Guests say
Shepherd's Cottage is highly praised for its peaceful, secluded setting amidst beautiful countryside, making it ideal for those seeking tranquillity and nature. Guests consistently mention the abundance of wildlife, excellent walking opportunities, and friendly, helpful hosts. The cottage is described as cosy, well-equipped, and clean, with many returning visitors. While the rural track and some facilities receive occasional minor criticism, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, with guests appreciating the chance to unwind and enjoy the stunning surroundings.
The majority of reviews describe the cottage as spotlessly clean, tidy, and well-kept, with only a few minor mentions of areas needing a freshen up or occasional cobwebs. Bedding and kitchen facilities are generally praised for their cleanliness.
The location is repeatedly highlighted as a major strength, with guests loving the remote, peaceful setting, beautiful views, and proximity to the River Tees and walking routes. The only recurring negative is the rough farm track, which some found challenging for low vehicles.
Guests frequently mention the cottage as cosy, warm, and comfortable, with good beds and a relaxing atmosphere. A few noted firm beds or minor issues with the shower, but these did not significantly detract from their stay.
The cottage is generally well-equipped, with most essentials provided. Some guests noted the small fridge, lack of Wi-Fi, and the shared laundry facilities being a trek, as well as occasional maintenance issues with the bathroom or oven. However, these were usually considered minor.
Several guests appreciated thoughtful touches such as milk on arrival, a lit fire, and Christmas decorations. However, as these gestures are not guaranteed for every stay, future guests should not expect them as standard.
About this property
A wonderful stone-built detached cottage, situated in the middle of a field on the owners' working farm in the small Teesdale hamlet of Holwick. The cottage, which is approached by a farm lane, has been skilfully created from an old stone barn and has upside down accommodation to take advantage of the lovely views. The River Tees runs by the bottom of the field. Comfortably decorated and furnished, this delightful barn offers superb holiday accommodation at any time of the year.
Situated at the end of a no-through-road in the heart of beautiful unspoilt Teesdale is the peaceful, charming hamlet of Holwick. Designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this lovely region is an excellent spot for walkers or bird watchers. High Force waterfall is within walking distance of the hamlet whilst the challenging Pennine Way passes close by. In the village itself there is a pub which serves food, as well as a farm shop and butchers that has an additional cafe area. There are many other picturesque villages nearby however – such as Middleton, Mickleton and Romaldkirk – as well as the ancient market town of Barnard Castle that provide a wide range of amenities. The Lake District is less than an hour's drive away whilst all of the Northern Dales are within easy reach.
Accommodation
Two ground floor bedrooms: 1 x double, 1 x family room with three singles.
Three piece modern bathroom, with a shower over the bath.
First floor spacious beamed living area with kitchen, dining area and sitting area with coal-effect gas stove.
Gas central heating with gas stove.
Gas cooker, microwave, fridge/freezer, TV with built in dvd player.
Shared use of laundry room with automatic washer and dryer.
All fuel and power included in rent.
Bed linen included in rent.
Ample parking.
Sitting area with garden furniture and BBQ.
One well-behaved pet under strict control welcome.
Cafe on owners' farm open at the weekends only with other shops and pub located 3 miles from the property.
Please note: mobile signal can be poor in the area; please check coverage with your network provider.
Please note: this property only accepts arrivals on a Saturday
Reviews (76)
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Terry John
We had a lovely holiday .Lovely walks and a very pretty area.
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Duncan
Countryside was fabulous with amazing wildlife - we could even pick our own mushrooms from the field outside the cottage. The bed was so comfortable and warm and already planning on coming back next year. Improvements could be a better oven- a welcome pack - better directions to get the key but these are just minor improvements because we had an amazing time - thanks so much- you have an amazing property!
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Arnoud
During our 2-week stay, we went on several walks directly from the cottage. The River Tees is very close by, and the waterfalls in particular are well worth a visit. You can also go on beautiful hikes along the nearby Holwick Scar. If you want something else than walking, the Beamish Living Museum of the North is highly recommended, and Durham (university and cathedral) is also a nice city to visit. The cottage is comfortable and the beds are fine. Everything you need is available; there is no unnecessary luxury. Because there was no Wi-Fi available we had to use our mobile data (4G/5G). This went very well, so we could keep in touch with our family in the Netherlands. It is also nice, especially in warm weather, that the bedrooms are downstairs. The only slightly less positive point is the poor, potholed, and stony path from the farm to the cottage. This made it a bit more difficult for us to set off by car.