Dog-friendly Durham

Belle Vue house (UKC4502) has been the family home since the 1890’s and has been lovingly restored in 2020 to a very good standard to include a spacious shaker style kitchen with Neff appliances and a dining area set around a Dimplex electric log-effect fire. The lounge is cosy and overlooks the beautiful cottage style garden, to further relax and enjoy the garden there is a south facing conservatory with garden furniture. The house has three spacious bedrooms, one with en-suite shower room. There is a family bathroom with shower over the bath and a downstairs toilet. Belle Vue (UKC778) is a two bedroomed cottage with a lovely garden so you can sit and relax with a nice glass of something cold on those lovely warm sunny days.
Guests can choose to be as energetic as they feel as there are plenty of places to explore within a short distance on foot or by car. Within walking distance Eggleston has a Gourmet Café in the beautiful grounds of Eggleston Hall with a secret garden and the ruins of a Norman Church. The nearby North Pennines, Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offers an abundance of trails for walking, cycling and hiking through the picturesque woodland. There are two pubs in the village which serve good food, and the area is one of the remotest parts of England and a walkers paradise.
The nearby Market Town of Barnard Castle is home to the unusual Bowes Museum, set within stunning grounds and resembling a French Chateau, it’s home to some beautiful artwork and antiques and is often referred to as the Victoria and Albert of the North. Just 4 miles away you can visit the highest Waterfall in England (High Force), rising above Middleton in Teesdale, with alaso offeres some lovely riverside walks. Hamsterley Forest is a short drive away, and offers a full day out for the whole family and provides a wide variety of mountain biking for all skill levels. Within a short drive is the City of Durham with its iconic cathedral, cobbled streets and independent shops and restaurants. Newcastle on Tyne with the Sage Concert Hall and Baltic Arts Centre are within an hour away. Bishop Auckland is home to the Railway Museum and Auckland Castle and Darlington (with Railway links) is only a half an hour’s drive. For a day out to the coast, drive to Saltburn with its beautiful coastline, beach and a Victorian vernacular lift. Shop 4 mile, pub and restaurant ½ mile.
Belle Bue House (UKC4502) and Belle Vue (UKC778) these properties can be booked together to accommodate 8 guests.

The Old Chapel Retreat, a charming, detached, 19th-century chapel has been skilfully restored to retain much character and charm throughout. It provides quirky, clever holiday accommodation whilst retaining some original stone floors and walls. Perfectly located in the heart of this pretty picture postcard village with quaint inns and tea rooms. Within walking distance is the medieval grand fortress of Raby Castle with its 200-acre deer park surrounding the castle. Barnard Castle, a thriving market town, is only 5 miles with exciting shops and pubs. Auckland Castle, home of the Bishop of Durham and the wonderful nature reserve at Low Barns, is also close by. Beamish Museum lies only 20 miles away where life in the 1800s/1900s can be relived in this working museum. Motor enthusiasts may like to visit Croft Circuit only 12 miles. Durham city, only 17 miles, has a magnificent castle dating back to 1072, a beautiful cathedral, fine shops, galleries and eateries. Try a day exploring the magnificent Roman Wall country in Hexham and Corbridge, easily reached in under an hour and close to the Pennines. A little further venture to Northumberland taking in the magnificent heritage coastal route, stopping off to see Alnwick and explore the castle used to film Robin Hood, Harry Potter and Elizabeth. Meander through the cobbled streets, or visit the enchanting Alnwick Gardens with one of the largest Treehouse restaurants and water fountains. Relax with a drink and barbecue in the enclosed courtyard area after a day out exploring this exciting area or head up to the top floor for a relaxing game of pool in the games room. Shop and pub 25 yards.

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.

East Blackdene enjoys an elevated position above St John’s Chapel in the Durham Dales. Tucked away in a small hamlet, this is the perfect retreat to escape to whether you are looking for a walking holiday or simply some quality time to enjoy stunning landscapes and relaxation. This traditional style stone cottage is set within a lovely garden enjoying far reaching views.

