Thistle Close

4.7★

Excellent

Sleeps 4
Bedrooms 2
Bathrooms 1
Pets Yes
View on map

Features

Four poster bed
Off road parking
Ground floor bedroom
Garden / Patio
Cot available
Highchair available
Washing machine
Dishwasher
Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing

Cleanliness

Comfort

Facilities

* Based on a combined average customer score

62 Customer Review(s)

“For us a perfect location.”

Cottage comfortable and homely. Owners very welcoming. Was on working farm as they said, so countryside noises and smells which did not impact on us at all and added to the character.

Cottage comfortable and homely. Owners very welcoming. Was on working farm as they said, so countryside noises and smells which did not impact on us at all and added to the character. Made use of local bus service Recommend day out at Raby Castle. Really enjoyed our staycation, thank you

- Helen, September 2021
Valerie July 2021

“We enjoyed that there was no issue with the facilities and that due to a lovely ...”

We enjoyed that there was no issue with the facilities and that due to a lovely introduction from the owners we knew if there was anything we needed they were on hand and willing to help

- Valerie, July 2021
Sandy June 2021

“Mattress caused the bed to be roasting.”

With no top sheet you couldn’t throw the duvet off

- Sandy, June 2021
Peter October 2020

“Thistle Close was very roomy, comfortable in a lot of ways and the owner was very friendly.”

The kitchen was well equipped. Everything was very clean. The hot water and the central heating was very efficient. Unfortunately there were some bad points. We were not informed there was a BIO-mass plant directly behind the farm. There were several large wagons going to this plant on most days. The road to this plant was outside one of the windowed bedrooms and the wagons could be clearly seen and heard. There was a weighbridge on this road which was used and it was located outside of the bedrooms. My partner suffers from COPD and the fine dust from the plant made her breathing a little uncomfortable. There was a smell in the air that was not particularly pleasant. Also the car got covered in a powder that looked like fine sawdust. We did know it was a working farm and we had no problem with that. The whole place looked a little "tired". There was signs of stuffing coming out of the arms on the couches. Very bad mark on the kitchen table. Several of the kitchen units had handles missing. For example, one had to prise ones fingers in the side of the fridge door to open it. The bathroom was acceptable. Now to the twin bedroom. The bed itself was very hard and uncomfortable. At the end of our stay we were asked to strip the bedding. It left a lot to be desired. For example, the mattress cover was in a very poor state. The duvet was appalling and I wouldn't have used it for a dog blanket! It was badly stained and in a very poor condition. Next, the double bedroom. The bedroom was a good size but again the bed left a lot to be desired. The bed was very uncomfortable and too achieve a modicum of comfort I had to sleep with the duvet tucked beneath me. This bedding was also in a poor condition. As this establishment is 4 star registered how long is it since it has had it's last evaluation? We made the best of it and enjoyed our days away and had some lovely meals out. We had to leave early and unfortunately we will not be returning. It's such a shame because the stable conversion had been very well done. We hope that some of the negative points will be addressed, especially the bedding.

- Peter, October 2020
Stuart February 2020

“Thistle Cottage is set in a small villlage on a working farm in a countryside location.”

The cottage was warm, clean, spacious and cosy. We had a typical February break with hail, high winds, heavy rain and snow on the hills. Despite this, the cottage was a welcome escape from the elements. Having only ever previously passed through Teesdale, this was a good oppertunity to see some of the countryside and nearby towns and villages. Durham, Richmond, Bishop Aukland and Barnard Castle being in easy reach and well worth a visit and all with ample parking (Very good park and ride in opperation at Durham). So, after daytrips the cottage was always nice and warm to go back to and prepare an evening meal. Situated with other holiday cottages, which were also occupied and in close proximetry. we were aware other visitors were there, though we experienced no noise or disturbance from them. The owners live in the nearby farmhouse and were friendly and polite. There is no village pub in Cleatlam and no shop but everything you really need isn't that far away. We had a nice break at Thistle Cottage and had the oppertunity to spend some time in this spectacular part of the country.

- Stuart, February 2020
Ray October 2019

“A warm warm for us, our guests and our dog.”

We were in the centre of everything we wanted to see. We loved the cottage and the surroundings. We will be back.

