Thursday 17th January 2019
10 out of 10 - Great Place to stay - latest review of Beamish Cottage “Great place to stay, made a very pleasant change from a hotel. Warm and welcoming - loved the option of breakfast” Another great review of the self catering and breakfast combo, works very well for our business guests Why not try it ? http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk/our-cottages/beamish-cottage-4-star-gold/
Wednesday 16th January 2019
5 out of 5 for Cross Cottage - the latest review of Cross Cottage “ We stayed here for Christmas and it couldn’t have been any better. Everything you need is there from the kitchen to the bathrooms to the living space. Vickie and David were the perfect hosts. Always in hand if you needed them and gave us great information on the local area and what to do. As it was Christmas we didn’t venture out much from the barn but the sun rises in the morning we’re spectacular and then walks around the cottage were perfect for families. Would recommend a stay here to everyone and we were all very sad to leave ! I would recommend a walk down to Brancepeth Castle and church” We are so glad our guests enjoyed their stay over Christmas it is a special time of year, although it does seem like age away! http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk/our-cottages/cross-cottage-little-white-farm-durham-brancepeth/
Tuesday 15th January 2019
12 good reasons to visit Beamish Museum, as if you need a reason ! 1. February Half Term - Norman Cornish and the Creative Arts 16th - 24th February Unleash your family's creativity this February half term, as we explore art throughout the ages. 2. Great North Steam Fair 11th - 14th April A real highlight of the events programme, our Steam Fair sees vehicles of all shapes and sizes in action across the museum. 3. Easter Fun at Beamish 19th - 22nd April Get ready for some egg-citement as we celebrate Easter at Beamish. 4. Horses at Work 27th & 28th April Enjoy an equine extravaganza during our Horses at Work weekend. 5. Georgian Fair 10th - 12th May Roll up, roll up for all the hustle and bustle of our amazing Georgian Fair. 6. Old King Coal 26th - 30th June Celebrate the region's coal mining heritage during this special event. 7. Festival of 50s 11th - 14th July Get ready to rock 'n' roll as we revel in all things 50s. 8. Summer of Fun 20th July - 28th August Experience a summer jam-packed with a whole host of different activities. 9. Dig for Victory 29th August - 1st September Do your bit for the war effort as you come and dig for victory at our 1940s Farm. 10. Beamish Leek Show 7th - 8th September Pack up your potatoes and bring your beetroot to the Beamish Leek Show in The Pit Village. 11. Agricultural Show 12th - 15th September See, and take part in, a typical country show from the early 1900s. 12. Christmas at Beamish 16th November - 24th December Delight in a truly traditional Christmas here at Beamish. Just a few good reasons to visit Beamish Museum whilst staying with us - we are only 7 minutes away http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk
Sunday 13th January 2019
What are your birthday plans ? How about a weekend away? That was the surprise Robbie had for his seventh birthday! A 2 night stay in Riding Cottage and Lapwing Cottage with his sister, Mum, Dad and Grandma. On Saturday the girls visited Durham, while the boys went to Robbie’s first football match all very exciting. On Sunday before heading home - tractor ride for the birthday boy and of course Dad! If you fancy a birthday break away with family and friends, we have the cottages for you. Our cottages sleep from 2 - 10 have a look online http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk/our-cottages/ or give us a call 0191 3701868
Saturday 12th January 2019
Do you like Harry Potter ? Are you a fan of Harry Potter ? Fancy a bit of broomstick training or maybe go to Hogwarts ? If you have any Harry Potter fans in the family a trip to Alnwick Castle and Durham Cathedral is a must. All our cottages are within easy reach of the Harry Potter film locations, we even have discount vouchers to Alnwick Castle http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk/our-cottages/
Friday 11th January 2019
Yippee it’s Friday ? What do you have planned ? Have you booked your February Half Term ? We have a selection of cottages, surrounded by peaceful countryside, with networks of footpaths and cycleways. We also have Beamish Museum, Tanfield Railway the Angel of the North, Durham and Newcastle all on the doorstep. A little further afield you can enjoy the delights of the Northumberland and Durham Dales http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk
Wednesday 9th January 2019
Congratulations ! Congratulations to all our guests graduating at Durham. Congratulations must also go to all the parents and grandparents who have supported along the way ! Have you sorted out your accommodation for your graduation in June ? We still have some limited availability left for June, don’t miss out http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk/our-cottages/
