Dog-friendly Durham

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.

Perfectly located right at the heart of the peaceful village of Bishop Middleham, which boasts one popular village pub and a local shop, this is the most ideal semi-detached holiday home for a family getaway or celebration. Situated just a short 8-mile drive away from the historic cathedral city of Durham, there are many links between the city and the village itself. Well-positioned between the three castles of Durham, Stockton and Darlington, Bishop Middleham became the favourite seat of the early bishops and has a wealth of its own history. Once known as a popular village pub The Dun Cow remains an important part of that history and guests will be able to take a look at the unusual sign above the door which is identical to a carving on the northwest turret of Durham Cathedral. Perfect for extended families wanting to meet up or for groups of friends wanting to holiday together, guests will find that The Dun Cow is spacious, bright, and full of charm. The enclosed garden is large and well designed with a raised decking area and plenty of outdoor furniture.
There are many established public footpaths, walks and cycle paths that lead directly through the village and out into the heart of County Durham. Perfect for families of all ages and with excellent transport links, there are plenty of amenities and attractions all within just a short 30-minute drive. The city of Durham, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is only 8 miles away and is one of the most historic cities in England, offering guests an abundance of attractions to visit and enjoy including Durham Castle and Durham Cathedral. There is also the Gala Theatre and Millennium Square located in the centre of the city, making this the perfect spot for guests wanting to enjoy a theatre trip as part of their break. Packed with top quality restaurants, bistros, cafés and bars, Durham is a thriving city with plenty of entertainment for guests at all times of the year. Guests have the opportunity to enjoy the Lumiere Festival every other year, annual book week, jazz festival, arts festival, miner’s gala and many more free attractions as well as the weekly farmers’ market and pavement artists that line the streets and marketplace. Beach 14½ miles. Shop, pub, and restaurant ¼ mile.

Mill Stone Cottage is well presented and furnished to a good standard throughout and is ideal for families, couples and friends who enjoy holidaying together. Full of character, charm and original features, guests will find a cosy living room with a multi-fuel burner, beams and comfortable sofas. On the first floor guests will find a comfortable en-suite, double bedroom that is very well presented and with super views extending out towards the dales. There is also a twin bedroom and a super family bathroom with a feature bath, heated towel rail and plenty of original features that fit well alongside the practical touches. Outside, guests will have use of a patio area with an outdoor table and chairs to relax on those sunny days.
Perfectly situated in the village of Wolsingham, Mill Stone Cottage is the ideal place for guests who want to really explore this beautiful part of the country. Often referred to as the ’Gateway to the Dales’, the conservation village of Wolsingham is situated in picturesque Weardale, in the North Pennines, and is part of a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Offering three welcoming, local pubs serving food, as well as a good choice of cafés and local shops selling a range of goods, Wolsingham is a popular destination for guests of all ages. The cottage is situated right at the heart of the village where all the amenities are within easy walking distance of the front door. Perfect for walkers, cyclists and ramblers wanting to explore the Durham Dales and North Pennines, guests will find plenty of established local footpaths, cycle routes and bridleways which lead directly from Wolsingham and into some of the most spectacular countryside that the area has to offer.
The popular town of Stanhope is only 6 miles away, and guests really must take a visit to the Durham Dales Centre where there is plenty of specialist information regarding walks, cycle routes and local area history. As a great base for guests wanting to really explore the local area, Mill Stone Cottage really is the ideal spot. Wolsingham lies only 16 miles away from the cathedral city of Durham, where guests will find plenty of historic attractions including the cathedral and castle, as well as a variety of boutique shops, cafés, bistros and tea shops. Ideal for those wanting to enjoy a romantic break as there are plenty of riverside walks, street festivals and artists, theatre, cinema and leisure centre in the heart of the city. Great too for visiting friends and family at any of Durham University campuses. The lead mining museum in Killhope, 20 miles away, is another popular attraction and shows the history of how lead was mined by generations of miners who lived in the Weardale area. Newcastle upon Tyne, the Metrocentre, Barnard Castle, Derwent Reservoir and Alston, which is the highest market town in England, can all be reached within an hour’s drive. A little further afield but still within an hour and a half driving distance, guests will be able to take a day trip to the Lake District, Northumbria, Hadrian’s Wall, Middleton-in-Teesdale and the spectacular, High Force Waterfall, which is the highest in England. Shop 250 yards, pub and restaurant 100 yards.

