Unthank Hall

Rating 
Sleeps 7
Bedrooms 4
Bathrooms 2
Pets Yes

Reviews

Mrs Moffat
December 2017

“We booked Unthank Hall for ...”

We booked Unthank Hall for somewhere to spend with friends to see in the New Year. We arrived to the hall being surrounded by snow with the house festively decorated and this really added to a magical stay! Impossible to fault, if you looked up the word idyllic in the dictionary there'd be a picture of Unthank Hall.

We booked Unthank Hall for somewhere to spend with friends to see in the New Year. We arrived to the hall being surrounded by snow with the house festively decorated and this really added to a magical stay! Impossible to fault, if you looked up the word idyllic in the dictionary there'd be a picture of Unthank Hall. We will definitely be back!

ClumberSam
September 2017
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“Unthank Hall Pet Friendly and a true Gem”

Starting with the welcome from Polly and Alan to the day we left we could not fault anything with our hosts or Unthank Hall. The information on the history of the building from Polly and Alan is a great start to the holiday and they have restored the Hall to a high standard but still maintained the architecture and point out various points of interest in the building, they were kind enough to show us photographs of the building before and during the refurbishment so we could appreciate the work that went into the restoration. The enclosed paddock is a great place to sit at anytime and take in the peace and quiet and with two dogs there was no worries of them getting into mischief apart from chasing a few rabbits which they never caught. A short walk from the Hall to the stepping stones across the river and a few hundred yards to The Grey Bull where the atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, then another short walk into Stanhope where there are all the essential shops to meet your needs. Recommended by Clumber Sam and Little Meg as very Dog Friendly.
Mr Macfarlane
September 2017

“going back soon as ...”

going back soon as possoble......................just great
Mr Couchman
July 2017

“Surpassed my expectation, lovely ...”

Surpassed my expectation, lovely property, great location and wonderful hosts. I'll be coming back for sure
Mrs Pitfield
June 2017

“Unthank Hall is an amazing property ...”

Unthank Hall is an amazing property & the owners Alan & Polly were fantastic hosts making us feel very welcome in their property. The area is gorgeous with plenty of places to visit and explore near by.
Mrs Neale
May 2017

“Polly and Alan went out of their ...”

Polly and Alan went out of their way to make us welcome, the worst thing about the holiday was having to leave. Really looking forward to going back. The best ever place we have stayed in.
Miss Harbottle
April 2017

“The welcome was genuine, we were ...”

The welcome was genuine, we were made to feel at home straight away. As the hall was of historical interest we were given a very informative tour by Polly and Alan which was excellent, followed by Polly's home made chocolate muffins Mmmm delicious.
A TripAdvisor Member
December 2016
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“Truly Magnificent”

We booked to go to UnThank Hall for a relaxing break with some friends and it exceeded my expectations, the house is truly stunning and the pictures do not do it justice, it is so much better in real life. We were greeted by the owners, Polly and Alan, like old friends who had lit a roaring fire for our arrival and a tray of Polly’s Chocolate Muffins, and yes, they really are as delicious as everyone else says! They gave us a tour of the house and told us all about the fascinating history of the building dating back to 1525. Their hard work and passion for the Hall is infectious and it is a testament to both of them that they have restored the Hall to such a high standard. It really is “bite the back of your hand” gorgeous. Upstairs via the stone spiral staircase are the large, comfortable bedrooms that are all beautifully decorated and full of character. The shower room and bath room are both equally superb and the large free standing bath is perfect for soaking away any aches after a day out. Downstairs, the kitchen is exceptionally well equipped with everything you need to prepare any meal as well as a washer/dryer and dishwasher. The dining room has a huge table perfect for sitting round after a long walk, along with a vast array of books to keep even the most avid bookworm quiet for months. The jewel in the crown though is the living room with the huge fireplace and large comfortable sofa’s, it is the perfect space for relaxing after a long day. Outside, the massive walled garden is perfect for letting the dogs run around and investigate the various rabbit burrows or playing fetch and it is totally enclosed so it is secure. Make sure you go out into the garden on a clear night and look at the stars, it is perfect for stargazing. The village of Stanhope is a real gem, a proper bakery, butchers, cafés, good pubs and plenty of craft shops to browse through, and all a short 5 to 10 minute walk away from the house. The surrounding area is full of things to do for all ages and there is a huge file in the property with masses of information and suggestions for days out. The local area is steeped in history and there are masses of walks all around, including the Weardale way which is right outside the house. Go for a walk West along the Weardale way for about 3 miles to a pub called the Black Bull Inn at Frosterley as the food and atmosphere is just brilliant. UnThank Hall is a wonderful treasure and the hardest part is having to leave but we are already working out when we can go back.
Mr Meech
October 2016

“Arriving late in the day at Unthank ...”