Tuesday 8th January 2019
First day back at school and already thinking of what to do at February Half Term ? 6 things to do at February Half Term whilst staying with us in one of our cottages or farm house Bed & Breakfast 1. Explore the artwork of Norman Cornish and the Spennymoor Settlement, along with learning about the ways people were creative in the 1820s, 1900s, 1940s and 1950s. Have a go at sketching, proggy-mat making and other exciting activities across the museum. As well as explore all of the Musuem 2. Before there where lorries we had freight trains, Step back in time at Tanfield Railway to enjoy North Sunderland Sunday - Sunday 17th February Take a trip on a recreation of a typical North Sunderland Railway train hauled by Armstrong Whitworth built, diesel electric locomotive, A. Reyrolle & Co No.2. The North Sunderland Railway was a 4 mile 'light' railway in Northumberland which ran from Chathill to Seahouses, operating small locomotives and rolling stock of ex-industrial or mainline use. An Armstrong Whitworth diesel electric locomotive, 'The Lady Armstrong', a sister to our No.2, worked on the North Sunderland Railway. Our vintage passenger train will also be in service. 3. Explore Durham and follow a fun trail of ice sculptures and torches of fire - we did this last year, great way to the see the city 4. Grab your wellies and join WWT Washington as they host their 2019 Puddle Jumping Championships – guaranteed fun whatever the North East weather! Challenge your family and friends on their Welly Boot Camp obstacle course with puddle jumping finale and enjoy a host of other activities including welly wanging and a welly shy. What better way to blow away the winter cobwebs and have a splashing day out together? 5. Visit the many free museums in Newcastle, from The Discovery Museum, the Great North Museum and Baltic. From science to art for all 6. Nothing like a walk with the family, whether around the farm, along Hadrians Wall or in the beach, great way to catch up http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk/our-cottages/
Monday 7th January 2019
That’s the last box packed, Christmas is done till next time. Time to think about other holidays, whether with your family, visit friends and family or a sneaky break away, we have the accommodation for you http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk/our-cottages/
Sunday 6th January 2019
Perfect - latest review of Pig Run Barn “Perfect - The location. Style of the cottage as it was cosy and comfortable. Hosts were brilliant. Great place to get to attractions” Always a nice finish the weekend with the latest review of Pig Run Barn http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk/our-cottages/pig-run-barn-4-star-gold-self-catering-cottage-near-durham-and-beamish/
Saturday 5th January 2019
Today is all about Hester Can I introduce Hester Jean Patricia Hammersly our Great Niece. The best start to 2019! There is nothing like welcoming a new little person into the world, it is important to visit, the baby, mother and father, maybe not stay with them! why not come and stay with us http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk/our-cottages/
Friday 4th January 2019
It's the last weekend of the holidays Did you catch you catch up with everyone? Or did you spend the whole time running around? Why not spend some time together, enjoy a walk,playing, running around and catching up with friends and family. We have cottages available for 2 night break - perfect for a get away or get together http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk/our-cottages/
Thursday 3rd January 2019
Tonight is all about the games ! Games night at McClean’s, lovely tea followed by games Tractor Top Trumps Stop the bus Film trivia Pumping Pig And yazoo music game All our cottages have a range of games, puzzles and jigsaws to keep everyone amused if the TV or DVD’s are not your thing - don’t know if we are worth having on your team, but always up for the challenge! http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk/our-cottages/
Wednesday 2nd January 2019
Want a fun day exploring Newcastle? How about a Treasure Trail, to find who murdered Cushy Butterfield ? We started off at Baltic Square and finished at the sage, we learnt some fun facts, walked parts of the city I never have, kept 3 girls a farmer and a dog entertained - great fun http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk/our-cottages/
Tuesday 1st January 2019
Just saying adults won ! Great way to finish New Years Day http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk
Tuesday 1st January 2019
Happy New Year Goodbye 2018 and welcome 2019 2019 started the same way 2018 ended, with family, friends and guests We are looking forward to 2019, welcome family, friends and guests http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk
Sunday 30th December 2018
