Unique and Quirky Self Catering Stays

From private glamping pods overlooking the North Sea, to luxury treehouses and grand castle sleepovers, Durham is home to lots of unique self catering accommodation. 

Whether you’re searching for a romantic break for two, dog-friendly getaway, or a family adventure, you’ll find the perfect place to stay in Durham after those long lockdown days at home. 

Check out our picks below of some of the quirkiest places to stay across the county or head to our dedicated accommodation page where you can view loads more self catering accommodation, holiday homes, camping and glamping. 

Be King or Queen of the Castle

Durham is famous for its castles, and across the county you’ll find incredible castles stays where you and your loved ones can live it up like kings and queens. 

In the bustling market town of Stanhope in the Durham Dales stands Stanhope Castle. The castle has recently been refurbished to a high standard and spilt into a luxurious set of holiday apartments, some of which even boast a private sauna and hot tub! 

On the Durham Heritage Coast you’ll find the magnificent Castle Manor, overlooking the ancient Castle Eden Dene. Built in 1790, this beautiful building is surrounded by 17 acres of gardens and woodland. The whole castle and its 11 beautifully decorated en-suite rooms are usually available on a bed and breakfast basis; however the full castle can be booked for private use - a great place for a grand and exclusive family reunion.

Enjoy a private getaway in one of Northern England's oldest castles at Brancepth Castle's Quartermaster's Flat recently modernised apartment, nestled between the castle's medieval and 19th century towers. And in the grounds of Walworth Castle you can get away from it all at the cosy Castle Lodge, which was once the castle’s gate house.  

Boutique Glamping Breaks

For all the luxury-loving campers out there, from cabins to yurts and pods, across the county there are plenty of places you can reconnect with nature and camp out with added style. 

Overlooking the Durham Heritage Coast is The Barn at Easington, a beautiful 30 acre farm with two camping pods and two caravans that offer stunning views across the coast. With the beach just a short 15 minute stroll away from the site, this is a great base for exploring Durham’s stunning coastline. 

A fan of the hit Channel 4 show – Four in a Bed? Then you may recognise The Gables Pod Camping, which was crowned the winner after achieving the show’s highest ever score. This quiet glamping spot in the village of Escombe, just outside of Bishop Auckland has a number of glamours pods to choose from, all complete with private wood fired hot tub. 

And only a ten minute drive from historic Durham City you’ll find West Hall Glamping, with six luxury dog-friendly lodges to choose from, you can even take advantage of a luxury transfer pick up service from Durham train station. Sit back and relax in your very own hot tub after a day out exploring the surrounding countryside trails and amazing attractions.  

Colourful Holiday Homes

Durham is home to an amazing array of cosy cottages and holiday homes that are just as unique as the guests staying in them. All of which offer a warm welcome and a chance to spend quality time with friends and family on an unforgettable escape. 

If you’re searching for a quirky place to stay, Harry’s House on the outskirts of Durham City is the place for you. This colourful holiday home is bursting with character from the colourful family room, to outdoor bar area, secret garden, wood fired hot tub and totally one of a kind living room featuring a beautiful mural inspired by Durham’s mining heritage. It’s also dog-friendly too!

Cosy Log Cabin Getaways

Sick of looking at the same four walls after the long days (and nights) of lockdown? A getaway to one of Durham’s many countryside cabins guarantee peace, quiet and beautiful views aplenty.   

Tucked away in a tranquil location on the edge of the Durham Dales and North Pennines AONB is Vindomora Country Lodges, where you can relax and unwind in a real wood cabins, all with their own private hot tub. The lodges were awarded Highly Commended in the Self Catering Accommodation Provider of the Year at the North East England Tourism Awards 2020, and have recently opened a new accessible lodge, designed specifically with restricted mobility visitors in mind. 

Close to the popular market town of Barnard Castle is Little Owl Cottage, an ideal base for anyone wanting to explore walks and rides throughout the Durham Dales. This pretty little wood cabin also overlooks our Alpaca Farm, where you’re certain to spot a friendly Alpaca or two coming by to say hello. 

Luxury Apartments

Enjoy a five-star home-away-from-home experience at Rockliffe Hall Hotel’s luxury apartments. Armstrong House and Woodland Mews Holidays Homes are a short walk from the main hotel, offering private self-catering accommodation alongside all the benefits of a luxury resort stay.

Surrounded by beautifully designed grounds and wonderful woodland, Rockliffe Hall is ideal for visitors wanting to escape the hustle and bustle.  During your stay you truly relax with a visit to the on-site award-winning spa, as access is included in your self-catering booking. 

Shepherd Hut Hideaways

Nestled away in a hidden garden, the Hut in the Hollow offers a real heritage city hideaway. A beautiful handmade Shepherd's Hut on the edge of historic Durham City, this quirky hut boasts all the mod cons and a private outdoor seating area. Right on the doorstep of Beamish, the Living Museum of the North you can really step back in time as you lay your head down in a fully restored Railway Carriage at Beamish Glamping.

For a romantic glamping getaway head to Mill Granary Cottage’s luxury Shepherds Hut. Experience nature in luxury, nestled away in a cosy corner with beautiful sweeping views of rolling countryside. The perfect place to relax and enjoy a soak under the stars, as you fill the outdoor roll top cast iron bath with bubbles. Where else can offer you stargazing bathtub experiences?  

Sleep over in a luxury treehouse

Head to Ramside Hall Hotel for real treetop luxury and spend the night amongst the trees at the recently opened luxury treehouses. 

Built on stilts, nestled within the hotel’s tranquil woodland, the treehouses feature three bedrooms, private living room and a state-of-the-art bathroom complete with luxurious free-standing copper bath. Enjoy views across the hotel’s golf course fairway and green from the wrap around balcony as you sink into your very own sunken hot tub. 

Discover more amazing places to stay in Durham on our dedicated accommodation page >