County Durham

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Set within the grounds of the exquisite Glanton Pyke Georgian home, this little cottage opens its doors to the abundant beauty of the Northumberland countryside. 

Located at the foothills of the Cheviot Hills and just a short drive from the beach, you’ll find everything you could need for a restorative retreat – including your own private garden. 

Renovated and styled by an acclaimed interior designer, every detail of this home evokes a wonderful sense of warmth and character. From the antique furnishings to the cosy blankets and crisp linen sheets, it’s the perfect setting to pause, relax and enjoy life’s simple pleasures. So whether you’re cooking with fresh local produce, enjoying a glass of wine by the wood-burning stove or taking an evening stroll through the grounds, this is the kind of home that will leave you feeling refreshed and inspired. 

Outside, you’ll find the main house features a 19th-century walled kitchen garden – this is a lovely spot to soak up the atmospheric beauty of this location. 

Days can be spent exploring the rich and diverse landscape of Northumberland. From the wild and stunning beaches along the coast to charming market towns and ancient castles, there are endless ways to experience this special region. And whether you’re hiking, cycling, sightseeing or simply enjoying the views, this cottage provides the perfect little sanctuary – a quiet space to relax in style. 

The Garden Glory  

Set in one of the most beautiful parts of Yorkshire, this formerly derelict barn was chanced across by its owners in 2015, and lovingly converted into the stunning home it is today. The vibe is English country, with real moments of grandeur. With antlers on the walls, fine china ornaments, touches of tartan, and a solid teak dining table that wouldn’t look out of place in a stately home, it’s the kind of place you can imagine a hunting party coming back to after a day out on the moors. The grand feel continues in the bedrooms, each of which is as luxurious as the last but has its own unique design. We can see ourselves spending windswept days walking the hills of God’s Own Country before returning to pre-dinner drinks by the fire in the snug (the original stone floor is particularly gorgeous). Once the kids are set up with a movie in the second living room, a candlelit meal around the dining table beckons, followed by a session in the wood-fired hot tub.    

Yorkshire Homestead

The historic market town of Barnard Castle is located in County Durham, almost straddling the border of not one but two national parks. WIth the Yorkshire Dales just under a half-hour drive, and the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty the same distance north-west, you’ll most likely be spending your days hiking through the incredible scenery of North England. But you’ll also need a place to kick off your boots and relax with a cup of tea. This delightful house is a five-minute walk from 12th-century Barnard Castle – while this is ideal for history buffs, the modern interiors of the home will please 21st-century sensibilities. Huge windows in the lounge illuminate an elegant living space, with a charcoal feature wall, and tones of blue and grey bringing a zen vibe. The kitchen is equally stylish, with its minty-green, vintage-style fridge and matching teardrop lamp shades – a lovely spot to enjoy a roast dinner with the family on a rainy Sunday. Both bedrooms have fluffy throws and cushioned headboards as standard, so you’ll be slumbering peacefully (perhaps after a G&T for a little nightcap) before getting ready for another day in the great outdoors.

Earl Blue

Sunbeam House is a beautifully presented end terrace Edwardian property located in the serene coastal town of Saltburn-by-the-Sea, Redcar and Cleveland. Situated on a quiet residential street, this charming haven offers guests a truly peaceful oasis. With its spacious and airy feel, Sunbeam House immerses visitors in a sense of tranquility and relaxation from the moment they step inside. Natural light floods through the large windows, creating a bright and warm atmosphere throughout the day. The property also boasts a stunning natural garden with an abundance of colorful flowers, providing not only a visual feast but also attracting bumblebees and butterflies for guests to admire. Just a short walk away from Saltburn's town center, transport links, sandy beach, and enchanting Valley Gardens, Sunbeam House offers guests the perfect blend of convenience and serenity for an unforgettable seaside retreat.

Vintage Beauty

Cloaked in ivy, this home's stone-clad facade charms from the outset. You'll find it situated in an old school house in the heart of Richmond, brimming with character. Adorning a timeless canvas of high ceilings and hardwood, heated floors, exquisitely renovated interiors are equal parts cosy and chic, while huge windows usher in floods of natural light. We especially love the open-plan living space, primed for relaxation with a fully-fitted kitchen, large dining table and cosy lounge. Outside, a patio equipped with furniture and potted plants offers an idyllic spot for sunbathing in the warmer months.

Here, you're perfectly positioned to explore, just shy of a seven-minute walk from Richmond Castle and even closer to the cobbled market square. After a restful slumber in the sumptuous bedrooms – dressed with premium linens and eco-friendly Harrison Spinks mattresses – brew your morning fix with the Smeg coffee machine before slipping out for a stroll. Head across Mercury Bridge and towards the Old Richmond station, where an art gallery, three-screen cinema an award-winning array of eateries is sure to keep your clan entertained. If you fancy venturing further afield, lace up your walking boots and hike through the wild, untouched beauty of the Yorkshire Dales – a twenty-minute drive away.

Ivy & Gold

Castle View Cottage is a welcoming place to stay when holidaying in Barnard Castle. Whether you're travelling as a small group of friends or with family, this is the perfect getaway for four. You'll have access to the full property during your stay which includes a living room, kitchen diner, two bedrooms and a family bathroom. A home from home in the heart of the North East, Castle View Cottage will provide memories to treasure.

Barnard's Delight

Once you've wandered about this home nestled away in the North Yorkshire countryside for the first time, it probably won't come as a surprise to learn that it was once a hotel. The vast size of the building and its grounds partially give the game away, but there's also something about how the communal areas are arranged, especially the pool table and bar that make it an especially sociable space.

