‘The most wonderful sight’ (Image: MEN)
Forget extravagant Welsh destinations, or the stunning Lake District, it appears the genuine beauty of the UK can be found in County Durham. Tucked away in a quaint village called Mickleton, there’s a truly distinctive charm that offers spectacular nature walks — and one mustn’t overlook the extraordinary waterfall close by.
Emma Gill from Manchester Evening News visited Cobblers Barn with a “multi-generational” party of 10. The property is a splendid stone-built, detached 16th century barn conversion bookable through Sykes Holiday Cottages. “It’s a part of the country we haven’t visited before and, to be honest, knew very little about,” she said. “We didn’t really know what to expect.”
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Following a two-hour drive, they eventually arrived at their charming and tranquil holiday retreat and what a reception they encountered.
Whether it was the aroma of fresh bread, biscuits, cake and milk courtesy of “helpful guide” and owner Karen, or the Blacksmiths Arms country pub, there was plenty that truly raised anticipation levels.
On the surface, it appears Mickleton has very little beyond a collection of stone houses, a petrol station, as well as a selection of walking and cycling routes.
However, Cobblers Barn is a distinctive building, rich in heritage, that provides traditional accommodation.
Perfect for furry friends and families with young children (Image: MEN)
From the expansive living room with ample space for unwinding, the enormous and well-appointed kitchen/diner, to the roomy bedrooms, it proved an excellent choice, particularly suitable for families with young children or four-legged companions.
A private courtyard garden provides the ideal sanctuary for children and pets, complete with barbecue facilities, comfortable seating, and a luxurious six-person hot tub ensuring year-round enjoyment regardless of conditions.
“But we soon discovered there’s a lot more to this part of the country than we realised,” said Emma.
A brief journey leads to High Force waterfall, accessible via a three-mile trek from Bowlees Visitor Centre, offering a delightful spot for dogs to splash about.
Whilst predominantly level terrain, the route includes some steps, inclines, and a narrow single-file bridge. “The grandparents still managed it,” Emma added.
Cobblers Barn (Image: MEN)
Upon reaching the cascade itself, visitors were mesmerised watching the River Tees tumble 21 metres into the dramatic chasm beneath.
It became apparent why this spectacular location has graced numerous television programmes and films, including Emmerdale and Apple TV’s sci-fi thriller The Gorge.
Following their expedition, they thoroughly deserved a pit stop at the High Force Hotel, a quintessential country pub offering an array of home-prepared meals. Sophisticated, magnificent and tranquil were amongst the terms Emma employed to characterise the establishment, with its roaring hearths and abundant countryside character proving particularly captivating.
Emma shared: “We were more than happy with the view we’d had from the other side, but this would probably be the better option for the less able – offering a more gentle and pretty woodland walk leading to the spectacular sight at the base of the falls. At £2.45 a ticket for kids, £3.95 for adults, or £10 for a family of four, it’s not too expensive either.”
Barnard Castle (Image: MEN)
The group had an entire day left to explore and they chose Barnard Castle. “It’s not a full castle – some of the stone from it was taken and used to improve Raby Castle, in nearby Darlington – but it’s impressive nonetheless,” she expressed.
After a stroll around the town including a stop at the chocolate fair, where all enjoyed ice creams and coffees in the garden behind the café, it was time to say goodbye, with everyone returning home with a piece of County Durham in their hearts.
Tickets to Barnard Castle are cheaper when purchased online in advance and cost £9 for adults and £5 for children, including donations. English Heritage members go free.
Emma and her family were guests at Cobblers Barn, with Sykes Holiday Cottages, which is hosting its Great Summer Sale.