Located in a great spot within a couple of minutes’ walk away from the centre of Stanhope, The Butts Cottage is in the perfect location for walkers, cyclists, small families or guests wanting to enjoy a quiet, romantic break. Fully refurbished, this detached cottage is cosy and welcoming, and is all on one level. The kitchen is small and compact, yet offers a good range of appliances and a breakfast bar for dining. The double bedroom is small and well presented, whilst the single bedroom is ideal for a child. There is a small garden to the front, and the River Wear is just a short walk away.

Stanhope is a thriving market town offering a variety of local amenities, including plenty of pubs, tea shops and cafés, a sweet shop, local butchers, bakers and fish and chip shop – all within walking distance from the front door of The Butts Cottage. A very popular base for walkers and cyclists too, Stanhope is located in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and is often referred to as ’The Gateway to the Dales’ and is home to the very informative Durham Dales Centre, which boasts an informative selection of maps, as well as a variety of craft shops and a small café.

Walkers will find themselves surrounded by the open countryside of Weardale, with many established walks, cycle paths and routes running directly from the town and out towards some of the traditional villages nearby including, Eastgate, Cowshill, Rookhope, Killhope, Frosterley and Wolsingham. For very energetic guests, Stanhope boasts The Weardale Open Air Swimming Pool, which is the only heated open-air pool in the county, and perfect for a warm dip surrounded by beautiful views of the countryside.

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, including the very popular Train Christmas Town. A little further afield, but still within an easy 40-minute drive, guests will be able to visit the city of Durham with its historic cathedral, castle and university. The university campuses can be reached within a 45-minute drive, so are very accessible for guests wanting to visit friends and family there yet remain a short distance away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. Barnard Castle, 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. Shop, pub and restaurant 275 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.

The Barn is situated in the grounds of the owner’s farm where pure bred Aberdeen Angus cattle are raised, and is in a superb location. One of two cottages The Barn has fabulous views, and the open plan living/dining/kitchen areas are spacious and grand with high ceilings and a beautiful feature window. It has comfortable furnishings and a warming wood burner, whilst each of the three bedrooms offers an en-suite and there is ample space and privacy for families or guests that like to holiday with friends. The north-facing balcony area is the perfect vantage point for enjoying the view and there is also a separate, enclosed garden area for those al fresco evenings. Hidden away down a quiet country lane yet conveniently within easy distance of the county’s most historic and unspoilt scenery, The Barn has something to offer guests of all ages.
The property lies only 5 miles away from Bishop Auckland, where the incredibly popular Kynren Spectacular is performed between July and September every year. Barnard Castle, the Bowes Museum and Raby Castle can all be reached within an easy 30-minute drive as well as the historic, cathedral city of Durham which has been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Younger children and train enthusiasts will enjoy taking a trip to the National Railway Museum in Shildon which is only 15 minutes’ drive away or take a ride on The Train to Christmas Town which runs through nearby Weardale and leaves from Stanhope Station only 25 minutes away. Perfect for walkers and cyclists too, the property is surrounded by open countryside and fields, and guests will find many established walks, public footpaths and cycle paths within the area leading out into smaller villages including Witton-le-Wear, Escomb and Butterknowle. Hamsterley Forest is one of the north’s most popular destinations for cyclists too, and is only 4 miles away. This impressive 2000-hectare site covers some of the most beautiful countryside and offers various bike trails of different difficulties and plenty of walks for guests of all abilities including the very popular Gruffalo Trail for children. Beach 26½ miles. Shop, pub and restaurant 1 mile.

