The Back House

49 Customer Reviews

• "Great cottage, great bed, great location , but on picture of garden and listing saying enclosed garden was surprised it was a shared entrance to our and the owner home and over looked and gate letf open manny time you could not let the dogs out with out being with them maby make that clear in listing ."

  Host was lovely and very helpful

  Thank you for taking the time to leave a review, we are glad you enjoyed your stay. We have asked the person who does odd jobs to check the gate, as it normally stays closed once the latch has dropped. We are happy that the description of the property is accurate. We describe the outdoor space as a courtyard with a raised planted area and not as a garden as there is not any grass. Plus that was it’s job as an inn. Bar the gate, there is no exit from the area. Behind the shrubs the listed wall is 12’ in height and continues until it meets the old store room thus providing a boundary wall of 8’ at that point. Despite this, we do not advise it is an enclosed area as there is sometimes confusion for users between enclosed and secure areas . Only the separate hot tub/dining area is noted as private and enclosed, and the same goes for the seating area with sofas. You probably noticed when walking around the village that it’s the typical form of a medieval village, being linear with housing adjacent to the pavement and occupiers stepping straight on to this on exit. Generally there are not any front garden areas other than a couple of houses plus the modern urbanised developments at either end of the village. This results in houses often being in close proximity to one another. The property description does state the holiday let is part of a listed former coaching inn and we live next door. I hope your return journey was uneventful. Thank you for leaving the house in great condition. We would not have known three dogs were staying! Thanks, Judith Property Owner

  Reviewed by Paul4.4★Sep 2024

• "The back house was lovely."

  Judith was a great host .Beds were very comfortable and hot tub a great bonus House had lots of nice wee touches so it felt like a home rather than holiday accommodation. My only suggestions would be to leave logs and firefighters for wood burner as because it is a very old stone property it was a bit chilly at night in the downstairs .Also swap the 2 and 3 seater couches about as you can’t see the TV from a bit of the 3 seater because of the beautiful fireplace . We would definitely return if we were wanting to visit the area in future .Thanks Judith

  Thanks for leaving feedback and ideas, we are pleased you enjoyed your stay with us. We don’t leave logs in the property, unless requested, as part of the compliance with fire regulations. We actually thought you must be finding the property too warm as the sash windows were opened. We previously tried the furniture as you suggested. Great minds and all that! The 3 seater does not fit in the position you mentioned, as the armchair has to sit in the corner as at the moment. There is not room for it to be next to the two seater in the place of the larger sofa. I worked out that space was taken by the two sets of sofa and chair arms, rather than just one set. There is room for three to sit on the two seater and armchair on the window wall and see the TV without the fireplace being in the way. The mustard chair can also be moved to face the TV, so guests have some choices. It’s a great sized room, with the listed fireplace taking up most of that west facing wall and we have had to retain the original doors which are larger than modern doors! These factors have had us trying multiple positions with furniture! Thank you again for leaving the house in such good condition, it was much appreciated by the cleaning team. Nice to meet you all. Thanks Anne. Property Owner

  Reviewed by Anne4.4★Jul 2024

• "Lovely cottage, beautifully decorated well managed, decorative was in keeping with property."

  Having the hot tub, was an extra touch especially if you have children. Good location to get to places Barnard castle is stunning.

  Thanks for taking the time to leave feedback Kirsten. I appreciate you are busy and had to return to work soon after your break. It’s a pity the weather did not hit the score level of pleasant! Hope the weather on the forthcoming holiday hits excellent for you! Hope to see you all again and you can do a day trip to York! Best Judith. Property Owner

  Reviewed by Kirsten5.0★Jul 2023

• "It was sheer bliss to be staying at Judith’s cottage!"

  We had everything we needed and more! It’s a beautifully decorated cottage, very cosy and comfortable (the beds!!!) The kitchen was incredibly well stocked and by arrival we found some very delicious home baked goodies made by Judith. That made us feel so welcome! Also, we had great fun in the hottub. The surroundings are beautiful, there is lots to do like Raby Castle, the Bowes museum, walking from Low Force to high force waterfalls, etc etc. In the street there is a small supermarket which is open 7 days a week. Very convenient! We would definitely recommend with all our heart!

