Dog-friendly Durham

An exceptional converted chapel featuring many original features including stained glass windows and ornate ceilings, a unique holiday home for a large get-together. Dales Chapel is ideal for large groups of family or friends. It is a former Methodist chapel which dates back to the late 1800s and provides a spacious and characterful holiday home. The Grade ll listed chapel conversion combines original character with contemporary living to great effect, and is situated in the market town of Middleton-in-Teesdale, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and historically the most northern of the Yorkshire Dales. The property retains many original features including stained glass windows and an ornate ceiling to the striking second floor open-plan entertainment area. This entertainment room has a full size snooker table, fussball table, home cinema area with HD projector, Sky Q, DVD and Wii. There are also two seating areas to relax with wood burners set in limestone fire surrounds either side of a bar area with granite work surfaces. In addition to being perfect for family and friend get togethers, Dales Chapel is ideally suited for small business strategy residentials and off-site meetings. A laptop can be connected to the projector and large screen for management meetings. Details of caterers can be provided if required.
Middleton-in-Teesdale has pubs serving food, shops and tea rooms and there is plenty to keep you occupied. The area is perfect for walkers of all ages and abilities, with several footpaths leading from the village. The Pennine Way passes through the village and half an hour’s brisk walk brings you to Low Force, the first of a series of spectacular waterfalls in the area. One of Middleton’s attractions is High Force Waterfall, England’s largest single-drop waterfall, and there’s a lovely walk popular with families here. The area offers an abundance of walking and cycling for all abilities. Grassholm reservoir is nearby for fishing and sailing. The splendid scenery encourages all kinds of outdoor pursuits, from cycling along the C2C route and cross-country hacks, to watersports and wonderful walks. This charming market town is more like a big village, framed by the Pennine Fells and nestling beside the River Tees.
Barnard Castle is a beautiful old market town 10 miles away, and is home to the magnificent Bowes Museum, famous for its mechanical silver swan. Killhope Lead Mine is within a thirty-minute drive, as is Bishop Auckland, where the spectacular outdoor Kynren show takes place every year during the summer months. Beautiful Durham city and the Lake District are approximately a 50-minute drive away and well worth a visit. Shop 20 yards, pub and restaurant 50 yards.

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.

Peacefully set in picturesque Baldersdale, this detached, single-storey, former chapel retains arched windows and exudes charm and character. With stunning views over open moorland, it has its own furnished patio and makes a cosy holiday retreat year round. The North Pennines have been recognised as a great place for star gazing.
Excellent walking within this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with the Yorkshire Dales and Pennine Way close by. The late Hannah Hauxwell’s isolated farmhouse (featured on TV’s Season of My Life) lies nearby. Historic Barnard Castle, 6 miles, boasts an array of shops, inns, restaurants, a splendid Norman castle, antique shops and the famous Bowes Museum, with changing exhibitions. The Metro Centre, Beamish and Lake District are an hour away. Visit interesting Leyburn village and The Forbidden Corner near Middleham. Fishing, golf and riding locally. Shop 2 miles.

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.

Set in beautiful, tranquil grounds of 130 acres, including a section of the River Tees with fishing rights and an arboretum with over 240 species of trees, this superb detached former granary situated on a working farm, has been creatively converted to provide a spacious holiday home brimming with character. Near the North Pennines, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this charming house is perfectly located to tour the Yorkshire Dales, Northumberland with its majestic castles and magnificent beaches, and the Lake District is an hour’s drive away. Close by is the picturesque village of Neasham with a friendly pub and riverside walks, whilst Durham Tees Valley airport is only 4 miles. The owner, who lives on the estate, can organise many activities for visitors by arrangement including rough shooting, canoeing (canoes not provided), deer stalking (at cost), fishing (free), cycles for guests use, horse riding and badger and bird watching (70 species seen). The appealing market towns of Richmond, Yarm and North Allerton make an interesting day out. Stabling and paddock available (for 1 horse, at cost). Shops, pub and restaurant 2 miles.

This charming, detached former Hemel, close to the owners’ home, lies just 1½ miles from the historic village of Lanchester and only 10 miles from Durham. Lanchester is steeped in history dating back to the 12th century and it has a large village green which sits in the middle of some charming properties, with 3 village inns and eateries to hand. Cyclists will be eager to explore the quiet country roads or take the Derwent Valley Railway Path east to the outskirts of Durham, or west to join the Waskerly Way and on to Weardale. A walk can be taken along these footpaths, the section just south of Lancaster skirting the river Browney being a particular highlight. Corbridge is a mere 15 miles away with super pubs, tea rooms and shops, then carry on to Hadrian’s Wall to visit the Roman forts or a little further to Hexham, with its beautiful abbey. Enjoy Durham with its river walks, fine cathedral, bijou wine bars, traditional pubs and plenty of retail therapy. Alnwick Castle where part of the Harry Potter films were made takes approximately 1 hour, where you can visit the enchanting water gardens and treehouse, and stroll along the cobbled streets. Drive a little further north and follow the Heritage Coastal Route to come across Seahouses and Bamburgh, and the enchanting Holy Island or Lindasfarne, making a great day trip. Come back and relax at this holiday cottage, admiring the views outside after a day’s exploring. Consett 3 miles. Children’s play area 1½ miles. Shop and pub 1½ miles, restaurant ½ mile.

