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"This was a lovely property for our week away, located on a peaceful working farm."
Lovely view of the stars at night and very peaceful even during the day. The farmer tends to his sheep and the land and is of no bother to you and struggle to notice he’s around. Located down a farm track but more than accessible and it is a well maintained track, our vehicle had no issues. The cottage itself has lots of character and is well kept, relatively clean just a few cobwebs but can live with that given location etc. The bedding was clean and kitchen cloths etc, overall a clean cottage and good working appliances. Oven and grill worked fine no issues and everything else was fine. Would happily stay here again and would definitely recommend, plenty of walks around and a lovely chippy in the village 2 minutes up the road. Washing machine available at a separate building and free to use, we took our own washing tablets but there was washing powder etc already there.
Reviewed by Stuart4.7★Aug 2024
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"We had booked a fortnight stay at Shepherds Cottage but unfortunately didn't manage to stay as long as the first week."
The cottage really is in an idyllic, very peaceful location, surrounded by beautiful countryside and in an excellent position for walks. However the description of the farm lane is inaccurate, it really is a farm track. Although it is well maintained, it is a rubble track which you really need a high wheel based vehicle for. Our car was too low and we had great difficulty getting to the cottage. As we couldn't get back and forth easily without fear of damaging our car we decided to cut the holiday short. I'd urge anyone who has a low car to consider this. We looked into hiring a land rover but the rental terms are not to take them on unmade roads so that wasn't possible.
Another point not really described properly is the shared washing machine and tumble dryer. This is back at the farm house and is quite a trek to take with your washing. There aren't any instructions either, programme times etc so it means trips back and forth to see when the wash is finished, not very convenient. In fact there wasn't any information at all in the cottage. No information pack or guest book, something that I have never known when renting holiday cottages. No information about what to do about rubbish bin etc. There were some details of local walks but they seemed to have been left by previous guests.
As for the property itself, the bedding was lovely and clean but generally we felt the kitchen and bathroom were particularly in need of a freshen up (especially the oven and microwave) and overall we found the cottage and it's fenced garden was rather tired looking. Another point to note is the size of the fridge/freezer which is very small, not much bigger than a cool box so if you are staying for sometime and plan to eat in , it's something to bear in mind. In all we didn't think it is a four star property, more like three but the location would be a five definitely.
Reviewed by Samantha2.5★Jul 2024
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"A great property in a beautiful wild flower meadow."
Everything was provided that we needed and we were very comfortable. Very peaceful and it was lovely to sit outside with a glass of wine in the evening.
Reviewed by Lilian5.0★Jun 2024
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"This was our 2nd visit to Sheppards Cottage and it won't be our last."
Its in such a beutiful spot, so close to the river and a little walk to the waterfalls. The mot stunning walk might I add.
Highly recomend eating at the Farm House Kitchen. The Sunday lunches and the cheesecake are so so good. Enough for us to plan a visit just for food in the near future, without staying over. I'm still thiking about that cheesecake a week on :).
The family who look after the Cottage and run the Farmhouse are super lovely and friendly.
Reviewed by Lyndsay5.0★Mar 2024
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"A lovely short break away from it all ,No traffic no neighbours just sheep, pheasants and rabbits to see ."
Reviewed by Les5.0★Mar 2024
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"We loved the cottage, really remote but easy to get to if you're in a high/larger vehicle."
Had all the amenities we needed & such a lovely area! It's a really relaxing cottage, comfortable beds, good bathroom and kitchen. The fridge is a little small if you're there for a week but wasn't a huge problem for us at all, the nearest town Is about 10 minutes away so we just shopping when we needed. Really comfortable sofas and great TV.
Would definitely go back, you can walk to high force, low force and Bowlees waterfalls with ease, great area!
Reviewed by Harriet5.0★Jan 2024
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"Lovely little cottage, nice and clean and warmed up for us pre-arrival (Thanks!"
