County Durham

County Durham is a stunning rural county in the North East of England. It’s the ideal place to go for a short or longer hot tub cottage break.  It is the home county of the historical city of Durham which boasts a stunning cathedral and has lush countryside to explore. The North Pennines are part of the county as well as the Durham Heritage Coast.

Durham – cosy rustic cottages and loads to see and do

Soak up beautiful countryside, rich history and rich coastal areas to explore

So, whether you’re planning a peaceful countryside retreat, seaside holiday or city break, County Durham is a fantastic location for your next holiday cottage break. With fantastic accommodations located throughout the county, you’ll easily be able to find the perfect accommodation for your next trip.

Eating out: From country, to modern dining, Durham has what you’re looking for

If you’re looking for a tasty reason to hop out of your private jacuzzi, there’s some incredible places for eating and drinking in County Durham.

Holiday makers can make the most of the excellent country pubs and cafes found throughout the county. While most people will load the car with goodies to enjoy on their self catering cottage break, you’ll want to try some of the up-market city bars, restaurants and the countless country pubs.

Enjoy a Sunday lunch with the family in Durham City, or post-dog walk pub lunch. The Durham Heritage Coast has plenty of coastal cafes and fish and chip shops in Seaham and Peterlee. For a night out, this county has several modern cocktail bars and nightclubs for you to enjoy on date night or when celebrating a special occasion.

Other places to dine out during your luxury cottage break

• local independent cafes
• Coffee chain stores
• All the favourite fast food restaurants
• Fine dining with cuisine from around the world

Family Days Out in & Around Durham

Take a break from your holiday cottage and soak up the history

One of the most popular family attractions you’ll want to visit is is Beamish, the Living Museum of North.

The open-air museum allows visitors to step back in time and experience what life would have been like in England during the 1820s, 1990s, 1940s and the 1950s.

There is so much to see and do at this museum, including a pit village and cottages, farm, colliery, 1900s town with bakery, garage, sweet shop, bank, school, dentist, houses and pub, tramway and steam train.

The museum is a fantastic day out and has something for the whole family to enjoy.

Diggerland is another a fun attraction, especially for families with young children. The theme park has a good selection of kids rides, real diggers, go-karting, an indoor play area, café and gift shop! Families on a cottage getaway will really love this theme park.

What is there for couples to do during their break?

If you’re planning a romantic cottage break with your partner, or simply fancy booking a city break with your loved one, there is plenty for couples to enjoy in this part of the North East. From castles to market towns.

You’ll find a wide range of cottages with jacuzzis that sleep just 2 guests available through the county so you and your partner can enjoy a romantic retreat. There are lots of romantic activities to do in the county including a trip to the famous Durham Cathedral , scenic walks in Hardwick Hall Country Park and a visit to the luxurious spa, Seaham Hall

Dog lovers will find a lot to enjoy in Durham

Plenty of pet friendly cottages

There’s nothing like hopping in the hottub back at your cottage after an afternoon exploring with your furry friend. If you’re planning a trip with your pet, you’ll find this is a fantastic area for dog lovers.

Offering a stunning coastline and scenic countryside, there are plenty of beautiful landscapes to explore with your furry friend.  The North Pennines are set within a large part of the county and provide lovely walking trails and natural landmarks to visit including Hamsterley Forest, Whinfell Forest and High Force Waterfalls.

The Heritage Coast offers a number of walking paths along the historic coast with stunning views of the beaches, cliffs and dunes. Wherever you decide to walk, I’m sure it’ll keep your dog’s tail wagging.

6 Things Not To Be Missed During Your Cottage Getaway in Durham

On your next trip to County Durham, make sure you check out some of these top 6 attractions in the county. Whether you’re visiting with family, friends or your partner, there is something for everyone in County Durham.

#1 – Durham Cathedral

A magnificent Norman building that dominates the skyline and is open for visitors and worshippers. Guests can explore the cathedral as well as enjoy food at The Undercroft restaurant and pick up a souvenir from the Cathedral shop. There are also several special events throughout the year so make sure you check out the calendar before visiting.

#2 – Beamish

Pack some educational fun into your cottage holiday. A fun day out for the whole family, Beamish is a living museum of the North and allows you to step back into history.

Explore the 1900s town where you can pick up baked goods from the bakery, watch how old-fashioned sweets are made in the sweet shop, and even enjoy a pint in the local pub.

There is also a coaling mine, traditional steam train and tramway, 1940’s farm, and much more for everyone to enjoy. The site is also dog-friendly so visitors can bring your furry friend along with you too.

#3 – The Bowes Museum

There’s some excellent museums to explore during your cottage break, none better than this renowned collection of art at The Bowes Museum.

The beautiful building has stunning gardens which you can explore. Throughout the year there are several different exhibitions as well as special events. If you’re a fan of top-quality art, fashion and design, The Bowes Museum is worth a visit.

#4 – High Force Waterfalls

Found in the North Pennines, High Force Waterfalls are one of the most magnificent waterfalls in the UK. Enjoy a lovely scenic walk to the falls where you can view the biggest waterfall in England which drop 70 feet. They are an incredible force that shouldn’t be missed on your next trip to County Durham.

#5 – Locomotion

At this railway museum in Shildon families can explore the fantastic collection of trains and learn about the history of the locomotives. The museum is also free entry, a great activity for the whole family if you’re on a budget or looking for a free activity on a rainy afternoon.

#6 – Seaham Beach

If you’re planning a trip to the Heritage Durham Coast, Seaham offers a beautiful part of the North East coast. Lovely at any time of the year, the beach is dog-friendly and offers gorgeous scenic views. You’ll also find a WW1 soldier metal sculpture on the seafront as well as cafes and fish and chip shops to enjoy with sea views.