Dog-friendly Durham

Situated in the pretty village of Hawthorn just two miles from the Durham Heritage Coast and a short walk from the stunning Hawthorn Dene, the second largest dene in the county. Set within impressive grounds, Laburnum house has a unique style providing a high level of comfort throughout, with Egyptian cotton bedding and towels provided as an extra indulgent touch. From the grand entrance, the attractive hallway opens into the living room, a decadent space with leather Chesterfields, a blend of antique furnishings and a beautiful inglenook fireplace and wood burner to gather round. A formal dining room will seat the whole family and provides a wonderful space perfect for that special occasion. The kitchen area is spacious and well equipped with all modern appliances, with additional seating here ideal for breakfast. On the first floor are the bedrooms, all decadent in style and offering a high level of comfort. Two en-suite bedrooms with four poster beds, one has an additional single bed and louvre doors leading to a further sleeping area with a single bed, which makes this a great family room. There is also a separate toilet on this level. On the second floor a fabulous master suite runs the entire length of the property, with vaulted ceilings and double bed. A separate landing area with leather sofa making a gorgeous reading nook and a luxurious bathroom with deep bathtub to enjoy an indulgent soak. Walkway to outdoor spa area with wood fired hot tub (at cost) seating 4 people.
When the weather turns cool enjoy the quirky shelter with seating and dressing area, the perfect place to relax and unwind. Enjoy the cool water foot spas with complimentary bottled water and bamboo foot towels, while you chat with your friends, or simply enjoy the peace and quiet with some mindfulness and relaxation.
Externally is a courtyard garden, a raised decked area with table and wrap round seating makes a gorgeous social space to sit and enjoy al fresco meals and a glass of wine. For the outdoor enthusiast, the property is perfectly situated in an area which offers outstanding walking and sightseeing, within a short walk to the stunning area of Hawthorn Dene, a Site of Special Scientific Interest. There is a plethora of things to do locally, including fishing, indoor skiing, a retail park, cycle tracks and a seaglass beach, and within a mile there is even a community centre offering activities, and nearby, the National Trust coastal footpath offers 11 miles of beautiful landscape and impressive coastal scenery. For the children there is an alpaca farm nearby, a play park, and a lovely picnic area to sit and enjoy an ice cream. For the adults, a village pub serving wholesome food a two-minute stroll. Nearby at Seaham, enjoy a day at the seaside, with lovely marina, promenade, cafés, shops and restaurants. All the family will enjoy the community centre activities within a mile. The beach at Seaham is an excellent place to collect sea glass, and visitors come from far and wide for this very reason. Visit Durham, a World Heritage Site, with its famous castle, cathedral and riverside walks, and good selection of eateries. Nearby there are alpacas and National Trust walks and in Dalton Park is a fabulous retail outlet, with shops restaurants and cinema. A pub can be found within 1 mile of Laburnum House.

There are several historic sites nearby pertaining to Hartlepool’s rich history, including the nearby beautiful 12th century St Hilda’s church. A tour of Hartlepool Headland takes in a selection of World War I and World War II historic sites including Heugh Battery which is the only battlefield of WW1 in England. Or celebrate the proud maritime history at the National Museum of the Royal Navy which includes the HMS Trincomalee – the oldest warship afloat in Europe. Making this a great place to explore.
This historical fisherman’s cottage has beautiful original features and is sure to charm you. On the doorstep you have views of the sea, which is only a stone’s throw away, at low tide a sandy golden beach is revealed for you to enjoy. Between the jetty’s this is a sheltered cove, making this a good spot for wild swimming. Stepping inside the cottage you are welcomed into the lounge, which has comfortable seating in front of the TV and the electric stove which sits in the original fireplace. Glass double doors open into the kitchen/diner, with a dining table where you can enjoy meals together. The kitchen opens out into an enclosed patioed garden with outdoor seating. Upstairs on the first floor you have two well-presented bedrooms, from the windows in the master bedroom you have side views of the sea and the jetty with the small lighthouse. The master bedroom has a double bed, and is a generous size, with plenty of storage for your belongings. In the second bedroom you have twin beds. Going up to the second floor you get a sense of the properties age and heritage, with exposed beams and a high vaulted ceiling. This large room has been transformed into a games room, with a Smart TV as well as lots of board games, so no matter the weather you can have fun nights in, bonding as a family or as a couple.
The local area boasts so much to see and do; from the cottage take a stroll along the 1½ mile promenade and follow the signposted history trail or make your way to the marina which is surrounded by a cosmopolitan mix of bistros, bars, cafes and restaurants. A splendid promenade connects the marina with Seaton Carew with miles of golden sands. There are many wonderful attractions just a short distance away, including Saltholme RSPB Reserve where rich bird life and even seals can be spotted, the National Glass Centre at Sunderland for a day out with a difference where you can try your hand at glass making, as well as Summerhill nature reserve and outdoor play centre, just to name a few.
For the more active, the National Cycle Network Route 14 can be found in the local town and takes you all the way to Seaham, while the North York Moors National Park is well-worth venturing too for its spectacular scenery, enticing heritage and beautiful nature. You are within easy reach of the historic city of Durham, which is gorgeous for a day out with its magnificent cathedral and winding cobbled roads lined with independent shops and quirky bars and cafes. Seascape is a fantastic choice for your coastal escape, with history and scenery to soak up during your stay. Beach 160 yards. Pub and restaurant 110 yards.