Durham, in the North-East of England, is a county rich in history and architecture. From its infamous cathedral to its castles and dedicated museums, Durham gives us the opportunity to turn back time and witness the Durham of old. As well as the great structures and buildings in the county, Durham is also home to amazing countryside landscapes, rivers and coastline. Read more
Barnard Castle is the perfect destination for a relaxed walking holiday. This Grade-II listed holiday cottage is in a quiet location close to the River Tees, the Castle and Bowes Museum. Great for cafes, pubs, bars, restaurants and shops, Barnard Castle is renowned for its diverse range of independent shops and the Town's Antiques Quarter. Riverdale Cottage sleeps two people in one bedroom (plus one child under 12) and is dog-friendly with accommodation entirely on ground floor level. Barnard Castle is in Teesdale, close to High Force and within easy reach of Durham, York, the Yorkshire Dales, North Pennines, and Lake District. Guests love the quiet location that is convenient for amenities, sights and attractions. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
1 Teesdale Road is a comfortable and cosy holiday cottage with just a short walk over to the River Tees and into the market town of Barnard Castle and it's shops, cafes, restaurants, pubs, and traditional markets. We have been awarded 4 star Visit England Gold awards in 2023, 2024 and 2025 ! The accommodation is suitable for six people in three bedrooms - two on the ground floor - with an open-plan living area and a patio with lovely views. The location is perfect for a walking or cycling holiday, and the self-catering property has a lockable garage so you can store bikes, SUPs, kayaks and other equipment. Bookings are available all year round for families and friends.
Kearton Cottage is a beautifully rebuilt holiday cottage near Barnard Castle, made for couples who love countryside calm with a dash of character. Set within landscaped gardens overlooking the Dales, it blends warmth, comfort and style with a log burner, oak kitchen and sweeping views. Guests can explore Teesdale's waterfalls and the market town's cobbled streets. With a whimsical Stonehenge feature in the garden and the chance to view a private vintage steam collection, this self-catering accommodation in County Durham offers a peaceful, romantic base for exploring the North East and beyond.
Kearton Lodge is a stylish self-catering retreat for four. A short drive from the historic town of Barnard Castle. Rebuilt with care and eco-friendly touches, this light, airy holiday rental in County Durham captures the beauty of the Dales with its open views, private patio and relaxed contemporary feel. Wander through landscaped gardens with a unique Stonehenge feature or arrange a private viewing of the owner's vintage steam and tractor collection. Perfect for couples craving comfort, scenery and unhurried days exploring Teesdale, the North Pennines and the timeless towns of the North East.
The Hayloft is Grade II listed and has been beautifully restored to provide a very relaxing 'home away from home'. The Hayloft has lots of character and natural charm and offers all the right ingredients for a romantic retreat for couples. Located at East Greystone Farm in the idyllic Teesdale Countryside. We are situated between the beautiful villages of Piercebridge and Gainford and are an ideal base for walking. With the Yorkshire Dales, Lakes, East Coast and the cities of York, Durham and Newcastle within easy reach by car, this is a great base for exploring the many sights of North East England.
Boot and Shoe Cottage is a charming 18th-century riverfront holiday cottage in Wycliffe, just six miles from Barnard Castle. Its beautifully restored interiors, featuring original fireplaces and beams, blend history with modern comforts. Ideal for families or couples, the cottage offers a double bedroom with serene field views and a cosy twin room. Located in the stunning North Pennines AONB, it's perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, with private fishing, riverside walks, and nearby cycling trails. Explore local treasures like Barnard Castle, The Bowes Museum, and High Force Waterfall, or simply unwind by the fire or stargaze in the peaceful garden. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
Lighthouse Lookout is a sea-view holiday apartment in Roker near Sunderland, sleeping 5 in 3 bedrooms. Set over two floors, this self-catering coastal apartment boasts panoramic views of Roker Pier and lighthouse, a modern kitchen, private parking, and easy access to the beach, walks and watersports. Ideal for family holidays or breaks with friends, the property is pet-friendly and just a short drive from Seaham, Souter Lighthouse and Beamish. With strong transport links and Durham close by, it’s a fantastic base for exploring the North East. Book your UK coastal holiday at Lighthouse Lookout for comfort, convenience and unbeatable views.
Old Red Row Rooms – A Collection of 12 charming cottage rooms with signature copper baths nestled in a peaceful countryside setting, our Old Red Row Rooms offer twelve individually styled cottage double rooms with ensuite, each full of rustic charm and luxurious touches. Whether you're looking for a romantic escape or a peaceful retreat, our cottages provide a warm, welcoming experience with character and comfort in abundance.
