A Blissful Overnight Stay at South Causey Inn | County Durham - A Review

The South Causey Inn near Beamish in County Durham is a gem of a pub that you simply must add to your list of places to visit this summer. It only took us around 30 minutes to drive there from our home in Northumberland but it feels like another world. Quietly tucked away in the middle of Beamish Valley, you'd never believe you were only 6 miles away from both Newcastle and Durham city centre. This independent establishment is warm, friendly and an ideal place to spend an afternoon, evening or if you are lucky, a night away. 

Overnight Stay at South Causey Inn | County Durham

Overnight Stay at South Causey Inn | County Durham

A Unique Overnight Stay in the Tree House Suite


There are over 30 bedrooms to choose from at South Causey Inn ranging from comfortable court yard rooms to the Hadrian's Wall Villa, a French Boudoir and even a converted London Bus. Last month we stayed in the Tree House suite which is a unique feature room with lots of luxury included. Honestly no expense has been spared and if you a looking for a luxury get away, I can highly recommend booking this suite.

Overnight Stay at South Causey Inn | County Durham - Tree House

Your 'shed bed' is not only quirky but also exceptionally comfortable and the perfect place to lie and watch the world go by. There is a hidden tv built into the four poster frame which is perfectly placed for snuggling up and watching your favourite movie with a loved one. 

Overnight Stay at South Causey Inn | County Durham - Tree House

The suite has it's own living area with lots of homely touches including a working gramophone, chesterfield sofa and traditional telephone. There is a wide screen tv in this room too and Steve was more than happy with this spot as a place to watch the England match. You can order room service food and drinks to be delivered to your room from the pub (prices were very reasonable) and there is free and decent wifi. Honestly they really have thought of everything here. 

Overnight Stay at South Causey Inn | County Durham - Tree House

Our bathroom was OH SO LUXURIOUS with his and her washbasins, a very fancy power shower and the piece-de-resistance a double jacuzzi bath complete with a waterproof remote control that operates the tv that is built into the bathroom wall. I think this is probably the first time I've ever watched The Chase lying in the bath! haha (TMI???).

Overnight Stay at South Causey Inn | County Durham - Tree House

The South Causey Inn have their own exclusive passport scheme - if you stay in a feature bedroom 7 times, you'll receive a complimentary 8th stay. This offer is very tempting and I already have my eye on a few bedrooms......

Overnight Stay at South Causey Inn | County Durham - Tree House


Overnight Stay at South Causey Inn | County Durham - Tree House

As a special treat, if you are staying in a feature bedroom, the lovely staff will send over a few little treats once you have settled in with their compliments. I was undecided whether to include this in my post or not as it was such a lovely surprise and I didn't want to ruin it for anyone but I really wanted to show how the staff go above and beyond and look after you well. 

Overnight Stay at South Causey Inn | County Durham - Complimentary champagne and canapes

Overnight Stay at South Causey Inn | County Durham - Complimentary champagne and canapes

Overnight Stay at South Causey Inn | County Durham - Converted London Bus
I have my eye on staying in this converted London bus next.

Overnight Stay at South Causey Inn | County Durham

The beer gardens at South Causey Inn are sprawling and beautifully maintained. There is lots of outdoor seating and space for kids to play and I bet at even a hint of sunshine the tables start to fill up with happy customers. 

Overnight Stay at South Causey Inn | County Durham - Beer Garden Flowers

I only really started appreciating flowers and plants when I hit the age of 30, it's not something I was ever bothered about in my younger days however now I just can't get enough. It's funny what age does to you! The South Causey Inn brews their own gin using berries from their gardens and patrons are free to wander around their kitchen gardens. I would 100% recommend doing this as it is so peaceful and tranquil. A real escape from day-to-day life. Just look at the colours!