Perfect - the latest review of Pig Run Barn “Perfect - Excellent from start to finish. The pig barn was bright, clean, warm and had every facility you could possibly need during your stay. Hosts were friendly and chatty. Breakfast was delicious. Location was fabulous. Little extras like the Christmas bedding, victoria sponge cake and tea, coffee and milk really made our stay even more special. Will definitely revisit and have highly recommended it to our friends. You will not be disappointed!!” Always appreciate it when guests take the time to post a review, how they find the time especially with Christmas and New Year coming up, we look forward to welcoming you back to Riding Farm and bring your friends ! http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk/our-cottages/pig-run-barn-4-star-gold-self-catering-cottage-near-durham-and-beamish/
Saturday 29th December 2018
It’s all about weddings After a lovely day yesterday celebrating Mathews and Becky’s wedding. It made me think about all the wedding guests we have had staying with us in 2018, from hen party weekends, brides leaving for the big day, families staying for the wedding and a holiday and so much more. We are surrounded by some stunning wedding venues in Durham, Beamish Newcastle and Stanley Make the most of your special day and time with family and friends http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk
Saturday 29th December 2018
Just been reduced so you can say goodbye to 2018 and hello 2019 With a 2, 3 or 4 night breaks in one of our cottages Family get together in Granary Barn , Granary Barn is a 5 Star cottage, sleeping upto 4 over 2 ensuite bedrooms. Want to see the New Year in with lots of friends combine Granary Barn with Bowes Barn a perfect combination sleeping upto 7 over 4 bedrooms. A romantic getaway to see the New Year in Lapwing Cottage a 5 Star cottage perfect for 2 Many more amazing last-minute New Year’s escapes, all from £295 http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk/christmas-and-last-minute-availability/
Thursday 27th December 2018
Great Cottage close to Newcastle - latest review of Granary Barn “Great Cottage close to Newcastle, Well equipped cottage, welcoming owners ,ability to use it as a home. Nice and warm on a cold day.” Perfect for New Year http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk/our-cottages/granary-barn-5-star-near-beamish-durham-and-newcastle-available-for-new-year/
Thursday 27th December 2018
Say goodbye to 2018 and hello 2019 With a 2, 3 or 4 night breaks in one of our cottages Family get together in Granary Barn , Granary Barn is a 5 Star cottage, sleeping upto 4 over 2 ensuite bedrooms. Want to see the New Year in with lots of friends combine Granary Barn with Bowes Barn a perfect combination sleeping upto 7 over 4 bedrooms. A romantic getaway to see the New Year in Lapwing Cottage a 5 Star cottage perfect for 2 Many more amazing last-minute New Year’s escapes, all from £295 http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk/christmas-and-last-minute-availability/
Wednesday 26th December 2018
Boxing Day Delights A lazy start to the day, with Lego and then we felt before we started eating again , maybe some exercise was in order. A lovely family walk for everyone in all directions! apart from the more energetic member who went on a bike ride ! Our cottages are surrounded by footpaths and cycleways for you to explore http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk
Tuesday 25th December 2018
Merry Christmas He has been !! May we take this time to wish you all a Merry Christmas, what ever you are doing, we hope it brings you joy Can you guess what we will be doing today ?!! Don’t forget we still have availability for New Year http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk/christmas-and-last-minute-availability/
Monday 24th December 2018
Advent Day 24 On the 24th Day of Advent it’s all about the children, with the last Christmas presents wrapped, followed by a visit to church for the Christingle services. Now it’s time to get ready for Santa and enjoy a glass of wine before the big day Don’t forget we still have some availability between Christmas and New Year and some availability for New Year http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk/christmas-and-last-minute-availability/
Monday 24th December 2018
Advent Day 23 On the 23rd day of advent it’s all about New Year Christmas is nearly here, so it’s all about New Year We have some availability left, ideal for larger groups in Granary and Bowes - sleep 7 or a romantic break away just the 2 of you So what are your New Year plans ? Do you want to be near Newcastle, Gateshead and or Durham? Our cottages are perfectly located in peaceful countryside yet close to Newcastle, Gateshead and Durham Perfect for a New Year or any other celebration Call us on 0191 370 1868 Or look online http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk/christmas-and-last-minute-availability/
Sunday 23rd December 2018