). Perfect getaway for a bit of quiet/nature immersion. Farmer passed by the track once/twice daily, and a few campers on the weekend, but that’s all for an entire week. Property is quite basic, which to me adds the charm and wasn’t any great issue. The views from the windows are gorgeous, plenty of wildlife too, and the nights are dark and clear. You could hear the river rushing along at all times, which I absolutely loved too! A few notes for future guests: 1. The property is accessed by an unmade farm track, which you’ll struggle with in a low car. I think the listing does note the farm track, but it wouldn’t hurt to add a little heads up for lower cars, as I’ve seen on other property ads. (Skoda Yeti was fine) 2. The enclosed yard is/was very slippery (December), and not 100% dog proof for small or determined dogs. I rigged up a long lead from the door to cover this risk when she was out. (French Bulldog) 3. Laundry facilities aren’t in the property. Wasn’t an issue for me, as I packed for the week. Shared facilities are advertised, but perhaps it’s worth clarifying on the listing where/how? 4. Bed was a quite firm, but that’s entirely subjective so not a complaint. It was clean and undamaged. But that’s it really, none of the above is major and certainly didn’t impact the stay significantly. Me and the dog loved it, and the walks are absolutely fantastic; literally straight from the door! High/Low Force are both an absolute must, and plenty of scenic reservoirs around too. And all importantly, 2 excellent takeaways in town including quite possibly the best fish and chips I’ve ever had! Thanks again, I’m sure we’ll be back. Iain & Luna
Reviewed by Iain4.1★Dec 2023
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"We had a beautiful stay at Shepherd's Cottage."
Absolutely wonderful in the snow, especially with our little boy. Views were stunning and it was such a cosy and well thought out layout. We really enjoyed watching the sheep and the rabbits in the field. Hosts are nearby and very helpful. Lots to do within 30min drive. Would have loved to share a photo of the cottage I took in the snow to show how beautiful it is but I can't in this review. We will definitely be back!
Reviewed by Jennifer5.0★Nov 2023
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"We had the best time at Shepherds Cottage!"
There were 5 of us and our dog and there was plenty of space for us all! The cottage was beautiful and cozy and had everything you needed to have a lovely stay. Watching the wildlife out the window was popular with my small boys and the walks nearby were stunning! The hosts were really friendly and we liked to give them a wave as they checked on their sheep. The location is just perfect and so peaceful. We will definitely be back!
Reviewed by Ryan5.0★Oct 2023
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"Fantastic converted barn in a stunning tranquil position."
Beautifully decorated and well equipped. Great host, we arrived late in the dark and she personally showed us the way to the cottage as it's down a long lane across fields and she had already been there and lit the fire and put the lights on. Position is great for walking and is a great base for exploring the surrounding area. Definitely recommend.
Reviewed by Ruth5.0★Oct 2023
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"Just arrived home from a week's holiday at this cottage."
What a beautiful place and fantastic people. We would highly recommend and we will definitely be returning
Reviewed by Robert4.7★Aug 2023
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"Very peaceful!"
Had a lovely stay at this cottage. On arrival saw that some milk had been left for us - really appreciated!
Fabulous views and excellent neighbours (sheep!). Have returned well rested.
Reviewed by Andrea4.1★Aug 2023
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"Hidden gem
Fantastic cottage
Fantastic location"
Reviewed by Dean5.0★Aug 2023
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"A very tranquil cottage, very much the middle of nothing n nowhere, quiet, oh yes!"
Perfect to explore the Pennines from, n read books in the cosy upside down living! Good quality linen n beds. Beautiful!
Great to watch the sheep being carefully checked thro the day.
Difficult to get a signal on phone.. but in the window was reasonable..
Thank you to the lovely Scott family, friendly n helpful
Reviewed by Lynn5.0★May 2023
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"If you want peace and quiet, in a gorgeous setting, then this is the place for you."
