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.
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
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.
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.
"Brancepeth" is a 3 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 6 guests in Durham. In the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, you will find the charming town of Wolsingham. The town is a popular stop-off site for travellers, nestled in the lovely valley of Weardale. There are several well-known pubs, cafes, and...
"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...
"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...
"Stonebank Cottage - UK35686" is a 3 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 6 guests in Durham. A great place to get together with friends or family and enjoy the wonderful hot tub.. 2 steps to entrance, Ramp access. Ground Floor: Living room: Freeview Smart TV Dining...
"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...
"The Byre" is a 1 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 2 guests in Durham. A beautifully converted stone cottage in a peaceful rural setting, The Byre offers a romantic escape for two, with stylish interiors, scenic surroundings, and easy access to historic sites and walking adventures.. All on the Ground...
"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...
"Low Stonebank Cottage-UK41027" is a 1 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 2 guests in Durham. This cosy cottage for two is the ideal romantic bolthole in County Durham.. 1 step to entrance. Ground Floor: Open plan living space. Living area: Smart TV, Electric Fire Dining...
"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...
"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...
"Sheriff's Tower Cottage - West" 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...
"Freville cottage" is a 2 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 4 guests in Durham. Freville Cottage is a homely, traditional terraced house in an historic town, that is ideal for getting out and exploring all that County Durham has to offer.. Ground Floor: Living/dining room: (No TV), Sofa...
"Squirrel Cottage - UK37886" is a 2 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 4 guests in Durham. Squirrel Cottage is a beautiful apartment with an inviting interior. Located in the historic market town on Stanhope, behind an 18th century castle.. All on the First Floor: Open plan living...
"Peartree Cottage" is a 2 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 4 guests in Durham. 1960’s themed 2 bedroomed cottage with all the necessities for a modern day family.. 1 step to entrance. Ground Floor: Living room: 40" Freeview TV, Multi-Fuel Burner Kitchen/dining room:...
"Riverside Cottage - UK32405" is a 2 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 4 guests in Durham. Riverside Cottage is a beautiful ground floor apartment with an inviting interior. Located in the historic market town on Stanhope, behind an 18th century castle.. All on the Ground Floor: Open plan living...
"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...
"Cedar Cottage" is a 2 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 4 guests in Durham. Nestling by the banks of the River Tees is the pretty town of Middleton-in-Teesdale, which lies in the heart of Teesdale, in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This bustling town offers a good range of shops, pubs and places to eat and is...
"Stang View" is a 2 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 4 guests in Durham. Barnard Castle is a market town resting in County Durham in the Teesdale countryside, standing on the site of an ancient Roman fort. Boasting cobbled streets, back lanes and quaint yards, the town still echoes its 12th century beginnings, and...
"Miners Meadow" is a 2 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 5 guests in Durham. A beautiful, fully restored property nestling within tranquil meadowland, with private lake and wildlife with nods to the heritage of this former mining village.. Ramp access. All on the Ground Floor: Open plan...
"Palace Garden Cottage" is a 3 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 6 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...
"Raby Cottage" is a 3 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 6 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...
"Raby Cottage-27764" is a 3 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 6 guests in Durham. If you can tear yourself away from the swimming pool, hot tub and games room, explore the countryside or visit castles and museums.. Ground Floor: Open plan living space. Living area:...
"Bridge End Farm" is a 3 bed holiday Cottage sleeping up to 6 guests in Durham. This fantastic family holiday home is set in an aonb offering lovely views of the charming village and river.. All on the Ground Floor: Living room: Freeview TV, DVD Player, CD Player, DVDs, Patio Doors...
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.
