Hi, I'm Claire. My family and I love welcoming guests to our countryside retreats. We take pride in creating spaces that are stylish, comfortable, and perfect for making lasting memories—whether you're a couple, a family, or a group of friends. We're always nearby if you need anything, but we respect your privacy and want you to feel right at home. You’ll find a welcome guide with everything you need to know about the house, plus a few of my favourite spots to eat, walk, and explore nearby. I’ve done my best to think of the little things so you can simply relax and enjoy your time here. Please make yourself completely at home — and don’t hesitate to reach out if anything comes up. Enjoy your stay!

The Residence – Private Estate Retreat with Hot Tubs & Play Park A heritage farmhouse estate with 6 private acres, oak-beamed interiors, two hot tubs and a woodland play park – just minutes from Durham and Bishop Auckland. Welcome to The Residence, a striking 1852 stone-built retreat set within a secluded 6-acre private estate in County Durham. With rich history, handcrafted details and indulgent features throughout, this countryside haven is ideal for those seeking refined comfort and exclusive surroundings. Inside, you’ll find original oak beams, real wood flooring, a roaring log burner, and interiors that blend rustic charm with modern luxury. Outside, enjoy two private hot tubs, large gardens, and a children’s adventure play area with swings, a climbing frame and a sunken trampoline on a barked surface — perfect for families wanting space to relax and explore. Set behind secure gated access, the estate is crowned by a turreted stone sculpture that echoes the spirit of Durham Castle, Auckland Castle, and the nearby Kynren show. Whether you’re relaxing on the patio, soaking under the stars or wandering the tree-lined grounds, The Residence delivers a setting that is both deeply peaceful and utterly memorable. Highlights include: • ✨ Character interiors with oak beams, wood burner & unique design • 🛏️ Multi-bedroom layout sleeping up to 10 guests • 🛁 Two hot tubs for private relaxation • 🌳 Play park with swings, climbing frame & in-ground trampoline • 🏞️ 6-acre estate with lawns, woodland & wildlife • 🏰 Just 10–15 mins from Durham, Bishop Auckland & Kynren • 🧺 Luxury welcome touches • 🚗 Free secure on-site parking Whether you’re escaping as a couple, reconnecting as a family or celebrating something special, The Residence offers a rare blend of space, comfort and story — in one of England’s most beautiful regions. 💡 One of several stays on The Barn Oakenshaw Estate – a secluded 6-acre countryside retreat.

Set in the peaceful rural village of Oakenshaw, County Durham, our cabin offers the perfect setting for a relaxing countryside retreat. Surrounded by scenic woodlands, rolling fields, and quiet country lanes, this is a place where you can truly disconnect, slow down, and enjoy the simple pleasures of nature. Oakenshaw is a small, welcoming village with a tranquil atmosphere and a rich sense of history. You’ll likely hear birdsong in the mornings and see the occasional hare or owls or ducks wandering nearby. Despite its secluded feel, the cabin is ideally located just a short drive from many of County Durham’s most loved attractions. The beautiful and historic Durham City is just (6 miles away), offering a mix of cultural sites, including the stunning Durham Cathedral and Castle, as well as riverside walks, shops, cafes, and restaurants. You’re also within easy reach of Bishop Auckland (7 miles away), home to Auckland Castle, galleries, and the spectacular Kynren open-air show during the summer season plus Beamish Museum echoing British Northern heritage. Nature lovers will be spoiled for choice—explore nearby trails on foot or by bike, visit Hamsterley Forest, or take a scenic drive through the Durham Dales and North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Local walking paths begin right outside your door, ideal for short strolls or longer rambles. The area remains peaceful and uncrowded year-round, offering the perfect mix of seclusion and convenience. A car is recommended to fully enjoy the surrounding region, though once you arrive, many guests find little reason to leave the calm and comfort of the cabin. Whether you're seeking quiet walks, historic sights, or evenings under the stars in the hot tub, Oakenshaw is the kind of place that invites you to slow down, breathe deep, and feel at home in the countryside. The location offers the best of both worlds: a luxury private retreat with easy access to all that Durham and Bishop Auckland have to offer.