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 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.

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.

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 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.

The Barn is situated in the grounds of the owner’s farm where pure bred Aberdeen Angus cattle are raised, and is in a superb location. One of two cottages The Barn has fabulous views, and the open plan living/dining/kitchen areas are spacious and grand with high ceilings and a beautiful feature window. It has comfortable furnishings and a warming wood burner, whilst each of the three bedrooms offers an en-suite and there is ample space and privacy for families or guests that like to holiday with friends. The north-facing balcony area is the perfect vantage point for enjoying the view and there is also a separate, enclosed garden area for those al fresco evenings. Hidden away down a quiet country lane yet conveniently within easy distance of the county’s most historic and unspoilt scenery, The Barn has something to offer guests of all ages.
The property lies only 5 miles away from Bishop Auckland, where the incredibly popular Kynren Spectacular is performed between July and September every year. Barnard Castle, the Bowes Museum and Raby Castle can all be reached within an easy 30-minute drive as well as the historic, cathedral city of Durham which has been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Younger children and train enthusiasts will enjoy taking a trip to the National Railway Museum in Shildon which is only 15 minutes’ drive away or take a ride on The Train to Christmas Town which runs through nearby Weardale and leaves from Stanhope Station only 25 minutes away. Perfect for walkers and cyclists too, the property is surrounded by open countryside and fields, and guests will find many established walks, public footpaths and cycle paths within the area leading out into smaller villages including Witton-le-Wear, Escomb and Butterknowle. Hamsterley Forest is one of the north’s most popular destinations for cyclists too, and is only 4 miles away. This impressive 2000-hectare site covers some of the most beautiful countryside and offers various bike trails of different difficulties and plenty of walks for guests of all abilities including the very popular Gruffalo Trail for children. Beach 26½ miles. Shop, pub and restaurant 1 mile.

Harrison House is conveniently located in the village of Low Pittington, with nearby road links to the A1 and A19, and guests can use this as a great base to explore the north of England. The property has been refurbished in 2022, furnished for your comfort and relaxation. The living room is inviting and spacious, comfortably accommodating guests with a Smart TV for your entertainment. The separate kitchen/dining area is a great social space, whether you are gathering for a hearty breakfast or celebratory supper, the modern shaker-style kitchen is well-equipped to cater for all your needs. Outside is an enclosed lawned garden and patio, set with table and chairs for summer dining.
Upstairs are two bedrooms and a family bathroom. A further loft-style bedroom can be found on the second floor, with vaulted ceilings, a Velux window and an en-suite shower room, and is a lovely cosy space away from it all.
Guests can simply park up and relax, or enjoy countryside walks from the door. There is a farm shop within a short walk, here you will find butchery, coffee shop, delicatessen and retail shop. A little further you can enjoy a walk across the golf links to Ramside Hall Golf and Spa, where golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round of golf on the championship courses.
Visit the City of Durham and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Durham Castle and Cathedral. The Gala Theatre is located in the centre of the city, making the cottage 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. The Lumiere Festival takes place every second November, or enjoy the jazz festival, arts festival, miners gala and many more free attractions, as well as the weekly farmers’ market.
The university colleges and campuses can be found nearby, and this is the ideal base to get to know the university and visit friends and family who might be attending one of the graduation ceremonies. 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 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 just 8 miles away, and the city of Sunderland and its coastal resorts of Roker, Seaburn and Whitburn are all within 15 miles. This lovely cottage provides a superb base from which to enjoy the beautiful county of Durham. Beach 8 miles. Pub and restaurant 1¾ miles

The Hawthorns is perfectly situated on the Heritage coastline and just a stone’s throw away from Seaham harbour, marina and abundance of local amenities. A perfect holiday base for families and couples as well as their furry friends to enjoy this popular part on the north of England. Interiors are spacious with a modern style with an open plan kitchen/dining room making a great social space. There is a separate living room, and sure to be a big hit is the games room with Smart TV, pool table and darts board. The kitchen and utility area are well equipped with everything you need for your stay. Upstairs are three bedrooms and a family bathroom. Directly accessible from one of the bedrooms is a terraced area with garden furniture to enjoy the sea views beyond. There is a small outside courtyard leading off the living space, ideal if you are bringing your pet with you.

Seaham is a lively harbour town with its own marina. Enjoy walks along the coastal path or the sandy North Beach with its famous glass pebbles and children will have fun in the rock pools. You may even be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of dolphins offshore which frequently visit the area. Don’t forget to take your picture with ’Tommy’, the WW1 statue. There is an abundance of good coffee shops, bars, and restaurants along the sea front. An absolute must is the local fish and chips! You can also treat yourself to the spa or a lovely meal nearby Seaham Hall. There are plenty of family friendly activities to enjoy such as the nearby go-karting facility for those budding Formula 1 drivers. If you want to explore further afield, The Hawthorns is also ideally place near the A19, north towards Newcastle and south towards North Yorkshire Moors, coast, and Dales. Beach 300 yards.

High Bank farm is a lovely, detached property in its own grounds, situated in the picturesque Durham Dales, on the cusp of the Weardale Valley and surrounded by rolling fields and open countryside. The farmhouse offers a high level of comfort, and accommodating up to six people, has plenty of space both inside and out. Surrounding the property are lawned gardens and a south facing patio set with furniture to sit and admire the views. Guests to be aware there is an unfenced pond in the paddock beyond, popular with the local birds and wildlife, children must be supervised in this area and dogs are to be kept on a lead when outside of the enclosed garden.
Cyclists, ramblers and leisurely walkers will find many walks and cycle paths for guests of all abilities and ages that will take guests on towards nearby villages and towns including Wackerfield, 5 miles, Barnard Castle, 8½ miles, and Piercebridge, 12 miles. The closest pub is a mere 2-mile walk away in the nearby village of Butterknowle, and there is also a super fish and chip shop in the nearby village of Cockfield. Nearby in the market town of Bishop Auckland (8 miles) visitors can enjoy the spectacular Kynren show from July to September each year. This epic tale of England spans 2000 years and features a cast and crew of over 1000 volunteers, accompanied by magnificent sets, pyrotechnics, and a captivating soundtrack. Visit Hamsterley Forest, a delightful 2000-hectare site (8 miles) with popular walking trails, cycling routes, orienteering, and picnic spots, including the famous Gruffalo Trail. Nearby, the vibrant market town of Barnard Castle, has a weekly farmers market, riverside walks, local pubs, restaurants, and shops. Bowes Museum is a firm favourite too with beautiful galleries, events and displays.
Guests of all ages will love Raby Castle, which can also be reached within a short drive, where over two hundred deer wander the grounds. The property is also perfect for guests wanting to visit the cathedral city of Durham and is only a 30-minute drive away. This is a city that thrives all year round, and popular tourist attractions include the theatre, Durham Castle and Durham Cathedral, as well as many designer boutiques and shops. Festivals throughout the year include a jazz festival, book week and arts week, and the Lumiere Festival held every other year.