Dog-friendly Durham

Situated on the grounds of the owner’s farm where purebred Aberdeen Angus cattle are raised, The Granary is one of two cottages in a superb location. The Granary is a converted detached granary. It has underfloor heating throughout and electricity is supplied by the farm’s own wind turbine. Overlooking the hills and dales of beautiful County Durham guests will be able to see over miles of open countryside right across to Durham Cathedral and beyond. Hidden away down a quiet country lane yet conveniently within easy distance of the county’s most historic and unspoiled scenery, The Granary has something to offer guests of all ages.
The property lies only 5 miles away from Bishop Auckland, where the incredibly popular Kynren Spectacular is performed between July and September every year. Barnard Castle, the Bowes Museum, and Raby Castle can all be reached within an easy 30-minute drive as well as the historic, cathedral city of Durham which has been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Younger children and train enthusiasts will enjoy taking a trip to the National Railway Museum in Shildon which is only 15 minutes drive away or take a ride on The Train to Christmas Town which runs through nearby Weardale and leaves from Stanhope Station only 25 minutes away. Perfect for walkers and cyclists too, the property is surrounded by open countryside and fields, and guests will find many established walks, public footpaths, and cycle paths within the area leading out into smaller villages including Witton-le-Wear, Escomb, and Butterknowle. Hamsterley Forest is one of the north’s most popular destinations for cyclists too, and is only 4 miles away. This impressive 2000-hectare site covers some of the most beautiful countryside and offers various bike trails of different difficulties and plenty of walks for guests of all abilities including the very popular Gruffalo Trail for children. Beach 26½ miles. Shop, pub, and restaurant 1 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.

Set in a quiet courtyard, close to the village amenities of Staindrop and the village greens, this cosy, comfortably furnished and well-equipped holiday cottage is adjacent to the owner’s property. Raby Castle is within walking distance and Bowes Museum is a short drive. Visit Barnard Castle, Hadrian’s Wall or enjoy walks on the beautiful Teesdale fells and meadows or in the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Visit High Force Waterfall, Beamish Open Air Museum or Eggleston Hall with its beautiful gardens. Many footpaths lead from the door, as well as a bus service from the village. Staindrop has a shop, post office, a pub, bistro and tea room. A lovely, tree-lined walk lies across the road from the cottage, with a river running alongside. North Yorkshire is a few minutes’ drive and Durham is half an hour away and The North East coast, The Lake District and York City all within 1 hours drive. Bishop Auckland is also just a 10-minute ride away with two huge shopping parks. Barnard Castle is an 8 minute drive away from the quaint local market, shops and castle. Shops and pub 500 yards.

Situated a short stroll from the village, this holiday apartment, adjoining the owner’s home, provides an ideal base and is close to a lovely, tree-lined walk which runs along the river. The Northern Dales holds a wealth of historical interest; visit the gardens of Egglestone Hall, Raby Castle, Bowes Museum or Baldersdale Reservoirs. Staindrop has a shop, a pub, a café and bistro both serving food, and a Post Office. The historical market town of Barnard Castle is famous for ’The Banks’, antique shops, tea rooms and boutique shops. Fishing is available by permit on the River Tees. Hamsterley Forest has nature trails, pony trekking and mountain bike routes. High Force waterfall (the highest in England) and Beamish Museum are worth a visit. North Yorkshire is a few minutes’ drive and Durham is half an hour away. Shop and pub 500 yards.

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.

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.

Overlooking the River Wear, this conversion of farm buildings is peacefully situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Adjoining another cottage, it makes a comfortable holiday base to explore the area. The Northern Dales is made up of waterfalls, rugged upland, fertile valleys and meadows. Market towns dot the area, the historic town of Barnard Castle with the Bowes Museum and Durham, with its cathedral and cobbled streets easily accessible. Shop 400 yards, pub 300 yards.

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).