The ultimate North East staycation spots

By Jenny Brownlees

2020 will hereby be known as the Summer Of Staycations since the outbreak of Covid-19 has meant many are choosing to holiday in the UK this year.

Whilst yes, international travel to a handful of destinations is opening up, booking these is also fraught with the uncertainty of restrictions and quarantine upon return — causing heightened stress for would-be holidaymakers. Worrying before you’ve even set off doesn’t exactly create the ideal scenario for a relaxing break. Holidaying in beautiful Blighty however, is firmly back in fashion. Even pre-pandemic, access to travel brochures filled to the brim with exotic destinations meant those looking for a summer break often neglected the places nearest to home — but no longer. Whilst you can now travel openly in the UK, some areas further afield are facing second lockdowns, plus a long (not to mention hot, if this weather keeps up) car ride to far-flung cities isn’t always appealing. Luckily for us North East dwellers, we are blessed with some of the finest coasts and countryside right on our doorstep. Driving a mere hour and a smidge from Newcastle can take you to the could-be-far-off beaches of idyllic Northumberland, the rolling hills of the Cheviots or the postcard-worthy scenes of North Yorkshire. Think mile-long atmospheric beaches and picturesque rolling hills, rich in wildlife and begging for adventure. Better yet, these sites are rarely crowded — unlike their southern counterparts. There’s an abundance of places to set up camp for exploring, or for simply hunkering down to some serious relaxation. No anxiety-filled flight needed.

The Hayloft at Roses Bower

A true secluded gem located just outside the perfectly quaint village of Corbridge, this stunning barn conversion can house up to six adults and two children. Relax in the private gardens, explore the nearby Hadrian’s Wall or unwind in the wood-fired hot tub as you look out upon the peaceful Tynedale Valley. An ideal home away from home, this spacious house offers a true dose of escapism from day-to-day stresses. There’s a barbecue provided for al fresco at-home dining, and you’ll love popping on the wood-burning stove in the evenings for a cosy night in. With the charming market town of Hexham 3 miles from The Hayloft, despite feeling a million miles away, you’re equally not cut off from it all if you did fancy a pub lunch or tipple. This beautiful home makes a perfect base for day trips in the surrounding countryside, followed by chilled-out evenings.

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The Glass House

Nestled in a small valley within the Northumberland Dales, this barn conversion forms part of a former bastle farmhouse, lovingly refurbished to the finest standard with design-led interiors throughout. The Glass House is the end wing of Knockburn Farmhouse, which was formerly the hayloft and storage barn. The site is rich in history, situated on the Sir Isacc Tea trail, in an area of outstanding natural beauty. Staying here for a calming, relaxing break means you’ll be treated to the truly tranquil views of surrounding streams, rivers and waterfalls, open fields, Dales and woods. You’ll instantly unwind when immersed in this beautiful setting, and may be lucky enough to spot the herons, hens and even hear the family of owls that call the area home. The Glass House’s stunning statue makes for a light-filled, spacious retreat that’ll help you get you away from it and back into the wild. The luxe, modern interior offers an open plan living and kitchen area with a double electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge, freezer and dishwasher. You can enjoy cooking and dining at the large farmhouse table, looking out to views of the stunning garden and rolling fields beyond. The Glass House hosts really have thought of every need — with a large Sky TV, a range of DVDs for all ages, a selection of board and card games and a library of both modern and vintage books. The bedroom has a deluxe King-sized bed and a single bed with feather and down quilt and pillows and a luxurious bathroom area houses a glass shower cubicle, his and hers contemporary washbasins and WC. What more could you possibly need? Guests can access the pretty, secluded garden area for private use complete with seating, a picnic-style table and benches, sun parasol and BBQ. Should you want to take your lunch out with your whilst exploring, a picnic basket, plastic crockery and glasses are all available on request. The Glass House is a true gem situated on the land of a working farm, with dogs, cats, sheep, horses and hens in the surrounding fields. Whilst you’ll feel a world away from worries and the business of city life — you’re just three miles away from the picturesque village of Allendale, offering shops, pubs, tea rooms, restaurants and more. This calming retreat offers the best of nature’s tranquil beauty — you’ll leave feeling refreshed and revitalised.

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Ramside Hall Treehouses

It doesn’t get much more luxurious than Ramside Hall’s lavish Treehouses. These heavenly ‘houses set on stilts are located in the picturesque woodland on the sites 350 acres of private ground. You’ll be leaving those notifications firmly unchecked as you relax in the treehouses exquisite comforts during your stay. Indulge in an evening watching the sunset from the treehouses extra-large windows, which allow beautiful natural light to flood in throughout the day. The truly one-of-a-kind accommodation has been sumptuously decorated with breath-taking interior touches throughout. Each treehouses features three ultra-stylish bedrooms, a sprawling living area and a state-of-the-art bathroom. Our favourite part? The blissful relaxation offered by the striking free-standing copper baths. With three treehouses available, you’ll be spoilt for choice when choosing the venue for your luxe staycay. Treehouse Peacock’s décor has been inspired by richly classic French interiors, Cuckoo mirrors the plushness of a chic but cosy Alpine lodge, with Woodpecker being the most modern of the three — complete with high-end contemporary finishes. These spectacular structures feature opulent, wraparound balconies that house sunken hot tubs for real a spa-like soak, and inside you’ll find Sky-equipped flat-screen TVs. This staycation is where rustic charm meets world-class glamour. Better yet, the treehouses are dog-friendly, so there’s no need for your four-legged friends to stay at home. Staying here, you can enjoy fine-dining in the Hall’s restaurant and make use of the newly re-opened spa. Ramside Treehouses make for a spectacularly breath-taking getaway, special occasion or not.

