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.

Spectacular barn conversion in the County Durham village of Witton Gilbert. Original beams and stonework. All bedrooms en-suite. Woodburning stove. Pet-friendly. Durham 3.5 miles.

Nestled in the heart of the semi-rural village of Cornsay Colliery, this beautifully refurbished 2-bedroom terraced cottage is a charming home, ready to welcome residents in 2024. From its attractive decor to its modern amenities, every detail has been carefully considered to create a warm and inviting retreat in the serene landscape near Lanchester, County Durham. As you enter the cottage, a sense of comfort embraces you in the tastefully decorated living room. A large, comfortable corner sofa invites relaxation, complemented by a generously sized flat-screen TV for entertainment. The living space is a perfect blend of modern convenience and classic cosiness. The cottage has a spacious dining room, illuminated by natural light pouring through patio doors leading to an enchanting block-paved private rear courtyard. Complete with a bistro table and chairs, this outdoor space is perfect for al fresco dining or just relaxing with a drink and perhaps a good book. The lovely kitchen is a culinary delight, featuring all-new appliances catering to modern lifestyles, it is a well-appointed space designed for both functionality and style. The bedrooms continue the theme of comfort and versatility. The first bedroom boasts a kingsize bed, ensuring a luxurious night’s sleep. The second bedroom features a super-kingsize bed, which can be easily converted into two single beds making the cottage ideal for couples or families. The bathroom is a highlight of the cottage’s refinement, offering a choice between a lovely roll-top bath for a luxurious soak and a corner shower cubicle for a refreshing experience. A well-designed vanity area with a de-misting mirror adds a touch of elegance to the space.
Beyond the cottage walls, the location proves ideal for exploring the local area, with a variety of amenities just a stone’s throw away. A nature reserve a couple of miles down the road, Hall Hill Farm petting zoo, Diggerland, Beamish Museum, and a golf course and equestrian centre in the nearby town of Crook offer an array of activities for every interest. After a day of exploring, residents can enjoy the convenience of a local pub, just a short walk from the cottage, offering a welcoming atmosphere and the prospect of home-cooked meals and refreshing drinks. In summary, this terraced cottage in Cornsay Colliery is not just a residence; it’s a meticulously crafted retreat, offering a perfect blend of comfort, style, and convenient access to the natural and cultural delights of County Durham.

Riverside Hideaway sits on the banks of the River Wear, with stunning walking and cycle trails, the C2C, picnic spots and parks along the way. This ground floor flat offers modern, stylish accommodation. The lovely open plan living space has sumptuous sofas, Smart TV, and well-equipped kitchen, sit at the breakfast bar while the designated chef rustles up supper. Through to the bedroom and you have a kingsize bed and a separate bathroom with bath and shower over. There is an enclosed decked area to sit and enjoy the warmer months and many activities nearby whether you are looking to walk/cycle or explore the lovely coast and countryside. For the golf enthusiast, Wearside Golf Club is just ½ mile away. Enjoy a loop around the river crossing the nearby footbridge and visit one of the popular pubs en route, you’ll be spoilt for choice, within a few hundred yards are three great pubs and two Italian restaurants, all riverside and a beautiful spot in the summer months.
Follow the riverside footpath a few hundred yards and you will reach Mount Pleasant Park, enjoy a walk or take a picnic and sit by the lake. Popular landmarks are within easy reach, Penshaw Monument, Victoria Viaduct, Hylton Castle and the popular Sunderland coastal resorts and beautiful sandy beaches at Roker, Seaburn and Whitburn. Great for a day or night out with beautiful promenades to walk along, golden beaches and lots of coffee shops, bars, restaurants, and entertainment. And of course, a visit to the coast would not be complete without some good old fish and chips. Sunderland city centre, just 7 miles, offers a fabulous opportunity to browse the shops, visit the National Glass Centre or maybe a football match or music concert at The Stadium of Light. The Empire Theatre has a full itinerary all year round and is a great place to visit. Conveniently if you wish to leave the car behind, there is a taxi rank just over the river to take you into town. Whatever the reason for your visit, there is something for all tastes and this is a great little base to stay. Beach 11 miles.