Arriving late in the day at Unthank Hall we received a warm welcome from the owners who had the log burning stove lit ready for our arrival plus some of those infamous chocolate chocolate muffins (they really are delicious!). Alan and Polly gave us the tour of the house along with the fascinating history behind it. The house itself is warm, comfortable and homely and Polly really does have an excellent eye for decoration. It doesn't feel like a holiday rental, it feels like you are staying in a home. The garden was perfect for our dogs. They are Siberian Huskys and known escape artists and previously we have not found a holiday cottage with a garden that was secure enough for them. However, Unthank Hall has a garden that is surrounded by 8-10 foot stone walls - totally impenetrable! The dogs also enjoyed the plethora of rabbit warrens in the garden which kept them busy for hours. The surrounding area is stunning with plenty of excellent dog walks. The circular walk around Stanhope Village, about 2 1/2 hours, was especially enjoyable as were the walks in nearby Hamsterley Forrest and Low Force and High Force Waterfalls - definitely worth a visit. We had a perfect relaxing stress-free week and the owners made it all the more enjoyable with their warmth and friendliness and nothing was too much trouble for them. We would thoroughly recommend Unthank Hall for the perfect dog friendly, relaxing break.
MarkALucas
October 2016
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“Beautiful restoration”

This is a magnificent listed building but very homely for a period of Rest & Relaxation. The setting, next to the Wear and on the edge of the moors, is ideal for a number of outdoor activities. We visited in the autumn when the colours were great and the log burner was a real joy.
Gina S
October 2016
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“Steeped in history, oozing character, the dream holiday home”

Unthank Hall in Stanhope will take your breath away. If the awesome scenery on the journey in through Weardale isn't stunning enough wait until you see this magnificent Hall dating from the 1500's. From the flagstone floors, mullioned windows, superb open fire place, beams, original stone spiral staircase the house just takes your breath away. The accommodation is so comfortable you won't feel the need to leave. The bedrooms are huge and beautifully decorated, the main bathroom with its centre claw bath will make you gasp (the second bathrooom is pretty awesome too). The house is warm both with the open fire and oil fired heating which you have control of. Outside is a massive walled garden with decking ideal for soaking up the sun. If you have dogs as we have (2) then this house is a dream holiday for them. The owners are very dog friendly and well behaved dogs are made very welcome. Once through the private gates they have a huge play area. The drive (when the gates are shut) plus through a little door is the massive walled garden with lawn and a zillion rabbit burrows offering hours of play and 'chase the bunnies'. If that wasn't enough adjacent to the garden through another gate is an even larger walled field which the dogs are also allowed to play in throughout the day and evening. That too is bunny central. I guarantee your dogs wont need a walk after an afternoon chasing balls and rabbits here. But if they do then the river with its little banks is literally yards from the front door and runs along the side of the property. Stanhope itself is a lovely friendly village. Attractively laid out with independent shops and pubs. There is a great fish and chip shop in the centre of the village and just a five minute walk from the house. The Weardale gift centre has lots of little outlets to browse as well. The villages and walks in the surrounding area are great and just over an hour's drive takes you to the Lake District. We loved it so much we have already booked to go again next year. Oh and I have to mention the owners Alan and Polly who are delightful and definitely go 'the extra mile' for the guests. From the lovely little pamper products in the bedrooms and bathrooms to the scrummy chocolate muffins that Polly bakes for every new arrival, nothing is too much trouble. They have put their hearts into this property and it clearly shows.
Mr Harris
August 2016

“We had a fabulous stay at Unthank ...”

We had a fabulous stay at Unthank Hall. The house is situated amongst beautiful countryside and close to the town of Stanhope. The facilities at the house were excellent providing everything one would need for an enjoyable relaxing stay. The house has a charming character which has been lovingly and respectfully nurtured to provide an historical atmosphere alongside all the modern creature comforts. Alan and Polly were extremely helpful during our stay, making us feel totally welcome. We would gladly recommend Unthank Hall to anyone who wants a charming and comfortable place from which to explore the local area. you will not be disappointed.
Mr Reid
July 2016

“Staying in Unthank Hall was a ...”

