Old Stables Cottage

Open countryside surrounds Old Stables Cottage, which sits on its own grounds with views across fields and a working farm's highland cattle. The River Wear runs through the valley below; a fishing lake on the property offers salmon, sea trout and trout in summer, pike in winter (you'll need your own licence). Public footpaths and cycle routes crisscross the area, and a pub within walking distance makes it easy to leave the car behind. Bishop Auckland, a market town with shops and restaurants, lies nearby.

The cottage holds four people across two bedrooms: a kingsize downstairs and two singles upstairs in a loft-style room. Downstairs also has a bathroom with bath and shower. The living room opens onto a patio through large doors, with a woodburner and smart TV; the kitchen is fully equipped for self-catering, and a utility room has a washing machine and freezer. Electricity, Wi-Fi, bed linen and towels are all included, as are initial logs for the fire.

Outside, a decked terrace holds the private hot tub (for four). An enclosed garden with furniture surrounds it, and there's parking for two cars on site. One well-behaved pet can stay free. The property is reached via a rough track. No smoking inside.