The Hawthorns is perfectly situated on the Heritage coastline and just a stone’s throw away from Seaham harbour, marina and abundance of local amenities. A perfect holiday base for families and couples as well as their furry friends to enjoy this popular part on the north of England. Interiors are spacious with a modern style with an open plan kitchen/dining room making a great social space. There is a separate living room, and sure to be a big hit is the games room with Smart TV, pool table and darts board. The kitchen and utility area are well equipped with everything you need for your stay. Upstairs are three bedrooms and a family bathroom. Directly accessible from one of the bedrooms is a terraced area with garden furniture to enjoy the sea views beyond. There is a small outside courtyard leading off the living space, ideal if you are bringing your pet with you.

Seaham is a lively harbour town with its own marina. Enjoy walks along the coastal path or the sandy North Beach with its famous glass pebbles and children will have fun in the rock pools. You may even be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of dolphins offshore which frequently visit the area. Don’t forget to take your picture with ’Tommy’, the WW1 statue. There is an abundance of good coffee shops, bars, and restaurants along the sea front. An absolute must is the local fish and chips! You can also treat yourself to the spa or a lovely meal nearby Seaham Hall. There are plenty of family friendly activities to enjoy such as the nearby go-karting facility for those budding Formula 1 drivers. If you want to explore further afield, The Hawthorns is also ideally place near the A19, north towards Newcastle and south towards North Yorkshire Moors, coast, and Dales. Beach 300 yards.

Colliery Cottage is set in the peaceful rural village of Cornsay Colliery 6¾ miles from the beautiful historic cathedral city of Durham. Ideal for anyone looking for a restful rural break, visiting family at Durham University or exploring the beautiful north of England. Furnished to a high standard, the cottage provides spacious and well-equipped accommodation with lots of special touches for your stay. The attractive living room enjoys stunning views over Steeley Hill Woods and is a comfortable place to sit in and relax after a busy day.
The separate dining room has a large dining table and a cosy wood burner and leads through to a modern well-equipped kitchen. To the rear of the property is an attractive, enclosed lawned garden set with a table and chairs. Upstairs are two spacious bedrooms. The master bedroom, with kingsize bed, enjoys lovely views across the open countryside. The second bedroom has twin beds and can be presented as a kingsize bed on request at the time of booking. The modern bathroom has complimentary toiletries and a P-shaped bath with shower over and a stylish basin in a vanity unit.
Out and about you will be spoilt for a choice of places to visit. The cottage is within easy reach of the surrounding cities of Sunderland and Newcastle with a variety of shopping centres, bars, restaurants, arenas and theatres. The heritage coast and the beautiful beaches can be reached within 45 minutes…don’t forget to enjoy some fish and chips while you’re there! There are also many attractions close at hand, Beamish Open Air Mseum, Kynren Open Air Spectacular, Hall Hill Farm, Durham Luminair, Durham Gala Theatre and cinema, Metro Radio Arena, the Metro Centre, the Sage and Sunderland Illuminations to name a few. Outdoor enthusiasts will love that the cottage is also within easy reach of the beautiful Durham Dales, Hamsterley Forest and Derwent Reservoir.
Opposite the cottage is a children’s park at the foot of Steeley Hill Wood, which boasts some lovely local walks. If you fancy popping out for breakfast, lunch or coffee and cake, a 5-minute drive will take you to the popular garden centre which is also home to a reptile house, birds of prey, duck pond and children’s play area.