  Hi Victoria, Thank you so much for the kind review. It was lovely to meet you all, and Chippy! Badger keeps looking for her... I’m glad you enjoyed the stay so much and hope your second week is going well! We all hope to see you again! Best Judith Property Owner

  Reviewed by Victoria5.0★Jul 2022

• "The house provides the perfect holiday experience; scrupulously clean, tastefully furnished and comprehensively equipped."

  The provision of a welcome pack of homemade cakes and of basics, such as milk, coffee and tea are thoughtful touches on one’s arrival. We would certainly recommend the property to others and hope to return ourselves in the future.

  Dear Glenda, Many thanks for leaving such a lovely review. It was kind of you to take the time to do so. I am delighted you enjoyed your week and hope to see you again! Very best wishes, Judith. Property Owner

  Reviewed by Glenda5.0★May 2022

• "The Back House is one of the most comfortable and welcoming holiday cottages that we have stayed in."

  Judith, the owner, has obviously put a great deal of thought into creating the perfect holiday home. Staindrop is a lovely village and perfectly placed for exploring this beautiful area, with walks direct from the door.

  Dear Jo, thanks for taking the time to leave a review; and such kind comments. I am glad you enjoyed your stay and experiencing all four seasons in a short week... Perhaps you will return to walk more of the Teesdale Way in the near future! Best wishes, Judith Property Owner

  Reviewed by Jo5.0★Mar 2022

• "Great host helped maked sure everything was perfect for the stay."

  A lovely comfortable place to stay , highly recommended

  Thanks Bruce. I am pleased you enjoyed your stay and that Amy settled in so well at Durham. Best wishes, Judith Property Owner

  Reviewed by Bruce5.0★Sep 2021

• "Just had a wonderful week at Back House."

  The cottage exceeded our expectations. It was exceptionally clean, well equipment and decorated to a very high standard. We were greeted with homemade goodies which were very much enjoyed. The bonus to this cottage is Judith, Richard and Badger. Excellent hosts who made us very welcome. Would definitely return.

  Many thanks Jenny for the kind review. I am glad you enjoyed your stay and made so much of things to see and do in the area. Of course the weather helped you too! Please send regards from Richard and myself plus "spotty dog" to the rest of your gang! Best Judith Property Owner

  Reviewed by Jenny5.0★Sep 2021

• "This is the best cottage I have ever stayed in."

  It is scrupulously clean, comfortable and charming. The bedrooms are lovely and super-comfortable and the wood burner in the sitting room is a gorgeous feature. The kitchen is big enough to feel spacious for chatting and cooking and is extremely well-equipped. Everything has been carefully and prettily decorated. Although the garden area is relatively compact it is still a sweet spot for sitting or eating outside. The surrounding area is wonderful with so many interesting and beautiful places to visit. The holiday was made very special by the extremely kind welcome from Judith, who provided delicious home-made cakes, organic wine and milk, fresh eggs from the farm and many other thoughtful touches. She really went the extra mile to make my stay a happy one. I am already looking forward to going back! Gillian

  Hi Gillian, Hope things are ok with you and the badgerhound. Thanks for the lovely review. I was glad you enjoyed you time with us. It was great to meet you and your friends. Look after yourself, Best Judith Property Owner

  Reviewed by Gillian5.0★Aug 2021

• "We had a fantastic holiday at the Back House."

  Staindrop is a pretty village, with lots of great places to visit around. Judith is a wonderful host and the facilities and comfort of the house are exceptional. Personal touches like fantastic homemaking and chilled wine on arrival, made the start of the holiday very special. We had looked forward to this holiday immensely, as it was a chance to reunite as a family after lockdown. The Back House didn't disappoint in any way and proved the perfect setting for a very happy holiday.

  Hi Sarah, thanks for the great review! Hope the return to work after the school holidays went to plan and that your classroom numbers are not decimated. I particularly liked the comments about Badger in the guest review book!! Best Judith Property Owner

  Reviewed by Sarah5.0★Aug 2021

• "The Back House is a beautiful cottage in a great location."

