Things To Do
in Consett

Consett is a town in County Durham, England, with a rich industrial heritage that shaped its growth in the 19th and 20th centuries. Today it blends this legacy with green spaces, family-friendly amenities, and a strong sense of community. The town centre offers pubs, cafés, and markets, while nearby reservoirs and moorland invite outdoor exploration.

Its location between Durham and Newcastle makes it a convenient base for exploring northeast England.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Consett
morning
:

Arrive in Consett and check into your charming lodge nestled in the scenic countryside. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast while taking in views of the rolling hills that surround the area. Spend some time acclimating to the local environment before setting off on your adventure.

afternoon
:

Explore the town center, where you can visit local shops and cafés. Take a guided walking tour to learn about the rich history of Consett and its heritage, including the importance of steelworks in the region. Have a delicious lunch at a local pub that serves hearty British cuisine.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy a delightful dinner at a fine restaurant featuring locally-sourced ingredients. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll through the nearby parks, enjoying the fresh air and the evening ambiance. Wind down at your accommodation with a cup of tea and reflections on your first day.

day 2
Nature Trails Exploration
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast and head to the nearby Derwent Walk, a picturesque trail along the River Derwent. Immerse yourself in nature as you hike through woodlands and meadows, spotting local wildlife along the way. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning scenery.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a packed lunch by the riverbank, where you can relax and soak in the tranquil atmosphere. Continue exploring the trail, taking time to stop at various lookout points for panoramic views. Engage with fellow hikers and learn more about the flora and fauna of the area.

evening
:

Return to Consett and treat yourself to a cozy dinner at a local bistro. After dinner, consider attending an evening of live music or entertainment at a nearby venue, where you can experience the vibrant local culture. Reflect on the day's adventures before heading to bed.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
🥗Meal for two in mid-range restaurant$20-40
Coffee or tea$2-4
🧁Dessert or pastry$3-6
🏠One-bedroom apartment (city centre)$700-1000

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich industrial heritage and nearby reservoirs
  • Compact, walkable town centre
  • Lower costs and friendly communities
  • Good access to Northeast countryside and trails
  • Limited nightlife compared with larger cities
  • Some shops and services may feel small-town
  • Transport relies heavily on buses and car travel

Places to Visit in Consett

Visit one of these nice places.

Derwent Reservoir Panorama

Wide views over the water with mountain silhouettes and sunsets behind the hills.

Consett Iron Works Memorial Garden

A tribute to the town's industrial heritage with sculptures and green space.

Derwent Walk Bridge Overlook

River Derwent views from a classic iron footbridge amid green woodland.

Market Place and Town Centre Corners

Gabled roofs, historic street lamps, and busy market days offer candid street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Consett

Consett's dining scene combines hearty Northern English pub fare with relaxed cafes and seasonal market produce, making it ideal for comfort meals and weekend treats.

Consett Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Parkin

A traditional ginger cake enjoyed with tea, especially in autumn and winter.

Must-Try!

Stottie Cake Sandwich

A dense, soft bread loaf used to build simple, satisfying sandwiches in the region.

Beef and Ale Pie

A classic pub pie with tender beef and a rich gravy, popular in local pubs.

Fish and Chips

A quintessential takeaway staple, best enjoyed with mushy peas near the town centre.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Consett Market

Weekly market offering fresh produce, baked goods, and seasonal treats in Market Place.

Market Square Street Food Pop-Ups

Seasonal stalls offering global street food flavors on market days.

Derwentside Artisan Market

Occasional pop-up market featuring local makers and local produce.

Climate Guide

Weather

The climate is temperate maritime, with cool winters, mild summers, and regular rainfall throughout the year. Expect drizzle or showers even in summer and more frequent rain in autumn and winter. Snow is possible but not common, typically modest in the hills nearby. Spring and autumn bring milder days with changing visibility and wind on open moorland.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Queueing and politeness

Stand in line, speak politely, and say please and thank you.

Respect for quiet residential areas

Keep voices down in late evenings and observe local hours for noise.

Golf and countryside etiquette

Stay on paths, give way to faster traffic on shared routes, and treat wildlife with care.

Safety Guide

Safety

General safety is similar to other regional towns: be aware of traffic when walking near roads, lock vehicles and personal belongings, and follow safety guidance in rural trails. Carry a phone, know emergency numbers (999 for emergencies, 112 as a backup), and check weather forecasts before long walks. In crowded markets, keep an eye on wallets and purses.

Tipping in Consett

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is customary but not obligatory; many restaurants add a service charge; otherwise 10-15% is typical for good service.

Payment Methods

Cash is accepted, but cards and contactless payments are widely used; mobile wallets are common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild days with fresh blooms; carry a light jacket and expect quick showers.

Summer

Longer days, comfortable temperatures; ideal for walking and reservoirs; bring sun protection.

Autumn

Crackling leaves, cooler air, and autumn markets; pack layers and a waterproof.

Winter

Short days, chilly winds; enjoy cozy pubs and light-resistant outdoor gear for brief outdoor strolls.

Nightlife Guide

Consett at Night

Consett's nightlife centers on cozy pubs, social clubs, and a few bars in the town centre offering real ales, live music, and quiz nights; nearby towns have more nightlife options within a short drive.

Hiking in Consett

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Derwent Walk Country Park

A scenic riverside network with easy to moderate trails linking Consett to surrounding countryside.

Hamsterley Forest

Expansive forest with a variety of marked trails, viewpoints, and picnic areas a short drive away.

Airports

How to reach Consett by plane.

Newcastle International Airport (NCL)

Major international hub located to the north, approximately within 25-40 miles depending on route.

Teesside International Airport (MME)

Also known as Durham Tees Valley Airport, smaller but accessible for regional flights, around 50-70 miles away.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town centre is compact and walkable within 20 minutes between key sights; there are some gentle hills on the outskirts, and longer walks are best with a vehicle for access to reservoirs and forests.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many residents are families and commuters; a mix of older residents and younger professionals.

Students and commuters

People who commute to Durham, Newcastle, or Sunderland for work or study, as well as students from nearby colleges.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Local clubs and matches in and around Consett; matches can be found at community grounds.

Cricket

Seasonal local leagues and friendly matches at village greens and parks.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Consett is generally light to moderate; for public transport, local buses connect to nearby towns, while car travel provides the most flexibility for countryside trips. Roads can be busier during commuting hours toward Durham and Newcastle, and on market days in town.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Consett.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Look for veggie pies, salads, and adaptable pub meals; inform staff about dietary needs; many places offer meat-free options.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Consett has NHS GP practices and a local health centre; for specialist services, residents typically use nearby hospitals in Durham or Newcastle. NHS 111 provides urgent medical advice, and there are pharmacies in the town centre.

Discover United Kingdom

Read more in our United Kingdom 2025 Travel Guide.

United Kingdom Travel Guide