Wayside Cottage, County Durham

In a superb location for touring the North Pennines and County Durham, is Wayside Cottage, an end-terrace, Grade II listed cottage set in the historic village of Staindrop, approximately one mile from Raby Castle. You will feel at home the moment you enter this delightful cottage, which brims with character and charm, offering a perfect retreat for couples looking to discover Durham’s many delights. Entering the cottage, the sitting room provides a welcome respite at the end of a busy day’s sightseeing, whilst the kitchen next door offers all you need to rustle up a warming supper. A wooden staircase from the sitting area winds up to a shower room and pretty bedroom complete with a quirky bay window and a plush double bed. To the rear of Wayside Cottage offers a charming cobbled courtyard, an ideal spot for an al fresco drink or letting the doggies out safely for a bit of fresh air. The surrounding area is ideal for walking and sightseeing, with a host of historical buildings to visit nearby, including impressive Raby Castle, The Bowes Museum, and the roofless ruins of Barnard Castle. You can also spend an afternoon exploring Eggleston Hall, set in attractive walled gardens perfect for a tranquil stroll on a summer day. If relaxing walks are your ideal day out, enjoy a stroll along the River Tees or for the more energetic travellers, follow the Teesdale Way up the valley. A few miles drive brings you to the popular market town of Barnard Castle, with quaint tea rooms and antique shops lining the cobbled streets, the historic town makes for a fascinating day out for all ages. The spectacular set of falls, including High Force, Low Force and Cauldron Snout, lie further up the river valley and are well worth visiting, as is the charming village of Middleton-in-Teesdale. Slightly further afield is the magnificent city of Durham, home to Durham Cathedral and plenty more shops, pubs, restaurants and cafés to fuel your excursions. Wayside Cottage is a romantic retreat in an fabulous location and an excellent place to return to year after year.