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.
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
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.
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.
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.
Mayland Farm Cottage enjoys an enviably peaceful location on a family-run farm close to the North Pennines and the North York Moors National Park. The self-catering cottage is a mile from Woodland village just outside of Bishop Auckland. The owners have created a space where many of their guests choose to visit year after year, making the most of the beautiful walks, exciting mountain bike trails, and charming market towns that are all within easy reach. With three bedrooms that sleep up to five guests and accommodation all on one level, the cottage is ideal for couples, families and friends. 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 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...
"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...
"Low Shipley Mill" is a 4 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 8 guests in Durham. Barnard Castle, a market town in County Durham, may be found among the beautiful landscape of nearby Teesdale. It occupies the spot of an old Roman fort that once spanned the river. Despite being in ruins, the castle's mediaeval remains are...
"Chestnut Lodge (P/F) VIP" is a 3 bed holiday Lodge sleeping up to 6 guests in Durham. Chestnut Lodge is a luxurious countryside retreat designed to make every stay feel easy, comfortable and relaxing from the moment you arrive. Set within the peaceful surroundings of Haystax Holiday Park in the Durham countryside, the lodge...
"Heartwell Cottage" is a 6 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 15 guests in Durham. The picturesque town of Wolsingham is a quintessentially British market town in the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Nestled in the beautiful valley of Weardale, the town boasts a number of well-regarded pubs, cafes and...
"Eastfield Farm" is a 2 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 4 guests in Durham. The small hamlet of Mickleton is situated in the heart of beautiful Teesdale, close to the villages of Romaldkirk and Middleton in Teesdale and within a few miles of the market town of Barnard Castle. Mickleton itself consists of a cluster of...
"Starshinezzz" is a 4 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 14 guests in Durham. Situated in one of the most beautiful counties of England, Durham city is one of the jewels in England’s crown. Dominated by the historic centre, a World Heritage Site, the city is home to magnificent Durham Cathedral, with its breath-taking...
"Newfield Apartment" is a 1 bed holiday Apartment sleeping up to 4 guests in Durham. Willington is a charming village nestled in County Durham, offering a blend of rich history and picturesque countryside. Known for its close-knit community, Willington is home to the striking St. Stephen’s Church, a Grade II-listed building...
"Heritage View" is a 2 bed holiday Caravan sleeping up to 4 guests in Durham. This stunning holiday home with a double bedroom and en suite W.C., twin bedroom and a shower room. Open plan lounge and dining area with comfortable seating with a flatscreen TV, and a well-equipped kitchen. Doors leading out to a covered...
"Gate House View 38" is a 2 bed holiday Caravan sleeping up to 4 guests in Durham. This stunning holiday home with a double bedroom and en suite W.C., twin bedroom and a shower room, open plan lounge and dining area with comfortable seating with a flatscreen tv, well-equipped kitchen. Doors leading out to a covered veranda...
"Heatherview Willerby" is a 3 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 8 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...
"Heatherbrae" is a 10 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 24 guests in Durham. The charming Pennine town of Middleton-in-Teesdale is located in the centre of Teesdale, in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, nestled by the banks of the River Tees. This bustling town is bordered by beautiful walking scenery, including...
"Belgrave House" is a 5 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 12 guests in Durham. The hamlet of Mickleton is in Teesdale, close to Romaldkirk, Middleton-in Teesdale and Barnard Castle. Mickleton offers two pubs and a petrol station/garage. Walking is on the doorstep with The Pennine and Teesdale Ways, The River Tees and...
"The Farm House" is a 6 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 19 guests in Durham. Great for family or friends to get together, this spacious barn conversion is within easy reach of Durham and its many attractions.. Ground Floor: Living room: 50" Freeview TV, Woodburner Dining...
"The Stone Byre" 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 ford which crosses the river. The medieval ruins of the castle still tower over the river and are...
"Bramble Cottage" is a 3 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 6 guests in Durham. Thornley is a rural village resting in Durham, England. Surrounded by rolling countryside fields, this delightful village gives easy access to a number of neighbouring towns, villages and even the thriving city of Durham. Thornley has a small...
"Horsley Hall" is a 10 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 22 guests in Durham. Eastgate is a small village in Weardale, popular for walking and cycling. The village once marked the eastern boundary of Stanhope Park, the scene of many grand and historical hunting expeditions. The village is also famed for being the...
"The Mayoress - Durham" is a 2 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 1 guests in Durham.
"The Old Mill" is a 1 bed holiday BandB sleeping up to 1 guests in Durham.
"Redworth Hall Hotel- Part of the Cairn Collection" is a 1 bed holiday Hotel sleeping up to 1 guests in Durham.
"Modern 1 Bed Barnard Castle Stay Near Bowes Museum" is a 0 bed holiday Apartment sleeping up to 2 guests in Durham.
"Hotel Indigo - Durham by IHG" is a 1 bed holiday Hotel sleeping up to 2 guests in Durham.
"South Causey Inn" is a 1 bed holiday Hotel sleeping up to 2 guests in Durham.
"Park Head Hotel" is a 1 bed holiday Hotel sleeping up to 1 guests in Durham.
Popular towns in and around Durham:
Barnard CastleBishop AucklandDarlingtonDurhamFrosterleyHartlepoolLanchesterShotley BridgeStanhopeStanleySunderlandSearch within North East England
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.