Inside, the cottage feels warm and welcoming with home from home comforts. The living room has wooden beams and comfortable sofas set around an open fire and Smart TV, imagine curling up in the cooler months, while French doors open out to the pretty garden and the beautiful views of the rolling countryside beyond. The kitchen is well equipped with everything you will need for your stay.

Upstairs, 3 bedrooms accommodate a variety of sleeping arrangements whether a couple, family, or group of friends. Situated in the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, St John’s Chapel is increasingly popular with cyclists doing the alternative C2C route, for walkers there is the long distance Weardale Way, quiet walks by the river and Harthope Burn or more strenuous walks to the higher ground overlooking the valley.

Within a short walk of the cottage, you are down at the riverside and can cross into the village of St John’s Chapel, the largest village in the upper dale, the town hall has a fortnightly cinema, a food store, post office/gift shop, two public houses and a cafe. Within a 7 mile drive the pretty market town of Stanhope, with an 18th-century Stanhope Castle in the centre of the town, a heated open-air swimming pool, the famous fossil tree which is approximately 320 million years old and the Durham Dales Centre, which hosts craft shops and an award-winning tearoom. The popular, annual Stanhope Agricultural Show on the second weekend in September was first held in 1834.

Derwent Reservoir is within a 30-minute drive and perfect for those interested in sailing and fishing, whilst providing a lovely location to walk. Weardale Adventure Centre, 4 miles, offer a host of outdoor activities including canoeing, rock climbing, high ropes, archery, and lots more. There is also Weardale ski club, 4 miles. A great day our for the family is the Killhope Lead mining Museum, 5 miles. NB slightly steep and narrow access to East Blackdene hamlet.

Set in beautiful, tranquil grounds of 130 acres, including a section of the River Tees with fishing rights and an arboretum with over 240 species of trees, this superb detached former granary situated on a working farm, has been creatively converted to provide a spacious holiday home brimming with character. Near the North Pennines, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this charming house is perfectly located to tour the Yorkshire Dales, Northumberland with its majestic castles and magnificent beaches, and the Lake District is an hour’s drive away. Close by is the picturesque village of Neasham with a friendly pub and riverside walks, whilst Durham Tees Valley airport is only 4 miles. The owner, who lives on the estate, can organise many activities for visitors by arrangement including rough shooting, canoeing (canoes not provided), deer stalking (at cost), fishing (free), cycles for guests use, horse riding and badger and bird watching (70 species seen). The appealing market towns of Richmond, Yarm and North Allerton make an interesting day out. Stabling and paddock available (for 1 horse, at cost). Shops, pub and restaurant 2 miles.

No.1 Old Hall Cottage is accessed from the lane adjacent to The Old Hall. It is a stone built conversion situated within 15 minutes’ drive of both the historic city of Durham with its mainline rail link, and Bishop Auckland, home of the Prince Bishops at Auckland Castle. This holiday property has a private outdoor seating area which is on two levels with garden views and benefits from its own hot tub set on the upper patio, suitable for 4 adults, it is for exclusive use of guests staying at this cottage. The site has no through traffic and is a rich haven for birds and wildlife, with country walks from the door and cycle tracks. This is the gateway to the Durham Dales, Weardale and Teesdale, with splendour at Raby Castle and Bowes Museum, industrial heritage at Killhope, Beamish and Shildon. Visit Keilder Water, Hadrians Wall, the Northumberland Coast and the Lake District. Shop 2 miles, pub and restaurant ¼mile.

There is another property on this site (refs 30419 with hot tub).

Situated in a rural and secluded position, this delightful holiday home complete with open fire offers cosy and welcoming accommodation with excellent views over open countryside. Some 3 miles from Stanhope, which offers a good selection of shops and pubs and in the heart of Weardale providing footpath walking direct from the door. This farmhouse is centrally placed for exploring the Yorkshire Dales, Northumberland and the Lake District, offering attractions to suit all age groups. There is also Hamsterley Forest which is ideal for walking and cycling. Climbing, horse riding, fishing and swimming are all available in the local area. Shop 0.75 miles, pub and restaurant 0.5 miles.

