A private Dales cottage with fabulous waterfall view in lovely Barnard Castle
Cottage in Barnard Castle
2 guests · 1 bedroom · 1 bath
Reasons to book
Guests love it hereGuests give this property a top rating
High-end valuePrice for this property is higher than average in the area
Includes essentialsGarden, Kitchen or Kitchenette, Internet / Wifi and more
About this cottage rental
This custom renovated luxury cottage is the perfect Yorkshire/Durham Dales area hideaway. An easy five minute walk to charming Barnard Castle, recently listed as one of the top ten rural places to live in the UK. With its quaint pubs (read Bill Bryson on the Old Well) and intriguing antique and arts shopping, it has plenty of lively gentility whilst still clearly being a country town full of real people going about real lives. Situated between the Yorkshire Dales National Park and the North Pennines AONB (Area of Natural Beauty) and an scenic hour’s from the Lake District National Park, the cottage is an easy jumping off spot for hiking or just siteseeing. Lovely rural towns such as Richmond, Northallerton, Thirsk and Yarm are all very accessible for an afternoon jaunt; not to mention the great cathedral cities of York, Durham and Ripon. It is quite do-able to drive to the coast and scope out Whitby and Robins Hood Bay by driving over Sutton Bank: a pause at the top gives you a chance to view one of the UK's greatest views.
We are on the Teesdale Way and there are numerous shorter, but equally lovely, walks in all directions. The bluebell season is particularly spectacular in Flatts Woods, the local's favourite walk. A brisk hour walk will take you from your front door to the evocative ruins of Eggleston Abbey and back to your door, crossing two bridges over the lovely Tees River. High Force is a brief drive away and terrific in any season: England's highest waterfall. Biking is very popular in the Dales, but you do need to be ready for some challenging climbs. When you get back from your exertions, indulge in a spacious, high pressure shower or a lazy deep bath with plenty of hot water, then wrap up in a warmed towel: Heaven!
If you get a bit of rain, (remember this IS England) consider a day spent at The Bowes Museum, which is a five minute walk. The famous Sliver Swan automaton is here and deserves a look, but there are other interesting holdings too, as well as a nice cafe. The museum is particularly good at fashion history and has had YSL and shoe exhibits lately that were very engaging. A brief drive away is Staindrop and the spectacular seat of the the Lords Barnard, Raby Castle. York is, as mentioned above, at hand as is the fabulous city of Durham (see Bill Bryson on this too!). In better weather it is hard to beat a drive or bike through the fabulous Dales and the scenic villages that nestle amongst them. Don't forget Hadrian's Wall, and the stunning Lake District, both World Heritage Sites, are just an hour away.
Flyfishers will love the access to the Tees and birdwatchers need only sit still long enough to see the wonderful wealth of birds that cluster around the river.
Of course staying close to "home" is also a very welcoming option with wifi, flat screen TV, comfy seating with cozy throws and a wood burning stove----- a very spoiling atmosphere for just kicking back. And all these amenities are doubled so they are available on both floors. Also we have one of the most beautiful conservatories imaginable: putting you out over the rushing river in all weathers means there is always a dramatic view to enjoy at breakfast or cocktail hour.
For those who still need to be connected, we have wifi and a work basket of the basics to ensure you can get through a report if needed. But we recommend using the wifi to watch a great movie on our flat screen TV instead!
This is an adult getaway because of our immediate access to a very changeable and active river. The River Run Cottage sits literally upon the waterfall, as it was originally an adjunct to the Demesnes Mill which has served Barnard Castle since the 15th century. Similarly we do not allow pets for the same reason. Unfortunately, since the sitting area and bedroom are upstairs and the lane outdoors is pretty rustic, this is unlikely to be a good choice for people with special mobility needs.