Welcome to Red Row Retreat — Your Private Escape in the Countryside Tucked away in a peaceful, secluded corner of the stunning Black Horse Beamish estate, Red Row Retreat offers the perfect setting for a luxury countryside getaway. Whether you’re booking the entire retreat exclusively for up to 10 guests, or choosing one of the individual suites, this unique property promises comfort, charm, and incredible views. The retreat is made up of two stylish self-catering suites and two additional beautifully designed rooms, each full of character and thoughtfully furnished. Step out onto your private terrace and soak in the breathtaking views of the rolling countryside — the perfect place to relax and unwind.
Welcome to Huckleberry Cottage — a peaceful countryside retreat in the Beamish conservation valley, just minutes from Beamish Museum, Tanfield Railway, and the highly-rated Black Horse Pub & Restaurant. Surrounded by scenic walking trails, rare wildlife, and with easy access to Durham and Newcastle, it’s the perfect base for couples, small families, or friends. Ideal for those looking to relax, explore, and enjoy the best of the North East.
"Kearton Cottage" is a 1 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 2 guests in Durham. Kearton Cottage is a south-facing stone retreat located just outside the Hamlet of Boldron, just two miles from the cobbled charm of Barnard Castle. Adjoining the owners' home at East Roods, the cottage has been beautifully...
"Drover's Cottage" is a 1 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 2 guests in Durham. The picturesque market town of Wolsingham sits at the entrance to Weardale, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty nestled within the North Pennines. Boasting many period features and stone-built listed buildings, the town is a popular stop-off...
"1 Bed Cottage in Bishop Auckland" is a 1 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 2 guests in Durham. Additional information and rules. Please enquire if you wish to bring more than 1 dog - Part of a complex of properties set on a working farm - 1 double bedroom - Shower room with WC - Kitchen with electric...
"1 Bed Lodge in Crook" is a 1 bed holiday Lodge sleeping up to 2 guests in Durham. Additional information and rulesNo dogs allowed - 1 double bedroom - 1 shower room with shower and WC - Microwave, fridge, toaster and kettle (on-site cafe available) - TV with Freeview - Enclosed...
"1 Bed Cottage in Bishop Auckland" is a 1 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 2 guests in Durham. Additional information and rules. Please enquire if you wish to bring more than 1 dog - Part of a complex of 4 properties on a working farm - 1 double bedroom - Kitchen with electric oven and hob, fridge/freezer and...
"California Cottage (2), Barnard Castle" is a 1 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 2 guests in Durham. Guests are invited in via the main entrance into a light and airy open plan living, kitchen and dining area. The wood burning stove being the focal point, is a welcome feature for cosy nights in with your loved one after a romantic walk taking...
"Old Queen's Head" is a 1 bed holiday Apartment sleeping up to 2 guests in Durham. The picturesque market town of Wolsingham sits at the entrance to Weardale, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty nestled within the North Pennines. Boasting many period features and stone-built listed buildings, the town is a popular stop-off...
"1 Bed Cottage in Bishop Auckland" is a 1 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 2 guests in Durham. Additional information and rules. Please enquire if you wish to bring more than 1 dog - Part of a complex of 4 properties on a working farm - 1 double bedroom, with additional single bed in same room - Kitchen with...
"Kearton Lodge" is a 2 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 4 guests in Durham. Kearton Lodge combines sweeping views of Teesdale with the comfort of a refined country holiday rental. Just a ten-minute drive from Barnard Castle. South-facing and set within the grounds of East Roods, the owners rebuilt this...
"5 Ashcroft Mews" is a 3 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 4 guests in Durham. Seaham is a bustling, harbour town resting upon the Durham Heritage Coast, and in between the popular areas of Sunderland and Hartlepool. Brimming with amenities, visitors can enjoy sampling tasty dishes across a plethora of eateries, including...
"1 Kyles Yard" is a 2 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 4 guests in Durham. The market town of Barnard Castle is situated in the unspoilt countryside of Teesdale in County Durham. It stands on the site of an ancient Roman fort which crosses the river. The medieval ruins of the castle still tower over the river and are...
"No 4 Townhouse" is a 2 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 4 guests in Durham. Bishop Auckland is a busy market town, 11 miles to the south of Durham and is home to the Gothic palace of Auckland Castle and deer park, a 900 year old medieval hunting lodge and grounds, once home to the Prince Bishop’s of England. Bishop...
"1 Bed Cottage in Frosterley" is a 1 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 2 guests in Durham. Additional information and rulesNo dogs allowed - 1 double bed - 1 shower room with WC - Combination oven, 2-ring electric hob, fridge - TV with DVD player - Raised terrace and gravelled area with BBQ,...
"1 Bed Cottage in Frosterley" is a 1 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 2 guests in Durham. Additional information and rules. Please enquire if you wish to bring more than 1 dog - 1 double bed - 1 shower room with WC - Combination oven, 2-ring electric hob, fridge - TV with DVD player - Raised...
"1 Bed Cottage in Frosterley" is a 1 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 2 guests in Durham. Additional information and rulesNo dogs allowed - 1 double bed - 1 shower room with WC - Combination oven, 2-ring electric hob, fridge - TV with DVD player - Raised terrace and gravelled area with BBQ,...