- Ray, October 2019
Lawrence September 2019

“The owners were very friendly and helpful”

- Lawrence, September 2019
Gareth July 2019

“We had a slight issue with the oven, the owners were straight over to resolve the situation.”

Lovely people.

- Gareth, July 2019
Eleanor June 2019

“This is a very clean and welcoming cottage.”

Marion was there to let us in avery nice friendly woman. The inside sitting room is very large the kitchen fully equipped washing machine and dishwasher the bathroom has a separate shower and the 2 bedrooms are a good size, I would recommend this house very strongly.

- Eleanor, June 2019
Carol October 2018

“Well equipped, very spacious and lovely and warm.”

- Carol, October 2018
David September 2018

“EXCELLENT HOLIDAY.”

Mrs BOYES GREETED US ON ARRIVAL AND CAME TO WISH US A SAFE JOURNEY HOME ON OUR DEPARTURE. WILL VISIT AND STAY AGAIN

- David, September 2018
David June 2018

“Been to thistle close twice now.”

Will be returning next year again Lovely spacious cottage and a lovely area for exploring tees dale and the Lakes

- David, June 2018
Dennis May 2018

“Very enjoyable stay in nice area, no problems.”

Very nice owners.

- Dennis, May 2018
Pamela October 2017

“We had wonderful relaxing week.”

The cottage was warm and homely. A small. point to make kitchen utensil need upgrading eg sharp knives and Tin opener and scissors that work Will certainly return.

- Pamela, October 2017
Bruce September 2017

“It was a very spacious excellent cottage and warm.”

The rather high step up to the bedroom/bathroom area needs to be mentioned.

- Bruce, September 2017
David September 2016

“Cottage was lovely spacious & clean everything there that was needed for a great relaxing holiday.”

Visited some lovely places & the weather was brilliant for late September.Sunny & warm every day The owners were nice & friendly.Marion a lovely lady only saw her on the day we left but had a good chat she was so nice. Will be back next year deffo.Never been in a cottage so comfortable & with so much instant very hot water. Thanks Marion & John for a lovely weeks holiday. Sue & Dave Cordwell & Charlie our little Jack Rusell

- David, September 2016
Fred April 2015

“Excellent stay.”

Love this place and this was our second stay. We'll be back again soon.

- Fred, April 2015
Dorothy September 2014

“Thistle Close is an interesting spacious conversion of former farm buildings.”

It is within short distances of plenty of things to see and do, and the quiet roads made driving an unusual joy. For anyone contemplating a winter break, the excellent central heating system would be a reassuring bonus.

- Dorothy, September 2014
Catherine July 2014

“Brilliant holiday.”

Accommodation like home from home. Great surrounding countryside. I would stay there again.

- Catherine, July 2014
Fred April 2014

“We had a great time and the village is beautiful.”

Would certainly recommend. The family/farm owners are lovely and allow you to walk around the farm. Great time had by all.

- Fred, April 2014
Diana December 2013

“The cottage was lovely and warm on arrival, and had been decorated for Christmas, which we had not expected, but it was much appreciated.”

It was a good size and had all the facilities needed.

- Diana, December 2013
Barbara June 2012

“It was a beautiful property, very nicely situated and very spacious.”

The kitchen had everything we needed and the lounge was very comfortable. The children's toys and little playground were really nice and my grandson loved them.

- Barbara, June 2012
Donald July 2011

“Lovely surroundings in an area with plenty to see and do.”

The owners made us feel very welcome. We felt very relaxed in the property and would return!

- Donald, July 2011
Neil May 2011

“Excellent accommodation.”

Well worth the money. Would recommend to anyone.

- Neil, May 2011
Kelly December 2010

“A fantastic place to visit and the cottages were lovely, ideal for a large family holiday.”

We had 3 of them. Want to book again for next year!

- Kelly, December 2010
Sandy August 2010

“Enjoyed the location, and we were left alone and not bothered by anyone.”

- Sandy, August 2010
Mrs Childs-Clarke June 2010

“The accommodation was a real home from home, comfortable and well equipped.”

We were on a working farm and apart from the occasional cow mooing or dog barking it was perfect peace. The owners were friendly and helpful and I have already recommended this accommodation to friends.