A car is necessary to get out into the Moors, Dales and Lake District, but for folks who don't drive or are a bit anxious about left hand driving, it is entirely possible to get to the cottage without a car. One would take a train that goes hourly from London, York or Edinburgh to Darlington and cabs are readily available at the station to get to Barnard Castle. Taxis cost about £35; of course, for the patient, buses also run from Darlington. From the cottage one can get to grocery stores, chemists and any other services with a five minute walk.
Dining is very accessible with numerous restaurants within walking distance and many really stellar options if you are driving, including a Michelin starred restaurant just fifteen minutes away. So many inviting pubs and restaurants focus on the local bounty without pretension or fuss: good food and drink, served with wit and charm. We will provide an up to date list for guests, with our in depth recommendations. Of course, taking care of yourself is also an option and supported by plenty of easy to find, locally sourced food shops, many that have meals to go.
The Morritt Arms and Middleton Lodge have spas and are about a ten minute or twenty five minute drive respectively, though there are ample small salons where you can get a blow dry or manicure in town, including Petit Spa right at the nearest corner.
We are on the Teesdale Way and there are numerous shorter, but equally lovely, walks in all directions. The bluebell season is particularly spectacular in Flatts Woods, the local's favourite walk. A brisk hour walk will take you from your front door to the evocative ruins of Eggleston Abbey and back to your door, crossing two bridges over the lovely Tees River. High Force is a brief drive away and terrific in any season: England's highest waterfall. Biking is very popular in the Dales, but you do need to be ready for some challenging climbs. When you get back from your exertions, indulge in a spacious, high pressure shower or a lazy deep bath with plenty of hot water, then wrap up in a warmed towel: Heaven!
If you get a bit of rain, (remember this IS England) consider a day spent at The Bowes Museum, which is a five minute walk. The famous Sliver Swan automaton is here and deserves a look, but there are other interesting holdings too, as well as a nice cafe. The museum is particularly good at fashion history and has had YSL and shoe exhibits lately that were very engaging. A brief drive away is Staindrop and the spectacular seat of the the Lords Barnard, Raby Castle. York is, as mentioned above, at hand as is the fabulous city of Durham (see Bill Bryson on this too!). In better weather it is hard to beat a drive or bike through the fabulous Dales and the scenic villages that nestle amongst them. Don't forget Hadrian's Wall, and the stunning Lake District, both World Heritage Sites, are just an hour away.
Flyfishers will love the access to the Tees and birdwatchers need only sit still long enough to see the wonderful wealth of birds that cluster around the river.
Of course staying close to "home" is also a very welcoming option with wifi, flat screen TV, comfy seating with cozy throws and a wood burning stove----- a very spoiling atmosphere for just kicking back. And all these amenities are doubled so they are available on both floors. Also we have one of the most beautiful conservatories imaginable: putting you out over the rushing river in all weathers means there is always a dramatic view to enjoy at breakfast or cocktail hour.
For those who still need to be connected, we have wifi and a work basket of the basics to ensure you can get through a report if needed. But we recommend using the wifi to watch a great movie on our flat screen TV instead!
This is an adult getaway because of our immediate access to a very changeable and active river. The River Run Cottage sits literally upon the waterfall, as it was originally an adjunct to the Demesnes Mill which has served Barnard Castle since the 15th century. Similarly we do not allow pets for the same reason. Unfortunately, since the sitting area and bedroom are upstairs and the lane outdoors is pretty rustic, this is unlikely to be a good choice for people with special mobility needs.
A car is necessary to get out into the Moors, Dales and Lake District, but for folks who don't drive or are a bit anxious about left hand driving, it is entirely possible to get to the cottage without a car. One would take a train that goes hourly from London, York or Edinburgh to Darlington and cabs are readily available at the station to get to Barnard Castle. Taxis cost about £35; of course, for the patient, buses also run from Darlington. From the cottage one can get to grocery stores, chemists and any other services with a five minute walk.