Tucked away behind a Yorkshire stone wall and with the River Tees flowing across the back of the garden, Grace’s Retreat can only be described as a real gem of a cottage. Attached to the owners home, yet maintaining ample privacy for guests, this semi-detached, single-storey cottage offers excellent quality accommodation, in a super location. With brilliant transport links between Yorkshire, County Durham and the A1 not far away, guests will find plenty of places to visit and explore during their stay. Perfect for walkers and cyclists, Grace’s Retreat lies close to many established walking and cycling routes, including walks along the River Tees and not far from the famous Coast to Coast cycle route, which has become one of the most popular in the country. With three excellent local pubs and a Michelin starred restaurant all within a 10-minute walk, guests need not venture too far for a fabulous meal and a great night out. Perfect for romantic breaks, this could not be better situated for that special occasion or a treat with the spa at Rockcliffe Hall less than 2 miles away. Fishing and golf are also very popular in the area with a top class golf course within a 5-minute drive from the doorstep. For excellent shopping, cinema, leisure centre and railway station, the city of Darlington is just 3 miles away. Catterick Racecourse is only a 20-minute drive away for those guests wanting to enjoy a day at the races and York Races can be reached in around an hour. The historic market town of Richmond is a little under 30 minutes’ drive away and has a weekly farmers market as well as an abundance of attractions to explore including Richmond Castle, which stands high on the hill and looks out over the thriving market town below. The magnificent Yorkshire Dales National Park is an hour’s drive away and in the opposite direction, guests will find the cathedral city of Durham within an hour too. Many pretty Yorkshire towns and villages including Thirsk, Ripon, Yarm, Northallerton and Leyburn are all close by and offer all of the welcoming hospitality that the county is famous for. There is even the opportunity to visit one of the dazzling Yorkshire beaches and coastline with the seaside town of Whitby and glorious Robin Hood’s Bay, both can be reached within an easy one and a half hour’s drive.
Grace’s Retreat has been lovingly renovated to a good standard. With a large, open plan living area and kitchen, guests will find ample space to enjoy all of the features including original wood panelling, beams, wooden floor, 50" Freeview TV and a super wood burner that is perfect for those romantic evenings in. The bedroom is full of quality furnishings and boasts a kingsize bed and the bathroom is well finished throughout with a top quality shower cubicle and heated towel rail. Outside guests will find a small courtyard area with outdoor seating and also a private parking space. Warm and welcoming, Grace’s Retreat really is a great place to relax, unwind and enjoy a holiday or special occasion at any time of year. Beach 26 miles. Shop 1 mile, pub and restaurant 400 yards.

Occupying an elevated position overlooking the hills and valleys of Teesdale, Ornella View is a detached cottage, nestled in a perfect location for guests wanting to really explore the countryside of County Durham. Well-loved as a family home, Ornella View offers a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere with plenty of space for larger groups of guests. On the ground floor are two spacious living areas, each with ample space for the whole family. In the main living room, guests will find a cosy wood burner and comfortable sofas, as well as an open plan dining area, and in the sitting room there is a large TV and plenty of space to relax. Families will also enjoy the added bonus of a games room in the garage, which houses a pool table, dartboard and sofa. The kitchen is well equipped and perfect for those family celebrations too. On the first floor, guests will find a large family bedroom which offers a double bed and two full size single beds, which is ideal for parents with small children. There is also a double bedroom, twin bedroom and further double bedroom with an en-suite shower room. The family bathroom has a bath and a separate shower cubicle. Guests will find ample garden space around the property with a lawned area to the rear and ample garden furniture for those sunny days. There is a hot tub seating 6 in the garden, please bring your own towels for use with the hot tub.
Perfect for walkers of all abilities, the area offers an abundance of established public footpaths and walk ways that pass through the village and out beyond through Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty including the North Pennines and many of the pretty villages in Teesdale. The Mid Teesdale circular walk and the Pennine Way are both close by and offer guests the most perfect opportunity to really enjoy the natural delights of the area, culminating in a trip to the spectacular Low Force Waterfall which is the first of a series of waterfalls to explore. Also perfect for cyclists, the area is well-known for its many cycle routes and off road opportunities. Only 2 miles away is the the popular village of Middleton–in–Teesdale where guests will find a thriving area with many amenities including excellent local pubs and restaurants, as well as a local shop and market place. A little further afield but still along the path of the Teesdale Circular Walk, guests will be able to stop off at Eggleston Hall for a spot of lunch in the very popular tearooms. Guests can wander through the beautiful gardens which cover 4½ acres and includes a stream and stunning views of the fells. Perfect for families, there are many attractions for guests of all ages within a 30-minute radius. Barnard Castle and The Bowes Museum are only 8 miles away and certainly worth a visit, Stanhope for The Dales Visitor Centre and Killhope for the Lead Mining Museum are both within a 30-minute drive away. Bishop Auckland, which is home to the annual Kynren Spectacular, can also be reached within a 30-minute drive, and is a must see for families staying at Ornella View between July – September. The cathedral city of Durham and the majestic Lake District are both reachable in around a 45-minute drive too. Shop 2 miles, pub 180 yards, gastro pub 360 yards.

