Dog-friendly Durham

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.

The Old Chapel Retreat, a charming, detached, 19th-century chapel has been skilfully restored to retain much character and charm throughout. It provides quirky, clever holiday accommodation whilst retaining some original stone floors and walls. Perfectly located in the heart of this pretty picture postcard village with quaint inns and tea rooms. Within walking distance is the medieval grand fortress of Raby Castle with its 200-acre deer park surrounding the castle. Barnard Castle, a thriving market town, is only 5 miles with exciting shops and pubs. Auckland Castle, home of the Bishop of Durham and the wonderful nature reserve at Low Barns, is also close by. Beamish Museum lies only 20 miles away where life in the 1800s/1900s can be relived in this working museum. Motor enthusiasts may like to visit Croft Circuit only 12 miles. Durham city, only 17 miles, has a magnificent castle dating back to 1072, a beautiful cathedral, fine shops, galleries and eateries. Try a day exploring the magnificent Roman Wall country in Hexham and Corbridge, easily reached in under an hour and close to the Pennines. A little further venture to Northumberland taking in the magnificent heritage coastal route, stopping off to see Alnwick and explore the castle used to film Robin Hood, Harry Potter and Elizabeth. Meander through the cobbled streets, or visit the enchanting Alnwick Gardens with one of the largest Treehouse restaurants and water fountains. Relax with a drink and barbecue in the enclosed courtyard area after a day out exploring this exciting area or head up to the top floor for a relaxing game of pool in the games room. Shop and pub 25 yards.

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.

Nestled away in the tiny hamlet of Knitsley, just south of Consett and in the heart of County Durham, The Old Stables, adjacent to the owner’s home, are tucked away in the most beautiful of locations. Private, peaceful and semi rural yet still easily accessible to major road networks, these terraced holiday properties (refs 30710, 30711 and 30712) offer guests quality finishes yet still remain cosy, comfortable and welcoming. Each property is unique and desirable has views across some of the most beautiful countryside that County Durham has to offer. Situated in the owner’s grounds, guests will find the properties private and extremely well-maintained and presented. On arrival, guests will find a welcome pack consisting of local produce from the nearby farm shop. All on one level and perfect for guests of all ages, friends, families and couples will be able to book one property that sleeps four or all three properties can be booked together for larger groups and extended families. With so many attractions and plenty to explore, see and do in the area, The Old Stables can cater for every need. There is even the opportunity for guests to bring their horse along too with prior arrangement with the owner, as there is a paddock and stables on site. Perfect for walkers, ramblers and cyclists of all levels, guests will find that there are many established public footpaths, cycle paths and bridle ways that lead from Knitsley and in to the heart of County Durham and through the Durham Dales, where the scenery can only be described as breathtaking. The Old Stables are also perfect for guests wanting to visit the cathedral city of Durham, which is only 10 miles away. Durham offers plenty to see and do including a theatre, leisure centre, garden centre with coffee shop and children’s entertainment, and many historic attractions, including Durham Castle, Durham Cathedral and the city walls. The River Wear runs through the city and guests can enjoy a romantic boat trip or relax by the riverside. Filled with top quality restaurants, bistros, cafés and bars, the city is thriving at night and is there is often street entertainment to enjoy, including the Lumiere Festival, jazz festival, book week, arts week and many more. The thriving city of Newcastle is less then 20 miles away and perfect for a great night out. The banks of the River Tyne are bustling with bars, restaurants and bistros, and there is definitely something for all tastes. A little further afield, but still within an easy drive from The Old Stables, guests will be able to visit and enjoy Barnard Castle, Raby Castle, Bowes Museum, High Force and Low Force waterfalls. The excellent visitor attraction of Beamish is another must see and once again, is only 10 miles away. 13 miles away, is the Metro Centre, a great shopping complex. Each property offers a well-furnished living room with great views across the surrounding grounds, a well-equipped kitchen, two double bedrooms with Egyptian cotton bed linen. Shop and pub serving food ½ mile.