Dining is very accessible with numerous restaurants within walking distance and many really stellar options if you are driving, including a Michelin starred restaurant just fifteen minutes away. So many inviting pubs and restaurants focus on the local bounty without pretension or fuss: good food and drink, served with wit and charm. We will provide an up to date list for guests, with our in depth recommendations. Of course, taking care of yourself is also an option and supported by plenty of easy to find, locally sourced food shops, many that have meals to go.
The Morritt Arms and Middleton Lodge have spas and are about a ten minute or twenty five minute drive respectively, though there are ample small salons where you can get a blow dry or manicure in town, including Petit Spa right at the nearest corner.
Amenities
Kitchen or Kitchenette
Internet / Wifi
Fireplace
Parking
Laundry
Balcony or Patio
Dishwasher
TV
Garden
Family friendly
Map of Barnard Castle
RRRR
Ratings and reviews
5.0 / 5.0
Fantastic location enchanting
Extremely well equipped
Supremely helpful hosts
Could ask for more
(Had a brief power cut for a few hours… but in surroundings like this was no inconvenience
5.0 / 5.0
Thoroughly enjoyed our five nights stay in this beautiful cottage. It had everything we needed for a relaxing holiday. Definitely five star facilities throughout.
This is one of the best places we have stayed in on our extensive travels.
5.0 / 5.0
We spent three nights at River Run Cottage and wanted to stay a few more. Nothing is better than having a coffee in the morning while sitting next to the river Tees. The local walks are also perfect and one of the best fish and chip shops in the North is only a short walk away. Perfect!
5.0 / 5.0
Super cottage in a great spot easy walking distance from the centre of Barnard Castle which has lots to offer. Fabulous outside and inside seating areas to watch the babbling river and endless swooping birds, especially the dippers which are amazing to watch. Peaceful, relaxing and all the amenities you need for a fabulous stay
5.0 / 5.0
When I first found this property listed on Vrbo I knew we wanted to stay there and so I build our itinerary towards that end. The owner, Helen, was a delight to work with in the planning. So helpful in answering my many questions and offering excellent suggestions for dining and shopping and sightseeing.
When we arrived at the cottage, it exceeded all expectations (which were high to begin with). Firstly, the setting, right on the River Tees, is spectacular. Honestly, a person could spend hours just sitting in the lovely solarium or on the balcony or on the patio just soaking up the views and listening to the birds. We happily spent plenty of time doing just that! The cottage is spacious, beautifully appointed, and very thoughtfully provisioned, with every holiday need anticipated and provided. In addition to the aforementioned solarium, the downstairs also has a quite comfortable living room with TV, fireplace. The spacious kitchen, fully equipped with quality cookware and china, as well as both dish and clothes washers, a large entry hall/mud room with handy benches for shedding your boots and lots of coat hooks for hanging up your gear and outerwear. The capacious bathroom has great lighting, a welcoming oversized tub for soaking away the day’s exertions, a powerful shower with both rain and wand shower heads, heated towel rack, and high end liquid soaps. The upstairs suite is luxurious with comfortable big bed and excellent linens. Local contact, Sue, is tops!
5.0 / 5.0
This is an amazing property. It is nestled into a small 'cove' area, where you have real privacy. It is peaceful and calm. The view from the glassed in porch is even better than shown in the photos. Every aspect of the place is so well appointed; it is absolutely beautiful inside; the bed is amazing. And the small town of Barnard Castle is less than a 10 minute walk, which is also beautiful. Barnard Castle is also charming, full of very friendly people. Finally, you can take beautiful walks right from the place. The Lake District is an hour drive away, which is convenient. But the area around the cottage is just beautiful as well. We really cannot recommend the cottage enough. Just an amazing place. We plan on returning for another restful stay next year. Oh....Truly responsive and kind host as well. Very responsive.
5.0 / 5.0
Outstanding, from going into kitchen dining area, then to lounge and conservatory, fantastic. Then the bathroom, fabulous, needs to be seen, even a couple of floor lights to give a spa-like atmosphere, free standing bath, large shower, lots of hot water. Then up the stairs to the bedroom cum living room. King bed, sofa, 2 easy chairs, large desk just in case you need to work! The extras that are provided in each room is unbelievable. We will definitely be going back. Oh, I didn't mention the balcony and the river view. Totally blown away by everything.
