The nearest town to Staindrop is Barnard Castle, which has been named by the Times as one of the best places to live in England.

It was described in various press articles as a 'beauty spot' - come and see for yourself and admire the new English Heritage blue plate that was erected for the infamous visit by Mr Cummings!

The Back House is a very pretty Grade II listed building quietly located off Front Street in Staindrop, some 5 miles from “Barney”.

The local public footpath system starts from the access lane to the property and includes circular routes.

The Back House is part of a historic coaching inn next to the owner’s property; the accommodation is very spacious and features a large sitting room which offers a warm and welcoming space with plush sofas and a delightful woodburning stove resting in the original 18th-century inglenook, backed by a beautiful stone wall.

The property’s rooms are bright and airy, and all overlook the south-facing courtyard with a lovely raised planted area.

Socialise in the splendid kitchen with quality fittings together with ample room for six to cook and eat together at the beautifully restored table The cottage is very well finished with Karndean floors, Voyage fabrics and stunning velvets with Farrow and Ball paintwork and is simply a haven for families and friends seeking a high-quality retreat.

Step upstairs to the three bedrooms; all featuring super-king-beds, perfectly polished and tastefully decorated with coordinating high TC linens, cushions, and upholstery – should you wish for alternative sleeping arrangements, the zip/link beds can be twins on request (NB please request at time of booking)

The bathroom is large, very fresh and airy, whilst the ground floor cloakroom benefits from a WC and basin.

Step outside into a lovely south-facing courtyard area with raised flower beds.The area is well planted. There is a fully enclosed and screened seating area with sofas for 6, this leads to the charming enclosed and private screened pergola area. This features a luxury 6-person hot tub, (supplement applies) and provides seating with cashmere throws and cushions for added warmth when the weather is not at its best. There is a 6-person outdoor dining set of table and chairs to enjoy al Fresco dishes.

Staindrop is a pretty village with a large conservation area and one of the long greens typical of County Durham.

The oldest parts of the Church of England parish church of St Mary are Anglo-Saxon, built in the 10th or 11th-century.

The church contains monuments including effigies of members of the Neville family.

The village is situated near to the historic market towns of Barnard Castle and Richmond both with many independent shops and multiple restaurant and tea shop options.

The magnificent Raby Castle is approximately 1 mile from the front door of the house.

A new adventure playground, The Plotters Forest, designed and built for real adventurers, is very popular with younger guests – Charges apply; please check the Raby Castle website for availability. The Castle is open to the public and boasts a top-rated tearoom as well as a wonderful gift shop; activities take place in the grounds throughout the year. The walled gardens are magnificent, whilst dogs on leads can be walked in the stunning deer park for a small charge.

The dogs in your party are also have an adventure field, just 5 minutes in the car! Guests staying for more than 3 nights can book a session at the field. Please enquire for full details after booking.

The renowned Bowes Museum is close by, together with its famous silver Swan automaton. Durham city with the twin attraction of world heritage sites Durham Castle, and the cathedral is 15 miles away. The cathedral is recognised as one of the finest examples of Norman architecture in Europe.

Also to the north is the unique Beamish Museum, which offers access to a preserved example of everyday life in urban and rural Northeast England at the time of industrialization in the early 19th-Century.This attraction is very popular with guests.

The Back House is also a great choice for those who love the outdoors, with ample walking, birdwatching, and cycling opportunities nearby including the National Cycle Route 715.

The Back House has achieved “Dark Skies” status and provides night binoculars and guides.

The Back House is a truly unique base which offers a memorable holiday break for the whole family looking to explore the area.

A digital guide to the property is provided before you arrive to help you have the best time during your stay. Details include where to walk, eat, visit and lots more.

The market town of Darlington lies on the southern boundaries of County Durham, a town well known for its railway connections. Darlington has a wide range of restaurants, pubs and cafes, an active Civic Theatre, a Forum Music Centre, multiplex cinemas, plus lots of retail outlets, both indoor and outdoor, which are sure to keep you busy. It provides various points of interest including the City of Durham to the north, plus Saltburn-by-the-Sea and Saltholme rspb Reserve, to the east on the coast, fringing the North York Moors. To the south York, Harrogate and Ripon beckon, whilst in the west, the wonderful scenery of the Yorkshire Dales is close by.

Accommodation