Nestled away in the tiny hamlet of Knitsley, just south of Consett and in the heart of County Durham, The Old Stables, adjacent to the owner’s home, are tucked away in the most beautiful of locations. Private, peaceful and semi rural yet still easily accessible to major road networks, these terraced holiday properties (refs 30710, 30711 and 30712) offer guests quality finishes yet still remain cosy, comfortable and welcoming. Each property is unique and desirable has views across some of the most beautiful countryside that County Durham has to offer. Situated in the owner’s grounds, guests will find the properties private and extremely well-maintained and presented. On arrival, guests will find a welcome pack consisting of local produce from the nearby farm shop. All on one level and perfect for guests of all ages, friends, families and couples will be able to book one property that sleeps four or all three properties can be booked together for larger groups and extended families. With so many attractions and plenty to explore, see and do in the area, The Old Stables can cater for every need. There is even the opportunity for guests to bring their horse along too with prior arrangement with the owner, as there is a paddock and stables on site. Perfect for walkers, ramblers and cyclists of all levels, guests will find that there are many established public footpaths, cycle paths and bridle ways that lead from Knitsley and in to the heart of County Durham and through the Durham Dales, where the scenery can only be described as breathtaking. The Old Stables are also perfect for guests wanting to visit the cathedral city of Durham, which is only 10 miles away. Durham offers plenty to see and do including a theatre, leisure centre, garden centre with coffee shop and children’s entertainment, and many historic attractions, including Durham Castle, Durham Cathedral and the city walls. The River Wear runs through the city and guests can enjoy a romantic boat trip or relax by the riverside. Filled with top quality restaurants, bistros, cafés and bars, the city is thriving at night and is there is often street entertainment to enjoy, including the Lumiere Festival, jazz festival, book week, arts week and many more. The thriving city of Newcastle is less then 20 miles away and perfect for a great night out. The banks of the River Tyne are bustling with bars, restaurants and bistros, and there is definitely something for all tastes. A little further afield, but still within an easy drive from The Old Stables, guests will be able to visit and enjoy Barnard Castle, Raby Castle, Bowes Museum, High Force and Low Force waterfalls. The excellent visitor attraction of Beamish is another must see and once again, is only 10 miles away. 13 miles away, is the Metro Centre, a great shopping complex. Each property offers a well-furnished living room with great views across the surrounding grounds, a well-equipped kitchen, two double bedrooms with Egyptian cotton bed linen. Shop and pub serving food ½ mile.

Nestled away in the tiny hamlet of Knitsley, just south of Consett and in the heart of County Durham, The Old Stables, adjacent to the owner’s home, are tucked away in the most beautiful of locations. Private, peaceful and semi rural yet still easily accessible to major road networks, these terraced holiday properties (refs 30710, 30711 and 30712) offer guests quality finishes yet still remain cosy, comfortable and welcoming. Each property is unique and desirable has views across some of the most beautiful countryside that County Durham has to offer. Situated in the owner’s grounds, guests will find the properties private and extremely well-maintained and presented. On arrival, guests will find a welcome pack consisting of local produce from the nearby farm shop. All on one level and perfect for guests of all ages, friends, families and couples will be able to book one property that sleeps four or all three properties can be booked together for larger groups and extended families. With so many attractions and plenty to explore, see and do in the area, The Old Stables can cater for every need. There is even the opportunity for guests to bring their horse along too with prior arrangement with the owner, as there is a paddock and stables on site. Perfect for walkers, ramblers and cyclists of all levels, guests will find that there are many established public footpaths, cycle paths and bridle ways that lead from Knitsley and in to the heart of County Durham and through the Durham Dales, where the scenery can only be described as breathtaking. The Old Stables are also perfect for guests wanting to visit the cathedral city of Durham, which is only 10 miles away. Durham offers plenty to see and do including a theatre, leisure centre, garden centre with coffee shop and children’s entertainment, and many historic attractions, including Durham Castle, Durham Cathedral and the city walls. The River Wear runs through the city and guests can enjoy a romantic boat trip or relax by the riverside. Filled with top quality restaurants, bistros, cafés and bars, the city is thriving at night and is there is often street entertainment to enjoy, including the Lumiere Festival, jazz festival, book week, arts week and many more. The thriving city of Newcastle is less then 20 miles away and perfect for a great night out. The banks of the River Tyne are bustling with bars, restaurants and bistros, and there is definitely something for all tastes. A little further afield, but still within an easy drive from The Old Stables, guests will be able to visit and enjoy Barnard Castle, Raby Castle, Bowes Museum, High Force and Low Force waterfalls. The excellent visitor attraction of Beamish is another must see and once again, is only 10 miles away. 13 miles away, is the Metro Centre, a great shopping complex. Each property offers a well-furnished living room with great views across the surrounding grounds, a well-equipped kitchen, two double bedrooms with Egyptian cotton bed linen. Shop and pub serving food ½ mile.

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.

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.