Readers of The Northern Echo have reacted after a recent TripAdvisor review branded a popular County Durham attraction as a 'health hazard'. 

One tourist, who visited Beamish Museum in May this year, took to TripAdvisor recently to voice her concerns about the number of dogs allowed into the site. 

The online user wrote on the review site: "Sadly another place where you can’t avoid dogs. No idea what’s happened but the UK has opted to isolate allergy sufferers. Such a shame Beamish is now a health hazard." 

Beamish MuseumBeamish Museum (Image: NORTHERN ECHO)

Many people defended Beamish, saying that while the visitor's issue with dogs and allergies might be valid, the inclusion of the words "health hazard" was a bit strong. 

We asked readers about their thoughts on the TripAdvisor review and the fact the tourist attraction was called a 'health hazard' - and here is how people chose to react. 

One person commented on an online forum speaking against the rising trend of dogs being brought to indoor cafes, as well as outdoor tourist spaces, citing health concerns for people with allergies.

The local argued: "I agree that the term health hazard is harsh, but why on earth can’t people leave their dogs at home when they visit a tourist attraction?

"Some people have really serious allergy problems.

Beamish MuseumBeamish Museum (Image: NORTHERN ECHO)

"They used to be able to go in cafes without worrying about dogs having been in there - not any more."

Beamish Museum came under specific scrutiny - however, the person noted that the criticism wasn't directed at the museum itself.

Rather, it was lamenting the overarching norm of allowing dogs in traditionally pet-free zones.

Following the outburst, numerous opposing responses were shared by other forum users.

A respondent offered a contrasting perspective.

They said: "Beamish is the perfect place for dogs. It makes for a lovely walk around the outdoor attractions. My dog is as much a part of the family as any human, and far better behaved and quieter than a lot of kids. I know which I'd rather see out and about."

One user  proposed a pragmatic solution, saying: "Start charging an entrance fee for dogs they'll sharp leave them at home."

However, several participants dismissed the idea of allergies and described it as an excuse for unnecessary complaining.

David Wilson, another user, stated: "Allergies to dogs in the open air, what an idiot, there is always one."

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Beamish Museum, which is regionally and nationally known for offering visitors the chance to explore the past, boasts attractions promoting the 1950s, which include vintage shops, restaurants, and a new 1950s-style cinema, among other things. 

On TripAdvisor, Beamish is one of the most popular attractions, with an average 4.5 star out of five rating, and more than 6,400 excellent reviews from a total of 8,000 reviews. 

While the initial visitor may not have enjoyed their day, another visitor, who went to Beamish earlier this month wrote on TripAdvisor: "The place was amazing, it's very realistic with all the staff dressed in period costumes A wonderful day out for everyone."

The rules on dogs at Beamish:

The tourist attractions website says: "Well-behaved dogs are welcome in the outdoor areas of the museum, but there are restrictions on the indoor spaces they can access.

"Entry for dogs is free, but please respect the following rules for the safety and enjoyment of all our visitors:"

  • Please keep your dog on a short lead, accompanied and under control at all times.
  • Please do not leave your dog unattended.
  • Please pick up after your dog. Dog bags are available from the entrance building if needed.
  • Please respect the access restrictions for dogs.

The rules continue: "The museum reserves the right to ask dog owners to leave if these guidelines are not followed, or if staff or volunteers feel that dogs are behaving in a dangerous or threatening manner."

Access restrictions for dogs at Beamish

For the protection of our historic collections, dogs are only permitted in the following indoor exhibit spaces:

  • 1820s Waggonway and Great Shed
  • 1900s Colliery Yard including engine shed and lamp cabin (excluding drift mine)
  • Rowley Station
  • Sun Inn pub
  • Entrance building

Dog-friendly catering areas are:

  • Entrance Coffee Shop
  • Sun Inn pub
  • 1950s bowling pavilion (grab and go only)
  • Sinkers’ Bait Cabin (grab and go only)

Other rules for dog owners at Beamish

  • Dogs are usually allowed on transport (lower deck, not on seats, at the conductor’s discretion).
  • Assistance dogs are allowed into all buildings, exhibits and catering areas.
  • Water bowls are provided for dogs around the museum – please let our team know if a refill is needed.
  • Please note, other animals are not permitted.