Dog-friendly Durham

The Cart Shed has been built to the very highest of standards and is a super detached holiday home in an excellent location and adjacent to the owner’s home. All on one level with large windows, excellent standard furnishing and top quality fixtures and fittings, guests will find that The Cart Shed is the perfect location for a quiet, luxury, well-earned family holiday or a super celebration spot for friends and family to enjoy spending quality time together. Absolutely ideal too for guests with limited walking abilities, all of the rooms are spacious, accessible and really well laid out. The open plan living area boasts a solid wood floor, beautiful wood burner and sliding doors that open the room out into the private garden area. The kitchen area is very well finished with excellent quality fixtures and fittings and ample modern appliances including a dishwasher, fridge, freezer, electric hob, electric oven and washing machine. With high ceilings and quirky wooden beam feature this room is a delight to sit in and would make a great place for family meals and celebrations. Further along the hallway, guests will find two double bedrooms each with a zip and link bed and views across the garden and beyond. The master bedroom offers equally spacious accommodation and a super kingsize bed as well as a very useful en suite shower room with shower cubicle, heated towel rail and underfloor heating. The family bathroom is once again finished to a high standard and offers a free standing bath, separate shower cubicle, heated towel rail and his and hers wash basins – luxury indeed.
The small village of Witton Gilbert has a thriving community and boasts a local farm shop and a couple of great pubs that sell good food all year round. A great spot too for walkers and cyclists, there are many established public footpaths from the village leading into the city and beyond into the scenic countryside of County Durham. Durham itself has been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status and is packed full of historic and interesting sites to visit. The cathedral and castle dominate the market place and must be visited at any time of year as there are often popular exhibitions being presented. Also great for a spot of lunch, dinner or afternoon tea, there are many quirky tea shops, restaurants, bistros and the smallest gin bar in the county. The River Wear runs through the city and guests will be able to take a river cruise along it or enjoy a row in a rowing boat. The Lumiere Festival takes place every couple of years in November and brings the city to life with live art, music and light shows in the open air theatre that the city becomes. A little further afield but still within an easy 30 minute drive, guests will be able to take a day trip out to the very popular Beamish Living Museum of the North, see the famous Angel of the North statue in Gateshead, enjoy a day’s shopping at the MetroCentre and explore the vibrant city of Newcastle-upon-Tyne. Beach 17½ miles. Shop, pub and restaurant ½ mile.

Syke Cottage is a Grade II listed cottage dating back to 1790. Providing welcoming holiday accommodation, it is situated in the picturesque village of Mickleton in Teesdale. With modern amenities, the cottage still retains its traditional charm and is warm and welcoming. Set within beautiful countryside with far-reaching views.
Downstairs, the country kitchen has all the appliances you will need for your stay, with a rustic farmhouse-style table to accommodate your party for breakfast or supper. The living room has wood floors oak beams, and a wood burner which has huge appeal for cosy winter nights. Upstairs are three bedrooms offering a variety of sleeping arrangements. The double bedroom on the second floor has vaulted ceilings with beams and a Velux window, with a handy en-suite shower room. On the first floor are double and twin rooms with a family bathroom. To the rear of the cottage is a lovely lawned garden to enjoy, where you can sit in peace and quiet and enjoy the beautiful views.
Set in the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Mickleton is just off the Pennine Way Walk and close to the impressive High Force which is one the most impressive waterfalls in England. There are many beautiful scenic walks and cycle paths direct from the door. Within a 15-minute drive is the historic market town of Barnard Castle. Here you can visit the famous Bowes Museum, its castle ruins, and the weekly markets, and is home to many lovely restaurants, pubs, and independent shops. A little further afield, the Yorkshire Dales National Park is within a 40-minute drive of the beautiful Cathedral City of Durham with its cobbled streets, grand architecture, and riverside walks. Even the North York Moors National Park or the Lake District National Park can both be visited for a day trip so handy is its central location on the Pennines.
When it comes to eating out, Mickleton village has a pub serving wholesome bar meals. There are 2 or 3 restaurants within 2 miles of the cottage. A well-stocked supermarket can be found in Middleton-in-Teesdale, just 2 miles away.

