No 1 The Depot

About this property

No. 1 The Depot is a stylish converted bus retreat tucked away in the peaceful surroundings of Springwell in Tyne and Wear. Ideal for friends, two couples, or a small family, with its inviting outdoor hot tub, lovely rural outlook and close proximity to a tranquil lake, this distinctive hideaway creates an attractive setting for a memorable break. Arrive at Springwell and draw up beside the sleek green double-decker bus, its gently weathered finish sitting quietly within the Tyne and Wear countryside rather than competing with it. This is a place that reveals itself slowly. Step towards the entrance, take in the stillness of the setting, then open the black front door to discover an interior that feels unexpectedly warm and full of character.

Cross the threshold and you are welcomed into a quaint and charming wooden-lined space, where natural textures create an immediate sense of comfort. The kitchen sits neatly at the heart of the ground floor, bright, compact and pleasing to the eye. It is a space designed for ease, where you can prepare a relaxed supper on the hob, slide something into the oven, rinse ingredients at the sink and reach for chilled drinks from the fridge as the evening settles in. Towards the rear of the bus, a small step leads you up into the ground-floor sleeping area. The double bed feels thoughtfully tucked away, framed artwork lining the walls and drawing your attention around the space.

Above, a decorative ceiling feature woven with plant-inspired detailing brings a gentle touch of nature indoors, adding depth and a sense of calm as you settle in for the night. Close by, the wet room opens into a generous shower space, its grey-washed walls creating a soothing backdrop as water falls and the day quietly melts away. When you are ready to explore further, feel the carpet beneath your feet as you head up the stairs, artwork guiding you upwards and building anticipation. At the top, the space opens into a bright and inviting living area, where a vibrant coloured blind filters the light and artwork fills the room with personality.

Sink into the soft pink-hued sofa, flick on the television and let the outside world drift away, or simply sit and enjoy the creative atmosphere that makes this space feel so uplifting. The dining table is perfectly placed beside the windows, offering open views across the countryside fields. Mealtimes stretch out naturally here, whether it is a leisurely breakfast or an evening spent watching the light fade across the landscape. Towards the rear of the upper level, a second double bed provides another peaceful place to rest, maintaining the easy flow between relaxing, dining and sleeping that defines the bus’s clever design.

Stepping outside to the rear, a gravel path winds through a green lawn and planting, creating a gentle outdoor area that invites a quiet moment with a drink in hand. Lanterns glow softly as evening draws in, while the hot tub becomes the natural place to end the day, soaking beneath open skies with the countryside settling into stillness around you. A tranquil lake lies close enough for gentle walks, and a nearby shop and pub are easily reached whenever the mood strikes. When adventure calls, the wider area offers rich experiences, all comfortably within reach. Newcastle upon Tyne draws you in with riverside walks along the Quayside, where bridges arc overhead and cafés hum with life, before independent shops, galleries and theatres add energy and creativity to the streets beyond.

Durham offers a slower pace, where the cathedral rises above the river, historic streets invite unhurried exploration, and riverside paths loop quietly through the heart of the city. Along the Northumberland coast, wide beaches stretch beneath big skies, castles stand watch above the sea, and coastal villages offer moments to pause, breathe in the salt air and enjoy fresh local flavours. Back at No 1 The Depot, thoughtful design and rural calm make for a stay unlike any other.

Springwell is a historic countryside village resting between Gateshead and Washington, on the edge of the City of Sunderland. The village is known for its stone-built cottages, mining heritage and surrounding farmland, and offers a small but characterful selection of local amenities. Dining options include The Guidepost, a well‑established village pub, with The Engine Room nearby offering an additional place to eat and drink. You can stock up on essentials at Nisa Local, while a wider choice of supermarkets can be found in Washington and Gateshead. On the outskirts of the village, the Bowes Railway Museum offers a fascinating insight into the area’s industrial past, with a preserved section of the historic railway that once served the local colliery. The surrounding lanes and open farmland make the area well-suited to gentle walks and cycling, giving Springwell a distinctly rural feel despite its excellent road links. A short drive away is Newcastle upon Tyne, home to Newcastle Castle and the Quayside, where historic landmarks sit alongside vibrant restaurants and cultural venues, making it ideal for a lively day out. Also within easy reach is Durham, celebrated for Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle, whose dramatic hilltop setting and riverside walks make it a rewarding destination for history, scenery and relaxed exploring.

Accommodation

Ground-floor open-plan area with kitchen and double bed.

First-floor open-plan area with dining area, sitting area and double bed.

Ground-floor shower room with walk-in shower, basin, and WC

Oven, induction hob, fridge.

TV.

Fuel, and power, included in rent.

Bed linen and towels included in rent.

Outdoor hot tub.

Sorry, no smoking and no pets allowed.

Shop 0.2 miles, pub 0.3, lake 1.5 miles