You'll also get a sense of the home's heritage pretty quickly as well. Located on a farm that dates back to the 18th century, there's a strong rustic charm throughout the interior, from the wooden ceiling beams and stone archways to the open fireplace that's wonderful to retire next to after a long bout in the great outdoors. 

Speaking of which, there's a whole host of amenities on the grounds for when the forecast is being kind to you. As well as a large lawn and lots of equipment for playing games, there's plenty of seating for alfresco feasts, as well as a hot tub that's an idyllic spot for a nightcap, especially once the stars are out in the sky.

In the local area, there's a wealth of attractions to be discovered, from the Victorian spa town of Saltburn-by-the-Sea just two-and-a-half miles away to the Cleveland Way National Trail, which can be reached on foot and rewards those that follow the path with views of the dramatic coastal landscape.

No Warmer Welcome

Situated in a Grade II-listed building dating back to 1878, we can't help but swoon over this Alnwick apartment. It doesn't lack character, that's for sure – vaulted ceilings, exposed beams and antique knick-knacks like typewriters and old books are in abundance. We think it's the perfect blend of old and new, and nowhere is a better example of that than the open-plan living area. Bright and roomy, there's more than enough space here to spread out and get comfortable, whether you're tucking into a feast around the table or snuggling up in front of the fire. Cooking is anything but a chore in the glossy kitchen, and on rainy days, head up to the mezzanine for board games and billiards. There's also a communal garden for the summer months, where you can sip tea in the sunshine or cocktails at twilight.

And the location is excellent, too. Alnwick is as charming as they come, sprinkled with history and magic – no wonder they filmed Harry Potter here. Spend afternoons wandering down the cobbled lanes, popping in and out of the independent shops, cafes and bookstores that line the high street. The famous Alnwick Castle is just a short walk away, while the Northumberland coast is a thirteen-minute drive. In the evenings, forgo the home-cooking for a pint, delicious pub grub and live music at one of the cosy inns in town.

Watching the Wheels

High Street, Norton is an expertly designed holiday home with style in abundance. Nestled in the heart of the market town of Norton, you'll be perfectly placed to enjoy the many independent restaurants, shops and bars nearby. Sleeping up to four guests, this beautiful holiday home is an ideal base for romantic retreats, family staycations and getaways for small groups of friends. High Street, Norton also accepts one well-behaved dog so your four-legged friend can enjoy a holiday too!

Charming Norton Hideaway

It seems quite fitting that a home situated in the heart of the picturesque and historic County Durham should be equally charming – and this cottage nestled on the edge of the village of Hurworth fits the bill perfectly. Surrounded by lush woodlands and steps away from the river Tees, this is an ideal spot to base yourself if you wish to enjoy the tranquillity and natural beauty of this region. 

While the cottage retains its original character, the inside has been fully renovated and restored, offering all the modern comforts to make your stay a restful one. Step through the front door to be greeted by a bright and welcoming interior, with a cosy living room, perfect for lounging about and enjoying movie nights and evenings of wine and conversation by the fire. 

The bright and well-equipped kitchen inspires to create delicious feasts which can be shared with your loved ones either indoors or out in the privacy of the back garden.

For a night of rest and relaxation head upstairs, where you can unwind in the luxurious bathtub before getting some quality sleep in the comfy bedrooms. Wake up restored and plan your day’s adventures with a cup of coffee in the garden. 

Why not head to the village and enjoy lunch at one of the lovely pubs or drive over to nearby Darlington for a spot of shopping. Just minutes down the road you'll also find the Rockliffe Hall Golf Hotel & Spa resort, set on a 365-acre estate and boasting one of the UK’s largest spas, an 18-hole championship golf course and multiple restaurants including fine dining options.

Let's Walk By the River

Perched upon the Whitley coast lies this comfortable modern home. Large windows allow natural daylight to permeate the house during the day, so you can wake up to scenic views right from the bedrooms, and open the window to let in the smell of the sea. Sit out on the patio in the garden and enjoy drinks and good company as the sun sets or curl up on the sofa in the living room and get lost in a good book.

You'll find plenty to do in Whitley Bay, including the two miles of golden sandy beaches, where you'll enjoy some incredible vistas from the St Mary's Island lighthouse. If you're hoping to find some great places to eat out during your trip, you’re in luck – Spanish City plays host to a Renaissance-style hall complete with a fish and chip restaurant, a bar and a traditional tearoom. What’s more, this abode is in close proximity to public transport, so you'll be able to hop on a bus to the city centre for some retail therapy.

Triptych by the Waves

An eleven-minute drive to the bustling town of Hexham (or just over thirty minutes to the metropolis of Newcastle), this delightful cottage offers a secluded, rural retreat in the north of England. The setting is postcard-perfect – a white picket fence, traditional iron lamppost, and handmade stone wall surround this cute and cosy home. As you stroll down your paved entrance, you’ll notice your manicured lawn, flowerbed, and dining patio. On a sunny day, it’s the ideal spot for a picnic. Or on a chilly evening, it’s even better for stargazing with a hot toddy in hand. Inside, the living space is a welcoming mix of old and new. The stylish, light-grey kitchen is understated and modern. But we love the traditional countryside features such as flagstone flooring and a sandstone, inglenook fireplace with a wood-burning stove. You feel like you've gone back in time when you’re stoking the flames with the cast-iron tools, and adding fresh logs from the wicker basket. And there’s plenty of history to discover outside the home too – take a thirty-five-minute walk to the 2000-year-old Chesters Roman Fort and Museum on Hadrian’s Wall.

Sandstone Hearth

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