Set in the historic village of Escomb – home to the oldest complete Saxon church in England – this characterful cottage with its own hot tub is a wonderful rural retreat for families or friends travelling with their four-legged companion. With heritage, open countryside and rewarding walkies in every direction, it’s a superb base for exploring County Durham with your furry sidekick.
On arrival, take a moment to admire the far-reaching views before stepping inside. The cottage centres around a generous open-plan living and dining area, where large patio doors frame rolling hills and flood the room with natural light. Gather around the dining table for leisurely suppers, then settle onto the sofas beside the crackling wood burner while your canine friend basks in the heat. A Smart TV provides evening entertainment. The contemporary kitchen and separate utility room are well-equipped for self-catering stays, and a ground-floor bathroom adds everyday convenience. Also on this level is a comfortable king-size bedroom. Upstairs, a loft-style twin room with sloping ceilings creates a snug hideaway for children. Outside, the cottage sits within its own grounds, overlooking fields often grazed by the farm’s Highland cattle. A gravelled garden at the front hosts outdoor seating for morning coffee, while a separate decked area houses a bubbling hot tub – a soothing spot to unwind as the sun sets. Anglers can bring a fishing licence, as the nearby River Wear is known for salmon, sea trout and trout during the summer months.
The village inn serves hearty meals and refreshing drinks, and Bishop Auckland (3 miles) is close by for supermarkets and independent shops. From the town centre, you can wander straight into the impressive grounds of Auckland Palace, or board the pet-positive Weardale Railway for a scenic journey through the Durham Dales. Further afield, Barnard Castle (14.5 miles) tempts with riverside walks and dog-friendly cafes, while Hamsterley Forest (13.5 miles) has miles of woodland trails suited to energetic paws.