  The hosts Judith and Richard were so friendly and helpful and nothing was too much trouble. On arrival Judith provided home made cake and cookies which were delicious. There was also milk and a most welcome bottle of wine in the fridge. It was very clear that a lot of thought had been put into providing everything that you need for a self catering holiday. It really was home from home with a taste of luxury. We had a great time and will definitely return.

  Hi Karen, Thanks for the kind review. I am happy you enjoyed your stay and made the most of all the sights and things to see. Hope all the family are well and in particular the big fan of Badger!! Best Judith Property Owner

  Reviewed by Karen5.0★Jul 2021

• "We had a very warm welcome from Judith and we felt at home and very comfortable straight away!"

  Hi Fred, thanks for taking the time to review the cottage. I am glad you enjoyed your stay. Best Judith Property Owner

  Reviewed by Frederick5.0★Jun 2021

• "House was well equipped and clean, bedrooms extremely comfortable."

  Beautiful throws available for cosy nights in the pergola. Fab welcome pack with fizz and home baking. Judith was a lovely host and would thoroughly recommend a stay in this lovely village with plenty of dog walks near by.

  Hi Andrea, thanks for your nice review. hope all is well with you and Mr Baxter. I am glad you enjoyed the area. Best Judith Property Owner

  Reviewed by Andrea5.0★Jun 2021

• "Beautiful cottage!"

  Had everything we needed, perfect location, would definitely go back!

  Hello June, thanks for the great review! Hope all the family are well. You were lucky with the weather and that always helps! Keep well. Best Judith Property Owner

  Reviewed by June4.7★May 2021

• "This was a beautiful, comfortable cottage in one of the prettiest villages in the Dales The rooms were spotless, and large and airy."

  Everything you could possibly need was provided. Beds comfortable, and very good quality bedding. Judith was very welcoming and left us with fresh milk and eggs, as well as scones, cakes and cookies, all very welcome. Lots of lovely scenery around to explore, and the nearest town Barnard Castle is very lovely. Highly recommended

  Thanks Jacqui for your kind review. Hope work is going well and you are not rushed off your feet. I am glad the break gave you all a chance to recharge after the challenges of the last 18 months. Best Judith Property Owner

  Reviewed by Jacqui5.0★May 2021

• "A particularly comfortable cottage, spotlessly clean, providing a home from home, situated in surrounding farmland and a picturesque village, with lovely walks right from the doorstep."

  Judith was extremely welcoming and clearly takes the comfort of her guests very seriously. The cottage adjoins the owners' home and courtyard, with a separate Pergola with seating for the use of guests.

  Thanks Janet. You were our first guests after reopening and it was helpful to have such pleasant people to help us get back into the swing of things. We have not drawn breath since you left! Hope all is well and that you continue to enjoy your P/T working. Best Judith Property Owner

  Reviewed by Janet4.7★Apr 2021

• "Our must have things when we book a cottage are that it has to be dog friendly, have good wifi, a log burner, put and shop within walking distance and stunning surroundings."

  The Back House does not disappoint on any of these points. The owner, Judith, was so welcoming and friendly and it's obvious that a lot of thought and details has gone into the decor of this beautiful home. On our arrival Judith had left us a lovely homemade cake and scones, fresh free range eggs from their own chickens, milk and prosecco - we were spoilt! There was even a dog bed and bowls for the pooches. The cottage was spotless which is so reassuring in the current Covid climate. There is a secure area outside the back door where you can let your dogs out, it is a paved area with no grass which our dogs aren't used to but they soon got the hang of it and it wasn't an issue at all. Staindrop and the surrounding area are stunning, there's so much to see and do and plenty of off lead walks for the dogs. There are a few shops within a short walk of the cottage - Spar shop, newsagents, butchers, and also a pub which unfortunately we couldn't make full use of as the second lockdown came into place whilst we were there. There's so much we haven't had chance to explore yet in this beautiful part of the country and we will certainly make a return visit to the Back House to continue our adventure.

  Reviewed by Sally5.0★Oct 2020

• "As a family of 4 with 2 teenage girls, this cottage was perfect!"

