Guests say
Crakesmire House is consistently praised for its spaciousness, well-equipped facilities, and beautiful, peaceful location. Guests are charmed by the property's character and comfort, often highlighting the thoughtful touches like a welcome cake. The property's cleanliness and maintenance are commended, and the hosts are noted for their helpfulness and friendliness.
Guests frequently mention the property's cleanliness, describing it as immaculate and well-maintained. The attention to cleanliness contributes significantly to the overall positive experience.
The location is described as beautiful, peaceful, and ideal for exploring nearby attractions. Its rural setting and proximity to walking paths add to the appeal, although the lack of a local pub is noted.
Comfort is a standout feature, with guests finding the property cosy and relaxing. The comfortable beds and multiple living spaces allow for a homely and luxurious stay.
The property is lauded for being well-equipped, especially the kitchen, and for thoughtful amenities like a dog shower. The high standard of facilities and maintenance is evident throughout the reviews.
The hosts' thoughtfulness is frequently mentioned, with guests appreciating welcome treats such as a cake, though it's noted that such gifts, while delightful, are not guaranteed with every stay.
About this property
Nestled in the quaint village of Headlam, near Gainford, is this superb barn conversion, Crakesmire House. This welcoming cottage is an ideal choice for families or a group of friends looking to discover this rural area, sleeping up to six guests with contemporary furnishings within a traditional farm building. Step into the entrance hallway and pop off walking boots and hang jackets before following the original slate flooring to the spacious kitchen/diner. Here you can sit at an armchair and keep the chef company whilst they get to terms with the appliances, including a range cooker, microwave, fridge/freezer and dishwasher, along with a whole host of crockery, utensils and ample working space to prepare hearty meals. Gather in the dining room to enjoy a sumptuous supper, toasting to a wonderful getaway as you share laughs and memories with your loved ones. The sitting room has been designed with a woodburning stove fitted within the fireplace, a Smart TV and ample seating, while just above rests an inviting mezzanine snug area where you can enjoy a quiet read away from the group. Retire to one of the three bedrooms for some rest, choosing from either the master double with en-suite shower, standard double or a twin, all featuring plenty of storage for your things and more carefully chosen decorations. Kick start your morning with a refreshing shower in the bathroom, before popping on your walking gear to tackle the surrounding countryside․ When returning use the handy shower in the Utility room to clean up any mud from yourself and your pets. The village of Gainford is less than two miles away and is where all the self-catering essentials can be found, including a local shop, a pub and a fish and chip shop, so whether you’re sourcing the ingredients for a home-cooked meal or searching for a quick and easy takeaway, all bases are covered. Treat yourself to an afternoon at the magnificent Headlam Hall Country Hotel & Spa, where an excellent spa offers a wide selection of treatments to replenish you, fresh ingredients are locally sourced to create delicious meals in the restaurant and a breath-taking golf course amidst the Durham dales is a welcome challenge for those avid golfers. For those looking to brush up on local history, head to the historic market town of Barnard Castle to see the famous Bowe Museum and High Force Waterfall or why not visit some of your high street favourites in the bustling town of Darlington. Further afield rests the walled city of York, the Lake District, North Yorkshire Dales and at the east coast, Saltburn. At the end of the day, return to Crakesmire House and recharge your batteries for the next adventure.
Resting on the banks of the River Tees at the boundary with Yorkshire, the charming village of Gainford offers a lovely base for holidaymakers. The village is home to a general store, fish and chip shop, pub and an unspoilt village green. The village is a gateway to Teesdale, this area is one of the most picturesque parts of Northern England, home of waterfalls, castles and the majestically beautiful Pennines.
Accommodation
Three bedrooms: 1 x double with en-suite walk-in shower, basin, heated towel rail and WC, 1 x double, 1 x twin (zip/link, can be double on request).
Bathroom with bath, separate walk-in shower, basin, heated towel rail and WC.
Cloakroom with basin and WC.
Kitchen/diner with woodburning stove.
Utility room with shower.
Dining room.
Sitting room with woodburning stove.
Mezzanine snug area
Oil central heating with two woodburning stoves.
Range cooker, microwave, 2 x fridge/freezers, washing machine, tumble dryer, dishwasher, Smart TV and WiFi.
Highchair and Cot available.
Fuel and power included in rent.
Bed linen and towels included in rent.
Ample off-road parking.
Enclosed lawn garden and patio with furniture.
Two well-behaved pets welcome - dogs are not allowed upstairs.
Sorry, no smoking.
Shop 1.7 miles, pub 1.8 miles.
Please note: The property has an electrical fence wire through the wooden fence along the driveway (this can be turned off when children attend).
Nearby points of interest
- Bowes Museum
- Oriental Museum
- Barnard Castle
- Richmond Castle
Reviews (50)
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Kay
We use Sykes cottages 4 times a year and this was the cleanest house we have ever stayed in. Lots of pubs within a short drive with nice food, would definitely recommend this house and wouldn't hesitate to come back again. Kay and Tony
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Naomi
! Plenty of space we all enjoyed and lovely surroundings. Enjoyed ourselves so much we have already booked again for next year
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Kathleen
Very comfortable beds; the kitchen is so well equipped. Would not hesitate to recommend to friends. Special thanks for the welcome pack with homemade sponge cake.