The pretty village of Hamsterley, situated between Teesdale and Weardale, is the setting for this charming, detached holiday cottage. Converted from former farm buildings the cottage offers contemporary open plan living and dining areas, with granite work surfaces in the kitchen. Upstairs are two bedrooms, one with a double bed, one with twin beds. A family bathroom completes the picture. There is also a private patio and parking area, and shared use of the owner’s 17-acre grounds. Adjoining the house and accessed via the kitchen is a covered verandah with blinds for privacy, which houses a fabulous hot tub, with plenty of space for all four guests. What better way to relax after a day’s adventures exploring the area!
The forest has way-marked walks, cycle ways and a visitor centre, whilst the Durham Dales has a plethora of beautiful scenery, including High Force in Upper Teesdale with its 70ft waterfall.
The university city of Durham, 14 miles away, stands on the River Wear, with its Romanesque cathedral, Norman castle, cobbled streets and independent shops.
No trip to Durham would be complete with a visit to the Beamish Living Museum of the North, an open-air museum bringing to life history from the 1820s through to the 1950s. You can easily get around the cobbled streets on foot or by tram, hopping on and off and popping in and out of shops and houses of a bygone era.
Within an hour’s drive are the Northumberland beaches and castles including Bamburgh, Alnwick and Warkworth. Shop 5 miles, pub and restaurant 200 yards.

Situated in the peaceful village of Bishop Middleham, which is just a short drive away from the city of Durham, semi-detached Brewery House Cottage is the perfect destination for guests wanting to explore the surrounding areas. Right in the heart of Bishop Middleham and only a minute’s walk away from two pubs and a small village shop, Brewery House Cottage has amenities right on the doorstep and is a great place to stay. Perfect for romantic breaks, guests will be able to make full use of the many places to eat, which are within a 10-minute drive. Enjoy the peace and quiet and romantic setting of the cottage itself, beautifully finished to very good standards, it offers guests a high level of comfort with extra touches, including fluffy dressing gowns complimentary toiletries and a welcome tray.
Great for walkers and cyclists, there are many established public footpaths 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 cathedral city of Durham 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 restaurants, bistros, cafes and bars, Durham is a thriving city with plenty of entertainment for guests at all time of the year. Guests have the opportunity to enjoy the bi-annual Lumiere Festival, annual book week, jazz festival, arts festival, miners gala and many more free attractions as well as the weekly farmer’s market and pavement artists that line the streets and market place. Nearby is the historic Auckland Castle in Bishop Auckland.
Should guests wish to enjoy a little retail therapy then they will find some beautiful boutiques along with many high street names and designer shops too. Durham County Cricket Club and Durham Golf Club are also only a short drive away as well as the pool and leisure centre at Freeman’s Quay. Full of personal touches, chic and romantic, Brewery House Cottage really is the perfect destination at any time of year. Shop ¼ mile, pub 100 yards and restaurant 3½ miles.

A warm welcome is extended when you stay at the Manse. This exquisite property can accommodate up to 12 people and is perfect for family reunions, special occasions, or a relaxing getaway with friends. The moment you step inside, you will be enchanted by the unique and exquisite decor, creating a truly unforgettable experience. The aim of your stay here is to refresh and rejuvenate, and of course, be stress-free.
Conveniently located just minutes from the A1 Just an 8-minute drive takes you to the historic city of Durham. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city is filled with a variety of historic sites and popular visitor attractions that are centuries old. Durham Castle and Cathedral must be visited to appreciate the awe-inspiring architecture. The Gala Theatre is located in the centre of the city, making the Manse a perfect location 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 at any time of the year. Guests can try their hand at canoeing or stand-up paddle boarding down on the river!
The incredible Lumiere Festival takes place every second of November, enjoy the jazz festival, arts festival, miners gala, and many more free attractions, as well as the weekly farmers’ market. The top-class cricket ground of Durham County Cricket Club is also only a 20-minute drive away, great for enjoying a test match or concert. The very popular Beamish Living Museum is a 30-minute drive away and makes a good day out for families of all ages. The Angel of the North sculpture is just a 20-minute drive away, while Newcastle and the Metro Centre are 30 minutes by car. The Heritage Coast is under 20 miles away. This fabulous property provides a superb base from which to enjoy our beautiful County of Durham