Dog friendly holiday cottage, sleeps 10 - Barnard Castle, County Durham

Imagine yourself amidst friends or family, wandering the high wilds of the North Pennines or Yorkshire Dales (4/14 miles), and returning from days of adventure to this dreamy abode, secluded in County Durham's deep green tranquillity. Discover the glittering treasures of Barnard Castle (5.5 miles), a medieval market town straddling the River Tees, and savour scrumptious local produce at the monthly farmers' market or the myriad marvellous restaurants, bistros and pubs. Explore the French-style chateau of the Bowes Museum (6 miles) and exquisite Eggleston Hall Gardens (3 miles), known as the ‘Secret Garden of the North', or simply browse the antiques, boutiques and superb independent shops.

Romaldkirk and Cotherstone (4/6 miles) are quintessential Durham villages, with old stone houses, terrific dale views and some tremendous country pubs. Ramble the Tees Railway Walk and the Teesdale Way from one to the other, for spectacular views of river, hill and cliff. As you follow the lengthy track through fields towards the cottage, you'll immediately sense the special atmosphere that surrounds this idyllic location.

Who wouldn't wish to be welcomed by a chandelier and sweeping staircase above the flagstone hall? Let the light, space and elegance of the open-plan living/kitchen/dining area encourage you to create and enjoy banquets, cooked within a wood, chrome and quartz haven. Sink into leather sofas around the wood burner or in the cosy corner for nights of red wine to reminiscence; re-join around the bespoke oak table for bright morning breakfasts.

Spill out onto the paved courtyard for sweet rural air and delicious Durham scenes. Underfloor heating, oak beams, pendant lights and high, pitched ceilings set the chic, country mood. Soak in the bathroom's dove-grey bliss, or in the sweet en-suite of your own decadent bedroom; each has its own distinct charisma, with fine fabrics, vibrant vistas, stylish furniture and fabulous furnishings.

Wind down with your own TV before you sleep and dream of tomorrow.