Spending much of my life in West Blackdene, Weardale I was inspired by the old derelict GNER goods vans dotted around the dale. Many were used as shepherd’s huts in the late 19th century. I’ve always loved building things: sheds, summer houses, conservatories, loft conversions, etc. And with my experience of fitting kitchens and bathrooms I felt I could certainly build a shepherd’s hut that was fit for 21st century living.
Of course, it was just a dream. Something I might do one day! But then in March 2017, I was struck by a car whilst cycling. I was left with backache and chronic tinnitus and was forced to quit my job in Wheelchair Services. As an occupational therapist I knew the value of meaningful activity, so instead of moping about feeling sorry for myself, I decided to turn my misfortune into an opportunity to realise my dream. And hence, Blackdene Shepherd’s Huts was born.
I’ve always loved the feel, the smell and the beauty of wood. It’s the ultimate material of our past. However, I believe its versatility and sustainability make it the ultimate material of the future too. Wood gives the world oxygen. Every time we use wood instead of plastic we are saving our planet as well as building something that will last a lifetime.
And that brings me to where we are now. After a lot of planning, designing, building and honing my skills, Blackdene Shepherd's Huts is now a small family business specializing in quality and luxurious mobile spaces. We are not a large company focused on high turnovers and huge profits. We aim to produce a small amount of quality huts per year. And if we can't make them well, then we won't make them at all.
Our two flagship models The Pennine & The Pennine View provide all the luxury you could want in a shepherd's hut. Both are traditional built shepherd’s huts based on the original railway wagon design. Whether it’s a holiday home you want, a B&B, granny annexe, a romantic getaway, guest accommodation or a luxurious man cave (or lady cave!) …Blackdene Shepherd’s Huts can provide an all-purpose, all year round, fully mobile solution to your need for space. Built with the Blackdene ethos: Quality and Value equals Customer Satisfaction
2018 will see the launch of our 18 feet, 4 berth Pennine View model. This is specifically aimed at the B&B and glamping market. However, we will always provide a bespoke service too.
For more information visit www.blackdeneshepherdshuts.com or find us on Facebook
David Blackdene
