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.

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.

Broats Barn is a delightful cottage in the quaint village of Bolam. Set back overlooking the garden to the front, adjacent to the owner’s home, Broats Barn has been completely refurbished in 2019 to a good standard. This semi-detached cottage features original beams and exposed stonework throughout. Upon entering Broats Barn there is a lovely living room leading through to a warm and welcoming kitchen complimented by the Aga, the perfect spot to enjoy a meal with family or friends.

Perfectly located within this small village, Broats Barn is the ideal location for exploring County Durham and surrounding countryside. Ideal for walkers and cyclists there are plenty of walking routes and cycle ways that pass through the village into some of the most stunning countryside. Return from a day’s exploration and enjoy a well-earned drink in the village pub!

There are a number of little villages and towns to explore close by. Set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, take a trip to Barnard Castle, a thriving and historic market town with many quaint little shops. On your way, visit the deer at Raby Castle where they roam freely within the grounds. For those seeking a livelier pace, the beautiful cities of Durham and Newcastle with bars and restaurants are within easy reach. Shop 4 miles, pub and restaurant 50 yards.

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

In an idyllic rural location, up a sweeping driveway, you have the gorgeous Abigail’s Cottage. Backing onto the paddocks beyond, the friendly neighbouring horses pass by the bedroom windows. There is a large lawned garden with a huge koi carp pond, shared with the owners who live nearby, as well as your own private patio. Take in the scenery whilst enjoying meals out in the sunshine, whether you fancy a full English and a cup of tea whilst listening to the dawn chorus or a barbecue as the sunsets. This property is all on one level, and a ramp can be provided on request for the entrance. The layout is designed for wheelchair users, it is spacious with wide doorframes. Inside you have a bright living room, with soft cosy sofas around the wood burner, which is a delight on chilly winter evenings, when you can get snug in front of the crackling flames. The kitchen has a country feel and is well equipped ready for you to whip up any culinary delights your heart desires. Throughout the property you have the original beams and high vaulted ceilings. There are two bedrooms, there is the master kingsize bedroom with west views across the paddock, so that you can see the sunset in the evening. Plus, a twin bedroom with an en suite walk-in shower. The cottage is completed by a family bath room, with a comfortable oval bath, where you can slide beneath the bubbles and unwind, as well as a walk-in shower.
Nearby you have some beautiful places to discover. The cottage has easy access to the road network which means exploring around Northumberland and County Durham is easy. The Durham coastline has beautiful beaches such as nearby Seaham, as well as rugged clifftops and dramatic headlands. A trip to Beamish Open Air Museum, 20 miles, is a must. You may also like to take a trip to Bishop Auckland to see the epic tale of England at the annual event called Kynren. This amazing spectacle spans 2000 years of history, myth and legend, starting at the end of June until mid-September. With fireworks and battle re-enactments this is an incredible live show.
Nearby you have Durham city, which is one of the most historic cities in England and offers guests a variety of attractions to visit and explore. The city has recently been awarded the UNESCO World Heritage Site accolade and Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle are definitely worth a visit. 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, cafés 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, miner’s gala and many more free attractions as well as the weekly farmers market and pavement artists that line the streets and marketplace. 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. This is a great choice for families, couples and friends in all seasons.

