A visit to Teesdale offers an ideal holiday or short break. An inspirational Durham Dale, Teesdale is rich in heritage from castles, churches and stately homes to mining and industrial relics. With spectacular unspoilt landscapes, you can drive for miles on quiet, open roads, walk on way marked footpaths, cycle along quiet country lanes and pony trek through heather, woodland and moorland. A large part of Teesdale is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and has a European Geopark status.
PLACES TO VISIT
St Romald’s Church
Romaldkirk, which was formerly in Yorkshire is one of the most attractive villages in County Durham, and St Romald’s church with its apparently unique dedication, occupies a commanding position overlooking the village green.
Raby Castle
One of England’s finest mediaeval castles. Discover the fine collections of furniture, impressive artworks and elaborate architecture. There is a beautiful walled garden and children can play in the outdoor activity area and spot deer kept in the 200 acre deer park surrounding the castle. You cannot fail to enjoy a visit!
The Bowes Musuem
A French Chateau in Barnard Castle with an extensive collection of European art, including an enchanting automaton of a silver swan. The museum and its surrounding parkland are a ‘must see’ for all visitors to Teesdale. Seasonal events, special exhibitions and workshops are hosted throughout the year with a range of family activities during school holidays. A great day out for the whole family!
Egglestone Abbey
The charming ruins of a small monastery of Pre-monstratensian ‘white canons’ picturesquely set above a bend in the River Tees near Barnard Castle. The site is managed by English Heritage but has free parking and no admission charge. There are information boards around the site to help bring to life the workings of the Abbey. There are stunning views over the river.
High Force
High Force is one of most impressive waterfalls in England. The River Tees has been plunged into this gorge for thousands of years but the rocks it reveals are much more ancient with origins dating back over 300 million years. Although there are numerous paths and bridleways they are accessible and well marked. High Force is situated along the B6277 just 4 miles from Middleton-in-Teesdale.
Pennine Way
This is a 270-mile walk that will take you from the Peak District National Park along the Pennine ridge through the Yorkshire Dales, up into Northumberland, across the Cheviots, and into the Scottish Borders.
THINGS TO DO
Walking
A great many walks are available from short walks to long rambles including the Pennine and Teesdale Way. A lovely selection of walks are detailed in your Caroline Cottage welcome pack.
Pony Riding
Local pony riding club near by – booking is essential. Further information is available in your Caroline Cottage welcome pack.
Specialist Shopping
Experience shopping heaven in a fantastic mix of independent shops and traders in close-by Barnard Castle and Middleton-in-Teesdale.
Fishing (Salmon and Trout)
Permits available from: F E Wilkinson (Barnard Castle) and J Raine & Sons Ironmongers (Middleton-in-Teesdale).
Sailing
With 4 miles of bank space and many inlets and bays Grassholme Reservoir offers a beautiful area for sailing (Teesdale Sailing Club) as well as a great variety of fishing.
Water Skiing
Baldersdale Reservoir offers water activities and invigorating walks with stunning views of three of Northumbria Water’s six reservoirs in Teesdale.
Canoeing
On the River Tees, downstream from High Force waterfall.
Mountain Biking
Find wildlife, peace, and activities for your own woodland adventure at Hamsterley Forest, one of the North East’s premier mountain biking destinations.
Cycling
Various picturesque routes available of varying difficulty and duration.
Golf
Barnard Castle Golf Club and many more in the region – situated only 6 miles from Caroline Cottage and just one mile north of the town centre. The parkland course is noted for its natural surroundings including water hazards running throughout.
Stock Car Racing
At Barford Race Course (DL12 8UD). They run forumlas for everyone’s taste.
For those rainy days and lazy evenings Caroline Cottage is well appointed including TV with Freeview, a DVD player and PS2 games console. WiFi is available as well as Chromecast which links computers and phones to the TV via the WiFi. To read more please visit our About page.
To make a booking or to find out more please contact us. We look forward to hearing from you.