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.

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.

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.

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.

Recently refurbished to a high standard, the cottage has underfloor heating, keeping you warm as toast especially in the chilly winter months. With vaulted ceilings, beams, wooden floors and Velux windows adding light and character throughout. The open plan living space is light and spacious with a newly installed shaker style kitchen, dining area, living area with comfortable sofas and large windows with views across the fields and you can watch the cattle feeding in the farmyard. There are two bedrooms, the master bedroom with double bed and separate trundle ideal for a child, and second twin room with TV and Blu-ray player. The owners have added lots of extras for your comfort and holiday experience.
A stay at Calf House Cottage gives you the chance to really experience farm life if you are interested. There are outdoor coats, wellies and boots at the door and the friendly owners are happy to show guests around to experience the day to day life of dairy farming, with all the associated smells, sounds and livestock. The dairy farm has four robotic milking machines and a milking herd of 300 cows 24-hours a day. You can even sample the fresh, raw milk from the milking shed and collect eggs from the free range hens. There is an on-site micro brewery producing four craft beers. There is a small tap room on site and samples of the beer will be available to buy throughout your stay at www.hopperhousebrewfarm.co.uk. A well-behaved dog is also allowed to visit with access to the surrounding fields for walks or the shared grounds with the owners.
The village of Sedgefield is under 2 miles away and a quick drive. With a pretty village green at its centre, with tea rooms and independent shops to browse around. It boasts an exceptional standard of pubs and restaurants, perfect for a special occasion. There is a co-op on the high street and a large Sainsbury’s within a short drive, an excellent butchers and fishmongers. There is also a varied selection of take-away restaurants to choose from. If it’s fresh country air and wonderful walks you’re looking for, Sedgefield nestles between the Yorkshire Dales, Durham Dales and the North York Moors, where you will find some of the most dramatic countryside, including High Force waterfall, stunning coastal walks and the Castle Eden Walkway.
Nearby Sedgefield races are a regular feature on the local calendar, and take place all year round. For keen golfers, visit the Knotty Hill Golf Centre, which is just one of many golf courses in the area. Out and about the cottage is conveniently located just minutes from the A1, Sedgefield links up with a host of local attractions. The University City of Durham makes a fabulous day out. Enjoy the lovely riverside walks and visit the magnificent cathedral and castle. With winding cobbled streets, unique shops, and a large variety of pubs and restaurants. A little further afield, yet still a short drive, visit the famous open air museum at Beamish. A 40-minute drive will take you to the coastal town of Saltburn-by-Sea and onwards towards Whitby. Driving North visit the stunning Heritage Coast of Northumberland, peppered with castles and golden beaches, or head inland to Alnwick, with its famous castle used in the Harry Potter films, and the beautiful Alnwick gardens. You will find a host of things to do in and around the area including fishing nearby. Shop, pub and restaurant 2 miles.

In an idyllic rural location, up a sweeping driveway, you have the gorgeous Abigail’s Cottage. Backing onto the paddocks beyond, the friendly neighbouring horses pass by the bedroom windows. There is a large lawned garden with a huge koi carp pond, shared with the owners who live nearby, as well as your own private patio. Take in the scenery whilst enjoying meals out in the sunshine, whether you fancy a full English and a cup of tea whilst listening to the dawn chorus or a barbecue as the sunsets. This property is all on one level, and a ramp can be provided on request for the entrance. The layout is designed for wheelchair users, it is spacious with wide doorframes. Inside you have a bright living room, with soft cosy sofas around the wood burner, which is a delight on chilly winter evenings, when you can get snug in front of the crackling flames. The kitchen has a country feel and is well equipped ready for you to whip up any culinary delights your heart desires. Throughout the property you have the original beams and high vaulted ceilings. There are two bedrooms, there is the master kingsize bedroom with west views across the paddock, so that you can see the sunset in the evening. Plus, a twin bedroom with an en suite walk-in shower. The cottage is completed by a family bath room, with a comfortable oval bath, where you can slide beneath the bubbles and unwind, as well as a walk-in shower.
Nearby you have some beautiful places to discover. The cottage has easy access to the road network which means exploring around Northumberland and County Durham is easy. The Durham coastline has beautiful beaches such as nearby Seaham, as well as rugged clifftops and dramatic headlands. A trip to Beamish Open Air Museum, 20 miles, is a must. You may also like to take a trip to Bishop Auckland to see the epic tale of England at the annual event called Kynren. This amazing spectacle spans 2000 years of history, myth and legend, starting at the end of June until mid-September. With fireworks and battle re-enactments this is an incredible live show.
Nearby you have Durham city, which is one of the most historic cities in England and offers guests a variety of attractions to visit and explore. The city has recently been awarded the UNESCO World Heritage Site accolade and Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle are definitely worth a visit. There is also the Gala Theatre and Millennium Square located in the centre of the city, making this the perfect spot for guests wanting to enjoy a theatre trip as part of their break. Packed with restaurants, bistros, cafés and bars, Durham is a thriving city with plenty of entertainment for guests at all time of the year. Guests have the opportunity to enjoy the bi-annual Lumiere Festival, annual book week, jazz festival, arts festival, miner’s gala and many more free attractions as well as the weekly farmers market and pavement artists that line the streets and marketplace. Should guests wish to enjoy a little retail therapy then they will find some beautiful boutiques along with many high street names and designer shops too. This is a great choice for families, couples and friends in all seasons.

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

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.

This eco-friendly, cosy holiday cottage creates its own electricity by photo-voltaic roof tiles, and is adjacent to a cattle and sheep farm, a mile from Eggleston. The converted cattle byre with level access and wide doorways, provides a picturesque countryside retreat. Durham city, 25 miles, has a 12th century cathedral, boutiques in cobbled streets, the Victorian market, restaurants and galleries. Visit the Lake District, Yorkshire Dales and Northumberland. Historic Barnard Castle on the River Tees is 6 miles. Shops 5 miles, pubs 1 mile.