The Byre

Rolling farmland surrounds this converted byre, a working cattle and sheep farm near Eggleston in the Tees valley. The building sits on nine acres of shared meadowland, with Barnard Castle six miles away and Durham city within reach for day trips. Shops are two miles off; a pub is closer still. The setting suits those wanting genuine countryside quiet rather than village life or easy high street access.

Everything is on one level: an open-plan living space with a wood-burner, a kitchen fitted for proper cooking, a bedroom with a king bed, and a wet room. The sofa bed in the living area sleeps children. Electricity, bed linen and towels are provided, along with logs to start the fire. Parking for two cars is on site, and one dog is welcome so long as it stays on a lead. Note that the water comes from a spring and the cottage generates its own power through roof tiles.

This is a place to settle in rather than explore on foot. A car is essential; the nearest amenities—a supermarket, post office, pubs—require a short drive. The Lake District and Yorkshire Dales are within reasonable reach for longer excursions.