Guests say
Orchard Cottage is highly praised for its welcoming atmosphere, spaciousness, and idyllic location. Guests appreciate the well-equipped kitchen, large hot tub, and the property's proximity to Durham. The cottage's charm and the owner's hospitality, including occasional gifts, contribute to a memorable stay. While some minor cleanliness and maintenance issues are noted, the overall experience is one of comfort and relaxation, with many guests planning to return.
Most guests found Orchard Cottage to be clean and well-maintained, though a few noted areas for improvement, such as under sofas and kitchen equipment. The majority of reviews, however, do not mention significant cleanliness issues, suggesting these are isolated incidents.
The location is consistently lauded for its tranquillity and proximity to Durham, with guests enjoying the peaceful setting and easy access to local attractions. The picturesque surroundings and convenient location contribute to the high rating.
Guests generally find the cottage comfortable, with spacious rooms and a cosy atmosphere. Some guests mentioned the beds being hard and the furniture showing signs of wear, but these comments are relatively few compared to the overall positive feedback on comfort.
The facilities, especially the large hot tub and well-equipped kitchen, are highlights for many guests. Some noted the need for maintenance and updates on certain items, but the overall sentiment is that the cottage is well-appointed and enjoyable.
The owner's thoughtfulness is evident in the warm welcomes, occasional gifts, and attentive service. While such gestures are greatly appreciated, it is noted that these personal touches, though delightful, are not guaranteed with every stay.
About this property
Durham 3 miles. This stunning Grade II listed, detached barn conversion with hot tub is surrounded by countryside, next to the owners home, on a non-working farm, close to the city of Durham. This is a lovely cottage offering an escape from everyday life for a family or group of friends wishing to explore this lovely part of the country. This beautiful cottage has been lovingly renovated, with special attention being paid to retaining some of the buildings history, along with boasting countryside views and easy access to the city. There are rustic flagstone floors, exposed stone walls, beams and original trusses throughout the house. The sitting room has a cosy woodburning stove and boasts views out to the garden and play area, making it a cosy place to relax at any time of the year. The farmhouse-style country kitchen, with beautiful tiled floor, Belfast sink and all the usual appliances, also has a large dining area. There are two ground floor king-size bedrooms, one with a cosy woodburning stove, a ground floor wet room and two first floor king-size bedrooms with fine views over the countryside, with both sharing a bathroom. French doors from the sitting room lead on to the patio area with private hot tub and furniture. Relax with a refreshing drink or dine alfresco after preparing a wonderful meal on the barbecue. Everyone will love the hot tub, a perfect place to unwind and gaze at the wonderful rural views. The city of Durham is only three miles away with an array of shops, pubs and restaurants, and a short drive will take you to the Roman town of Chester-le-Street or Beamish Museum. A little further afield are the Durham Dales, Newcastle upon Tyne, Hadrian's Wall, the Heritage Coast, Cragside at Rothbury and the North York Moors. Centrally located this cottage is the perfect place for that relaxing holiday break.
Situated in one of the most beautiful counties of England, Durham city is one of the jewels in Englands crown. Dominated by the historic centre, a World Heritage Site, the city is home to magnificent Durham Cathedral, with its breathtaking vaulted ceiling and splendid architecture. Durham Castle stands side by side with the cathedral, on a prominent hill-top site, encircled by the wooded slopes of the River Wear below. The city itself offers elegant buildings and fascinating narrow streets with excellent shopping, eating and drinking to suit all tastes.
Accommodation
Four bedrooms: 2 x king-size double, 2 x ground floor king-size double (one with woodburning stove).
Bathroom with bath, separate shower, basin and WC.
Ground floor wet room with walk-in shower, basin and WC.
Kitchen with dining area.
Sitting room with woodburning stove.
Central heating provided by ground source heat pumps with underfloor heating on ground floor and woodburning stoves.
Electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge, freezer, washing machine, dishwasher, Smart TV with Freeview, DVD, CD/radio, WiFi, selection of books, games and DVDs.
Fuel, power and starter pack for stoves included in rent.
Bed linen and towels included in rent.
Cot and highchair on request.
Ample off road parking.
Lawned garden with hot tub, furniture and BBQ, plus shared garden with play area.
Two well-behaved dogs welcome.
Sorry, no smoking.
Shop 3 miles, pub 1 mile.
Note: Play area to be used at own risk and children to be supervised at all times.
Note: No stag/hen or similar.
Note: No stairgate provided Customers required to bring if needed.
Note: neighboring dogs are kept nearby, not tethered.
Reviews (65)
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John
Communication with owner was excellent, helped us with several questions before & after our stay quickly. I would recommend this cottage to all who are interested in staying in the north east. 5/10 minutes away from Durham city, 25/30 minutes away from Gateshead and surrounding areas where you can get any public transport to near by Newcastle upon Tyne or South Shields coastline etc⦠Bedrooms were all very spacious and comfortable, kitchen dining area big enough for 8 adults and 2 little ones. All facilities were good, lots of garden space & lots of private parking for the property too. Struggle to find any faults with our stay here. Perfect!
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Claire
Will be back with Family next time. Never seen such friendly sheep and dogs!
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Bridget
Very close to town but just removed enough to enjoy the peace. The owner went above and beyond for us and was very pleasant. The property itself is spacious and a great historical and modern representation. We were 3 generations staying together from Canada and it was a big hit with all of us. Thanks so much for a wonderful stay.