A 'superb' North East cottage that has 'all you could ask for on a holiday' has been highlighted by travel experts. This County Durham retreat promises a 'serene escape' this summer with easy access to charming market towns and picturesque countryside.
As many Brits choose to holiday in the UK rather than abroad, the North East offers unspoilt countryside, beautiful beaches, and rich history. County Durham, neighbouring popular Northumberland, often provides more affordable and available stays. One such place is The Old Tack Room, a barn conversion in Wycliffe described by guests as having 'all you could ask for on a holiday'.
The Old Tack Room: A Peaceful Retreat
The Old Tack Room is a barn conversion in the village of Wycliffe, offering a 'serene escape' for up to four guests and two dogs. With two bedrooms and one bathroom, it is ideally situated for exploring the beautiful North East countryside. Just an hour's drive from Newcastle or 45 minutes from Durham, it is perfect for a weekend break or summer holiday away from the city. At the time of writing, it has availability in July and August, currently reduced from £740 for a seven-night stay.
Explore the Surrounding Area
County Durham's market town of Barnard Castle is just a 10-minute drive away, while Richmond in North Yorkshire is reachable within 25 minutes. Wycliffe is nestled between the North Pennines National Landscape and the Yorkshire Dales National Park, offering spectacular scenic walks, wildlife spotting, and stargazing year-round.
For those preferring a hotel, The Three Horseshoes Hotel in Barnard Castle is the top-rated choice on Booking.com. This 17th-century building has 14 en-suite bedrooms, a bar, and a restaurant, and is within easy reach of attractions like Raby Castle, Park and Gardens (15-minute drive). Raby Castle is described as 'one of England's finest medieval castles' with walled gardens and 200 acres of grounds home to red and fallow deer. Other highlights include The Bowes Museum and Barnard Castle itself.
Guest Reviews
Guests have praised The Old Tack Room. One visitor in May said: 'Lovely cottage, in a fairly remote location so very peaceful and a pleasure to hear the different birdsong. Lots of places to visit without having to venture too far.' Another guest agreed: 'Superb cottage with everything you could need, excellent welcome pack for us and the dogs. Very comfortable beds and great enclosed private outside space. Highly recommend, we will return.'
A third guest wrote: 'What a fabulous place to stay. The Old Tack Room is gorgeous and there is plenty to do in the surrounding area. Great places to eat too!' And another reviewer said: 'Great cottage, lovely décor, cosy and warm, very peaceful, yummy welcome pack, comfy bed, remote location. All you could ask for on a holiday.'
While most guests gave five-star ratings, some noted minor improvements: one suggested more kitchen equipment and crockery, and a lack of dishwasher; another mentioned the vacuum cleaner and ironing board being stored behind the bedroom door and the absence of a full-length mirror.