5.0 / 5.0
Cottage is very well maintained and very well equipped. The views from the outdoor seating and conservatory are amazing. Great communication with the host. Personally I found the kitchen a little dark but I don't think that would bother most people. The parking is tight!
5.0 / 5.0
Week in teesdale for a break after Christmas and to attend an old boys function. Cottage very well equipped with great great views over river. Will come again. Thanks.
5.0 / 5.0
This beautiful cottage was a perfect holiday home, with added touches of welcome from the hosts. The only small negative was the badly potholed access road
5.0 / 5.0
Wonderful location and the house is very well cared for and so comfortable.
5.0 / 5.0
Welll Helen, it certainly did not disappoint ! Its a beautiful cottage in a fabulous location. It felt like home as soon as you walked inside....the sitting room and conservatory were just so comfortable, sheepskin rugs aplenty. The TV was a little complicated but we soon got the hang of it! The Kitchen worked out well though we did not find the cooker instructions until the last morning!
The bathroom was really top notch, everything shinny and so well thought out.
That just leaves the vast bedroom and yet another sitting area... all excellent,
,
So Helen you can see we loved it, and Barnard Castle was was such a friendly town.
All in all, 10 out of 10, Thank you very much!
PS can we come again?
5.0 / 5.0
The fortnight in River Run was part of an extended marking of our Golden Wedding Anniversary. We'd walked past the cottage previously so knew the location in advance.
The river and views of it from the conservatory form the highlights. Our stay was during Britain's longest late summer heatwave so use of the lounges was a bit irrelevant! The bedroom is vast and bed comfortable; the noise of the river leads to great sleeps!
We back up all previous remarks about viewing the wildlife. Although we didn't see the otter, a kingfisher was spotted several times.
Helen answered any questions we had prior to our visit and for immediate information, Helen has superb neighbours.
We prepare all our own meals, so we can't comment of restaurants for evening meals but we did travel the area and had pleasant lunches and some excellent coffees, pastries and ice-cream!
We wish you many years of enjoyment of River Run .
4.0 / 5.0
This was our 2nd holiday at River Run Cottage-just as excellent as our first one. Beautiful cottage,great communication from Helen and Sue. Thanks again to you both.
5.0 / 5.0
Probably the most relaxing holiday we have ever taken. The cottage was furnished and equipped to the highest standard, the sunroom and balcony seating provided great views of the River Tees. The local area gave us plenty to see and do, we used the car only once in our week long stay to see Gaia exhibit at Durham Cathedral. We look forward to returning to River Run Cottage soon.
5.0 / 5.0
A beautifully kept spacious cottage with all the amenities situated in a wonderful location by the river. Plenty of walks to take in the local scenery or just relax and read and listen to the river and watch the local wildlife .
5.0 / 5.0
Wonderful location on the river Tees. Second visit and just as perfect as the first. Great walks along the river and within walking distance to the town. Perfect place to relax and enjoy nature.
5.0 / 5.0
The photos do not do the cottage justice. Such a lovely property in a beautiful, peaceful location. From booking to arrival and through our stay we could not have asked for more. Our stay was so relaxing - sitting in conservatory or outside watching and listening to the river flowing past. We most definitely will book again.
5.0 / 5.0
Fabulous accommodation with 2 real fires, magical 'white noise' of the river and great local town. Wholeheartedly recommend.
5.0 / 5.0
Perfect in every way
5.0 / 5.0
The cottage was everything we had hoped for and more. It is superbly equipped with everything you can imagine you might need in the kitchen and elsewhere, and we found many enticing titles on the bookshelves too. The location by the river is amazing - we could hardly tear ourselves away from it, so much so that we ate in every night! Check in was easy and Susan was very quick to respond to queries. We enjoyed walks on the doorstep and easy access to Barnard Castle. We have come home restored and relaxed and very much hope to visit again.