Harrison House is conveniently located in the village of Low Pittington, with nearby road links to the A1 and A19, and guests can use this as a great base to explore the north of England. The property has been refurbished in 2022, furnished for your comfort and relaxation. The living room is inviting and spacious, comfortably accommodating guests with a Smart TV for your entertainment. The separate kitchen/dining area is a great social space, whether you are gathering for a hearty breakfast or celebratory supper, the modern shaker-style kitchen is well-equipped to cater for all your needs. Outside is an enclosed lawned garden and patio, set with table and chairs for summer dining.
Upstairs are two bedrooms and a family bathroom. A further loft-style bedroom can be found on the second floor, with vaulted ceilings, a Velux window and an en-suite shower room, and is a lovely cosy space away from it all.
Guests can simply park up and relax, or enjoy countryside walks from the door. There is a farm shop within a short walk, here you will find butchery, coffee shop, delicatessen and retail shop. A little further you can enjoy a walk across the golf links to Ramside Hall Golf and Spa, where golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round of golf on the championship courses.
Visit the City of Durham and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Durham Castle and Cathedral. The Gala Theatre is located in the centre of the city, making the cottage 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. The Lumiere Festival takes place every second November, or enjoy the jazz festival, arts festival, miners gala and many more free attractions, as well as the weekly farmers’ market.
The university colleges and campuses can be found nearby, and this is the ideal base to get to know the university and visit friends and family who might be attending one of the graduation ceremonies. 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 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 just 8 miles away, and the city of Sunderland and its coastal resorts of Roker, Seaburn and Whitburn are all within 15 miles. This lovely cottage provides a superb base from which to enjoy the beautiful county of Durham. Beach 8 miles. Pub and restaurant 1¾ miles

There are several historic sites nearby pertaining to Hartlepool’s rich history, including the nearby beautiful 12th century St Hilda’s church. A tour of Hartlepool Headland takes in a selection of World War I and World War II historic sites including Heugh Battery which is the only battlefield of WW1 in England. Or celebrate the proud maritime history at the National Museum of the Royal Navy which includes the HMS Trincomalee – the oldest warship afloat in Europe. Making this a great place to explore.
This historical fisherman’s cottage has beautiful original features and is sure to charm you. On the doorstep you have views of the sea, which is only a stone’s throw away, at low tide a sandy golden beach is revealed for you to enjoy. Between the jetty’s this is a sheltered cove, making this a good spot for wild swimming. Stepping inside the cottage you are welcomed into the lounge, which has comfortable seating in front of the TV and the electric stove which sits in the original fireplace. Glass double doors open into the kitchen/diner, with a dining table where you can enjoy meals together. The kitchen opens out into an enclosed patioed garden with outdoor seating. Upstairs on the first floor you have two well-presented bedrooms, from the windows in the master bedroom you have side views of the sea and the jetty with the small lighthouse. The master bedroom has a double bed, and is a generous size, with plenty of storage for your belongings. In the second bedroom you have twin beds. Going up to the second floor you get a sense of the properties age and heritage, with exposed beams and a high vaulted ceiling. This large room has been transformed into a games room, with a Smart TV as well as lots of board games, so no matter the weather you can have fun nights in, bonding as a family or as a couple.
The local area boasts so much to see and do; from the cottage take a stroll along the 1½ mile promenade and follow the signposted history trail or make your way to the marina which is surrounded by a cosmopolitan mix of bistros, bars, cafes and restaurants. A splendid promenade connects the marina with Seaton Carew with miles of golden sands. There are many wonderful attractions just a short distance away, including Saltholme RSPB Reserve where rich bird life and even seals can be spotted, the National Glass Centre at Sunderland for a day out with a difference where you can try your hand at glass making, as well as Summerhill nature reserve and outdoor play centre, just to name a few.
For the more active, the National Cycle Network Route 14 can be found in the local town and takes you all the way to Seaham, while the North York Moors National Park is well-worth venturing too for its spectacular scenery, enticing heritage and beautiful nature. You are within easy reach of the historic city of Durham, which is gorgeous for a day out with its magnificent cathedral and winding cobbled roads lined with independent shops and quirky bars and cafes. Seascape is a fantastic choice for your coastal escape, with history and scenery to soak up during your stay. Beach 160 yards. Pub and restaurant 110 yards.

Serving a host of purposes whether business or pleasure, the property is ideally placed for commuting to the major commercial centres of the North East, Durham University and an ideal base for touring the Durham Dales, Northumberland, the Borders and North Yorkshire.

The bungalow has been fully refurbished to a high standard throughout. With beautiful décor and stylish furnishings. The lounge has an attractive bay window overlooking a mature tree lined avenue, contemporary sofa and chairs, and a smart TV for your entertainment. The modern gloss kitchen is well equipped and has a large breakfast bar that comfortably seats four people, leading through to the garden room with dining table. Two spacious and tastefully furnished bedrooms with original features, a super kingsize bed (can be twin on request) and kingsize bed have high quality mattresses to ensure a good night’s sleep. The bathroom is modern in style and has a walk-in rainfall style shower.

