It’s peaceful, traditional, pristine, and nothing is too much trouble for Christine. Welcome to a listed Georgian house on a 475-acre estate near Durham, its elegant sitting rooms furnished with pictures and photos, log fires and big sofas, billiards and a baby grand, and great sash windows with garden and woodland views. Resident springer spaniels Max and Barney love all dogs, so bring yours; stroll the magnificent lawns, cycle alongside the river. Breakfast? Eggs from the hens, bacon from the pigs, honey and fruits from the walled garden: a perfect start to the day. Enormous beds, luxurious linen and fresh flowers await your return.
Having half expected the somewhat distant feel of a nonetheless comfortable hotel, on arrival I was immediately made to feel a welcome house guest in a country retreat - a feeling that persisted throughout my brief stay. The bedrooms and public rooms alike were beautifully furnished in keeping with the period of the house, though with all appropriate modern features, and the breakfasts were excellent. Christine and her team were ready sources of local information and insight, which all contributed to making a two-night stay have the quality of a relaxing longer break. I will happily return.