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The charming town lies in northern County Durham in the region of northeastern England, high along the Pennines. Consett's origins lie in the 17th century development of the steel industry. The trade started when German immigrants, escaping religious persecution, settled in nearby Shotley Bridge, a village next to Consett. The refugees were craftsmen in the art of cutlery and sword making. With the River Derwent nearby, coal arrived from Tyneside, but iron ore was imported from Sweden. The valley contained iron ore, but the mineral was considered inferior due to high quantities of phosphorus, making the iron impure.
Using coal for fuel, and high-grade iron ore, the settlers forged steel and crafted various products. Having to import materials, the industry did not realize prosperity until the invention of the Bessemer Process in the middle of the 19th century. The process infuses molten pig iron with oxygen, removing all impurities. Using locally mined coal, limestone and iron ore, blast furnaces developed and the steel industry thrived. This industry helped sustain the local economy until 1980. In 1982, Derwent Valley Foods developed Phileas Fogg snacks and the company became a major local industry. Consett also boasts of having the first Salvation Army Corps band on the planet.
Activities and Attractions
The town and surrounding areas have numerous activities for the outdoors enthusiast. Cycling and walking paths abound with the Waskerley Way and the Consett and Sunderland railway paths. The latter involves 41.8 km (26 miles) of trails having various sculptures commemorating the coal, iron and steel industries. These paths travel through open countryside, wetlands and wooded areas. Derwent Resevoir lies west of Consett, also providing ample trekking opportunities in addition to a variety of water sports. Golfers might enjoy playing a round of 18 holes at the local golf course.
Many modern businesses developed to compensate for the loss of the steel mill, providing a wide range of shopping opportunities. Middle Street, in particular, has a charming tree lined, pedestrianised cobbled path. The Empire Theatre is one of the oldest in the county and regularly hosts live stage performances in addition to screen films.
The local Glass and Art Gallery not only provides supplies to local artisans, but also contains a gallery displaying works from over 100 local artists. Visitors observe the skill of stained glass making or browse the gallery containing any number of artistic pieces created from many different mediums.
Places to Stay and Dining
Lodging options in Consett include a famous hotel chain. The modernised facility contains many guest extras that include an indoor spa, swimming pool and fitness centre. The establishment accommodates a wide range of clientele staying for business or pleasure. The building itself maintains old English charm with wide beam ceilings and open fireplaces.
The Caterway Heads restaurant/pub sits on a hill and provides a picturesque view of the Derwent Reservoir. Originally constructed in the mid 1800s, the rustic interior of the pub exudes the charm of the period having traditional wood floors, brickwork and an open fireplace. The modern restaurant serves a variety of local favourites that include braised lamb, fried king prawn or sausage and mash.
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