In the heart of Teesdale, on the edge of the North Pennines in an AONB, this detached character cottage stands within the grounds of Eggleston Hall, famed for its nursery garden and association with the TV series Ladette to Lady. There is a gift shop and café/bistro in its grounds. Many original features add to the character of this holiday cottage. A haven for nature lovers, walkers and fishermen, with High Force waterfall, Bowes museum, Raby Castle, Barnard Castle and town of Richmond nearby. Shop 6 miles, two pubs, one 200 yards.

Bowlees Holiday Cottages are nestled on a hillside in the heart of County Durham, located a mile from the idyllic conservation village of Wolsingham in the Durham Dales. Raby Cottage (ref 27764), Durham Cottage (ref 27765) and Heartwell Cottage (ref UKC1473) are delightful, semi-detached properties. The Farmhouse (ref UKC3218) is detached and boasts everything a large party could ask for. Furnished to a very good standard, The Farmhouse is spacious, light and has ample facilities for up to 16 guests. There is a family suite on the ground floor which has curved walls and a high ceiling, and was previously a gin gang. There is a further suite on the first floor which has a galleried en-suite boasting a huge bath and equally impressive shower area. With a private hot tub, large lawned garden and views across the owner’s unspoilt grounds, which cover nearly 60 acres, guests may never want to leave. These holiday properties are absolutely perfect for families, walkers, cyclists and groups of friends wanting to enjoy a super holiday together. Additionally there is an on-site facility (open 9am-9pm) with games room with full-size snooker table, a heated indoor swimming pool and a shared hot tub. There is also a fishing lake that can be used by guests. Whether you choose to take in the scenic countryside that County Durham has to offer, or are looking for a quieter retreat, this is an ideal holiday base.

For guests who enjoy exploring the local area on foot or by bike, there are numerous established public footpaths and cycle paths that lead directly from the owner’s grounds. These paths go through some of the most scenic woodland and unspoilt countryside in the county. Just minutes away are Tunstall Reservoir and Hamsterley Forest, with bike riding, horse riding and many other activities available. Kilhope Lead Mining Centre and Beamish Museum are close by, as is a real snow ski lift.

Located around 30 minutes from the historic city of Durham with its World Heritage site status, cathedral and castle, guests really must take a day trip there to explore and enjoy all of the historic attractions, as well as indulging in a spot of well-earned retail therapy in one of the many boutiques. Alternatively, visitors can treat themselves to afternoon tea in one of the numerous cafés, restaurants and bistros. The National Railway Museum at Shildon, High Force Waterfall, the Metro Centre, Newcastle Airport, Durham Tees Valley Airport, Diggerland and Newcastle city centre, with its cultural attractions, are all within easy reach. Visit Hadrian’s Wall, Lake District National Park and the beautiful north east coastline. Shop, pub and restaurant 2 miles. These properties can be booked together to accommodate up to 43 guests.

This converted barn has produced a larger than average cottage which can accommodate up to six people. Situated in the Upper Teesdale Valley, the holiday cottage provides a wonderful base for touring this area of the Northern Dales, with wonderful views - ideal for walkers. Enjoy the local pub, just 600 yards, renowned for its food. The cottage has many attractive features, including exposed stone walls, Velux roof windows in bedrooms, and is fitted with all modern conveniences. Shop 2 miles, pub 600 yards.

A detached property, nestling in the Co Durham countryside between Teesdale and Weardale, Cotswolds Cottage offers spacious accommodation for up to six people and their furry friends, with the owners living adjacent to the property. The open plan living room looks out through huge windows across the patio and beyond to the stunning countryside. It has a separate dining area, and fully equipped kitchen with all the modern appliances you would expect to give you that home from home experience. There’s also a utility/boot room, ideal to step into after a day out exploring.
There are three double bedrooms, two of which are conveniently located on the ground floor, with two ground floor bathrooms.
Outside is a spacious patio area with garden furniture and BBQ; a great space to take your morning coffee, and take in the peace and tranquillity, or fire up the BBQ on a summer’s night and gather your friends and family for some alfresco dining.
Hamsterley is a popular base for getting about in the Durham Dales, with nearby towns such as Wolsingham, Frosterley, Stanhope, and Hamsterley Forest with way-marked walks, cycle ways and a visitor centre, whilst the Durham Dales has wonderful scenery, including High Force in Upper Teesdale with its 70ft waterfall. There is so much to see in the area - Durham City is just 14 miles away, with its magnificent cathedral and cobbled streets and abundance of restaurants, coffee shops and array of shops and galleries. Within an hour’s drive are the beautiful Northumberland beaches and castles. Kilhope Lead Mining Centre and Beamish Museum are a short drive away. Shop 4 miles, pub 200 yards and restaurant 7 miles.

