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 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.

Perfectly located in the small, unspoilt village of Bolam, this beautiful single-storey holiday property, attached to the owner’s home, is in the ideal location for guests wishing to really explore the local area and surrounding counties. This quaint village is small and welcoming, and occupies a crest of high ground on the edge of the Tees basin with panoramic views into the Tees Vale. Guests will often see horses being ridden through the main street at any time of day and will be far away from any of the hustle and bustle of daily life. Ideal for guests wanting to enjoy a quiet romantic break, Bolam is peaceful and pretty, and is home to a village pub that serves food and drink, situated just a few hundred yards away from the cottage. There is also a Michelin starred restaurant that is located just 3 miles away too, making this the perfect excuse to enjoy a fabulous three course meal in top quality surroundings.
Perfect for walkers, cyclists and ramblers, with plenty of walks, cycle paths, bridleways and established footpaths that pass through the village and beyond into some of the most picturesque countryside that County Durham has to offer. Taking guests through unspoilt woodland, open fields and fabulous countryside, guests will be able to wander far and wide through some of the many small villages and towns that lie in the surrounding areas including Staindrop, Heighington, Cockfield, Evenwood, Little Newsham and Ingleton.
For guests who enjoy a round of golf on their holiday, there is the perfect opportunity to visit one of the many surrounding golf courses, including Headlam Hall Country Hotel and Spa, and Bishop Auckland Golf Club. The pretty village of Staindrop is only a little over 8 miles away and is an ideal destination for a day trip. Set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and peppered with cafés, tea shops, pubs and a butchers, this is a great spot to enjoy a leisurely lunch and then a wander around Raby Castle, where visitors will have the pleasure of being able to catch a glimpse of over two hundred deers, comfortable in their natural habitat within the grounds of the estate and castle. Only 14 miles away, the thriving and historic town of Barnard Castle is also a must see. There is a popular weekly farmers market offering local produce, as well as many various pubs, restaurants, shops and places of interest, including the ruins of the castle itself, along with a visit to the world famous Bowes Museum.
Visit the cathedral city of Durham, which is only a 35-minute drive away, with an abundance of historic and popular attractions, including Durham Castle, Durham Cathedral and the River Wear. Durham is a city that is thriving all year round and is an ideal location for all ages, with many popular activities and shows to see and enjoy including the Lumiere Festival, jazz festival, book week, arts week and the theatre, as well as many designer boutiques and shops.

Beach 25 miles. Shop 5 miles, pub and restaurant 100 yards.

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.

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.

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.

Serving a host of purposes whether business or pleasure, the property is ideally placed for commuting to the major commercial centres of the North East, Durham University and an ideal base for touring the Durham Dales, Northumberland, the Borders and North Yorkshire.

The bungalow has been fully refurbished to a high standard throughout. With beautiful décor and stylish furnishings. The lounge has an attractive bay window overlooking a mature tree lined avenue, contemporary sofa and chairs, and a smart TV for your entertainment. The modern gloss kitchen is well equipped and has a large breakfast bar that comfortably seats four people, leading through to the garden room with dining table. Two spacious and tastefully furnished bedrooms with original features, a super kingsize bed (can be twin on request) and kingsize bed have high quality mattresses to ensure a good night’s sleep. The bathroom is modern in style and has a walk-in rainfall style shower.

To the rear of the property there is an attractive and secluded deck area with planted borders. Utilise the table and relaxed seating to enjoy a glass of wine, or dine alfresco on a warm summer evening. The bungalow sits back from the road on a tree lined avenue near the market town of Chester-le-Street in County Durham, mid-way between the cities of Durham and Newcastle with excellent links to major road networks. Famed for its cricket presence, being home to the Emirates Durham International Cricket Ground which is just a short stroll away. Chester-le-Street has a wide range of shops, restaurants and bars, and also has the lovely Riverside Park – the perfect place for dog-walking, taking children for a paddle or to simply enjoy the tranquillity of the area. Ideal for cyclists and walkers with the C2C route within 5 minutes walking distance of the property. Enjoy a drink or a meal at the local inn with its country style bar and restaurant.

With so many attractions in proximity – Beamish Living Museum is just 4 miles, the cosmopolitan City of Newcastle with a huge array of shops, bars, restaurants and vibrant Quayside and galleries is 20mins away. Visit the historic City of Durham with its stunning Castle, Cathedral and riverside walks, beautiful cobbled streets and shops, bars and restaurants. Families visiting students at the University of Durham and Newcastle will find this a convenient location. Visit the North East coast, (13 miles) or a little further North the beautiful coastal villages and castles in Northumberland.

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

Situated in the quiet village of Witton Park, the cottage has an open outlook across the fields. Completely restored offering spacious accommodation for couples, friends and families. The living room has a cosy electric wood burner, perfect for cooler nights. A well-equipped modern kitchen/dining area with all your necessary appliances is a lovely spot to gather. The rear garden is enclosed and offers a seating area.
Just 4 miles from the market town of Bishop Auckland where there are a variety of supermarkets, shops and restaurants and home to the fabulous Kynren Eleven Arches historical spectacle. Visit Bishop’s Palace and Park, with its ancient Deer House and Walled Gardens, or the Spanish Art Gallery in the marketplace. The thriving, popular market town of Barnard Castle, 14 miles, hosts a weekly farmer’s market, and has some super local pubs, restaurants, shops and historic buildings and nearby the famous Bowes Museum and galleries. Perhaps stop enroute at Raby Castle and catch a glimpse of over 200 deer which wander the grounds. Recently opened, families will love to visit the Plotters’ Forest adventure playground hidden away inside the castle’s mysterious woodland. Hamsterley Forest, a delightful 2000-hectare site of popular walking trails, cycle trails, orienteering and picnic spots, is just 13 miles.
The city of Durham can be reached within a 30-minute drive, with its magnificent cathedral and castle and beautiful riverside walks. With its cobbled streets and independent shops, cafés and restaurants, it is home to many annual events such as the Lumiere Light Festival, book week, arts week and the Durham Brass Festival. The cottage also provides a perfect country retreat for guests visiting family at nearby Durham University campus. There is so much to do the area, and close to the main road network should you wish to travel farther afield to the Lake District, Northumberland or North Yorkshire. Woodside Cottage makes a perfect base from which to explore.