Teesdale Cottages with Hot Tubs

Get More From Your Teesdale Hot Tub Cottage Break

Sightseeing

Teesdale packs in loads of sights despite being one of England's least crowded areas. High Force waterfall is the big draw - England's largest waterfall with a 21-metre drop that's properly impressive after rainfall. The walking route from Bowlees Visitor Centre (DL12 0XE, open 10am-5pm) takes you through ancient woodland before the big reveal.

Barnard Castle town (yes, the one Dominic Cummings visited) offers more than eye-test jokes. The actual castle (DL12 8PR, 10am-5pm, 4/5 TripAdvisor) sits dramatically above the Tees. But the real gem is The Bowes Museum (DL12 8NP, 10am-5pm, 4.5/5 TripAdvisor) - a French-style château housing incredible art collections and the famous Silver Swan automaton that still performs daily at 2pm.

Raby Castle (DL2 3AH, 10am-4pm, 4.5/5 TripAdvisor) is one of England's best-preserved medieval castles with deer roaming its parkland. The gardens are fantastic and there's a new adventure playground called The Plotters' Forest that kids love.

Don't miss Eggleston Hall Gardens (DL12 0AG, 10am-5pm, 4.5/5 TripAdvisor), known as "the secret garden of the north" with its nursery specialising in unusual plants. After all this sightseeing, your cottage hot tub will be calling!

Pet Friendly

Teesdale is dog heaven with miles of walks where they can run free. Many cottages welcome multiple dogs and provide bowls, beds and even treats on arrival. I've seen some that offer secure gardens and dog-washing facilities - essential after muddy Pennine walks!

The Teesdale Way follows the river for 92 miles but you can tackle smaller sections. We recommend the stretch from Middleton-in-Teesdale to High Force which has good paths and stunning views.

For food, The Forresters in Middleton-in-Teesdale (DL12 0QG) welcomes dogs in the bar area and serves great local food. The High Force Hotel (DL12 0XH) is another dog-friendly spot with good beer garden access.

Raby Castle allows dogs in the deer park and gardens (not inside the castle), while the Bowes Museum welcomes them in the grounds. Most importantly, you'll find plenty of walks straight from your cottage door, so you can return to enjoy the hot tub while your dog snoozes after a day of adventures.

Top 3 attractions you have to see in Teesdale

1. High Force Waterfall - This isn't just a pretty cascade; it's a geological marvel where the River Tees plunges over the Whin Sill, a layer of hard dolerite rock. The main viewing platform gives the classic view, but if water levels allow, take the path to the base for a different perspective. The woodland walk there is full of rare plants and wildlife. One visitor wrote: "The sound alone is worth the trip - like standing next to nature's own speaker system!"

2. Bowes Museum - This building looks totally out of place in rural England - because it was designed to resemble a French château. Inside houses 30,000+ objects including paintings by Goya and El Greco. The mechanical Silver Swan from 1773 is the star - a life-sized automaton that still works after 250 years. It performs just once daily at 2pm, so time your visit accordingly. A recent visitor commented: "Worth the entry fee just to see the swan in action - genuinely magical."

3. Low Force and Wynch Bridge - Often overlooked in favour of High Force, this series of falls accessed via a narrow suspension bridge offers fantastic photo opportunities. The bridge itself has history - the original collapsed in 1802 killing one person! The current version is perfectly safe but still gives a thrill as it sways slightly underfoot. A TripAdvisor review notes: "Much less crowded than High Force but just as beautiful in its own way."

What's the best time to visit Teesdale?

Spring brings wildflower meadows and waterfalls at full power. Summer offers long walking days and outdoor dining. Autumn transforms the landscape with golden colours. Winter can be magical with frosty landscapes and cosy pubs with roaring fires - plus your hot tub feels even better in cold weather!

Do I need a car in Teesdale?

While there are buses connecting main towns like Barnard Castle and Middleton-in-Teesdale, a car gives much more freedom. Many of the best spots are hard to reach by public transport. That said, there are plenty of walks from the main towns if you prefer not to drive.

Where can I buy good local food?

Middleton-in-Teesdale has Kennedy's Fine Chocolates for amazing handmade treats. Barnard Castle hosts a farmers' market every month. The Farm Shop at Raby Castle sells excellent local produce. Most villages have small shops with local specialties like Teesdale cheese.

Is Teesdale good for stargazing?

Absolutely! The North Pennines is an International Dark Sky Park with minimal light pollution. Many cottages with hot tubs are in remote locations perfect for stargazing while you soak. The Grassholme Observatory runs regular events if you want expert guidance.

Can I fish in the River Tees?

Yes, with the right permits. The Tees is known for trout and salmon fishing. Day tickets are available from local tackle shops or online. Different stretches have different rules, so check before you cast.

Are there any good pubs with food in Teesdale?

The Rose & Crown in Romaldkirk is an award-winning 18th-century coaching inn with excellent food. The Strathmore Arms in Holwick is a proper traditional pub with real ales. The High Force Hotel serves good pub classics and has amazing views.

1. This is Durham - Official Tourism Site
2. North Pennines AONB
3. Visit Teesdale