Overnight Stay at South Causey Inn | County Durham - Beer Garden Flowers

Overnight Stay at South Causey Inn | County Durham - Beer Garden Flowers


Overnight Stay at South Causey Inn | County Durham - Beer Garden Flowers

Overnight Stay at South Causey Inn | County Durham - Beer Garden Flowers

Overnight Stay at South Causey Inn | County Durham - Beer Garden Flowers

Overnight Stay at South Causey Inn | County Durham - Mr Rip
Meet Mr RIP

The South Causey Inn is dog friendly (yeah). I may or may not have spent a good hour trying to capture a shot of the resident dog Mr RIP. OMG I wanted to take him home. He is so full of character. There were lots of other four legged friends around during our visit and dogs are allowed in the bar area and snug where food is served (this isn't an issue for us - in fact it's a plus). Dogs can stay overnight at a supplement of £20 and they may well receive a special goody bag when they check out too. 

Lunch at South Causey Inn


The lunch menu at South Causey Inn is available Monday-Friday from 12noon - 5pm and at only £9.95 for three courses is a REAL bargain. The inn is nice and cosy inside with traditional features, roaring fires and comfortable sofas. It's very welcoming and I was so content that I could actually nearly fall asleep in the bar after our lunch.


The staff are a real credit too and happy to chat to you about what you're up to and give beer recommendations if needed. 

Overnight Stay at South Causey Inn | County Durham - Lunch menu

Steve decided to go for one of his favourite treats - a big slab of homemade corned beef pie. Served with proper homemade chips, peas and a jug of gravy. It's fair to say his lunch was an epic feast. I can't believe the value (this dish is part of the three courses for £9.95 lunch special). The portion sizes were huge - so big in fact that Steve couldn't manage dessert. 

Overnight Stay at South Causey Inn | County Durham - Lunch menu

Overnight Stay at South Causey Inn | County Durham - Lunch menu Corned Beef Pie


I ordered a trio of burgers from the main menu (£10.95) which featured a Game Burger with my favourite Northumberland Cheese, a Lamb burger with feta and a Cheese Burger. Again, huge portions and I couldn't get enough of the homemade chips and onion rings they were served with. For me, nothing will ever beat a Fat Hippo burger but these versions were a pretty decent effort and I would order again. 



South Causey Inn Tuesday Markets 


Did you see my post about the South Causey Inn markets which happen every Tuesday from 10:30am-2pm? Entry is FREE and there are a wide range of local stalls, food items and crafts for sale. I am planning to visit in the summer holidays with the kids to show my support (always important to shop local) and I know my three will enjoy a children's meal in the pub afterwards (especially as they include a free slush drink). I can't wait to introduce them to  the resident South Causey animals.........

South Causey Inn Animals


Overnight Stay at South Causey Inn | County Durham - Animals Pigs

A visit to South Causey Inn is like a trip to a mini farm but without the cost. There is a wonderful array of animals for you to say hello to including some very friendly pigs and their piglets who I think may be the happiest pigs I have ever met. 

Overnight Stay at South Causey Inn | County Durham - Animals Pigs

There's also a duck pond, chickens wandering freely, rabbits, a cockerel and more....... They're all located in the pub gardens and free to say hello to. I bet they are a real favourite with visiting toddlers. 

Overnight Stay at South Causey Inn | County Durham - Animals Geese


Overnight Stay at South Causey Inn | County Durham - Animals Chicken

Retiring for the evening


Did I mention that most of the feature rooms come with their own private deluxe hot tub? Such a nice place to relax under the stars.

Overnight Stay at South Causey Inn | County Durham - Hot Tub





At night the Tree House lights up with twinkly lights and it all feels very magical indeed. 


Breakfast at South Causey Inn



Breakfast was included in our room rate and is served in the South Causey Inn restaurant. You can help yourself to as much tea and coffee as you'd like before moving onto a hot breakfast and then finishing with fruit and pastries. Some items did run out (we must have visited at peak time) but they were quickly replaced and one table were even told they could order a batch of croissants fresh from the kitchen oven if they waited an extra 5 minutes (rather jealous I ate too much and didn't have room to do this myself!)



A quick word about Christmas


Believe it or not, people have already been searching North East Family Fun for Christmas and Christmas at South Causey Inn sounds fantastic. As well as festive markets there will be Santa Sunday's, Choirs, Festive Brass Bands and more. 