Reading Room Cottages are lovingly furnished, traditional style cottages set on the historic Barningham Estate. Situated in the picturesque village of Barningham, the cottages are conveniently located next to a great local pub, where guests can enjoy delicious locally sourced food and drink to both eat in and take away. The cottages have been decorated in keeping with their surroundings, using a mixture of antique and contemporary furniture, giving it a traditional and natural aesthetic.
The cottages gets their names from their traditional function as a place where the inhabitants of the village could come and read the daily newspaper that had been delivered to Barningham Park – the home occupied by the Milbank family since 1690. Barningham village is a picturesque village situated between Richmond and Barnard Castle. It was named Durham Rural Community Council’s ‘Best Small Village’ in 2010 and is a tranquil conservation village, with a large village green, a church, a village bakery, shop and an active village hall.
The Reading Room Cottages are ideally situated for guests wishing to explore the beautiful Yorkshire Dales. There is a wide range of activities to pursue in the area including walking, cycling, fell running, birdwatching and wildlife spotting. Fishing and shooting are available by private request with the owners- seasonal walked up and driven shooting and stalking for individuals or groups can be arranged.
History lovers can enjoy the rich Bronze Age heritage that can be found at remote sites on Barningham Moor, including Chieftan burial mounds and the Cup and Ring Stones. Visit historic market towns including nearby Barnard Castle, offering many independent shops, cafés and restaurants, as well as a large supermarket. Other attractions in Barnard Castle include the Bowes Museum, Witham Arts and Cultural Centre, Rokeby Hall and The Chocolate Fair.
Historic Richmond is 12 miles away and is where you will find Richmond Castle and a large cobbled market square surrounded by shops, tea rooms, pubs and restaurants. Other attractions include Auckland Castle, Raby Castle, High Force Waterfall, The Forbidden Corner at Leyburn, Duncombe Park, Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Gardens, which can all be reached in under an hour. For special occasions, spa treatments are available at Middleton Lodge, 11 miles away, or the Morritt Hotel and Spa, 2½ miles. Shop 500 yards, pub and restaurant 25 yards.
These properties can be booked together to accommodate up to 7 guests.

This wonderful apartment is just beside the River Wear with a popular riverside walk along the bank, you are just around the corner from the centre of the thriving and beautiful market town of Stanhope. Fully refurbished in 2021, it matches the same standards as its sister apartment Squirrel Cottage (ref UK37886). Entering the property you are welcomed by a spacious living area, with an open plan kitchen, dining and living room. Ideal for socialising in an evening and winding down after a busy day of exploring. There are many thoughtful personal touches ensuring this is a stay to remember, including a huge map of the local area beside the dining table so that you can plan the adventures for the days ahead. The bathroom is large and indulgent, everything is of a high quality and has been designed with your comfort in mind. There are two double bedrooms, through the master double bedroom you have a door leading out into the enclosed yard with a seating area. Looking up from the courtyard you have views up to the castle which is on the hillside behind the property. This is 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.
Stanhope offers a variety of local amenities, including plenty of cafés, a sweet shop, local butchers, bakers and fish and chip shop, all within walking distance from the front door Riverside Cottage. There is also an assortment of local bars, including The Bonny Moorhen which is named after a famous battle here, between poachers and the Bishops Men, it serves great home cooked meals as well as weekend live entertainment. 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 to Christmas Town.
Just a 25 minutes drive to Hamsterley Forest, High force water falls, Derwent reservoir and Alston. 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 museums. 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. For a country break away to remember, this apartment is sure to delight. Shop, pub and restaurant ¼ mile.
Riverside Cottage can be booked together with Squirrel Cottage (UK37886) to accommodate up to 8 guests.

The Stables is a stunning property and sits in an elevated position with grand views over rolling countryside, just outside the popular village of Stanhope in the Durham Dales. Within the extensive grounds there is a variety of seating areas, picnic tables and loungers - something here for everyone. Completed in July 2022, The Stables has been finished to an exceptional standard. Care has been taken to allow for accessible entry for less mobile guests, or wheelchair users. The spacious open plan living space has huge floor to ceiling windows bringing the outside in, the leather corner sofas are positioned to take full advantage of this. A suspended egg chair is bound to be a firm favourite, while a wall mounted Smart TV provides entertainment. There is a large well-equipped kitchen/dining room, boot room, a utility room and separate toilet. The bedrooms offer flexible sleeping arrangements on request.

