Thursday 13th December 2018
Advent Day 13 On the 13th Day of Advent it’s all about cake! Look what our star baker created at school today, can’t guarantee these cakes when you arrive, but there will always be cake ! There is nothing better after a long journey or a stressful day than a cuppa and cake http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk
Wednesday 12th December 2018
Advent Day 12 On the 12th Day of Advent is all about Cross Cottage , 12 pictures of this stunning cottage, still available for Christmas Cross Cottage is a 5 Star barn conversion, sleeping 6 over 3 bedrooms, surrounded peacefully by open countryside, on our working family farm Little White Farm only 3.5 miles from Durham City a World Heritage Site yet surrounded by peaceful countryside with views of the countryside on our working family farm . The cottage is ideal for friends and family to get together for special occasions and exploring the area, Cross Cottage is split over 2 floors and enjoys 3 bedrooms on the ground floor. You can enjoy a super king beds or twin beds which ever suit your needs. The master bedroom has an en-suite wet room including a bath and the other bedrooms enjoy a large Jack-and-Jill shower room. Cross Cottage is surrounded by a network of footpaths & cycleways for you to explore The cottage enjoys a relaxed spacious country style, split over 2 floors, combined with modern luxuries. Fully equipped with high quality furnishings, fully fitted kitchen & free Wi-Fi . A perfect base for you to explore the North East, Durham & Northumberland with the high lights like Beamish Museum, our "Living Museum of the North" ,Kynren, the open air live show at Bishop Auckland, Hadrian's Wall ,Durham Dales, the Heritage Coast, Cragside at Rothbury & the North York Moors to name but a few http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk/our-cottages/cross-cottage-little-white-farm-durham-brancepeth/
Tuesday 11th December 2018
Advent Day 11 On the 11th day of Advent it’s all about 11 miles 11 things you can do within 11 miles of our cottages 1. Beamish Museum - world famous museum, great fun for everyone. 2. Tanfield Railway explore and learn all about the oldest Railway 3. The Angel of the North - get up close and personal with the iconic statue of the North East 4. Durham international cricket ground - whether you are going to watch cricket or a concert, we are so handy 5. Metro Centre - shopping shopping and a bit more shopping along with some lovely place to eat 6. Durham City a stunning historical city and a world heritage site 7. Newcastle City we are perfect for a city break, yet in peace and quiet of the countryside 8. Metro Arena - the best venue for concerts, have seen many of my favourites over the years 9. Team Valley Trading Estate, is a hive of business and Liesure, we have the accommodation you need. My father in law used to combine parts of the Team Valley 10. Sunderland has so much to offer to all our visitors - we love the glass centre 11. Raby Castle, just one of the many castles you can visit whilst staying we us So whether you want a weeks break, need accommodation for work or a short break to escape work, we have cottages and bed and breakfast to suit your needs http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk
Monday 10th December 2018
Advent Day 10 On the 10th Day of Advent it’s all about Castles There are so many stunning castles in Northumberland and Durham My Top 10 to visit whilst staying with us 1. Alnwick Castle is the second largest inhabited castle in the country. home to the Duke of Northumberland’s family, the Percys, for over 700 years, and Harry Potter !It has a rich history brimming with drama and intrigue, from a gunpowder plotter to medieval England’s most celebrated knight, Harry Hotspur. 2. Durham Castle sits at the heart of Durham’s World Heritage site. The earliest surviving parts of the castle date from around 1072 and were ordered to be constructed by William the Conqueror. The castle stands on top of a hill above the River Wear, with a spectacular aspect over to Durham Cathedral. It has been occupied continuously since the 11th century and has been home to University College, Durham since 1804. 3. Dunstanburgh Castle stands on a remote headland between Craster and Embleton Bay in Northumberland. It dominates one of the most beautiful stretches of Northumberland coastline and has fantastic views, both on approach and from the castle itself, particularly the tower. It was built in 1313, at a time when relations between King Edward II and his most powerful baron, Earl Thomas of Lancaster, had become hostile. Lancaster began the fortress in 1313, but unfortunately the earl failed to reach Dunstanburgh when his rebellion was defeated, and was executed in 1322. Thereafter the castle passed eventually to John of Gaunt, who strengthened it against the Scots by converting the twin-towered gatehouse into a keep. The focus of fierce fighting during the Wars of the Roses, it was twice besieged and captured by Yorkist forces, but subsequently fell into decay. 