Guests say
Thornfield Cottage is highly praised for its cleanliness, comfortable amenities, and tranquil location. Guests enjoyed the hot tub, the presence of friendly hosts, and the interaction with local wildlife. The property is well-regarded for its peaceful environment and is considered an ideal base for exploring nearby attractions. The welcome basket and the provision of logs for the burner were appreciated touches.
Reviews consistently mention the immaculate condition of the cottage, indicating a high standard of cleanliness that contributes positively to the guests' experience.
The property is celebrated for its secluded yet accessible location, with proximity to tourist attractions and natural scenery, making it a peaceful retreat.
Guests found the cottage comfortable, with special mentions of comfortable beds and a homely atmosphere, contributing to a relaxing stay.
The facilities, including a hot tub and well-equipped kitchen, are generally appreciated, though there is a minor note regarding the size of the hot tub and the provision of towels.
The welcome basket and logs for the burner were thoughtful gestures that guests mentioned positively. However, it should be noted that such gifts are a courtesy and may not be guaranteed for every stay.
About this property
Thornfield is a charming cottage resting in the quaint hamlet of Windmill, County Durham. Set in its own grounds, not overlooked by any other properties. With two well-behaved dogs welcome, make this a delightful countryside escape. Upon entering, you will be greeted by a spacious hallway leading you to the three well-presented bedrooms, a king, a double and a twin, each offering a tranquil space to rest after a day of adventures. The family bathroom is fitted with a bath and a walk-in shower, providing a choice of how to prepare for your day. Put on your favourite tunes on the Bluetooth mirror and enjoy either a steamy rinse or a hot soak. The heart of the home is undoubtedly the kitchen, where you can prepare delicious meals using the array of appliances at your disposal. Adjacent to the kitchen, the dining room provides seating for six, making it the perfect spot for enjoying meals together, planning the day's activities or playing a few rounds of board games from the property's selection. The sitting room, complete with a Smart TV and a warming woodburning stove, offers a snug space to unwind and catch up on your favourite shows or enjoy a family movie night. Outside, the enclosed grounds feature a small woodland, lawns, mature trees, a patio and a gravelled area complete with furniture for alfresco dining or simply enjoying a morning coffee while planning your day. This outdoor space is perfect for soaking up the sun in the warmer months, and listening to the curlews and lapwings or stargazing on clear nights. While you're outside, you'll be able to spot an abundance of wildlife roaming in and out of the gardens, including a peacock! Peering over the garden hedge you will also see the very rare Bagot goats and other animals. A short drive will allow you to immerse yourself in the rich history of the medieval Raby Castle as well as Durham Cathedral, or if gardens interest you, pay a visit to the National Trust's opulent Crook Hall Gardens and the local Botanic Garden. Head to the verdant Hamsterley Forest, with its wealth of running, walking and cycling trails for a lovely day spent outdoors. History buffs shouldn't miss out on visiting the Kynren, an open-air live show, presenting 2,000 years of England's history, culture, and heritage; and the ancient Binchester Roman Fort. Culminate your day with a hearty meal at The Cross Keys, a local pub with a beer garden, known for its savoury dishes and warm atmosphere. Your serene escape to the countryside awaits at Thornfield cottage.
Evenwood is a village in County Durham and is the largest settlement in the Evenwood and Barony civil parish. Historically, the village is known for once being a coal mining village being work between 1893 and 1962, with its peak in 1914 having employed over 1000 men. The village has plenty of convenience stores for you to stock up on essentials, including a Premier and a Morrisons. There is the local Travellers Rest pub, Evenwood Café, Katy's Café and Miners Munchies Chippy giving you a range of choices when it comes to eateries. Evenwood enjoys close proximity to many walks including a stroll along River Gaunless, the Waggy Tail Woods for your furry friend and Spring Gardens Wetlands. Slightly further out, but still easily accessible, you can find other points of interest at both Raby Castle, Deer Park & The Plotters' Forest and Clemmy Bank Bridge. There are also many nearby towns with St Helen Auckland, Shildon and Darlington having a host of independent shops, cafes, restaurants, pubs and attractions that are well worth a visit.
Accommodation
Single-storey.
Three bedrooms: 1 x king-size, 1 x double, 1 x twin.
Bathroom with bath, walk-in shower, basin and WC.
Cloakroom with basin and WC.
Kitchen.
Dining room.
Sitting room with woodburning stove
Oil central heating.
Electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge/freezer, washing machine, dishwasher, kettle.
Smart TV, WiFi and a selection of books.
Fuel, power and starter pack for woodburning stove included in rent.
Bed linen and towels included in rent.
Highchair and travel cot available on request.
Private driveway parking for 3 cars.
Enclosed front garden with patio, gravelled area, furniture and a lockable bike shed.
Wood-fired Hot Tub.
Two well-behaved dogs welcome.
Sorry, no smoking.
Shop 2.4 miles, pub 2.6 miles
Nearby points of interest
- Bowes Museum
- Oriental Museum
- Barnard Castle
Reviews (14)
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William
Great location, very peaceful and secluded, quiet from traffic noise, well presented cottage. Very accurately advertised and at a very reasonable price (not en-suite bedrooms but no worries at all as two loos). Good level car parking on hard level surfaces for two or three cars, close to house front door. Just two shallow steps into the house. House all one level. Very good communications from Hannah. We thought nearby Raby Castle and Witton Castle were very good for dogs, especially Witton! Plenty of excellent eating places and also cafes nearby, even in November. We very much enjoyed our holiday, many thanks.
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Linda
There was a lovely welcoming basket on arrival and logs for the log burner. The cottage was immaculate with provision of all amenities you need for your stay. We also used the Hot Tub which was great. Each day we were greeted by the Peacocks in the garden and the goats. There are plenty of dog walks nearby as well as Durham, Barnard Castle and Bishop Auckland all within a short travelling distance and with many places being dog friendly. Would definitely recommend and would stay here again.
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Jacqueline
However, the hot tub was very small and we didn't use it in the end. We were only left three very small towels- I think most people expect proper bath towels or bath sheets. The fridge was small- there were only two of us and it was a struggle- not sure what families or parties of six would do. There was stinginess with some items - a tiny amount of washing up liquid and only two dishwasher tablets - we are then told to make sure all the dishes are clean when we leave. There was only enough wood shavings to light the log burner three times. I would rather have these items stocked up on rather than a 'welcome basket' which we didn't want and left. The owner also made an appointment with a worker to come and look at the boiler while we were staying, which was very inconvenient as well as sending me a text on our home asking if we had taken one of their blankets - The blanket was found in another room.