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The Gingan

If you like a side of history with your staycation accommodation, look no further than The Gingan, a former threshing barn steeped in rich local history, which has now been stunningly restored into a charming four bedroom, three bathroom property. Located in the heart of Roman Wall country, The Gingan nods to its heritage with a slate roof, stone walls, traditional ceiling beams and a warming wood burner. An eco-friendly heating system and underfloor heating throughout the ground floor mean this property is always wonderfully cosy. The historic building is offset with luxurious, contemporary interiors — the elegant dining area seats ten guests comfortably and leads to a sunlit open plan kitchen and a separate dining area for relaxed breakfasts or lunches. Double doors lead out onto a patio area with garden furniture and a spacious enclosed lawned garden, allowing you to tune into nature even without leaving the properties grounds. Two dogs are welcome and will relish in walking in the beautiful surrounding countryside. Staying here, you’ll quickly be immersed in the vast open spaces and soaring skies around you, and for walking and cycling lovers — there’s an abundance of trails to discover the surrounding area. For families or groups wishing to holiday together, the adjoining Granary sleeps four and can be let in conjunction with The Gingan. There is a shared games room with ping pong table, storage for bikes and outdoor gear adding a versatile space for wet-weather days, teenagers, or evening entertainment for all. The Gingan is located just a mile from the historic gardens and grounds of Matfen Hall Hotel, where guests have complimentary use of the facilities. Matfen has complied strictly with government guidelines in a phased re-opening of their indulgent spa. They will be offering a selection of 40-minute treatments, excluding facial treatments for the time being. Ensuring you can relax completely during your tranquil escape, therapists will be wearing PPE, with guests required to wear a facemask during appointments. The swimming pool and jacuzzi will be working on a booking system, however, the thermal suite will remain closed at this time. Guests of The Gingan will love Matfen’s fine dining and an outstanding golf course, right on the stay’s doorstep.

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North Farm Durham

If you’re looking for something on the luxe side, with an impressive seven bedrooms and five bathrooms, North Farm could be just the getaway for a larger group. This five-star detached farmhouse is set in 380 acres, overlooking postcard-perfect Teesdale. Belonging to her husband’s family, North Farm has been luxuriously furnished to an impeccable standard throughout by renowned interior designer Rita Konig. This exceptional home is truly one-of-a-kind, with Konig’s eclectic styling offering a feast for the eyes everywhere you turn. High-ceilinged rooms are adorned with a mix of unique interiors, maximalistic prints on print, classic antiques and opulent details throughout. White-paned windows look out upon rolling farmland at every glance, immersing you in the magnificent surroundings. This ultra-stylish property has unsurprisingly gained national press, and has been featured in Elle Décor and House & Garden. The stunning sitting rooms of North Farm host warm open fires and wood-burning stoves, and children will love the farmhouse’s playroom, with a games console and Smart TV. Make this your base to exploring the scenic surroundings, as just five minutes away to the south is the village of Piercebridge, with a must-visit farm shop and The Fox Hole gastropub. To the west, foodies will love the region’s only two-starred Michelin restaurant, the Raby Hunt. A little further on is the country-house hotel Headlam Hall, with a spa, golf course and tennis court, beyond is Raby Castle, Barnard Castle, Bowes Museum, High Force waterfall and so much more. You’ll be spoilt for choice in where to go, but we also wouldn’t blame you if you never set foot outside this spectacularly stylish home.

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Photography credit: Simon Brown

The Drey

Hosts Richard and Deborah have completely transformed The Drey from its humble beginnings to a place you’ll lovingly remember long after leaving. Building this space from a ‘shell’ allowed the pair to ensure every part of the redesign was made luxurious, with a lasting wow factor. Beyond the chic design, ultimately the couple wanted to create a place people could come to relax and unwind, and we think they’ve delivered tenfold. The interior has a modern cabin-feel featuring original artwork, a wood-burning stove and filtered natural water supply. Outside, an extended decking area and jumbo hot tub are the added perks of already-appealing site. The Drey is set on the edge of a small lodge park a mile from the village of Otterburn and with extensive landscaped grounds with two large lakes. If you are looking for a lovely stroll right on the doorstep, the local area is prime for exploring. There’s a gastropub in the village, a fantastic local restaurant on-site and being set in the national park, the local wildlife is easily observed via the cabins large windows, where you’ll spy red squirrels dining on the decking. A mere half an hour from Kielder water and with a number of National Trust properties and pretty local villages nearby, you’ve got day trips aplenty to enjoy. Whilst summer is undoubtedly popular, we can easily envision snuggling up by the fire in the winter months here too. Perfection.

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The Farmhouse at Doxford Barns

Tucked away behind the Farmhouse at Doxford Barns you will find the Farmhouse Lodge, an impressively pretty home designed by interior designer Jo Aynsley. Check in to discover the farmhouse’s artful décor, complete with a luxurious king-sized bedroom and beautifully appointed cosy sitting room with smart television and corner sofa. Off the sitting room is a stylish bathroom offering a large walk-in shower. A mere ten minutes by car are the white sands Embelton beach, with Beadnell, Newton-by-the-sea, Craster and National Trust site Dunstanburgh castle also nearby. What could be better than days spent by the beach, returning to your own stylish dwellings?

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