5.0 / 5.0
This was our second visit to the very lovely river run cottage. My wife and I visited, like the first time, for a de-stress. Sitting in the conservatory watching river, we've found, is an outstanding way to accomplish this. Heading out of the cottage and going downstream, you meet very few people and get a lovely walk across fields and woodland that keeps going for as long as you want to keep going. Head out and go up-river, and you're quickly in on the high street of the very pretty town of Barnard Castle for food, pubs etc. The cottage itself is extremely comfortable and has a good amount of space. The bedroom area is very spacious and comfortable. The kitchen has just about everything you might want (we tend to prefer to cook rather than going out), the shower is nice and powerful, the bath is huge. But the real star in our eyes is the (well insulated) conservatory that gives you epic views of the river. From the perspective of two city bound stress heads, this is a lovely spot for a luxurious break.
5.0 / 5.0
Beautifully presented cottage, stunning location and a pleasant stroll from the interesting town centre of Barnards Castle
5.0 / 5.0
A great setting and cottage. One of the best places we have stayed at. We could easily have spent all day watching the river and the wildlife. Easy walk into town with plenty to see and visit in the area. Just wish that we could have stayed there longer.
5.0 / 5.0
A beautiful cottage with everything needed to relax and enjoy our stay. Lots nearby, including shops and places to eat. We stay over new year and had a fabulous meal at the Three Horseshoes. Would be lovely to stay at River Run to make use of outside seating.
5.0 / 5.0
We thoroughly enjoyed our week at River Run Cottage. It had everything you could wish for and more besides. The cottage and the views overlooking the river were stunning. The information,including directions to the cottage,sent by Helen and Sue was excellent. We’re definitely hoping to visit again.
Tim and Trish.
5.0 / 5.0
Such a beautiful location - within walking distance of shops and supermarkets but felt secluded and rural by the river. Beautiful walks available right from the doorstep.
5.0 / 5.0
Very nice central location with a beautiful view of the river.
All conveniences necessary were provided and more. Very nicely furnished and clean.
5.0 / 5.0
The cottage was both a wonderful location and a beautiful property.
It was well equipped, clean and peaceful. The bed was comfortable (down pillows)…. Our entire experience was fantastic!! The conservatory was our location for breakfast, lunch and dinner each day!!!!
And to top it all off the communication from Helen and Sue was perfect!
We will be back!!
5.0 / 5.0
What can I say River Run Cottage is everything you could want and much more.
My husband and I wanted a place where we could relax and unwind and we did just that.
Views and wildlife are plentiful right from the balcony, lovely to watch on a morning and evening.
Thank you Helen and Sue for a wonderful break .
5.0 / 5.0
Wonderful
River Run is a beautiful property in the most idyllic location, right on the riverside. It has been very well restored and furnished and is very spacious yet cosy with far more equipment and utensils than two people could possibly need. The view of the river from the lovely sunroom and terraces is amazing and we really enjoyed our time there. We do not think the photographs really do it justice. Barnard Castle is a lovely little town and the people were very friendly and helpful.
We loved it!
The only reason we gave only 3* in two of the categories was that we had problems getting into the property and it took us some time to sort this out. I am sure this was a one off event and just a mistake. The house keeper was extremely pleasant, helpful and apologetic and
although the review has to be accurate this certainly would not prevent us booking this very special property again.
5.0 / 5.0
Beautiful cottage in an unbeatable location
After staying at River Run for a second time, there is no doubt that this is the most comfortable and welcoming cottage that you are likely to be able to find, in a riverside setting that is hard to beat.
River Run is ideal if you hanker not only for a spacious, relaxing place to chill out, with a well equipped kitchen and a small garden and balcony for lounging, but also a historic town just a few minutes walk away if you fancy a pint at one of the pubs or a meal at one of the several restaurants.
