facilities and personal touches like dog treats, lemon drizzle and we had fantastic walks around the area.
18/09/2024