Barnard Castle has been featured heavily in the press and social media since Dominic Cummings made his infamous visit during Lockdown 1. Its beauty has been praised in the press ever since. It was described in the press as a 'beauty spot' - come and see for yourself and admire the new English Heritage blue plate that has been erected for Mr Cummings! The Back House is a very pretty Grade II listed building quietly located off Front Street in Staindrop, some 5 miles from “Barney”. The local public footpath system starts from the access lane to the property and includes circular routes. The Back House is part of a historic coaching inn next to the owner’s property; the accommodation is very spacious and features a large sitting room which offers a warm and welcoming space with plush sofas and a delightful woodburning stove resting in the original 18th-century inglenook, backed by a beautiful stone wall. The property’s rooms are bright and airy, and all overlook the south-facing courtyard with a lovely raised planted area. Socialise in the splendid kitchen with quality fittings together with ample room for six to cook and eat together at the beautifully restored table The cottage is very well finished with Karndean floors, Voyage fabrics and Farrow and Ball paintwork, and is simply a haven for couples and friends seeking a high-quality retreat. Step upstairs to the three bedrooms; all featuring super-king-beds, perfectly polished and tastefully decorated with coordinating high TC linens, cushions, and upholstery – should you wish for alternative sleeping arrangements, the zip/link beds can be twins upon request. The bathroom is large, very fresh and airy whilst the ground floor cloakroom benefits from a WC and basin. Step outside into a lovely lovely south-facing courtyard area with raised flower beds.It is well planted with specimens of varying height, colour and texture and with seating for six, This leads to the charming enclosed and private pergola area; the pergola is for the use of cottage guests and the gates can be closed for privacy while relaxing in this lovely space. The area, featuring a 6-person hot tub, provides seating with cashmere throws and cushions for added warmth on a chilly evening. Additional warmth is emanated by a stunning Planika Faro propane gas fire, and guests can enjoy cooking meals for family and friends on the Weber gas BBQ, directly next to a quality outdoor table for six. Staindrop is a pretty village with a large conservation area and one of the long greens typical of County Durham. The oldest parts of the Church of England parish church of St Mary are Anglo-Saxon, built in the 10th or 11th-century. The church contains monuments including effigies of members of the Neville family. The village is situated near to the historic market towns of Barnard Castle and Richmond both with many independent shops and multiple restaurant and tea shop options. The magnificent Raby Castle is approximately 1 mile from the front door of the house. A new adventure playground, The Plotters Forest, designed and built for real adventurers, is opening at Easter 2022 – Charges apply; please check the Raby Castle website for availability. The Castle is open to the public and boasts a top-rated tearoom as well as a wonderful gift shop; activities take place in the grounds throughout the year. The walled gardens are magnificent, whilst dogs on leads can be walked in the stunning deer park for a small charge. The renowned Bowes Museum is close by, together with its famous Silver Swan automaton Durham city with the twin attraction of world heritage sites Durham Castle, and the cathedral is 15 miles away. The cathedral is recognised as one of the finest examples of Norman architecture in Europe. Also to the north is the unique Beamish Museum, which offers access to a preserved example of everyday life in urban and rural Northeast England at the time of industrialization in the early 19th-Century. The Back House is also a great choice for those who love the outdoors, with ample walking, birdwatching and cycling opportunities nearby including the National Cycle Route 715. The Back House is a truly unique base which offers a memorable holiday break for the whole family looking to explore the area.