We visited in May and are now smittem with baby Lambs. The cottage is positioned in the middle of beautiful farm lands, with grazing sheep and their lambs wandering around (time of year dependant). The cottage is a short walk to a stunning river and lots of walks and waterfalls. There's no wifi so it can be the perfect spot to detox form technology. Bliss. I never got sick of looking out of any of the windows, the views are stunning. The lady who looks after the cottage is super friendly and welcoming. The cottage has been restored from pretty much a ruin and there's photgraphs in the cottage of what the building once looked like. Middleton in Teasdale and Barnard Castle are not far in the car if you miss people and buildings. We are booked to go back next year.
Reviewed by Lyndsay5.0★May 2023
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"Perfect for a getaway from everything break."
Peaceful environment and owners were very friendly and helpful.
The added snow made it perfect for the dog, he loved it.
Reviewed by Geoffrey5.0★Mar 2023
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"Hope i could stay there Forever"
Reviewed by Antonio5.0★Feb 2023
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"We had a super stay."
Cottage is in a lovely rural spot, which is what we wanted. Gorgeous views, sheep for neighbours. Very cosy and warm.
Comfortable beds and would happily have stayed longer if we could.
Reviewed by Claire5.0★Dec 2022
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"Great place , just what we wanted ."
Great use of space . Easy to use entrance for drying dog getting wet clothes off . Very cosy upstairs. We hope to return .
Reviewed by Rich5.0★Dec 2022
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"Great cottage, very comfortable, warm and exceptionally well equipped kitchen."
The owner is very friendly and helpful. Excellent walks from the cottage, just across a field and then onto the riverside path to Low Force and High Force waterfalls and Middleton in Teesdale the other way.
Reviewed by Yvonne5.0★Nov 2022
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"Lovely hosts friendly helpful but non intrusive."
Lovely old stone cottage very comfortable with everything you would need for a weeks holiday. We'll kitted out kitchen. If your looking for total peace and quiet no sound of cars and your only neighbours are sheep and rabbits then like us this would suit you. fantastic countryside views from all windows, cottage situated in open fields perfect for our border collie dog but also has a fenced in garden area. Bbq and seating. Nice places to visit situated short countryside drives away ( highly recommended is Hamsterly forest, fantastic walks, free just pay for parking ) although Internet can be bit hit and miss, if you put phone and stand near a window it's fine. If your wanting to get away from it all then consider this cottage.
Reviewed by Claire5.0★Oct 2022
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"Brilliant for the dogs very peaceful and quiet
Middleton has a lovely fish and chip shop ."
Hopefully will return next year
Reviewed by Sonia5.0★Sep 2022
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"Shepherd’s Cottage, and it’s owners, offer a very warm and comfortable welcome with everything you could possibly need."
A well appointed cottage hunkered in the valley, only a stones throw from the Pennine pathway and river Tees. You are spoilt with picturesque views from every window in a very well thought out upside down arrangement (Don’t forget your binoculars to spot the stoats).
The Pennine pathway is a stones throw away and runs along the most beautiful river with water falls and quaint little foot bridges for the whole family to enjoy.
The property has good cooking facilities, but after sampling the local restaurants you could have many memorable meals within a three mile drive to Middleton or 2.2 mile walk to High Force!
All in all the most fabulous holiday in England yet and we will be returning, thank you Mrs S.
Reviewed by Samantha5.0★Aug 2022
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"Had a lovely stay."
Thank you. Would definitely like to return some day.
Reviewed by Wendy5.0★Jul 2022
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"Lovely cottage, super clean and comfortable and location is absolutely stunning!"
The owners are lovely, friendly and very accommodating. We didn’t bring our own towels but they provided some for us.
The farmhouse cafe is lovely too.
Highly recommended for anyone who enjoys rural tranquility and walking holidays.
Reviewed by Heather5.0★Jul 2022
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"We had a very enjoyable, relaxing stay at Farmers Cottage."
Situated in the perfect location for a proper chill out holiday with gorgeous river walks at the bottom of the field to the stunning waterfalls all around the area and beautiful scenery. The owners were very friendly and the cottage was comfortable and clean with superb views. Our first visit to the area and we will be back!
