Our Facilities
It should be recognised that Tees Cottage is a Victorian industrial site with working engines and, as such, the safety of both our visitors and volunteers is a prime concern.
Where can I park?
There is ample free parking close by at the Broken Scar picnic area next to Tees Cottage Pumping Station. Alternatively, on Open Days, visitors have permission to park in the Northumbrian Water No. 3 car park, directly opposite the vehicle entrance to the site.
Can I get a guidebook?
A 43 page guidebook, priced at £2.50, is available at the site entrance, where we also offer a selection of site souvenirs.
Is there access for disabled visitors?
Our grounds and part of our buildings are accessible for disabled visitors, but the stairs to upper floors are steep and narrow.
Is photography allowed?
We allow photography outside and inside our buildings, still or video, with flash if desired, all at no charge. However, for safety reasons, we do not allow tripods or similar at public openings.
Is there a cafe?
On public steaming days, light refreshments can be bought on site in the Tea Rooms. This service is provided entirely by volunteers.
The Tea Rooms are in the Superintendent’s House, which is often known on site as ‘the Cottage’. Upstairs in the Cottage is the Archive room. There are also toilet facilities outside the Tea Rooms.
Hot and cold food, including home made cakes, teas, coffees and soft drinks are all available in our cottage cafe.
On a cold day you can also enjoy the comfort of a real fire!
Toilet and Baby Changing Facilities
We are very proud of our new toilet facilities, which were kindly built by Northumbrian Water in 2013.
The toilets are located outside of the Tea Rooms. Baby changing facilities are available in the accessible toilet.