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.

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.

No.1 Old Hall Cottage is accessed from the lane adjacent to The Old Hall. It is a stone built conversion situated within 15 minutes’ drive of both the historic city of Durham with its mainline rail link, and Bishop Auckland, home of the Prince Bishops at Auckland Castle. This holiday property has a private outdoor seating area which is on two levels with garden views and benefits from its own hot tub set on the upper patio, suitable for 4 adults, it is for exclusive use of guests staying at this cottage. The site has no through traffic and is a rich haven for birds and wildlife, with country walks from the door and cycle tracks. This is the gateway to the Durham Dales, Weardale and Teesdale, with splendour at Raby Castle and Bowes Museum, industrial heritage at Killhope, Beamish and Shildon. Visit Keilder Water, Hadrians Wall, the Northumberland Coast and the Lake District. Shop 2 miles, pub and restaurant ¼mile.

There is another property on this site (refs 30419 with hot tub).

This converted barn has produced a larger than average cottage which can accommodate up to six people. Situated in the Upper Teesdale Valley, the holiday cottage provides a wonderful base for touring this area of the Northern Dales, with wonderful views - ideal for walkers. Enjoy the local pub, just 600 yards, renowned for its food. The cottage has many attractive features, including exposed stone walls, Velux roof windows in bedrooms, and is fitted with all modern conveniences. Shop 2 miles, pub 600 yards.

Situated in a rural and secluded position, nestled in the heart of the serene countryside, this traditional cottage offers a perfect retreat with stunning views over the open countryside. Inside, the cosy living room invites you to unwind with its charming open fire and TV, creating an ideal space for relaxing evenings. The well-equipped kitchen/dining room is a cook’s delight, complete with modern appliances and traditional dining table, perfect for family meals or intimate dinners. The cottage boasts two comfortable bedrooms: one with a plush double bed and the other with twin beds, providing flexible sleeping arrangements. The bathroom is well-appointed, featuring a bathtub with a shower attachment, ensuring convenience and comfort. Outside, the enclosed lawned garden is a private oasis, furnished with garden furniture and a BBQ, perfect for al fresco dining and enjoying the tranquil surroundings.
Some 3 miles from Stanhope, which offers a good selection of shops and pubs and in the heart of Weardale providing footpath walking direct from the door. This farmhouse is centrally placed for exploring the Yorkshire Dales, Northumberland and the Lake District, offering attractions to suit all age groups. Climbing, horse riding, fishing and swimming are all available in the local area.
Stanhope, a village in the heart of the Durham Dales, offers an array of delightful activities and sights. Stanhope Castle is an iconic historical gem set against a picturesque backdrop. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy the nearby Weardale Railway, providing a scenic journey through the stunning landscapes of the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The village is also home to the remarkable Stanhope Fossil Tree, a 320-million-year-old artefact displayed proudly in the churchyard of St. Thomas’ Church. Stroll along the River Wear or enjoy the vast expanses of open moorland, perfect for hiking and birdwatching.
Additionally, Stanhope’s vibrant marketplace, with its selection of quaint shops, traditional pubs, and charming tea rooms, invites visitors to savour local cuisine and warm hospitality. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, historical discoveries, or a peaceful retreat, Stanhope provides a delightful escape into the beauty and heritage of the English countryside.

A superb detached property in the former mining village of Rookhope, County Durham. En-suite, WiFi. Perfect base for families and groups of friends. Stanhope 6 miles.

A spacious, stone-built, end of terrace cottage, set in a remote location. Outstanding countryside views. Lovely garden. Luxurious hot tub. WiFi. Woodburner. Middleton-in-Teesdale 3 miles.

A beautiful stone-built barn conversion in a wonderful setting in Mickleton. Woodburner, en-suites, luxury hot tub. Middleton-in-Teesdale 1 mile.

A contemporary, semi-detached house with a hot tub and four bedrooms, located in Mickleton-in-Teesdale, just a two-minute walk from the local pub. Great walking. WiFi. Enclosed garden. Middleton-in-Teesdale 1 mile.