Reviewed by Steven5.0★Jul 2022
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"Exceeded expectations, tranquil stay in corner of hay field, surrounded by fantastic views of Teesdale, close to river and lots of walks."
Lots of bird song and lambs calling. The up- side-down layout worked perfectly, and the lobby had a useful boot rack and plenty of hooks for jackets. The outdoor chairs were comfy too.
Reviewed by Tracy5.0★Jun 2022
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"The garden was enclosed so was brilliant for Milly my boxer dog."
Lovely walks right on the doorstep by the river. We had a fantastic week . Visited lots of places . The waterfalls are lovely.
Reviewed by Liane4.4★Jun 2022
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"Very peaceful place to stay."
Not far from village with all amenities. Took a while to get used to upside down house but the views were lovely.
Reviewed by Adrian4.7★May 2022
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"What a find, isolated cottage, beautiful location and walks from the door."
Superb.
Reviewed by Brendan4.7★Apr 2022
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"Had a great stay at holwick we were greeted by our lovely hosts great cottage great position fantastic walks right from door we will hopefully be back."
Reviewed by John4.1★Apr 2022
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"Great little hideaway, very comfortable and cosy in a beautiful setting, everything you needed was there and the hosts were lovely."
wifi would have cheered the stepson up a bit but it didn't bother me. I would recommend to anyone and will come back as we only stayed 3 nights so lots more to explore in the area.
Reviewed by Julia5.0★Mar 2022
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"Absolutely fantastic holiday in a great location."
I will definitely be booking again.
Reviewed by James5.0★Jan 2022
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"What can I say one of the most enjoyable holiday moments I've ever had it was the most peaceful and tranquil setting in the middle of a sheep field with gorgeous views from every window amazing walks right from your door into the dales."
The landlady is a sheep farmer and her husband at the young age of 80 still tends to the sheep everyday without fail it's very lovely to see especially coming from the hustle and bustle of inner city.very friendly people very beautiful place would highly recommend and I will definitely will be going again
Reviewed by Jayne4.7★Jan 2022
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"A cottage we have returned to about 8 times over the years."
Love it here. Extremely warm and cosy in winter months and a great place for bbq's in summer. Secluded and peaceful, with only sheep for neighbours. Owners very helpful if needed but unobtrusive. 200 yard walk down the field and you are on the Pennine Way along the river Tees. Spectacular scenery, especially in October/November when the leaves are a myriad of colour.
Wish we lived there.
Reviewed by Georgina5.0★Jan 2022
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"Shepherd's Cottage is a little jewel: although small, the space inside has been beautifully and cleverly used and there was plenty of space for our family of 5 (with 3 teenagers!"
). We had a wonderfully relaxing 3 nights over New Year: we were warm and comfortable, and didn't miss anything (the absence of WiFi or reliable 4G was an added bonus). The location is wonderful, with walks from the doorstep along the Tees to the impressive nearby waterfalls, and the owners were very kind and responsive. Highly recommended.
Reviewed by Patrick5.0★Dec 2021
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"We loved it."
A perfect cottage, quiet and secluded in a wonderful location. The cottage was very comfortable and had all we needed for a week away.
Reviewed by Judith5.0★Nov 2021
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"The peace and quiet , and lovely walks for us and the dog"
Reviewed by Sonia4.7★Oct 2021
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"Nice cottage, great location when campsite near by is closed."
After booking and paying in full were surprised to be informed we had to take our own towels ,when bed linen was provided.
Recommend the farm kitchen for a meal. Lots to see and do in the local area.. owners very friendly..
Reviewed by Peter3.4★Jul 2021
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"Fantastic "escape" cottage which is set in the most spectacular location."
Owner was extremely helpful and friendly.
Reviewed by Philip4.7★Jun 2021
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"The Shepherds cottage was perfect for us as parents needing a quiet rest and also for the children as they had so much space to run free, fly the kite, paddle in the river, watch the lambs and wildlife etc."