  The themed bedrooms are incredibly plush with thick carpeting, very large and comfy beds which make it feel that you are in the best hotel! The owner made us Brownies and a fabulous Victoria sponge as well as stocking up the fridge with milk and wine, not forgetting fresh eggs from the hens roaming in the Yard. The TV is a good size and the woodburning stove kept us cosy in the evenings. As there is so much to do in the area, we are going to book again for next year!

  Reviewed by Joanne4.4★Oct 2020

• "Having had holiday cottages for 32 years and just retired from them this year we booked Back Cottage last minute and wasn't disappointed."

  It was beautiful and so clean, warm and comfortable. We had everything we needed for a great stay and Judith and Richard could not do enough for us. We were greeted with wine and some of Judith's delicious brownies and fruit loaf We didn't want to leave. This is how holiday cottages should always be. Thank you Judith & Richard xx

  Reviewed by Ross5.0★Sep 2020

• "Amazing cottage."

  Much bigger than expected. Spotlessly clean. Really comfortable beds. Judith left us lovely homemade cake , scones and wine.

  Reviewed by Susan5.0★Sep 2020

• "Our staycation this year was fabulous, it was home from home, the area and ..."

  Our staycation this year was fabulous, it was home from home, the area and location was ideal, will definitely book again to stay here Love The Rundle’s

  Reviewed by Jamie5.0★Aug 2020

• "Wonderful host who was very welcoming and friendly."

  A very peaceful and restful cottage.

  Reviewed by Keith4.7★Aug 2020

• "What a pleasure it was to stay in this beautiful house!"

  Everything was of a very high standard - we loved the clean, peaceful decor with tastefully themed rooms, the well equipped kitchen, the bedrooms all with kingsize beds, and it could not have been more spotlessly clean on our arrival. The owner was friendly and helpful, and we were welcomed with fabulous homemade cakes, and milk and prosecco in the fridge. In our opinion this was one of the nicest holiday cottages we have stayed in - highly recommended.

  Reviewed by David5.0★Aug 2020

• "Wow - what an amazing place!"

  We absolutely loved our week staying at the Backhouse. With the recent covid restrictions we were a little apprehensive about going on holiday but with all the practices owner Judith has put in place in regards to her guests safety, we knew all was going to be OK. The place itself is beautifully decorated, comfortable and immaculate with everything you need for your stay - including some extra special treats :) The location is fabulous too with walks from your doorstep or only a short drive away, High Force, Barnard Castle and Teesdale are all within a short driving distance.....a beautiful part of the country. We're already planning our next stay here!!

  Reviewed by Donna5.0★Jul 2020

• "Wow, what a stunning property with excellent decor , it was even better than the pictures online!"

  We loved the themed rooms, stag, pheasant, highland cattle....very tastefully done. All furnishings of a very high standard and well equipped, my only thing I would have liked to see was for us ladies ,bigger mirrors in the bedrooms, Judith was a perfect host, and we were greeted by a very tasty chocolate cake ...not one bit was left ...thankyou Cottage is very well equipped and is in a great location for Barnard castle, Raby castle , other sites/places and as its set back from the road is very quiet, A great 4 nights

  Reviewed by Linsey4.7★Feb 2020

• "The location and cottage is beautiful."

  We loved our visit so much , this was our 2nd New Year here, we were not disappointed. The owners Judith and Richard make you feel so welcome. I would highly recommend this cottage as a place to stay.

  Reviewed by Tracey5.0★Dec 2019

• "The house was beautifully clean, comfortable and warm."

  There was everything we needed for our stay and more.

  Reviewed by Grahame5.0★Nov 2019

• "2nd visit, exceptionally clean property, very warm and cosy."

  Will definitely return.

  Reviewed by Julie5.0★Sep 2019

• "A fantastic property with owners the same."

  For us, and this is a subjective comment, we would have preferred a separate shower as opposed to a bath with a shower over. Wifi was not fantastic but again coming from an urban area we understand the deplorable lack of investment in rural areas with connectivity. None of the above is a 'deal breaker' but we do like to be 'honest' The beds were the best we have ever slept in......and we have slept around !!! Suffice it to say we would not hesitate to return can speak too highly of the property,owners,village and area.......a small piece of our wonderful country.