A warm welcome and timely ongoing support is assured by Helen and her local team.
Don't hesitate, you will be captivated by this cottage and the un-touristy town and river of Barnard Castle.
5.0 / 5.0
6* property
I have rented many properties over many years, and this has to be at the top. The most beautiful location, but within easy reach of the town. The accommodation was faultless, with so much attention to detail. I cannot recommend this property enough. Please do not hesitate to book this, you will not be disappointed, the photographs speak for themselves.
5.0 / 5.0
Beautiful River Cottage stay
Just a beautiful cottage in an amazing location on the bank of the river. Really well equipped cottage, everything you could possibly need for catering.
Lots of great walks from the doorstep, with wildlife aplenty.
5.0 / 5.0
Cosy house in a stunning location
We had a lovely week in this beautifully situated property. The cottage itself was well equipped and beautifully furnished. We visited in December, so the wood burner was very much appreciated! Some lovely riverside walks on the doorstep, meant we didn’t have to go far to get a bit of daily exercise when we could drag ourselves out of the cosy lounge! Barnard Castle is a really nice little towns with some great restaurants and coffee shops. We did manage a trip to Durham where we splashed out on two guided tours in the Cathedral (the Cathedral itself and the Monks Quarters), although quite expensive, they were well worth it and kept us dry from the cold drizzly rain (in is England in the wintertime after all!). Although we never met the owner Helen or Sue (our nearby contact) in person, they were very attentive is text and email - checking we were ok and had everything we needed. We did struggle to find the cottage when we arrived in the dark, but Sue was on hand to guide us via the phone. All in all we had a lovely trip and would love to return one day in Spring/Summer because to be able to sit outside on the terrace area overlooking the river would be absolutely heavenly! Many thanks Helen and Sue!
5.0 / 5.0
Perfect wildlife haven in a perfect property
The property is beautiful and has everything you would need for a relaxing holiday. Situated within easy walking distance to town with many eateries. Situated on the pennine way with glorious walks on your door step. The property has a balcony garden and conservatory looking out on the river tee's with so much wildlife to watch we saw a kingfisher every day. The most perfect property in a glorious setting 10 out 10.
5.0 / 5.0
River Views in Barnard Castle
Superb property in stunning location. Had a lovely stay and everything was there that you could possibly need, ideal spot to unwind and was very comfortable accommodation. Would thoroughly recommend a stay here.
5.0 / 5.0
Fabulous location
Stunning view of the river. No traffic. Great walks from cottage. So good we forgot to go out.
5.0 / 5.0
Fantastic holiday
Fantastic house and fantastic location. Everything from booking to arrival was a smooth process. The communication from Helen and Sue was great. The views from the balcony and conservatory are fantastic watching the wildlife is very entertaining. There is plenty walking directly from the house with the town a short walk away.
Will definitely recommend this house and hope to return.
Ian and Mary
5.0 / 5.0
Lovely to be back again
Home from home and lovely to be back again - Cottage never fails to deliver thr perfect experience and getaway
FAQs
How much does this cottage cost compared to others in Barnard Castle?
The average price for a rental in Barnard Castle is R 1,572 per night. This rental is R 2,733 above the average.
Is parking included with this cottage?
Yes, parking is listed as an amenity at A private Dales cottage with fabulous waterfall view in lovely Barnard Castle. For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.
Is there a pool at this cottage?
We didn’t find pool listed as an amenity for this cottage. It may be worth double checking if a pool is important for your stay.
Is A private Dales cottage with fabulous waterfall view in lovely Barnard Castle pet friendly?
Unfortunately, this cottage is not pet-friendly. Try searching again and filter for "Pets Allowed"
What amenities are available at A private Dales cottage with fabulous waterfall view in lovely Barnard Castle?
We found 10 amenities for this rental. This includes kitchen or kitchenette, internet / wifi, fireplace, parking, and laundry.
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