"1 Braeside" is a 2 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 4 guests in Durham. Wearhead is a village in County Durham at the top of Weardale. Named after the source of the River Wear, the village boasts some of the highest peaks in County Durham. Wearhead is set in rural countryside with the nearest shop being 3 miles...
"Hawthorne Cottage" is a 2 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 4 guests in Durham. Set amongst the luscious Durham countryside on the banks of the beautiful River Tees, lies the picturesque village of Cotherstone. Home to a quintessential country pub and its very own store selling all of the essentials for a self-catering...
"California Cottage, Barnard Castle" is a 2 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 3 guests in Durham. Guests are invited in via the main entrance into a light and airy open plan living, kitchen and dining area. The wood burning stove being the focal point, is a welcome feature for cosy nights in with your loved one after a romantic walk taking...
"High Spec 1Bed Cottage in Staindrop Darlington" is a 1 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 3 guests in Durham. The pretty Teesdale village of Staindrop has always been closely associated with the fortunes of nearby Raby Castle and its owners. The Castle (open to the public) is one of the grandest in England. Enlarged and beautified over the centuries,...
"Garden Cottage" is a 1 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 3 guests in Durham. Situated in the heart of beautiful Teesdale close to the villages of Romaldkirk and Middleton is the small hamlet of Mickleton. Within Teesdale and just a few miles from the market town of Barnard Castle, this pretty village consists primarily...
"Blackburn Cottage Barn" is a 2 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 6 guests in Durham. Wolsingham is a small market town with beautiful buildings and period features. There is also the Wolsingham Agricultural Society which is held every year in September and draws large crowds.
"2 Bed Cottage in Consett" is a 2 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 4 guests in Durham. Additional information and rulesNo dogs allowed - Part of a complex of 4 properties set on a working farm - 2 bedrooms with TV/DVD: 1 double (zip-and-link which can be made into a twin on request) and 1 king-size - Kitchen with...
"Coastal Lodge at Seaham Hall" is a 2 bed holiday Lodge sleeping up to 4 guests in Durham. Seaham is a bustling, harbour town resting upon the Durham Heritage Coast, and in between the popular areas of Sunderland and Hartlepool. Brimming with amenities, visitors can enjoy sampling tasty dishes across a plethora of eateries, including...
"Coastal Lodge at Seaham Hall" is a 2 bed holiday Lodge sleeping up to 4 guests in Durham. Seaham is a bustling, harbour town resting upon the Durham Heritage Coast, and in between the popular areas of Sunderland and Hartlepool. Brimming with amenities, visitors can enjoy sampling tasty dishes across a plethora of eateries, including...
Popular towns in and around Durham:
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In terms of culture, Durham has it all. As a recognised World Heritage Site, its architecture is the first point of call for visitors to the county. The Romanesque Cathedral, built as a shrine of worship to St Cuthbert, has an awe-inspiring structure that rests on land in the heart of the River Wear. Surrounded by deep woodlands and charming riverbanks, the Cathedral sits beautifully within the county. Durham Castle, and other monumental buildings used by the University, are close by and are also worth visiting if your interests lie in architecture. Dotted along the River Wear, through Durham city, are three main bridges (Framwellgate, Elvet and Prebends) which all offer beautiful views for visitors to see.
The countryside of County Durham is home to many surprises. The High Force waterfall, plunging 70 feet into the water, is the highest waterfall in England. A walk through the alluring woodlands surrounding the waterfall leads to this captivating sight, where visitors can experience a breathtaking view. The Durham Dales, which partly sit in the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, encompasses Teesdale and Weardale, a truly tranquil part of the English countryside. With valleys, moors and hills laced through the Dales, they are a great option for walkers and ramblers alike. Hamsterley Forest offers woodland walks as well as cycling and horse riding routes for those wanting to travel a little differently.
County Durham is also home to many museums. The mining history of Durham is kept alive in Killhope, which offers a snapshot of what life was like for lead mining families in the past. There is also a huge, working water-wheel on site. Beamish, the Living Museum of the North, is a great option for old and young. The outdoor museum depicts everyday life in the North East of England, at the time of the Industrial Revolution. Focusing mostly on Victorian and Edwardian culture, it uses replica buildings, working vehicles and actors in costumes to relive the era. Beamish is renowned in the North-East of England as a great family day out; an unmissable trip for tourists.
Architecture, history and local culture are all great reasons to visit County Durham. Experience beautiful buildings and bridges or take a trip to a unique outdoor museum. Wander down the cobbled streets of the city of Durham into a local pub and you will witness the renowned, friendly nature of the people. Durham is a place where you will never be short of good company! Alternatively, for something more relaxing, visit the moors of the Durham Dales and catch a glimpse of the infamous waterfall. Whatever you decide, Durham is an interesting and fantastic county to fulfil anyone's holiday needs.
