Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about booking and staying at Shepherds Lodge. If your question isn't answered here, just get in touch and we'll help.
Questions people ask before booking
What's the minimum stay?
Two nights minimum. Most people come Friday to Sunday for a weekend, but any two or more nights that suit you are fine. If you fancy longer, a full week is easy enough to arrange, just pick your dates on the booking page.
How much does it cost per night?
£100 per night, dropping to £95 per night from 1st October (off-season). Book directly through this website, and that's exactly what you pay; no booking fees added on. If you book through Airbnb instead, they add their service fees on top.
How do I book?
You can book directly through this website or through our Airbnb listing. Booking direct is the cheaper option, there are no service fees added on top, and you'll get instant confirmation once you've picked your dates. Any questions come straight to us rather than through a platform. If you'd rather ask something before you commit, drop us a message and we'll usually come back to you the same day.
What's included in the hut?
Everything you need for a comfortable stay: double bed with bedding, shower and toilet, heating (underfloor and gas), fridge, microwave, gas hob, TV, and towels. You just need to bring yourself and any food you want to cook.
Is there WiFi?
No, and that's deliberate. Mobile signal is fine if you need to check messages or make calls, but we've found people appreciate not being constantly connected.
What do we need to bring?
Bring food if you're planning to cook, any drinks you want, and your usual toiletries. We provide bedding, towels, and the basics for the hut.
What time is check-in and check-out?
Check-in is flexible, usually mid-afternoon. Check-out is around 11am. If you need different times, just let us know and we'll work around you where we can.
Can we bring our dog?
Yes, well-behaved dogs are welcome. We're a working farm, so your dog will be around sheep and other animals. They'll need to be kept under control, especially near livestock. There's no extra charge for dogs.
How many people can stay?
The hut sleeps two. It's designed for couples or solo travellers.
Is smoking allowed?
No smoking or vaping anywhere in or around the hut.
Where do I park?
There's parking right by the hut. You won't be lugging bags any distance.
Do we need a car?
You can walk straight from the hut onto the fell and reach the village on foot, but to visit attractions like Durham, Barnard Castle, or Beamish, you'll need a car. Public transport through the village is limited.
What if we need something during our stay?
Just find us - we live on the farm, so we're never far away. Whether it's a question about walking routes or something's not working properly, we'll sort it out.
Will we see farm animals?
Almost certainly. The sheep graze nearby and sometimes wander close to the hut. It's a working farm, so there's always activity around you.
Still have questions?
If we haven't answered your question here, just get in touch. We're happy to help with anything you need to know.
What guests say
"Joanne’s listing was so so so lovely! I needed an escape from reality and this was definitely what I needed! It was clean, cosy and everything and more! It’s definitely going into my return list!☺️"