Dog-friendly Durham

Situated high up on a hill above Tunstall Reservoir, in a hidden valley on the edge of the North Pennines, Backstone Bank Farmhouse is a fabulous property in a stunning location. Located next to a working farm, in spectacular surroundings overlooking the Tunstall Valley, this 16th-century farmhouse has amazing views from every room. It offers accommodation of the highest standard, and has been renovated and lovingly furnished, retaining many original features with the addition of top quality facilities. The kitchen is fully fitted with contemporary, quality appliances, yet also retains many original features including exposed beams and two historic larders, and the dining room comfortably seats 9 people. There is also a very useful boot room, which is the ideal place for walkers and pet owners to leave their coats and boots to dry.
Perfect for walkers, country lovers and cyclists, as well as families and friends, this location has something for everyone to enjoy. There are numerous popular footpaths and cycle paths that criss-cross over the surrounding fields and countryside out into the North Pennines and Durham Dales, including the famous Coast to Coast route. Often referred to as the ’Gateway to the Dales’, the conservation village of Wolsingham is situated in picturesque Weardale in the North Pennines, and is part of a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The popular town of Stanhope is a little over 6 miles away, and a visit to the Durham Dales Centre is recommended. Plenty of specialist information regarding walks and cycle routes (as well as history about the local area) can be found here. The beautiful and historic cathedral city of Durham is just 17 miles away, and can be reached within an easy 30-minute drive. Well deserving of its UNESCO World Heritage Site status, the area has many historic attractions including Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle, as well as a variety of boutique shops, cafés, bistros and tea shops. Bishop Auckland is just under 13 miles away and plays host to the spectacular Eleven Arches show called Kynren. For families wanting to take a day trip to Beamish Living Museum, this popular tourist attraction is only 16 miles away. The picturesque market town of Barnard Castle is just a 30-minute drive away, with a selection of great pubs in nearby Romaldkirk and Middleton-in-Teesdale. Just a few miles beyond is the majestic High Force, the highest waterfall in England. The lead mining museum in Killhope, 20 miles, is another popular attraction and shows the history of how lead was mined by generations of miners who lived in the Weardale area.
Newcastle-upon-Tyne, the Metrocentre, Derwent Reservoir, and Alston, which is the highest market town in England, can all be reached within an hour’s drive, and really are worth a visit. A little further afield, but still within an hour and a half driving distance, guests will be able to take a day trip to the Lake District, Northumbria’s beaches and Alnwick Castle.
Beautifully presented throughout and in a fabulous location, surrounded by acres of land as well as a private garden, Backstone Bank Farmhouse really does have so much to offer. Perfect for families, friends and discerning guests, this property will be the most fabulous base for any occasion at any time of year. Shops, pubs and restaurants 3 miles.

The lodge is on the first floor above the Cross Keys pub which serves local ales and good food and is perfect to return to at the end of a busy day exploring. There is a spacious comfortable living room in which to relax. The shaker-style kitchen is well-equipped whether rustling up a hearty breakfast or a quick supper and is a great space to gather around the dining table and enjoy the company of family or friends. Warm and comfortable underfoot with deep pile carpets, the property offers beautifully furnished accommodation. There are four bedrooms giving plenty of flexibility for family and friends.
A great spot too for walkers and cyclists, there are many established public footpaths from the village leading into the city of Durham and beyond into the scenic countryside of County Durham. The beautiful city of Durham, which has been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status, is packed full of historic and interesting sites to visit. The cathedral and castle dominate the skyline and the marketplace is a popular time at any time of year as there is a variety of events, markets, and celebrations throughout the year. Also great for a spot of lunch, dinner, or afternoon tea, there are many quirky tea shops, restaurants, bistros, and the smallest gin bar in the county. The River Wear runs through the city and guests will be able to take a guided river cruise, or for the more energetic, enjoy hiring a rowing boat.
The Lumiere Festival takes place every couple of years in November and brings the city to life with live art, music and light shows in the open air theatre. A little further afield but still within an easy 30-minute drive, guests will be able to take a day trip out to the very popular Beamish Living Museum, see the famous Angel of the North in Gateshead, enjoy a day’s shopping at the Metro Centre and explore the vibrant city of Newcastle-upon-Tyne. The Heritage Coast and lovely beach walks are under 20 miles away. Beach 19 miles. Shop 2 miles, pub and restaurant 10 yards.