- Mrs Childs-Clarke, June 2010
Mark June 2010

“It was in a very good location for the surrounding area.”

- Mark, June 2010
Mrs Watkiss June 2010

“The area was excellent and the people lovely.”

- Mrs Watkiss, June 2010
Caroline May 2010

“Cannot praise the accommodation highly enough, home from home and extremely child friendly.”

Nothing not to like, it was superb! Even the weather! Would highly recommend!

- Caroline, May 2010
Stanley September 2009

“Very high standard of accommodation.”

- Stanley, September 2009
Ann August 2009

“Fabulous barn conversion, living area was impressively spacious and standard of furnishings was excellent.”

The property was clean and extremely comfortable, set in a beautiful area.

- Ann, August 2009
Stephen July 2009

“It was a family holiday so we had all four cottages.”

We all really enjoyed our time there.

- Stephen, July 2009
David July 2009

“This was an excellent cottage.”

It was also ideal for my dad who is mainly in a wheel chair. This was a real home from home.

- David, July 2009
John Roger April 2009

“Lovely location, great walking and friendly people.”

- John Roger, April 2009
Shirley February 2009

“The property is beautiful, well worth its award "Pride of Northumbria"!”

Fantastic base for visiting surrounding area.

- Shirley, February 2009
Jayne October 2008

“Everything.”

Great cottage. Lovely area. Loads to do very close by. Best winter holiday I have ever had! Will be back next year to visit all the places we didn't have time to see.

- Jayne, October 2008
Avril October 2008

“We cannot recommend this property highly enough.”

It was absolutely excellent. Everything was thought of for our comfort and enjoyment. The garden area was excellent for the kids.

- Avril, October 2008
Mary September 2008

“The property exceeded our expectations for comfort and space and we particularly liked the 'green' hot water and heating system - not only this but the ability to separate our rubbish for recyling was a nice touch.”

The area was one we hadn't visited before and we found the surrounding towns and villages to be a great experience of typical Yorkshire and I am sure we shall visit again.

- Mary, September 2008
Geoffrey September 2008

“The best cottage we have stayed in.”

- Geoffrey, September 2008
Ailsa August 2008

“The cottage was spacious, clean, well-equipped.”

Toddlers were well catered for. Area was stunning.

- Ailsa, August 2008
Mary September 2007

“The accomodation was excellent, it was home from home.”

We all enjoyed the beautiful surrounding.The owners were very friendly. We have already recommended the area and in particular the Strathmore Barns to our friends. We will be going back again.

- Mary, September 2007
Claire August 2007

“Wonderful holiday, lovely cottage and lovely people.”

- Claire, August 2007
Mr O' Malley December 2005

“A good location, continuous heating/hot water, a high standard of decor/furnishing.”

- Mr O' Malley, December 2005
Helen August 2005

“The cottage was superb.”

The pictures on the website do not do it justice. The owners were very friendly and had left a very good selection of leaflets, brochures etc. of things to do in the area. Perfect if you want a relaxing holiday, or if you want to explore there are many places around, especially Barnard Castle. We all had a lovely holiday and found the cottage to be of a very high standard.

- Helen, August 2005
David July 2005

“I have to say that we were all absolutely delighted with the property, we couldn't have asked for anything nicer.”

The lounge was huge, and the high ceilings and great decor really added to the attraction of this property. We would recommend this property to anyone.

- David, July 2005
Sylvia July 2005

“Very lovely people, The Black Swan is ideal for a lovely Sunday lunch.”

The accommodation is situated in an ideal location for easy reach to many places of interest.

- Sylvia, July 2005
David June 2005

“The property we rented was excellent and in a beautiful location which was close to many good visitor attractions such as Yorkshire Moors, Dales, Lake District and attractions such as Beamish museum, Boowes museum, Raby castle and many more.”

I would not hesitate to recommend this property to friends and family.

- David, June 2005
Melanie May 2005

“An excellent cottage, superbly decorated with everything we needed.”

A perfect location; very relaxing, but also close to many different places. Lovely owners - very friendly.

- Melanie, May 2005
Richard October 2004

“Helpful and supportive owners.”