Stanhope is often referred to as ’The Gateway to the Dales’. The North Pennines, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is the perfect setting for a rural retreat or for guests who enjoy walking orcycling, as well as those wanting to just enjoy a leisurely stroll through some of the most splendid countryside that the county has to offer. For cyclists it is handy for Cycling and mountain biking trails at Hamsterley Forest and close to the C2C route.
Fully renovated in 2022, this beautiful cottage is light and bright with attractive furnishings and has a truly welcoming feel. The spacious living room has a Smart TV, and an inglenook fireplace with electric wood burner. Adjoining this is the well-equipped kitchen, with all the electrical appliances you will need for your stay. A warm and social space with shaker-style kitchen, dresser, and dining table, perfect for a hearty brunch or warming supper. Outside is a small courtyard area with bistro table and chairs, a lovely spot for a morning coffee or glass of wine as the sun goes down. Three beautifully-appointed bedrooms to catch your sleep, each offering ample storage space to unpack your belongings. Enjoy beautiful views across the rolling Dales to the Pennines from the front bedrooms.
Along the High Street you will find pubs, tea shops and cafés, local butchers, bakers, and takeaway food options, as well as interesting gift shops. At the nearby Durham Dales Centre, you will find a great selection of walking maps and information, as well as a variety of craft shops and a small café. Pub and restaurant/tapas bar around the corner. There are many established walks, cycle paths and routes running directly from the town and out towards some of the traditional villages including Eastgate, Cowshill, Rookhope, Killhope, Frosterley and Wolsingham.
Ideal for children is the Weardale Railway that stops in Stanhope and covers an 18-mile heritage line that runs through parts of County Durham and has different events all year round. In the warmer weather, enjoy the river or Weardale Open Air Swimming Pool, which is the only heated open-air pool in the county.
Local attractions include: Kynren – An Epic Tale of England, the UK’s ’must-see’ spectacular live action show that takes place every summer. Hamsterley Forest, Raby Castle, or a little further visit Barnard Castle with its lovely riverside walks, High Force and Low Force Waterfalls, independent shops, galleries, eateries, and the famous Bowes Museum. Within an easy 40-minute drive, guests will be able to visit the city of Durham with its historic cathedral, castle and university. Beamish Living Museum, Gateshead Metrocentre, Newcastle upon Tyne, Hexham, Corbridge and Hadrian’s Wall can all be reached in an hour’s drive and offer a great day out for guests of all ages. Pub and restaurant ¼ miles

Escape to the idyllic countryside and experience the perfect holiday retreat at this charming stone-built barn conversion in Barnard Castle. This delightful property offers a cosy and comfortable stay, with all rooms conveniently located on the ground floor and featuring underfloor heating for your utmost comfort.
The barn boasts two welcoming bedrooms, both furnished with double beds, promising restful nights after a day of exploring the picturesque surroundings. The bathroom is a spacious haven, complete with a large walk-in shower and a heated towel rail, ensuring that your daily routine is as delicate as it is convenient. For added convenience, there is a separate toilet. The heart of this barn conversion is the expansive open-plan living area. The stunning living area features a Smart TV and a wood burner, making it the perfect space for relaxation and entertainment. But the real highlight is the glass patio doors that open onto the patio, offering breathtaking views of the rolling countryside. Imagine sipping your morning coffee or enjoying a glass of wine in the evening while taking in the stunning vistas. The modern and well equipped kitchen includes a convenient breakfast bar, allowing you to whip up delicious meals and share your culinary creations with your loved ones. While the property itself offers a tranquil escape, there’s also plenty to explore in the area. The charming town of Barnard Castle is within walking distance, offering a variety of shops, restaurants, pubs, and historic attractions. Don’t miss a visit to the majestic Barnard Castle itself, an English Heritage site that provides a glimpse into the region’s rich history.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby Teesdale Way offers picturesque walks and opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting. The beautiful High Force Waterfall is a short drive away, and the Bowes Museum is a cultural gem nearby. With an array of attractions and amenities at your doorstep, Southview Barn is the ideal base for a memorable holiday in Barnard Castle.
Book your stay today and discover the perfect blend of rural tranquillity and modern comfort in this delightful stone barn conversion, where you can create cherished memories and savour the beauty of the countryside.