As a family we definitely have a weak spot for a Shepard’s hut set in gorgeous countryside, add in a hot tub and we’re in! We stayed in a Shepard’s hut in Northumberland for Andy’s birthday several year’s ago and we have really fond memories of a really peaceful weekend off grid with beautiful scenery and plenty to do. When I came across Hillside Huts I decided it was time for another weekend in Northumberland.
Hillside Huts and Cabins is a collection of 4 accommodations, tucked away in a tiny woodland just outside Morpeth. There is Saba’s Hut which sleeps 4 and Tilly’s Hut, Lottie’s cabin and Joe’s Place which each sleep 2. The cabins and huts are next to each other but the way they are set up, each cabin feels completely private and secluded. The huts are a short walk from the car park so you are not disturbed by cars coming and going.
Saba’s Hut
We stayed in Saba’s hut as it was the only one that could sleep the 3 of us. Saba’s Hut is a traditional Shepard’s Hut with a large double bed in the main area, a cleverly designed living area with pull out table and bench, kitchen and a wood burning stove. There is a separate bunk room and bathroom.
The hut is small but perfectly formed with everything you could need for your stay. The kitchen is really well equipped with a gas oven, 2 ring burner, fridge and a good selection of pots and pans. We found there was everything we needed for a weekend away including tea towels, washing up liquid and cleaning equipment, you do not need to bring anything with you. Tea, coffee, sugar, a pint of milk and some eggs were provided to welcome us and there was even what looked to be a home made chocolate cake, which was delicious.
The bathroom has a huge shower with power shower and a radiator for those colder months. Beautifully handmade, local soap and hand lotion are also provided.
The bunk room is a small, separate bedroom and has 2 comfortable full sized beds that each have their own lights, sockets and a window each.
The double bed is one of the most comfortable we have stayed in with a cleverly placed window at the foot of the bed so you can take in the views whilst in bed and a glass roof window so that you can star gaze in comfort. This bed is slightly raised as has the table underneath so you do need to be agile enough to climb up.
There are plenty of sockets that also have usb ports and there is a TV although we were having so much fun that we didn’t even realise that it was a TV.
Outside there is an outdoor shower tucked out of view that comes complete with fairy lights. Also a large covered veranda as well as fire pit, picnic bench, seating area and wood fired hot tub. You can pre-order logs for the hot tub and wood burner so that they are delivered and ready for your arrival, more wood can be bought during your stay.
The hut was absolutely spotless, rustic and cosy but with everything we needed for our weekend. We didn’t have great weather during our stay but were quite happy inside, with a warm fire watching the scenery outside.
Before you arrive you are invited to download the app which tells you everything you need to know about checking in, how all the appliances work, the local area and checking out which was brilliant for feeling totally prepared.
The local area
The huts are located between Morpeth and Alnwick which are both lovely Northumberland towns and well worth a visit. We took advantage of visiting Sanderson Arcade in Morpeth and treated ourselves to some goodies from Marks and Spencers Simply food. There are supermarkets in both Morpeth and Alnwick. We also fitted in a visit to National Trust’s Cragside and Alnwick including the unique Barter Books.
For the more adventurous there are plenty of local walks as well as Hadrians Wall for something a little more long distance.
We visited in September 2023 when Pip was 11.
Go everywhere, Do everything 