Unthank Hall

Rating
Sleeps 7
Bedrooms 4
Bathrooms 2
Pets Yes
View on map

Features

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

Mrs Collins
September 2019

“A wonderful place with fantastic owners.”

Polly and Alan are a great couple and nothing is too much trouble. We have stayed at a number of cottages and this wins the day.

Polly and Alan are a great couple and nothing is too much trouble. We have stayed at a number of cottages and this wins the day.
Ms Brooks August 2019

“Amazing property, beautiful location on the edge of the Durham dales.”
Mr Clays June 2019

“Had a brilliant week at Unthank Hall.”

We had a very warm welcome from Polly and Alan, who were very kind and helpful ,when we changed ,one of our weeks holidays.Polly had made us some delicious chocolate muffins.We were very priviliged to be shown all of The Hall by Alan and Polly and told about the history of it. It is a very interesting building and we are looking forward to our return visit.
Mr Wilson June 2019

“This is a beautiful property and has been lovingly restored by the owners who are justifiably proud of it.”

The location and the scenery are marvellous. The owners met us on arrival and explained the history of the house and gave welcome advice about the surrounding area and eateries. There was also plenty of local information literature provided in the house. They also supplied home made muffins on arrival which were very nice. We had a lovely restful week at the property and found many beautiful walks in the area with stunning scenery. Our dog loved the property as there were lots of rabbits to chase in the garden and she could have a paddle in the river just outside the property. The village of Stanhope has everything you need, a small supermarket, butchers, bakers, pubs, takeaways and a new Spanish Tapas restaurant which was very nice. Thank you to Alan and Polly for going the extra mile. In all a lovely week was had by all.
Mr Dimond June 2019

“We were very happy with accommodation during our stay at Unthank Hall.”

The owners were very helpful and gave a comprehensive tour of the property as soon as we arrived and we were made to feel welcome. The accommodation was comfortable and full of character. The large garden paddock was very useful to excersise our dogs (the rabbits helped) and more than enough space for a kick-about with a ball. We went out to many places in the area including Barnard Castle and Low and High Force waterfalls. Food wise the Black Bull pub in Frosterly comes highly recommended. All in all a great holiday assisted by beautiful weather.
Mr Day December 2018

“Lovely place to spend a family Christmas.”
Mrs Tickle October 2018

“We had a great time.”

The house is spacious and was clean and warm on our arrival. The owners were very helpful and we really enjoyed the little extras like the muffins and hot water bottles,
Mr Carrick August 2018

“Penny and Alan are very friendly, helpful hosts.”

We couldn't really fault our stay and hope to be back in the near future.
Mrs Barth June 2018

“Owners provided a fantastic welcome.”

Very friendly and offered great insight and tips of the house and local area. Couldn’t fault.
Mrs Moffat December 2017

“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

“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.
A TripAdvisor Member December 2016

“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.
Gina S October 2016

“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.
MarkALucas October 2016

“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.
wingspan50 October 2015

“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

“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

“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

“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

“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

“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

“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

“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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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.

Summary

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.
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.

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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

Please note: The number of people occupying this property throughout the whole duration should not exceed the number stated on the Holiday Confirmation. If you wish to invite additional guests, this must be agreed by the owner in advance.

This property offers the following short breaks:

Winter
Off-season
Last minute

Unthank Hall

Stanhope near Durham, Yorkshire Dales - North (Ref. 21851)

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Features

“A wonderful place with fantastic owners.”

“Amazing property, beautiful location on the edge of the Durham dales.”

“Had a brilliant week at Unthank Hall.”

“This is a beautiful property and has been lovingly restored by the owners who are justifiably proud of it.”

“We were very happy with accommodation during our stay at Unthank Hall.”

“Lovely place to spend a family Christmas.”

“We had a great time.”

“Penny and Alan are very friendly, helpful hosts.”

“Owners provided a fantastic welcome.”

“We booked Unthank Hall for somewhere to spend with friends to see in the New Year.”

“Unthank Hall Pet Friendly and a true Gem”

“Truly Magnificent”

“Steeped in history, oozing character, the dream holiday home”

“Beautiful restoration”

“Beautiful 15th century country home.”

“Fabulous”

“Mrs H”

“I am thankful for Unthank Hall”

“Brilliant Holiday”

“Fabulous Historical House.”

“A Beautifull special place”

“Amazing House”