The Penines way on the door step with the waterfalls and the bridges over the river made our holiday. Barnard castle was our go to town to enjoy ice creams, hot chocolate cafe treats and the castle.
We had everything we needed plus the little things waiting for us which tend to be forgotten in the holiday groceries shop. The cottage was warmed up ready for our arrival. We had a brilliant time.
Our time in the Shepherds cottage will always be remembered as a fantastic, comfortable, and relaxing family holiday. Thank you.
p.s. A travel cot, highchair and stair gate would be a great addition to the house then we might just book again!
Reviewed by Lucy5.0★May 2021
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"A beautiful cottage this was the perfect relaxing holiday we were looking for."
The owners were very friendly and we were left to enjoy the cottage as a home from home. Would definitely go back.
Reviewed by Paula5.0★Feb 2020
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"Such a great place for total secludedness and wonderful veiws great walks from the door"
Reviewed by Nigel4.7★Feb 2020
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"We have visited this cottage since 2012 and we still love to come to stay."
The owners the Scott family are always so friendly and pleased to meet you. We have booked Sunday lunch in the farmhouse kitchen every time and love the home cooked food. If you have a hectic and stress full job or home life then this is the place to come. No WI-FI and phone signal is at best minimal, however let people know you are off the grid and get away from everything. Forget the weather, rain or shine get out along the Pennine way as the scenery is stunning the further you go. We love the area - Visit low and High force and the Bow lees centre for light lunch and Strathmore Arms pub for good ciders and beer and good pub grub. To sit outside the cottage patio and see the 180 degree view is fantastic if you love the outdoors
Don't expect 5* accommodation as its not advertised as such but it does exactly what it says on the tin. Incidentally we have stayed in 5* accommodation yet still come back every year.
I could say it was a rubbish holiday in the hope we could more easily book but that would be an injustice.
Reviewed by Steven5.0★Aug 2019
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"It is an absolutely charming and well equipped cottage in an absolutely beautiful setting in Teesdale."
Lots of stunning walks in the area. We will definitely go back!
Reviewed by David5.0★Aug 2019
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"What an amazing cottage, lovely surroundings and beautiful views."
The cottage was every thing as described and more. Every thing you could have wanted was in the cottage and more.It was very comfortable and warm. Mrs Scott was lovely as well very welcoming ,she had even put the heating on for us.In walking distance to the river . The children enjoyed it as well and did not want to go home.
We will come back one day.
Thank you for a lovely holiday Pauline, Tony,Claire and Liam
Reviewed by Pauline5.0★May 2019
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"The cottage is in a beautiful spot."
The accommodation needs updating
Reviewed by Paula3.1★Apr 2019
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"A beautiful cottage set in a private field surrounded by beautiful views of the pennines."
Walking trails being a short distance away from the cottage with stunning scenery making this a great location for all ages to enjoy the countryside amd the amazing wildlife. A very peaceful and beautiful location making this a very relaxing and enjoyable break in one beautifully well kept cottage. A local country pub is a very short walking distance away with a great menu and a very friendly atmosphere making anyone feel welcome. I would like to thank the owners very much for everything they did in making our first cottage experience A Peaceful & Beautiful one. Thank You! I would like to also mention how easy it was to book through Sykes Cottages making it very easy and pleasant to book. The service received from Sykes Cottages is fantastic, receiving regular updates including extra information making everything effortless from start to finish Thank You.
Reviewed by Shaun5.0★Mar 2019
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"The cottage is cosy, secluded and set in an idyllic location in Holwick."
The owners are friendly and the place itself is beautifully presented,warm and welcoming. We visited during the winter months so we’re the nearby campsite was closed which gave us additional independence and peace. We would certainly visit again.
Reviewed by Lesley5.0★Feb 2019
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"Perfect scenery and lovely owners."
Friendly and helpful wherever possible. Went above and beyond considering the heavy snow to make sure we were okay getting to and from the cottage.