Staying in Unthank Hall was a magical step back into history. Absolutely loved being there. But even better than the property were the owners. If Sykes ever offers seminars to train potential property owners on how to make guests feel welcome, the owners should be the keynote speakers. Welcoming, generous, helpful and interesting conversationalists. By the end of a week they made us feel like we had good friends in Stanhope.
Mr West
April 2016

“Unthank Hall was an amazing place ...”

Unthank Hall was an amazing place to stay with great hosts and lovely large enclosed lawned garden for the dogs. Great location with access to lovely walks and places to visit such as Durham and Beamish open air museum. Luckily the weather was kind to us which also helped.
wingspan50
October 2015
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“Beautiful 15th century country home.”

We stayed in Unthank Hall with my wife and two young kids (3 & 4). The house is full of character with plenty of space and amenities. Stone floors, old fireplaces and original features all make this a genuine old country house experience. There's plenty of indoor and outdoor space for the kids and the adjacent farm and stepping stones to the park provide interest and distractions to keep them entertained. The setting is beautiful, unspoilt Durham countryside, next to the river and close (walking distance) to the center of Stanhope. The hosts, Alan and Polly are very friendly and willing to help with any needs.
Pug71
September 2015
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“Fabulous”

Absolutely fantastic, the owners have refurbished this property to a very high standard. It is extremely pleasing on the eye and welcoming and warm. The owners Alan and Polly could not be more welcoming! The situation is perfect, set a few yards from a babbling stream with a ford and stepping stones which lead to a play park for young children and to the village. Perfect family retreat, I want to go back there, asap! xxxxxxxx
HELEN C
June 2015
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“Mrs H”

Without doubt the best self catering accommodation we have ever stayed in. We couldn't have been made to feel more welcome,starting with a phone call the week before asking if we needed anything for our arrival? On arrival we were greeted with smiles as if we were old friends. We were shown round and given a brief informative history of the house, and presented with a tin of home made muffins! Alan and Polly are great, on hand if you need them but not at all intrusive. This holiday can be described in one word...FANTASTIC! Fantastic house, fantastic people, and we even had fantastic weather who can ask for more?
ashleighnicolem
May 2015
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“I am thankful for Unthank Hall”

What a beautiful place, I would have stayed forever given the chance. My family and I had an amazing time, Alan and Polly were lovely, as were the delicious homemade chocolate muffins that were waiting for us when we arrived! Stunning, spacious house, with lots of history and a gorgous walled garden! To read more on our stay, please follow this link https://ashleighnicoleblog.wordpress.com/2015/05/27/i-am-very-thankful-for-unthank-hall/
zulu1964
May 2015
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“Brilliant Holiday”

We went to Unthank as we needed to be close to home (Durham City) the brochure doesn't do it justice, it was fantastic, the owners were very friendly and made us extremely welcome, the house was full of character and in a beautiful location, we went with our 2 daughters and their partners our 10 month old grandson (he loved it) and our staffy, stunning scenery, friendly locals and great pub's. We all want to go back next year never enjoyed walking so much!
Susan G
September 2014
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“Fabulous Historical House.”

We arrived to be met with a warm welcome from the owners ( Alan & Polly ). They had put the log burning fire on for us and Polly had made us gorgeous chocolate muffins !!. The house is a listed property lovingly restored to make it into a fabulous quirky home. There was everything you could need for a great stay , from logs for the fire, hand wash and matching hand cream in the bathrooms , games and plenty books available. The rooms are large and comfortable and the bathroom has a huge free standing bath. The garden is massive and a great place to sit on the decking area with a glass of wine watching the sun go down in the evening. The dogs loved it too !! We had a bar-b-que one night when it was a bit cool. Alan ( the owner) went out of his way to bring a brazier round which heated us all up nicely. The owners couldn't do enough for us but weren't intrusive. Stanhope is a lovely wee town with shops, cafes and pubs. There are plenty walks fom the house and also some a short drive away. The house sits on the edge of the town with a pretty walk beside the river which only takes about 10 mins to get there. There is a great pub 3 mies away called The Black Bull who do beautiful meals. I would have no hesitation in recommending Unthank Hall to anyone who wants a great stay in a brilliant home with amazing owners in a beautiful part of the country.
caz9306
August 2014
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“A Beautifull special place”

what a fabulous find,my family and myself got together for my dads birthday and stayed here for a week,fab walled garden where dogs played all day and we sat in the sun.,log fires by night in the beautifull restored hall it is full of character and yet has all you need for a carefree relaxing holiday the village is just a short stroll across the river,the owners are helpful and friendly and welcomed us with a plate of bootifull chocolate muffins,well worth a visit you won't wanna leave.
Anonymous080
November 2013
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“Amazing House”