As we checked out, the South Causey Inn were preparing for a wedding and it did make me rather jealous that I wasn't part of it (anyone else love a good wedding). We did have a few tiny niggles during our stay such as there still being a lot of building work being carried out finishing the new rooms during the day (which was rather noisy at times and not ideal when you are trying to relax in a hot tub) and the builders decided to use our private courtyard for their cigarette break before they aplogised and realised we were actually using the room. Hmmmm! This work is almost complete though so the noise and distractions won't be for too much longer. 

The South Causey Inn really is a wonderful place to visit and stay. It is warm, comfortable and filled with friendly, attentive staff.  I can't wait to return to visit their Tuesday market soon. 

Room Rates Vary. Check out the South Causey Inn Website for more information and give them a call for their best rates - 01207 235 555


Share:

10 things that happen on holiday with under 5s


I've put together a little list featuring a few things that are GUARANTEED to happen when you holiday with under 5s. Let me know if you'd add anything.

10 things that happen on holiday with under 5s
Share:

The Racing Rig - Lane 7 Newcastle | A Review

When I was invited down to Lane 7 to test out their new racing rig with a few friends, I immediately said a big fat yes. We are huge fans of Lane 7 (thanks to fantastic nights at the NEblogger Awards, dining during restaurant week and Harry's birthday bowling) and couldn't wait to check out their new addition. 

The Racing Rig - Lane 7 Newcastle | A Review

You can find Lane 7 next to the Grosvenor Casino near Life Science Centre and the Discovery museum. There are plenty of places to park nearby (we usually park in Times Square) and if racing isn't your thing, there is A LOT going on from boutique bowling and photo booths to pool, ping pong and karaoke. Rumour has it that the golf course may even make a re-appearance in the basement this summer so keep your eyes peeled. 

The Racing Rig - Lane 7 Newcastle | A Review
The Cuban Press

A trip to Lane 7 has to include food. Their menu includes lots of treats such as popcorn squid, chilli dogs and pulled pork. Not the best place to visit if you are watching your weight perhaps (although I did spy a SuperFood Salad on there) but very nice as an indulgent treat and the perfect type of food to line your stomach before a few beers.

The Racing Rig - Lane 7 Newcastle | A Review
Pulled Pork Bun

Once we'd had our fill it was time to head upstairs for the fun to begin. You don't need to book the Racing Rig so just turn up or maybe add it onto a game of bowling. It is £3 a pop or £10 for 4 shots which I think is very reasonable.

The Racing Rig - Lane 7 Newcastle | A Review
Check out Katie Jane Online's license

First up, you get to design your own license on the super computers and it is printed while you wait. When your license is ready you can take your seat at the rig and it's time to eye up your opponents.......


The Racing Rig - Lane 7 Newcastle | A Review

Up to 10 people can play together so it is perfect for groups of mates or a team night out. It's all very slick and your license is scanned for you to enter the race. 

The Racing Rig - Lane 7 Newcastle | A Review
On your marks.......
Your race is 20 laps and ends when the first person crosses the line. You are given a quick overview and instructions by the roadside commentator and then you're off! Basically, steer your wheel to turn your car, press one pedal to go forward and the other to reverse. As I am typing this is all sounds so easy!

The live commentary really adds to your race as you can't take your eyes off your car to see how you are doing so it's nice to hear it in the background (even if you aren't doing so well).

Take a look at my short video from the night (it includes some tips from our winner):-



Well it turns out I wasn't so great at racing and I ended up 10 laps behind! OMG! I even completed one of the laps driving backwards! HAHA! Thankfully I am a lot better at driving in real life (although Steve may disagree!). I honestly think this is all part of the fun though and we had a good laugh which is what's important right?

Please note: The Racing Rig is not suitable for young children as they may not be able to reach the pedals. I would give Lane 7 a call before heading down to check that it's suitable for your child - 0191 261 6161. As a guide I would say it is suitable for ages 7/8+ and PERFECT for teenagers. It is also worth noting that due to licensing laws, children need to be off premises before 7pm.

Before I go, you should check out this fab summer deal from Lane 7 (although the racing rig isn't included but at an additional £3 I think this is a VERY good value night out for under £30 a head):-






Share:
© North East Family Fun | All rights reserved.
Blogger Template Designed by pipdig