  Reviewed by David5.0★Sep 2019

• "Back House in Staindrop is a stunning holiday home."

  Luxurious furnishings, everything you need is in the cottage. The owners are lovely and friendly and will help with any requests you may have. WiFi and Netflix available for you to enjoy a film or two if you wish and a log burner for cosy colder nights. This is by far the loveliest cottage we have ever stayed in. 10/10. The village of Staindrop is quaint, with two castles to visit one in Barnard 20 minutes away and Raby castle just up the road which homes heards of deer and highland cattle. We will visit this stunning holiday home and area again.

  Reviewed by Janet5.0★Aug 2019

• "The Back House was an absolute delight."

  There was a lovely welcome when we arrived at the property as Judith, the owner, had left us cakes, eggs, etc in the fridge. Both Judith and Richard were very friendly and really made us feel at home. There were lots of information leaflets on places to visit in the surrounding area and the village of Staindrop was charming and well worth a look round. Probably the best Sykes Cottage we have stayed in and I'm sure we will make a return visit in the future.

  Reviewed by Pauline5.0★Jul 2019

• "This was a gorgeous holiday home decorated to a really high standard and kitchen had everything you need for a comfortable stay."

  The hosts Judith and Richard were very welcoming and left us an amazing welcome pack including delicious homemade cake and scones. A good location for travelling to many places of interest nearby. Recommended.

  Reviewed by Shirley4.7★Jun 2019

• "The cottage was beautifully decorated, with a high standard of cleanliness."

  The cottage is beautifully placed to explore North Yorkshire / North East, with plenty of places to visit locally.

  Reviewed by Sarah5.0★Apr 2019

• "Beautiful house decorated to a very high standard."

  Everything you could possibly need is supplied. Very friendly, informative hosts who live next door. We were welcomed to fresh scones, homemade jam, a lovely cake, butter, bread, milk, tea and coffee and even a bottle of Prosecco! Doggy friendly home though they are not allowed upstairs. Also note there is no enclosed garden therefore if you do need to take you dog out in the middle of the night, it's a matter of harnessing up with the lead to take them for a stroll down the lane, rather than quickly letting them out. The lovely town of Barnard Castle is less than 10 minutes away and lots of bigger shops such as Aldi, Sainsbury's etc. in Bishop Auckland 10 minutes in the other direction. We highly recommend Back House.

  Reviewed by Jill5.0★Mar 2019

• "My wife and I have stayed in a great many holiday homes, but Back House is simply the best!"

  The accommodation is extremely comfortable and spotlessly clean! The furnishings and bedrooms are superb. The kitchen is well equipped with everything you could possibly need. The homemade cake waiting for you in the fridge is amazing, although there was only the two of us it did not last long!! Fresh free range eggs, country butter bread and milk awaits visitors. The hosts Richard and Judith are amazing too, we were lucky enough to help with a couple of lambing's which was a life long dream. So if you stay here your dreams could also come true. We would not hesitate to recommend "Back House" and we look ford to staying here again very soon. Thank you for a wonderful stay, we hate to leave!

  Reviewed by Gary5.0★Jan 2019

• "Brilliant service from Sykes and The Back House was absolutely fantastic, Judith & Richard have provided a beautiful cottage with everything that you could think of included."

  All furniture & facilities are of the highest quality including all the dog friendly facilities. The welcome food pack was an absolutely lovely thought, homemade jam, cakes, bread and a lovely bottle of fizz to wash it all down. The themed bedrooms are furnished lovely with the most comfortable king size beds we’ve ever slept in, even the dog preferred the Back House dog bed over its own !! The cottage is perfect for just chilling out in front of the lovely log burner or as a base for a walking holiday. Having stayed in numerous cottages over the years this is definitely the best one yet, we enjoyed it so much we immediately rebooked it again.

  Reviewed by Tracey5.0★Dec 2018

• "We had a fantastic week in the superbly furnished and equipped property."

  The owners were very friendly and the wine, mince pies and yule log waiting for us on arrival were brilliant. We loved the location with plenty of great countryside dog walks right from the front door. We can't recommend the place highly enough.

