The Old Byre is a conversion, what used to be an old cow barn. It's in Frosterley in Weardale. You're right on the river, so you can hear the water from the garden.
It sleeps six, in three bedrooms, and there are two bathrooms which is handy. It's got a 4 Star rating. It's comfortable and warm. The walls are thick stone, so it feels solid.
You get your own patio and garden area. There's a shared games room with a pool table in another building, and a play area for kids. It's a courtyard set-up with a few other cottages, so you might see other people coming and going.
Frosterley village has a couple of pubs and a shop for basics. The area is good for walking straight from the door. It's proper countryside.
Barnard Castle is about a 20-minute drive. The castle ruins are there and the Bowes Museum is worth a visit. Durham city is roughly 30 minutes away if you want the cathedral or more shops. For a longer trip, you're on the edge of the North Pennines, so places like High Force waterfall aren't far.
Facilities: it has a dishwasher, washing machine, WiFi, and parking. We allow one well-behaved dog. Bedding and towels are included, and we can provide a cot and highchair.
Useful links: This is Durham and North Pennines National Landscape.