Day 22 of Advent On the 22nd day of Advent it’s all about walking, we are surrounded by lovely countryside with a network of footpaths to explore, but if you want to go a bit further, here are 7 suggestions for walking in Durham, whilst staying with us 1. Durham Heritage Coast Walk This walk starts in Seaham’s North Dock and follows an 11-mile route south to Crimdon. If you are looking for breath-taking clifftop views, this is the walk for you. Superb grassland is supported by Magnesian Limestone topped by boulder clay – the perfect habitat for plants and wildlife including the very special Durham Argus butterfly. Blow away the cobwebs,we also collected sea glass. 2. Low and High Force A gorgeous five-mile circular walk around some of the most awe-inspiring countryside in the UK. Upper Teesdale falls within the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and you’ll soon understand why when England’s biggest waterfall comes into view. Guaranteed to lift the spirits and get the adrenalin pumping. The views are stunning 3. Durham Camra Beer Trail That’s got your attention hasn’t it – a pub crawl with a difference. OK, it might not be out in the countryside like the other walks, but it’s in what best-selling author Bill Bryson described as “a perfect little city”. Starting at the Bridge Hotel in North Road, Durham, it is not only a smashing walk but takes in ten of the best real ale pubs in Durham City. The farmer enjoyed this one !! Great fun 4. Chester-le-Street Heritage Trail Chester-le-Street in north Durham has a fascinating 2,000-year history. Starting at Chester-le-Street Civic Centre, this easy walk will take in sites of Roman occupation, Christian heritage and Victorian industry. I loved this walk, we enjoyed it it with some of Isabels school friends - not all walkers 5. Derwent Reservoir Multi-User Path This is considered an easy walk yet it offers spectacular views of Derwent Reservoir, pictured below. It starts at Derwent Reservoir Visitor Centre, where public toilets are available and covers a distance of two miles to Pow Hill Country Park, or 3.5 miles to Millshield picnic site. It’s also an area rich in wildlife. When we did this walk we tied it in with a pub lunch 6. Teesdale Way The complete route will take you even further – a 100-mile trek from the source of the River Tees at Dufton in Cumbria to the sea at South Care on the Teesside coast. The County Durham section is 20 miles or so from Langdon Beck to Piercebridge. High Force and Low Force are once again featured, as are the lovely villages of Egglestone, Romaldkirk and Cotherstone. We have not done the 100 miles, but we have done bits, lovely countryside 7. Cow Green Geological Trail Approximately four kilometres each way from Harwood, Barnard Castle, although a longer 12km circular route can be made by continuing past Widdy Bank Farm to the Cow Green Road. Walkers can be exposed to the Upper Teesdale elements so be prepared but it’s worth it for the views and the closeness to nature. Friends of ours have done this walk and loved it, going to try it over the Christmas holidays All these walks can be enjoyed while staying with us over the Christmas and New Year holidays or maybe something to do with the family at Half Term http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk/christmas-and-last-minute-availability/
Friday 21st December 2018
Advent Day 21st On the 21st Day of Advent it’s all about Christmas at Beamish Museum. Christmas is a time for making memories and traditions and going to Beamish Museum for their Christmas Event is our tradition. We made angels and mechanical toys, drank mulled wine and ate mince pies We sang along with the Christmas carols, played games Unfortunately we didn’t have time to go skating !! Another great time, see you soon http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk/christmas-and-last-minute-availability/
Thursday 20th December 2018
Advent Day 20 On the 20th day of Advent, we have had an idea while getting more cottages ready for Christmas. New Year, what are your plans ? Are you wanting to come and see the New Year in with family and friends ? Do you want to be near Newcastle, Gateshead and or Durham ? Can’t find a cottage big enough? We have the answer - Granary and Bowes Barn combined, sleeps upto 7 over 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, all open plan The cottages are perfectly located in peaceful countryside yet close to Newcastle, Gateshead and Durham Perfect for a New Year or any other celebration Call us on 0191 370 1868 Or look online http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk/christmas-and-last-minute-availability/
Wednesday 19th December 2018
Advent Day 19 On the 19th day of Advent, we have been busy elves, getting cottages ready for arriving guests. Its beginning to look like Christmas ! Don’t forget we still have some limited availability left. Look on line http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk/christmas-and-last-minute-availability/ Or call us on 0191 370 1868
Tuesday 18th December 2018
Advent Day 18 On the 18th day of Advent it’s all about a Carol Service Had a lovely evening at All Saints Church for the school carol service Lots of hymns and beautiful readings Followed by mulled wine and mince pies - starting feel a lot like Christmas http://www.ridingfarmcottages.co.uk/christmas-and-last-minute-availability/