Outside, enjoy a dip in the hot tub set in a smaller courtyard garden, a great way to relax after a busy day. Amble down to the fountain to find a quiet spot to read a book or enjoy an al fresco supper. As night draws in, take a warm throw to wrap up and sit and experience the amazing starry skies above. The children will love the activity play area. To cater for your stay, grocery deliveries from the major supermarkets are available, and if required arrangements can be made for a local Thai chef to provide meals on request (by contacting the owner).
The village centre is approximately one mile away with an excellent variety of local amenities, where you will find pubs, tea shops, cafés, butchers, bakers, and takeaways. Located in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Stanhope is often referred to as ’The Gateway to the Dales’. There are many established walks, cycle paths, and routes running directly from the town and out toward some of the traditional villages. In the warmer weather, enjoy the Weardale Open Air Swimming Pool. Also ideal for children is the Weardale Railway which stops in Stanhope, and covers an 18-mile heritage line that chugs through parts of County Durham and has different events all year round. Other attractions include a visit to Raby Castle, or Barnard Castle with its lovely riverside walks and the famous Bowes Museum.
Two horses , dogs and cats live on the property.

Nestling in the peaceful village of Butterknowle in the heart of the Durham Dales, Little Glencrest is packed full of features. The décor is simple and classic with a wonderful cosy feel. The living room, with sofa and Smart TV, has large French doors leading on to the terrace and garden. In the wintertime, the modern wood burner will keep you as warm as toast. The bedroom with a king size bed leads off with en-suite wet room with walk-in shower.
Outside there is a beautiful, flagged terrace, festooned with lights, where you’ll find the KIRAMI wood-fired hot tub. The lawned garden is completely private and secure for dogs. With dark skies in the evening, imagine relaxing in the steaming hot tub with a glass of fizz whilst stargazing. You might hear the local owls and curlews. The terrace is set with a bistro table and chairs to enjoy an al fresco supper.
Butterknowle is a quiet rural village surrounded by farming communities and natural open spaces, with the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty only a few minutes’ drive away. There is an abundance of places to explore, with established public footpaths and cycle routes all within walking distance. Visit the nearby award winning Teesdale Cheese Cafe and shop where you can enjoy brunch, lunch or cake and coffee. The pretty village of Staindrop is just 6 miles away and offers tea shops and cafés. Raby Castle is within easy reach and is a must for guests who wish to catch a glimpse of over 200 deer which wander the grounds. Follow on to the bustling market town of Barnard Castle with a weekly farmers’ market, and some super local pubs, restaurants, independent shops, galleries, and historic buildings. Bishop Auckland, the traditional home of the Bishop of Durham is just a 15-minute drive. Visit the recently renovated Auckland Castle, the Spanish Art Gallery or see the fabulous Kynren Eleven Arches spectacle during the summer months. Here you’ll also find a variety of supermarkets, shops, and restaurants. Hamsterley Forest, a delightful 2000-hectare site of popular walking trails, cycle trails, orienteering and picnic spots, is just a 10-minute drive away.
Grassholme Observatory offers visitors a chance to enjoy the wonders of the universe at workshops and events led by top astronomers throughout the year and is less than half an hour away. The city of Durham can be reached within a 40-minute drive, with its magnificent cathedral and castle and beautiful riverside walks.

Meadow View is a lovely cottage situated in a perfect location to enjoy all amenities in the popular market town of Stanhope, 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 or cycling, For cyclists, it is a handy location for cycling and mountain biking trails at Hamsterley Forest, and is close to the C2C route.
Fully renovated in 2021, Meadow View Cottage has a warm and welcoming feel, with lots of special touches throughout. The modern, rustic-style living room has relaxing sofas, an oak dining table, flagged floors and an inglenook fireplace with cosy wood burner. Adjoining this is the well-equipped kitchen and handy utility room with indoor storage space for cycles. Outside is an enclosed courtyard area with table and chairs, a lovely spot for a morning coffee or evening meal. There are also hot and cold taps to wash down your furry friends after their riverside walks! Upstairs are two beautifully appointed bedrooms to catch your sleep. The family bathroom has a modern style with a shower attachment over the bath.
Along the High Street you will find pubs, tea shops and cafés, a 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. 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 local open-air swimming pool, which is the only heated open-air pool in the county. Throughout the year, Stanhope hosts a variety of popular outdoor events ranging from music festivals to the annual Stanhope Show.
In nearby Bishop Auckland visit Kynren – An Epic Tale of England, a 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, 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. With so much locally to see and do, Meadow View Cottage makes an excellent base to stay. Pub and restaurant 528 yards.