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.

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.

Tucked away behind a Yorkshire stone wall and with the River Tees flowing across the back of the garden, Grace’s Retreat can only be described as a real gem of a cottage. Attached to the owners home, yet maintaining ample privacy for guests, this semi-detached, single-storey cottage offers excellent quality accommodation, in a super location. With brilliant transport links between Yorkshire, County Durham and the A1 not far away, guests will find plenty of places to visit and explore during their stay. Perfect for walkers and cyclists, Grace’s Retreat lies close to many established walking and cycling routes, including walks along the River Tees and not far from the famous Coast to Coast cycle route, which has become one of the most popular in the country. With three excellent local pubs and a Michelin starred restaurant all within a 10-minute walk, guests need not venture too far for a fabulous meal and a great night out. Perfect for romantic breaks, this could not be better situated for that special occasion or a treat with the spa at Rockcliffe Hall less than 2 miles away. Fishing and golf are also very popular in the area with a top class golf course within a 5-minute drive from the doorstep. For excellent shopping, cinema, leisure centre and railway station, the city of Darlington is just 3 miles away. Catterick Racecourse is only a 20-minute drive away for those guests wanting to enjoy a day at the races and York Races can be reached in around an hour. The historic market town of Richmond is a little under 30 minutes’ drive away and has a weekly farmers market as well as an abundance of attractions to explore including Richmond Castle, which stands high on the hill and looks out over the thriving market town below. The magnificent Yorkshire Dales National Park is an hour’s drive away and in the opposite direction, guests will find the cathedral city of Durham within an hour too. Many pretty Yorkshire towns and villages including Thirsk, Ripon, Yarm, Northallerton and Leyburn are all close by and offer all of the welcoming hospitality that the county is famous for. There is even the opportunity to visit one of the dazzling Yorkshire beaches and coastline with the seaside town of Whitby and glorious Robin Hood’s Bay, both can be reached within an easy one and a half hour’s drive.
Grace’s Retreat has been lovingly renovated to a good standard. With a large, open plan living area and kitchen, guests will find ample space to enjoy all of the features including original wood panelling, beams, wooden floor, 50" Freeview TV and a super wood burner that is perfect for those romantic evenings in. The bedroom is full of quality furnishings and boasts a kingsize bed and the bathroom is well finished throughout with a top quality shower cubicle and heated towel rail. Outside guests will find a small courtyard area with outdoor seating and also a private parking space. Warm and welcoming, Grace’s Retreat really is a great place to relax, unwind and enjoy a holiday or special occasion at any time of year. Beach 26 miles. Shop 1 mile, pub and restaurant 400 yards.

Occupying an elevated position overlooking the hills and valleys of Teesdale, Ornella View is a detached cottage, nestled in a perfect location for guests wanting to really explore the countryside of County Durham. Well-loved as a family home, Ornella View offers a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere with plenty of space for larger groups of guests. On the ground floor are two spacious living areas, each with ample space for the whole family. In the main living room, guests will find a cosy wood burner and comfortable sofas, as well as an open plan dining area, and in the sitting room there is a large TV and plenty of space to relax. Families will also enjoy the added bonus of a games room in the garage, which houses a pool table, dartboard and sofa. The kitchen is well equipped and perfect for those family celebrations too. On the first floor, guests will find a large family bedroom which offers a double bed and two full size single beds, which is ideal for parents with small children. There is also a double bedroom, twin bedroom and further double bedroom with an en-suite shower room. The family bathroom has a bath and a separate shower cubicle. Guests will find ample garden space around the property with a lawned area to the rear and ample garden furniture for those sunny days. There is a hot tub seating 6 in the garden, please bring your own towels for use with the hot tub.
Perfect for walkers of all abilities, the area offers an abundance of established public footpaths and walk ways that pass through the village and out beyond through Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty including the North Pennines and many of the pretty villages in Teesdale. The Mid Teesdale circular walk and the Pennine Way are both close by and offer guests the most perfect opportunity to really enjoy the natural delights of the area, culminating in a trip to the spectacular Low Force Waterfall which is the first of a series of waterfalls to explore. Also perfect for cyclists, the area is well-known for its many cycle routes and off road opportunities. Only 2 miles away is the the popular village of Middleton–in–Teesdale where guests will find a thriving area with many amenities including excellent local pubs and restaurants, as well as a local shop and market place. A little further afield but still along the path of the Teesdale Circular Walk, guests will be able to stop off at Eggleston Hall for a spot of lunch in the very popular tearooms. Guests can wander through the beautiful gardens which cover 4½ acres and includes a stream and stunning views of the fells. Perfect for families, there are many attractions for guests of all ages within a 30-minute radius. Barnard Castle and The Bowes Museum are only 8 miles away and certainly worth a visit, Stanhope for The Dales Visitor Centre and Killhope for the Lead Mining Museum are both within a 30-minute drive away. Bishop Auckland, which is home to the annual Kynren Spectacular, can also be reached within a 30-minute drive, and is a must see for families staying at Ornella View between July – September. The cathedral city of Durham and the majestic Lake District are both reachable in around a 45-minute drive too. Shop 2 miles, pub 180 yards, gastro pub 360 yards.