We have just returned from a 4 day break in Unthank Hall. 2 couples, 3 children and 2 dogs. The house is steeped in history and has been beautifully and lovingly restored by the owners. We had a fantastic stay, and the history surrounding the hall only added extra excitement to our Halloween celebrations. The village of Stanhope is a lovely place, with good pubs, good food and friendly people. I would really recommend the Unthank Hall experience. Especially the roll top bath, which was fantastic after a long walk on a cold day.

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Features

Off road parking
Open fire
Smoke-free
Garden / Patio
Cot available
Highchair available
Pub/shop < 1 mile
Washing machine
Dishwasher
Broadband / WiFi

The property

This is a beautiful and historic Grade II* listed 16th century country house, attached to the owner's home, superbly located on the edge of the village of Stanhope, County Durham.

Step back in time in this Stanhope cottage, and enjoy a wealth of original character, including a stone spiral staircase, stone-flagged floors, and original Tudor arched fireplace with woodburner.

All features in this cottage combine with modern facilities, thereby creating a unique opportunity to experience a truly lovely property, perfect for families and friends who wish to enjoy time together in one of the most beautiful parts of the country.

This large cottage in Stanhope benefits from four bedrooms, a very well-equipped kitchen, a lovely sitting room with huge comfortable sofas and an enclosed walled paddock garden, ideal for relaxing and dining alfresco.

Glorious walks can be enjoyed from the doorstep of this Stanhope cottage, including the Weardale Way, which passes through the village.

Stanhope, reached via stepping stones or footbridge over the River Wear and the surrounding moorland are in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the second largest in England and Wales, boasting great scenery and wildlife.

Take a trip to Barnard Castle, The Bowes Museum, High Force and Rokeby Hall, all easily reached from your Stanhope cottage, plus Corbridge, Hexham and Durham are just a short drive away.

With so many delightful things to do in the area, this Stanhope cottage makes the ideal base for a holiday at any time of year.

Accommodation

Four bedrooms: 2 x double, 1 x twin, 1 x single. Bathroom with bath, walk-in shower, basin and WC. Shower room with shower, basin and WC. Ground floor basin and WC. Kitchen. Dining room. Sitting room with woodburner. Large landing with reading area. Note: The double and single bedrooms are connected by a curtained doorway.

Amenities

Oil central heating with woodburner
Electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge, freezer, washer/dryer, dishwasher, TV with full Sky, DVD, CD/radio, WiFi, selection of books and games
Fuel, power and starter pack for woodburner inc. in rent
Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
Cot and highchair on request
Off road parking for 3 cars
Lockable bike storage
One acre enclosed walled paddock with lawn and furniture
Two well-behaved dogs welcome
Sorry, no smoking
Shop and pub 5 mins walk (via stepping stones) or 15 mins walk if not accessed via stepping stones
Note: Due to the stone spiral staircase, may not be suitable for those with limited mobility and children to be supervised
Note: Unfenced river 20 yards away, children to be supervised at all times.

Calculate your drive time

About the location

STANHOPE

Durham 22 miles.

The ancient market town of Stanhope lies in the beautiful Wear Valley in the heart of superb walking country. Described as the "Capital of Weardale", it occupies a sheltered position on the north side of the Wear at the confluence of the river and the Stanhope burn. The town is home to a delightful high street, offering a wonderful selection of pubs, specialist food stores, coffee shops, art galleries, a heated outdoor swimming pool and pleasant riverside walks, plus the town is on the C2C cycle route. Beautiful Blanchland, the "perfect village", lies just 10 miles away. The city of Durham is just 22 miles away and is a World Heritage Site boasting a magnificent cathedral and castle, plus Hadrian's Wall is within easy touring distance. Close by are Hamsterley Forest, Killhope Lead Mining Museum and Barnard Castle - a short picturesque drive away. Further afield is the award winning Beamish Living Museum, along with the Metro Centre housing 300 shops and a 12-screen cinema, plus the Lake District National Park is 43 miles away.

Region Information

Yorkshire Cottage Holidays