Dog-friendly Durham

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.

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.

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

Beckwick is a spacious bungalow on the outskirts of the market town of Bishop Auckland, well known for its castle and gardens and annual Kynren historical spectacle. Tucked away in a quiet residential area, the bungalow sits in private grounds behind a gated entrance. With extensive gardens, the property looks out across the landscaped garden onto a small ornamental lake. Sure to be a great attraction is the 6-seater hot tub, offering fun for all whatever time of year.

Inside the property are well laid out social spaces, a large lounge with comfortable sofas. A separate garden room with wall mounted TV and a bar area! There is a games room, complete with an air hockey table! For the designated chef the kitchen/dining room will provide everything you need whether rustling up a hearty breakfast or supper.
The utility room is equipped with sink and washing machine. There are 4 bedrooms, the master bedroom with kingsize bed, robes and en-suite shower room, a second with ¾ double bed and en-suite shower room, a third bedroom with a kingsize bed and 4th bedroom sleeping 3 people with a double bed and single bunk over. There is a spacious wet room with non-slip floor, walk in shower and separate bath. All bathrooms have been newly installed in 2021.

Beckwick is just under 2 miles from the town centre to discover the surprising story of Bishop Auckland. Auckland Castle has been home to Francisco de Zurbarán’s series of Spanish masterpieces Jacob and His Twelve Sons, for over 250 years. These striking paintings are the starting point for this new gallery, in the heart of Bishop Auckland. There is an abundance of cafés, eateries, bars and take-aways to choose from.

Auckland Castle is one of the best-preserved bishops’ palaces in the whole of Europe and is at the centre of The Auckland Project. The Castle recently reopened after undergoing major conservation work, which has transformed its state rooms to their original Georgian Gothic splendour, as designed by the renowned English architect James Wyatt. Enjoy the Deer Park and the incredibly popular Kynren open-air Spectacular is performed between July and September every year. Two thousand years of history, myth and legend rush by in 90 minutes as we join young Arthur on his epic quest. Rebellions, wars, magic, majesty, celebration and heartache are vividly brought to ground-shaking life in a dazzling outdoor-theatre spectacular, although you will need to book!

Younger children and train enthusiasts will enjoy a trip to the National Railway Museum in Shildon which is only 10 minutes’ drive away. Hamsterley Forest, 8 miles away, is a popular destination for all ages. With beautiful countryside, various bike trails and plenty of walks for guests of all abilities including the very popular Gruffalo Trail for children. Take a drive to the Dales villages of Wolsingham, Frosterley and Stanhope or a little further to Middleton-in-Teesdale and the impressive High Force Waterfalls. Barnard Castle, the Bowes Museum and Raby Castle are within an easy 30-minute drive as well as the historic cathedral city of Durham which has been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Here you can enjoy an abundance of shops, cafés, bars and restaurants and beautiful walks along the riverside, take out a boat or try your hand at paddle-boarding!

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.