  Reviewed by Christopher5.0★Dec 2018

• "Second visit for us."

  Love the back house. Great welcome. Really clean and comfortable. Really enjoyed the log burner this visit, plus the festive treats and decorations. Thank you and I’m sure we’ll be back.

  Reviewed by Ian5.0★Dec 2018

• "Great holiday cottage, fantastic welcome pack and great comfy beds."

  Decor of cottage was exceptional. Hope to return.

  Reviewed by Jacqueline5.0★Nov 2018

• "This cottage was lovely, so well furnished and everything was a very high quality, including the delicious welcome pack."

  It was warm and the beds were comfortable. We had amazing weather which helped but there were so many places to visit and lovely walks in the area.

  Reviewed by Marianne5.0★Oct 2018

• "Excellent welcome pack, lovely themed rooms, really warm and comfortable."

  You couldn’t ask for more from a holiday home.

  Reviewed by Ian5.0★Oct 2018

• "My brother and I together with his dog had a wonderful stay at the Back House."

  It is a fabulous property, very spacious, beautifully furnished and decorated, very very clean and very dog friendly. We were slightly worried before we arrived as there is a review on Trip Advisor claiming it is not suited to dogs. This is incorrect. It is a great property for dogs, you just have to put on a lead to walk them rather than letting them run loose which is what the other guest must have wanted to do. The rabbits that were mentioned are feral so they will be hopping about in the countryside, the previous guest seemed upset there were rabbits running around in the paddock next to the house. There are miles of lovely walks from the back door and the dog enjoyed the stay as much as we did! He was provided for and supplied with a bed, blanket and towels by the Owners. Judith and Richard were very good hosts and Jeanette their lovely helper as very kind. When I lost my mobile Judith helped me contact my daughter. We liked the village Tea Shop , it is good value with a decent menu. There is lots to do round and about. Definitely plan to return.

  Reviewed by Nadia5.0★Oct 2018

• "Absolutely wonderful cottage, with all the facilities you could wish for."

  Cottage location was also excellent with easy access to many visitor attractions.

  Reviewed by Mark5.0★Sep 2018

• "Absolutely gorgeous cottage, tastefully decorated, comfortable beds, immaculately clean."

  Would definitely stay again.

  Reviewed by Julie5.0★Sep 2018

• "The Backhouse was the most amazing and luxurious holiday rental we have ever stayed in, we all loved the house and themed furnishings."

  Judith and Richard were extremely helpful and we were made to feel very welcome and the house was well equipped with everything we needed and more. Loved the welcome basket with treats and the Home made cake and scones were amazing and a chilled bottle of prosecco was a lovely surprise. Dogs were made to feel welcome as bed, towels bowl poo bags and doggy treats were provided. Please be aware dogs not allowed onto sofas or upstairs and cannot be left alone in the property. Lots of great places to visit nearby. Would not hesitate in recommending the Backhouse as it exceeded all our expectations. Thank you so much

  Reviewed by Siobhain5.0★Aug 2018

• "It was a lovely holiday cottage."

  Judith and Richard made us very welcome. The cakes and wine on arrival were splendid. The cottage was a very high standard and had everything we needed for a great holiday.

  Reviewed by Paul5.0★Aug 2018

• "Great Cottage in a great location"

  Reviewed by Shaun5.0★Aug 2018

• "Pictures on the web site do not do the property justice all the rooms are large and tastefully decorated with good bed linen and towels,pillows and beds are to a good standard and more then comfortable to sleep on and they don’t make any noise when having a good night of passion Kitchen had everything you needed to prepare and cook a good meal The lounge more then comfortable with a beautiful fireplace."

  Judith was more then helpful we felt like family with her warm welcome

  Reviewed by Marty5.0★Jul 2018

• "The Back House is a beautiful holiday rental."

  Everything in the cottage is of an excellent standard and nothing has been missed that a visitor might need. The village is near Barnard Caste and Teesdale with Durham and Richmond also nearby. We went with our dog and also found the house very suitable for him with plenty of walks on your doorstep.

  Reviewed by Julie5.0★Jul 2018

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