Situated high up on a hill above Tunstall Reservoir, in a hidden valley on the edge of the North Pennines, Backstone Bank Farmhouse is a fabulous property in a stunning location. Located next to a working farm, in spectacular surroundings overlooking the Tunstall Valley, this 16th-century farmhouse has amazing views from every room. It offers accommodation of the highest standard, and has been renovated and lovingly furnished, retaining many original features with the addition of top quality facilities. The kitchen is fully fitted with contemporary, quality appliances, yet also retains many original features including exposed beams and two historic larders, and the dining room comfortably seats 9 people. There is also a very useful boot room, which is the ideal place for walkers and pet owners to leave their coats and boots to dry.
Perfect for walkers, country lovers and cyclists, as well as families and friends, this location has something for everyone to enjoy. There are numerous popular footpaths and cycle paths that criss-cross over the surrounding fields and countryside out into the North Pennines and Durham Dales, including the famous Coast to Coast route. Often referred to as the ’Gateway to the Dales’, the conservation village of Wolsingham is situated in picturesque Weardale in the North Pennines, and is part of a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The popular town of Stanhope is a little over 6 miles away, and a visit to the Durham Dales Centre is recommended. Plenty of specialist information regarding walks and cycle routes (as well as history about the local area) can be found here. The beautiful and historic cathedral city of Durham is just 17 miles away, and can be reached within an easy 30-minute drive. Well deserving of its UNESCO World Heritage Site status, the area has many historic attractions including Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle, as well as a variety of boutique shops, cafés, bistros and tea shops. Bishop Auckland is just under 13 miles away and plays host to the spectacular Eleven Arches show called Kynren. For families wanting to take a day trip to Beamish Living Museum, this popular tourist attraction is only 16 miles away. The picturesque market town of Barnard Castle is just a 30-minute drive away, with a selection of great pubs in nearby Romaldkirk and Middleton-in-Teesdale. Just a few miles beyond is the majestic High Force, the highest waterfall in England. The lead mining museum in Killhope, 20 miles, is another popular attraction and shows the history of how lead was mined by generations of miners who lived in the Weardale area.
Newcastle-upon-Tyne, the Metrocentre, Derwent Reservoir, and Alston, which is the highest market town in England, can all be reached within an hour’s drive, and really are worth a visit. A little further afield, but still within an hour and a half driving distance, guests will be able to take a day trip to the Lake District, Northumbria’s beaches and Alnwick Castle.
Beautifully presented throughout and in a fabulous location, surrounded by acres of land as well as a private garden, Backstone Bank Farmhouse really does have so much to offer. Perfect for families, friends and discerning guests, this property will be the most fabulous base for any occasion at any time of year. Shops, pubs and restaurants 3 miles.

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.