A good range of tourist information available in the cottage. A full range of manuals is available for all electrical appliances. Very enjoyable days at Durham Cathedral and the Otter Trust.

- Richard, October 2004
Kathleen August 2004

“The cottage was excellent.”

We were very impressed with the facilities compared to other cottages we have stopped in.

- Kathleen, August 2004
Steve August 2004

“The accommodation was superb, very spacious and to a very high standard.”

The layout, huge living/dining area and play area also meant it was ideal for our small children. Like a plush hotel with the freedom of self-catering - and all set in beautiful peaceful countryside. The hosts were very friendly and welcoming. We will definitely recommend this to friends.

- Steve, August 2004
Bill July 2004

“Nice place, quiet and tranquil.”

- Bill, July 2004
Nigel June 2004

“For us, the property was just excellent .”

Its situation was ideal giving us peace and quiet and in lovely surroundings. Also ideal for our cocker spaniel.

- Nigel, June 2004
C June 2004

“Nicest place I have ever been on holiday!”

- C, June 2004
Ronnie May 2004

“Facilities were perfect,the owners very very helpful”

- Ronnie, May 2004
Christine February 2004

“Exceptionally high quality property.”

Perfect peace & quiet location.

- Christine, February 2004
Rose December 2003

“No problems.”

Party was happy with cottages. Owners very helpful

- Rose, December 2003
A August 2003

“We found the history of the area fascinating.”

A visit to Raby Castle is a must. The play area provided for children seemed excellent at the property,

- A, August 2003
Martin August 2003

“Owners friendly & helpful.”

- Martin, August 2003
Esther August 2003

“Excellent property.”

The owners were considerate & helpful hosts. Great touring centre for Teasdale, Weardale, Northumberland and the Coast.

- Esther, August 2003
Mrs Townsend July 2003

“Although the property is on a working farm it is a very peaceful location.”

You also get the occasional flypast from RAF Leeming. We would definitely go again. We were two couples and each couple had their own key. A very rare occurrence!

- Mrs Townsend, July 2003
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Strathmore Barns

Staindrop 1.5 miles. Situated on a working farm, on the edge of the sleepy hamlet of Cleatlam, Strathmore Barns comprise the imaginative conversion of old stone byres and barns, set around a central courtyard. Care has been taken to convert the buildings to provide high quality holiday properties, retaining original features and character. Picture windows provide visitors with wonderful views over the lower reaches of the Teesdale Valley. Cleatlam itself offers wide greens (often with ponies put out to graze) at its centre. Guests will enjoy a wide range of facilities, with a play area for children and relaxing areas for adults. With the owners on hand to ensure a warm and comfortable stay, these properties are in the ideal location for exploring nearby Teesdale, Durham and the Yorkshire Dales. Note: The properties can be booked together to accommodate up to 22 people.

The property

With accommodation on one level, this end-cottage is the immaculate conversion of the old cart sheds and enjoys views over open farmland to the rear.

It boasts a pretty, sheltered aspect to the front, and overlooks the courtyard.

stone-built with a red pantile roof, the brick arches are a main feature, giving the living areas a lovely spacious feel and a pleasant outlook.

Summary

All ground floor. Two bedrooms: 1 x king-size four poster bed, 1 x twin
Bathroom with bath, fixed shower on taps, separate shower, basin & WC
Well-equipped fitted kitchen with breakfast area
Spacious living room with exposed timbers, sitting & dining areas (inc. stove-effect electric fire), & large picture windows set within stone arches facing out to courtyard.
Central heating/hot water from eco-friendly wood-chip farm heating system, electric stove
Electric cooker, hob, microwave, fridge, freezer, washer/dryer, dishwasher, LCD TV, WIFI, Freeview, video/DVD, music system
Fuel & power inc. in rent
Bed linen & towels inc. in rent
Cot & highchair on request
Off road parking for 2 cars
Sunny, sheltered shared front courtyard with furniture
Designated play area for children (adult supervision required)
One well-behaved pet welcome, charged at £20 per pet
Sorry, no smoking
Shop, pub etc in Staindrop, 1.5 miles
Note: The property is situated on a working farm, some noise is to be expected

View on map

About the location

STAINDROP

Barnard Castle 5 miles; Durham 20 miles.

