Where to explore

Escape Beyond Holiday Lets

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Explore Durham’s local countryside or perhaps you’d like to travel further afield. Check out our recommendations below.

High Force

Discover the force of nature at High Force, one of the most spectacular waterfalls in England, located at Forest-in-Teesdale, in the heart of the Durham Dales. High Force Waterfall is situated in some of England’s darkest night skies providing jaw-dropping stargazing opportunities. You can see thousands of stars compared to cities and towns, and on a lucky night you can also experience the mystical aurora of the Northern Lights.

raby.co.uk/high-force/waterfall/

Hamsterley Forest

Discover the picturesque forest which sprawl along the sides of a stunning sheltered valley. From wildlife watching to stargazing, and adventure play for all the family to exhilarating mountain biking, there is something to keep everyone busy. If you fancy a peaceful wander through the trees, Hamsterley’s extensive network of trails and paths provides the perfect opportunity for you to explore the heart of the forest.

forestryengland.uk/hamsterley-forest

Alnwick Gardens

Created by the Duchess of Northumberland, The Alnwick Garden is a delight; a modern garden combining sculpture, water features, and beautiful plants to create a wonderful family attraction. The Garden features the largest collection of European plants in the UK and the largest Japanese Cherry Orchard in the World.

alnwickgarden.com

Gibside

Discover fine Derwent Valley views, winding paths and refreshing open spaces. Escape along the Avenue and around the garden for miles of tranquil walks, wildlife spotting and picnic spots. Wildlife and horticulture rich, Gibside is home to Roe deer, Red Kites, amphibian filled ponds, and a fruitful Walled Garden. Enjoy family fun on the Explorer Trail and compete in a game of frisbee golf, zoom across the zip line at Strawberry Castle play area, build dens and take on the low ropes challenge.

nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/north-east/gibside

Tynemouth

There are some truly breathtaking walks to take round Tynemouth, the walk along the seafront is stunning and is rewarded with views of golden sandy beaches. The promenade takes you to the historic North Shields Fish Quay. Tynemouth Aquarium provides fun for all the family with some fantastic exhibits on display of marine life of all different shapes, colours and sizes including otters, seals and even a colony of monkeys.

visitnorthtyneside.com/destinations/destination/tynemouth/

Lake District

The Lake District is England’s largest National Park and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the fells, splash about on the lakes, take a wild adventure, or simply enjoy the peace. Home to Scafell Pike – its highest mountain, Wastwater – its deepest lake and thriving communities like Keswick and Bowness-on-Windermere.

www.lakedistrict.gov.uk

Beadnell

With its protected waters and golden sandy beaches, Beadnell is a watersports paradise. Take the plunge and try activities such as kite surfing, kayaking, windsurfing and wakeboarding. If you’re a nature lover, sail to the Farne islands where there is an abundance of wildlife waiting to be seen. Keep an eye out for the puffins and seals who dwell there. Holy Island is close by- the home of Saint Cuthbert.

visitnorthumberland.com/explore/destinations/towns-villages/beadnell

Our Properties

Laburnum

Cottage

5 guests

3 bedrooms

3 beds

1 bathroom

6 seater hot tub

Games room

View Cottage

Rowan

Cottage

4 guests

2 bedrooms

2 beds

1 bathroom

5 seater hot tub

Games room

View cottage

Pear Tree

Cottage

5 guests

3 bedrooms

3 beds

2 bathrooms

6 seater hot tub

Games room

View cottage

Our Location

Escape Beyond Holiday Lets

Laburnum Cottage – 24 Front Street, Lanchester, DH7 0ER

Rowan Cottage – 2A Station Road, Lanchester, DH7 0EX

Pear Tree Cottage - 3 Front Street, Witton Gilbert, DH7 6SR

Reviews

5 Star reviews on AirBnb as a SuperHost

Our family had a brilliant stay here. It was beautiful, clean, cosy and had all the amenities we needed for a comfortable stay. Our kids loved the games room and we enjoyed the hot tub.

Kelsey - August 2026

Really beautiful cottage in the heart of Lanchester 15 mins from Durham. the cottage is beautifully decorated very well equipped and the hot tub was a real bonus.

Cheryl - July 2026

We had the most amazing time staying at laburnum cottage on a girls trip, the cottage is beautiful with gorgeous surroundings and the hot tub was so relaxing!! Tidy and clean and beds were so comfy

Anna - June 2026

Local to us

Escape Beyond Holiday Lets are based in the heart of County Durham.
Discover where to eat, what to do and where to explore using the links below:

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