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.

Overlooking the River Wear, these superb conversions of the barn, old byre and stables provide a wonderful holiday retreat. Surrounded by unspoilt countryside and is set in a haven of peace and tranquillity. Adjoining one another, they lie within an attractive courtyard setting, complemented by a fountain and shrubberies. All the properties have been tastefully refurbished and are full of character and charm, with shared use of lovely grounds, children’s play area, summer house and games room. The pretty village of Frosterley has shops and pubs, with walks in every direction along Weardale. Described as England’s ’last wilderness’, and possibly one of the best kept secrets, the Durham Dales are situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, made up of a wonderful blend of rugged upland, impressive waterfalls, fertile river valleys and wild flower meadows. Pleasant towns and pretty villages dot the area – the historic market town of Barnard Castle lies within easy reach, and boasts castle remains overlooking the town, as well as the Bowes Museum. Built as an impressive French-style chateau, the museum houses a magnificent collection of fine and decorative art. Other places of interest are Raby Castle, the ruins of Egglestone Abbey and Rokeby Hall. Hexham (with stately abbey) is a good day trip out, as well as the splendid cathedral city of Durham, 15 miles. NB: Refs 24969, 24970, 24971 and 23712 (also on the same site) can be booked together to accommodate up to 27 guests.

Overlooking the River Wear, these superb conversions of the barn, old byre and stables provide a wonderful holiday retreat. Surrounded by unspoilt countryside and is set in a haven of peace and tranquillity. Adjoining one another, they lie within an attractive courtyard setting, complemented by a fountain and shrubberies. All the properties have been tastefully refurbished and are full of character and charm, with shared use of lovely grounds, children’s play area, summer house and games room. The pretty village of Frosterley has shops and pubs, with walks in every direction along Weardale. Described as England’s ’last wilderness’, and possibly one of the best kept secrets, the Durham Dales are situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, made up of a wonderful blend of rugged upland, impressive waterfalls, fertile river valleys and wild flower meadows. Pleasant towns and pretty villages dot the area – the historic market town of Barnard Castle lies within easy reach, and boasts castle remains overlooking the town, as well as the Bowes Museum. Built as an impressive French-style chateau, the museum houses a magnificent collection of fine and decorative art. Other places of interest are Raby Castle, the ruins of Egglestone Abbey and Rokeby Hall. Hexham (with stately abbey) is a good day trip out, as well as the splendid cathedral city of Durham, 15 miles. NB: Refs 24969, 24970, 24971 and 23712 (also on the same site) can be booked together to accommodate up to 27 guests.

Overlooking the River Wear, these superb conversions of the barn, old byre and stables provide a wonderful holiday retreat. Surrounded by unspoilt countryside and is set in a haven of peace and tranquillity. Adjoining one another, they lie within an attractive courtyard setting, complemented by a fountain and shrubberies. All the properties have been tastefully refurbished and are full of character and charm, with shared use of lovely grounds, children’s play area, summer house and games room. The pretty village of Frosterley has shops and pubs, with walks in every direction along Weardale. Described as England’s ’last wilderness’, and possibly one of the best kept secrets, the Durham Dales are situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, made up of a wonderful blend of rugged upland, impressive waterfalls, fertile river valleys and wild flower meadows. Pleasant towns and pretty villages dot the area – the historic market town of Barnard Castle lies within easy reach, and boasts castle remains overlooking the town, as well as the Bowes Museum. Built as an impressive French-style chateau, the museum houses a magnificent collection of fine and decorative art. Other places of interest are Raby Castle, the ruins of Egglestone Abbey and Rokeby Hall. Hexham (with stately abbey) is a good day trip out, as well as the splendid cathedral city of Durham, 15 miles. NB: Refs 24969, 24970, 24971 and 23712 (also on the same site) can be booked together to accommodate up to 27 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.

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.

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!