Consett is a town in County Durham, situated on elevated ground west of Newcastle upon Tyne and close to the North Pennines. The town grew rapidly during the nineteenth century around iron and steel production, with the Consett Iron Company becoming one of the region's most important industrial employers. The closure of the steelworks in 1980 transformed the local economy and left a lasting mark on the town's identity. Extensive regeneration has since converted former industrial land into new developments, parks and employment areas.
Consett: Historical sights and information
Facts about Consett
- Latitude:
- 54.853860
- Longitude:
- -1.833296
- GPS Coordinates:
- 54°51' N, 01°50' W
The historical and tourist importance of the town
Consett's industrial heritage remains central to its history, while the surrounding Derwent Valley has been transformed into an attractive landscape of reservoirs, woodland and walking routes. The nearby Derwentcote Steel Furnace provides an important reminder of the region's early iron-making industry. Beamish, The Living Museum of the North and the heritage Tanfield Railway are both within easy reach. The North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty begins to the west, offering extensive opportunities for walking, cycling and scenic drives.
Food and when to visit
Consett has cafés, restaurants, traditional pubs, bakeries and local shops, with hearty northern food and international cuisines available. Newcastle and Durham offer more extensive cultural, shopping and dining options nearby. Spring through early autumn is ideal for exploring the Derwent Valley and North Pennines, while the elevated landscape can be particularly atmospheric in autumn. Consett is a useful base for exploring west County Durham, the North Pennines and the industrial heritage of northeast England.
Locations & Tours
Discover famous landmarks, historical sites and tourist attractions in Consett.