Causeway Cottage, Stanhope

Causeway Cottage is a two-bedroom historic stone cottage in Wolsingham, County Durham. One of the oldest buildings in the area, it was once a pub called The Packhorse Inn and legend has it Charles II rode his horse up the internal staircase in the 17th century. Today it sleeps four and comes with a private wood-fired hot tub with initial logs included.

Wolsingham sits in the Durham Dales with Hamsterley Forest just five minutes away. There's a pub within a mile and the wider area offers fishing, forest walks and open countryside. It's quiet but well-connected.

Inside you get an open-plan living and dining room with an inglenook fireplace and wood burner. The kitchen has an electric oven, hob, microwave, fridge and dishwasher. Upstairs: Bedroom One has a kingsize 5ft bed with a window seat and views. Bedroom Two has a spacious double 4ft 6in bed. A sofa bed downstairs sleeps a fifth guest.

Bishop Auckland Castle is around 8 miles away. The Bowes Museum in Barnard Castle is roughly 14 miles (25 minutes). Hamsterley Forest is 5 minutes by car. Kynren outdoor spectacular runs seasonally near Bishop Auckland.

Causeway Cottage suits couples and small families who want real character and countryside access. The hot tub, wood burner and historic setting make it stand out. One pet stays free.