4. Newcastle Castle Steeped in history this imposing Norman fortress, in the center of Newcastle Upon Tyne, is a rugged reminder of northern England's turbulent history. This was no baron's stately home. Newcastle Castle is a grim reminder of royal authority where armies gathered, and criminals were imprisoned and executed. It is where the story of Newcastle began, the reason the city got its name and has the most commanding views over the city and the River Tyne. 5. Warkworth Castle A stunning cross-shaped keep of Warkworth, crowning a hilltop rising steeply above the River Coquet, dominates one of the largest, strongest and most impressive fortresses in Northumberland. Its most famous owners were the Percy family, whose lion badge can be seen carved on many parts of their stronghold. The castle is still roofed and almost complete, and the uniquely-planned keep dates mainly from the end of the 14th century. It now presides over the extensive remains of a great hall, chapel, fine gatehouse and a virtually intact circuit of towered walls. 6. Bamburgh Castle Spanning nine acres of land on its rocky plateau high above the Northumberland coastline Bamburgh is one of the largest inhabited castles in the country. 7. Belsay Hall comprises a medieval castle that was enlarged in the early 17th century, a Greek Revival mansion that superseded it as a family residence at the beginning of the 19th century, and an outstanding quarry and flower garden linking the two buildings. There are great views from the top of the castle tower, while the grand hall has an airy feel with fantastic stone pillars. The grounds are a real highlight, packed with an impressive array of shrubs and flowers and pleasant for a walk at any time of year. 8. Raby Castle was built by the mighty Nevills in the 14th century and is one of the finest and best-preserved medieval castles in North East England. Since 1626 it has been home to the family of the current owner, Lord Barnard. He is proud of its heritage and passionate about sharing his family’s history and collections of art and artefacts with visitors. Raby Castle is set in 200 acres of undulating parkland in the heart of the beautiful Durham Dales in County Durham. 9. Tynemouth Castle and Priory is located on a rocky headland, overlooking King Edward's Bay. The moated castle-towers, gatehouse and keep are combined with the ruins of a Benedictine priory, where early kings of Northumbria were buried, and it is these which dominate the headland. With a 2000-year history and beautiful views over the North Tyneside coast, and plenty of eateries and watering holes in Tynemouth itself, it's a good family day out with pleasant walks around the grounds as well as an interesting exhibition which tells the story of the site from its original beginnings as an Anglo-Saxon settlement, through its era as an Anglican monastery, and as a a royal castle, artillery fort and coastal defence. 10. Prudhoe Castle was continuously occupied for over nine centuries and was originally the home of the Umfravilles. It was eventually taken over by the famous Percy family who restored it. The castle was built between 1100 and 1120 to defend a strategic crossing of the River Tyne against Scottish invaders, and survived two sieges during the 1170s. It was the only Northumberland castle to resist the Scots. All well worth a visit, whether you are staying with us for a short break, a weekend stay or a week http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk
Monday 10th December 2018
Durham Cathedral is always very popular with our guests Guests staying in Cross Cottage this weekend had a lovely weekend break, exploring Durham and Newcastle. The children loved Durham Cathedral as it was where Harry Potter went and massive scones ! http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk/our-cottages/cross-cottage-little-white-farm-durham-brancepeth/
Sunday 9th December 2018
Advent Day 9 On the 9th day of Advent it’s all about flowers Look at these lovely 9 roses I have - don’t panic the farmer is not getting romantic! These lovely flowers where from departing guests of the Garden Room to say thank you for their lovely stay - thank you http://www.ridingfarmbedandbreakfast.co.uk/garden-room.asp
Saturday 8th December 2018
Advent Day 8 On the 8th day of Advent all our guests went to Beamish Museum - well why wouldn’t you ? Eight reasons to visit Beamish Museum, whilst staying with us 1. Beamish is a world famous open air museum, telling the story of life in North East England during the 1820s, 1900s & 1940s. 2. Explore the 1900s Town and see how families lived and worked in the years leading up to the First World War. 3. Pit Village is where you can go to school, see what’s cooking in the pit cottages and visit the chapel. Don’t forget to say hello to the pit ponies in their stables! 4. Home Farm is where you will discover how life was on the Home Front during the Second World War. Look out for the Land Girls and the Home Guard! 5. 1820’s is at Pockerley Old Hall, you can enjoy the magnificent gardens and take a ride on the Waggonway. 6. Lots of yummy things to eat and drink whilst in your visit are family favourites , fish and chips, bread from the bakery and strawberry Bon Bons 7. Traditional experiences, ever fancied driving a steam or tram engine, learn traditional skills like ploughing or baking 8. We provide all our guests with Discount Vouchers to Beamish Museum These are just a few things that make Beamish Museum a firm family and guest favourite. http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk
Saturday 8th December 2018
Guests staying in the Green Room loved it , they where buzzing about it over breakfast and are heading over to see you all again today. http://www.ridingfarmbedandbreakfast.co.uk/green-room.asp