Local area is absolutely stunning and the cottage is beautifully. Pictures do not do the cottage or the area justice and must be experienced.
Genuinely lovely time,
Thank You.
Reviewed by Daniel5.0★Jan 2019
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"A brilliant location."
It really is in the middle of a field surrounded by sheep. An easy walk to the River Tees and Low Force and Bowlees Visitors Centre. A slightly longer walk to High Force.
The cottage is very well equipped and easy to keep warm.
Reviewed by John5.0★Oct 2018
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"Fabulous cottage for getting away from it all."
Reviewed by Sarah4.4★Jun 2018
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"A very happy stay in a great location."
Reviewed by Sophia4.4★Apr 2018
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"We absolutely love Shepherd's Cottage!"
The cottage is beautiful, the location is stunning and the family at the farm are always extremely helpful and welcoming. There's plenty to do in the area - we had some amazing walks. The children (8,5 and 2) had so much fun and we hope to return again next year. This is a place we come back to again and again - I think this year was our 4th visit. Thank you! :)
Reviewed by Claire5.0★Mar 2018
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"It was a fabulous place to relax and unwind."
Our children had a great time playing in the field and watching the wild life.
The accommodation was very comfortable, warm and welcoming. There is no WiFi and intermittent 4G, however being digitally disconnected was very refreshing.
It is a lovely place to forget the pressures of day to day life and to sleep exceptionally well! There is no light pollution, allowing us to take full advantage of the stars. The only sound of traffic came from the farmers tractor whilst feeding the sheep, but this was a welcoming sound.
I would certainly recommend this property to anyone who loves the outdoors and being in the middle of no where.
Reviewed by Rowena5.0★Feb 2018
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"Brilliant. No other words"
Reviewed by Robert4.8★Oct 2017
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"Lovely cottage - quiet and secluded - home from home."
Everything we needed.
Reviewed by Julie4.0★Sep 2017
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"Walks and scenery"
Reviewed by Rita5.0★Sep 2017
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"Fantastic location with superb views - wonderful to be able to walk from the cottage along the river (and to the local pub!"
). Very friendly and helpful owners. A really great place and we definitely plan to return.
Reviewed by James4.6★Jul 2017
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"Beautiful location, great pub nearby, hayfield and wildlife abundant!"
Reviewed by Emily4.6★Jun 2017
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"Stayed at Shepherds Cottage during October half term week 2016 as a family of 2 adults and 2 children age 9 & 11."
The cottage is spotlessly clean and has everything needed for a comfortable stay. The owner is very welcoming and helpful.
Nicely located for regular walks along the river in either direction and also a good base to explore the rest of the Northern pennines. For keen walkers, High Cup Nick is a must. Also worth a trip to Durham for a look around the city. Overall we thoroughly enjoyed our stay here and would highly recommend this cottage.
Reviewed by Richard5.0★Oct 2016
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"29th August 2016 - 02 September 2016
This was our first visit to 'Shepherds Cottage' and what a beautiful little cottage it is too."
It's very cosy, very comfortable, and is spotlessly clean. We particularly liked the cottage being away from it all down a very long lane, and literally being in the middle of a field. We took advantage of the peace and quiet - It was just like heaven!! The weather was very good to us too allowing us to go on a few rambles, and a few evening strolls. At the bottom of the field lies the Penine way and the river. There was a whole abundance of wildlife all around the cottage - Rabbit's - Hares - Pheasants - Bats - Every bird you could mention including the resident Owl who lives in the tree near to the cottage. I love the way that the bedrooms are downstairs and the living area is upstairs to get the benefit of the fabulous views all around. Loved the sheep casually grazing and coming right up to the fence. Also a big "Thank You" To Mr & Mrs Scott & Karen who are three wonderful people who make it all possible. We will definately be coming back !! To sum the holiday up It was perfect! A very relaxing Holiday!!
Reviewed by Jennifer5.0★Aug 2016
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