Scarcroft

Middleton-In-Teesdale 3.4 miles.

Scarcroft is a welcoming stone-built house resting in the hamlet of Holwick, near Middleton-in-Teesdale, Durham.

Offering families and friends a characterful base with views towards Holwick Scars, a woodburning stove and excellent access to the surrounding countryside.

Pull into the parking space and take in the traditional stone exterior and rural surroundings before passing the lawned frontage and making your way inside.

After a day roaming the countryside, head into the sitting room and settle down in front of the woodburning stove, letting the flames warm the room while you catch up on a favourite programme on the Smart TV or use the WiFi to map out tomorrow's adventures.

When appetites call, move into the kitchen/diner, where wooden fixtures complement the cottage character and the window draws your eye towards Holwick Scars as you prepare dinner, with a fridge/freezer ready for your ingredients and a washing machine on hand for walking clothes.

Gather around the dining table to share your meal and recall the day's discoveries before heading upstairs to rest.

Wash away the day's exertions beneath the shower, then reach for a warm towel from the heated rail before choosing between two bedrooms.

The double bedroom features an ornate fireplace that brings further character to the space, alongside views from the front to greet you in the morning, while the twin provides a second place to recharge ahead of another day in Teesdale.

Outside, take breakfast or an evening drink to the furniture on the lawned front garden and admire the surrounding scenery, or lace up your walking boots and set out towards nearby High Force.

A pub and shop can be reached with a short drive for meals out and holiday provisions, while the River Tees is also nearby for exploring more of the local landscape.

Make High Force a highlight of your getaway, following the route towards the dramatic waterfall, admiring the surrounding Upper Teesdale scenery and soaking up the impressive riverside setting.

Venture to The Bowes Museum in Barnard Castle, where its grand French-style exterior, extensive collections and landscaped grounds provide plenty to discover.

For another day immersed in nature, explore Yorkshire Dales National Park, taking in sweeping upland scenery, characterful villages and a network of routes through its striking landscape.

Middleton-in-Teesdale provides further amenities and a gateway to the dale, while Barnard Castle is well worth discovering and the wider Teesdale countryside offers plenty of inspiration for days outdoors.

Whether your break is filled with waterfall walks, historic discoveries or days exploring the surrounding countryside, return to Scarcroft near Middleton-in-Teesdale to relax beside the woodburning stove and plan your next Durham adventure.