Friday 7th December 2018
Advent Day 7 The 7th Day of Advent is all about Lapwing Cottage . Fantastic cottage and hosts and great value. The latest review of Lapwing Cottage “The hosts Louise and Angus were so welcoming we got a lovely surprise with the lovely selfcontained cottage complete with christmas tree and homemade victoria sponge . Louise made excellent suggestions for our five night stay so that we didnt miss any of the terrific christmas markets etc . We we had a beautifull cooked breakfast over at the farmhouse choices were exellant and to top of our stay Santas Reindeer stayed the night in the barn what more could you ask for on a short pre christmas break would love to visit again in spring” Lapwing Cottage has a relaxed spacious open plan country style, sleeping upto 2 . Single storey level accommodation with comfy high back chairs & sofas along with games, books & DVD's ideal to relax with a glass of something after a busy day! Fully equipped with high quality furnishings, little extras, fully equipped kitchen & Free Wi-Fi ample parking. Lapwing Cottage also enjoys an external power point so you can charge http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk/our-cottages/lapwing-cottage-5-star/
Thursday 6th December 2018
Advent Day 6 On the 6th Day of Advent we bring you 6 reasons to book Cross Cottage for Christmas and New Year 1. Cross Cottage sleeps upto 6 persons over 3 bedrooms 2. Location Location Location, located on our family farm, surrounded by peaceful countryside. 3. Best of both worlds - surrounded by peaceful countryside yet on 10 minutes from Durham City 4. History and Heritage Cross Cottage is surrounded by history and heritage sites. Durham Cathedral, Durham Castle, Raby Castle - to name a few 5. 5 Star all the way, Cross Cottage has recently been graded 5 Star 6. Cross Cottage enjoys open plan living, perfect for Christmas gatherings Hope this helps, why not come and enjoy Christmas or New Year in Cross Cottage. Have a look online or give us a call http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk/our-cottages/cross-cottage-little-white-farm-durham-brancepeth/
Wednesday 5th December 2018
Advent Day 5 Advent is all about birthdays - mine !! Do like having a little getaway for your birthday or treating someone special in your life. We have mini breaks and longer perfect for explore the area and plenty of places to have cake ! http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk
Tuesday 4th December 2018
Advent Day 4 Advent today is all about a Christmas Wreath. Guests all fed and watered off we head to one of my favourite cafes Carnaby”s for a wreath making class and of course a spot of lunch with a good catch up, we are getting chat! http://www.ridingfarmbedandbreakfast.co.uk
Monday 3rd December 2018
Advent Day 3 Advent today is all about the stunning skies that surround us Perfect for taking a walk around the farm or visiting Newcastle, Durham or Beamish Museum Guests in Lapwing Cottage enjoyed a walk around the farm this morning and then headed off to Beamish Museum, why don’t you? http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk
Sunday 2nd December 2018
Day 2 of Advent Can’t beat a bit of slave labour!! Everyone helps fill up the log baskets, so guests can enjoy the fire in the farm house and Riding Farm Cottage - nothing better after a busy day http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk/our-cottages/riding-cottage-4-star-gold/
Saturday 1st December 2018
First day of Advent, let the fun begin http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk
Friday 30th November 2018
Don’t get in a flap over Christmas, if you can’t get away for a week, we have 5 night Christmas Specials, just like our penguin ! We still have availability for Christmas and New Year in Hay Loft and now have 5 day breaks, if you can’t manage a week away at Christmas Hay Loft is a stunning new barn/cottage sleeping upto 4 persons over 2 bedroom, both ensuite, combined with open plan living, ideal for Durham and Brancepeth - have a look on line http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk/christmas-and-last-minute-availability/ Or call us on 0191 370 1868
Wednesday 28th November 2018
Christmas has arrived ! Busy day today, decorating cottages for Christmas and New Year Guests have just checked in for a pre Christmas treat, best of luck getting those kiddie winks to sleep! http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk/christmas-and-last-minute-availability/
Tuesday 27th November 2018
An icy start to the day, but it turned out rather nice, perfect for a walk after making everyone breakfast Why don’t you join me , one of the many walks around the farm? http://www.ridingfarmbedandbreakfast.co.uk/
Sunday 25th November 2018
Durham Cathedral and Castle are one of the many must sees, for our guests. How lucky are we to be have such history on our doorstep. http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk
Saturday 24th November 2018