To the rear of the property there is an attractive and secluded deck area with planted borders. Utilise the table and relaxed seating to enjoy a glass of wine, or dine alfresco on a warm summer evening. The bungalow sits back from the road on a tree lined avenue near the market town of Chester-le-Street in County Durham, mid-way between the cities of Durham and Newcastle with excellent links to major road networks. Famed for its cricket presence, being home to the Emirates Durham International Cricket Ground which is just a short stroll away. Chester-le-Street has a wide range of shops, restaurants and bars, and also has the lovely Riverside Park – the perfect place for dog-walking, taking children for a paddle or to simply enjoy the tranquillity of the area. Ideal for cyclists and walkers with the C2C route within 5 minutes walking distance of the property. Enjoy a drink or a meal at the local inn with its country style bar and restaurant.

With so many attractions in proximity – Beamish Living Museum is just 4 miles, the cosmopolitan City of Newcastle with a huge array of shops, bars, restaurants and vibrant Quayside and galleries is 20mins away. Visit the historic City of Durham with its stunning Castle, Cathedral and riverside walks, beautiful cobbled streets and shops, bars and restaurants. Families visiting students at the University of Durham and Newcastle will find this a convenient location. Visit the North East coast, (13 miles) or a little further North the beautiful coastal villages and castles in Northumberland.

Situated in the pretty village of Hawthorn just two miles from the Durham Heritage Coast and a short walk from the stunning Hawthorn Dene, the second largest dene in the county. Set within impressive grounds, Laburnum house has a unique style providing a high level of comfort throughout, with Egyptian cotton bedding and towels provided as an extra indulgent touch. From the grand entrance, the attractive hallway opens into the living room, a decadent space with leather Chesterfields, a blend of antique furnishings and a beautiful inglenook fireplace and wood burner to gather round. A formal dining room will seat the whole family and provides a wonderful space perfect for that special occasion. The kitchen area is spacious and well equipped with all modern appliances, with additional seating here ideal for breakfast. On the first floor are the bedrooms, all decadent in style and offering a high level of comfort. Two en-suite bedrooms with four poster beds, one has an additional single bed and louvre doors leading to a further sleeping area with a single bed, which makes this a great family room. There is also a separate toilet on this level. On the second floor a fabulous master suite runs the entire length of the property, with vaulted ceilings and double bed. A separate landing area with leather sofa making a gorgeous reading nook and a luxurious bathroom with deep bathtub to enjoy an indulgent soak. Walkway to outdoor spa area with wood fired hot tub (at cost) seating 4 people.
When the weather turns cool enjoy the quirky shelter with seating and dressing area, the perfect place to relax and unwind. Enjoy the cool water foot spas with complimentary bottled water and bamboo foot towels, while you chat with your friends, or simply enjoy the peace and quiet with some mindfulness and relaxation.
Externally is a courtyard garden, a raised decked area with table and wrap round seating makes a gorgeous social space to sit and enjoy al fresco meals and a glass of wine. For the outdoor enthusiast, the property is perfectly situated in an area which offers outstanding walking and sightseeing, within a short walk to the stunning area of Hawthorn Dene, a Site of Special Scientific Interest. There is a plethora of things to do locally, including fishing, indoor skiing, a retail park, cycle tracks and a seaglass beach, and within a mile there is even a community centre offering activities, and nearby, the National Trust coastal footpath offers 11 miles of beautiful landscape and impressive coastal scenery. For the children there is an alpaca farm nearby, a play park, and a lovely picnic area to sit and enjoy an ice cream. For the adults, a village pub serving wholesome food a two-minute stroll. Nearby at Seaham, enjoy a day at the seaside, with lovely marina, promenade, cafés, shops and restaurants. All the family will enjoy the community centre activities within a mile. The beach at Seaham is an excellent place to collect sea glass, and visitors come from far and wide for this very reason. Visit Durham, a World Heritage Site, with its famous castle, cathedral and riverside walks, and good selection of eateries. Nearby there are alpacas and National Trust walks and in Dalton Park is a fabulous retail outlet, with shops restaurants and cinema. A pub can be found within 1 mile of Laburnum House.