The pretty Teesdale village of Staindrop has always been closely associated with the fortunes of nearby Raby Castle and its owners. The Castle (open to the public) is one of the most grand in England. Enlarged and beautified over the centuries, the medieval heart remains and a walled garden and 200 acre deer park add to the splendour. Staindrop has many interesting shops, pubs and cafes set round its long village green. The popular market town of Barnard Castle is 5 miles away, with its castle, the Bowes Museum, plus of course its wide range of shops and tea rooms. Walkers will enjoy the many walks around Teesdale.

Region Information

Yorkshire Cottage Holidays

This property offers the following short breaks:

Winter
Off-season
Last minute
Christmas

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Features

Reviews & Ratings

“For us a perfect location.”

“We enjoyed that there was no issue with the facilities and that due to a lovely ...”

“Mattress caused the bed to be roasting.”

“Thistle Close was very roomy, comfortable in a lot of ways and the owner was very friendly.”

“Thistle Cottage is set in a small villlage on a working farm in a countryside location.”

“A warm warm for us, our guests and our dog.”

“The owners were very friendly and helpful”

“We had a slight issue with the oven, the owners were straight over to resolve the situation.”

“This is a very clean and welcoming cottage.”

“Well equipped, very spacious and lovely and warm.”

“EXCELLENT HOLIDAY.”

“Been to thistle close twice now.”

“Very enjoyable stay in nice area, no problems.”

“We had wonderful relaxing week.”

“It was a very spacious excellent cottage and warm.”

“Cottage was lovely spacious & clean everything there that was needed for a great relaxing holiday.”

“Excellent stay.”

“Thistle Close is an interesting spacious conversion of former farm buildings.”

“Brilliant holiday.”

“We had a great time and the village is beautiful.”

“The cottage was lovely and warm on arrival, and had been decorated for Christmas, which we had not expected, but it was much appreciated.”

“It was a beautiful property, very nicely situated and very spacious.”

“Lovely surroundings in an area with plenty to see and do.”

“Excellent accommodation.”

“A fantastic place to visit and the cottages were lovely, ideal for a large family holiday.”

“Enjoyed the location, and we were left alone and not bothered by anyone.”

“The accommodation was a real home from home, comfortable and well equipped.”

“It was in a very good location for the surrounding area.”

“The area was excellent and the people lovely.”

“Cannot praise the accommodation highly enough, home from home and extremely child friendly.”

“Very high standard of accommodation.”

“Fabulous barn conversion, living area was impressively spacious and standard of furnishings was excellent.”

“It was a family holiday so we had all four cottages.”

“This was an excellent cottage.”

“Lovely location, great walking and friendly people.”

“The property is beautiful, well worth its award "Pride of Northumbria"!”

“Everything.”

“We cannot recommend this property highly enough.”

“The property exceeded our expectations for comfort and space and we particularly liked the 'green' hot water and heating system - not only this but the ability to separate our rubbish for recyling was a nice touch.”

“The best cottage we have stayed in.”

“The cottage was spacious, clean, well-equipped.”

“The accomodation was excellent, it was home from home.”

“Wonderful holiday, lovely cottage and lovely people.”

“A good location, continuous heating/hot water, a high standard of decor/furnishing.”

“The cottage was superb.”

“I have to say that we were all absolutely delighted with the property, we couldn't have asked for anything nicer.”

“Very lovely people, The Black Swan is ideal for a lovely Sunday lunch.”

“The property we rented was excellent and in a beautiful location which was close to many good visitor attractions such as Yorkshire Moors, Dales, Lake District and attractions such as Beamish museum, Boowes museum, Raby castle and many more.”

“An excellent cottage, superbly decorated with everything we needed.”

“Helpful and supportive owners.”

“The cottage was excellent.”

“The accommodation was superb, very spacious and to a very high standard.”

“Nice place, quiet and tranquil.”

“For us, the property was just excellent .”

“Nicest place I have ever been on holiday!”

“Facilities were perfect,the owners very very helpful”

“Exceptionally high quality property.”

“No problems.”

“We found the history of the area fascinating.”

“Owners friendly & helpful.”

“Excellent property.”

“Although the property is on a working farm it is a very peaceful location.”