Christmas at Pig Run Barn - why not ? 5 reasons to enjoy Christmas at Pig Run Barn 1. Pig Run Barn is a perfect cottage for a family Christmas, with 2 bedrooms and 2 ensuites, along with travel cots, high chairs and stair gates 2. Location, set on our family farm, surrounded by peaceful countryside yet so close to Newcastle, Gateshead, Washington and Beamish 3. So much to do on the door step, from family walks around the farm, Beamish Museum and Tanfield Railway on the doorstep 4. Open plan living, so everyone is together over Christmas 5. Space for extra guests, if you are visiting family and friends, whilst staying in Pig Run always nice for you to host them - Pig Run Barn is perfect Don’t forget all our Christmas goodies as well http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk/our-cottages/pig-run-barn-4-star-gold-self-catering-cottage-near-durham-and-beamish/
Friday 23rd November 2018
5 reasons to book Hay Loft for Christmas 1. Location - ideally situated on our family farm, yet only 10 minutes from Durham 2. Perfect for family, with 2 ensuite bedrooms and open plan living, the family can all be together - that’s what Christmas is all about 3. Fully fitted kitchen, if you want to cook or there are lots of nice places to eat on the doorstep if you don’t! 4. Comfy beds - with stunning ensuites 5. Christmas goodies for everyone, all our cottages will be decorated for Christmas, guaranteed to make any Bah humbug smile !! http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk/our-cottages/the-hay-loft-5-star-little-white-farm-brancepeth-durham/
Wednesday 21st November 2018
Do you think the farmer is happy with his new sign ? This was a lovely surprise today to have this delivered are very clever guest/friend John has made us a new sign - thank you However we have a dilemma, do we paint it, polish it or leave it natural? http://www.ridingfarmbedandbreakfast.co.uk
Tuesday 20th November 2018
Fancy a weekend away? Maybe some Christmas shopping? We have cottages available this weekend - perfect for a get together or escape !ridingfarmcottages.co.uk
Monday 19th November 2018
10 out of 10 for Pig Run Barn - the latest review of Pig Run Barn “We all enjoyed our stay at Pig Run Barn. The cottage was set in the farm courtyard and the views over the fields were lovely. The kitchen was well equipped and the bedrooms were comfortable with en-suite facilities in both. We were welcomed by a cup of tea and a homemade Victoria sponge made by the owner's daughter which was much appreciated. We visit Beamish Museum with vouchers given by the cottage owner which entitled us to 25% off. This meant that tickets cost £10.50 each and they entitle us to go as often as we want for a year. We went twice in the week as the museum had so much for us to see. The Ravensworth Arms is only a mile or so down the road and serves lovely food as does the Causey Inn. The four of us would happily return to Pig Run Barn again.” Pig Run Barn is still available for Christmas and or New Year, if you can’t manage a week, why not try 5 nights ? We have Christmas short breaks to suit everyone, have a look online http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk/our-cottages/pig-run-barn-4-star-gold-self-catering-cottage-near-durham-and-beamish/ Or call us on 0191 370 1868
Monday 19th November 2018
He has arrived ! What a great day welcoming Santa and Mrs Claus to Beamish Museum, it did get us in the Christmas spirit. Why not get in the Christmas spirit, with a short break or weekend break ? http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk/our-cottages/
Saturday 17th November 2018
Today is the day ! The Christmas Parade at Beamish Museum, who is going ? We have some very excited guests, I am of course playing it as cool as a cucumber ! http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk
Tuesday 13th November 2018
6 weeks till the man in the big red suit arrives ! Christmas is a special time of year perfect to spend with family and friends. Why not take the stress out of Christmas and spend it one of our 5 Star cottages and get your Ho Ho Ho on! All our cottages will be decorated for Christmas and filled with Christmas goodies We do still have some availability and even some short breaks, with cottages that can sleep 2 - 6 Beamish Cottage sleeps 2 available from 19th December from £395 ideal from couples and grandparents visiting http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk/our-cottages/beamish-cottage-4-star-gold/ Pig Run Barn sleeps upto 4 available from 20th December from £625 perfect for family and friends get together http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk/our-cottages/pig-run-barn-4-star-gold-self-catering-cottage-near-durham-and-beamish/ The Hay Loft sleeps upto 4 available from available from 22nd December - this is a stunning cottage and new for 2018 from £695 http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk/our-cottages/the-hay-loft-5-star-little-white-farm-brancepeth-durham/ Cross Cottage sleeps upto 6 great for bigger families from £795 http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk/our-cottages/cross-cottage-little-white-farm-durham-brancepeth/ St Andrews Square - our Durham sleeps upto 5 and perfect for people who want to nearer the city and you don’t have to leave the dog behind from £495 http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk/our-cottages/st-andrews-square/ Why not give us a call on 0191 370 1868 Or look online http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk/our-cottages/
Saturday 10th November 2018
Saturday is all about skies I was reminded of this by one of our guests stunning photos. We have had some stunning skies lately, whether in the morning or evening http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk/our-cottages/