The Estate, Oakenshaw

Three fabulous holiday homes nestle within this former farm in the heart of County Durham: The Barn, The Oak (combined they're called The Residence), and the Log Cabin. Book individually, two at once, or hire them all together – in which case, there's room for 16 people. In fact, there are seven booking options in total. Whichever property you choose, there's a wood-fired hot tub to enjoy.

Situated around a courtyard that's open to the south, Oakenshaw Estate is all about peace, privacy, and panoramic countryside views across six acres of gated grounds. Opt for the characterful Residence – The Barn and The Oak – and enjoy space for 10 people across four bedrooms (three with en-suites), alongside a double sofa bed in the separate living area.

What else? The historic 1854 buildings feature two fully-equipped kitchens, an open-plan dining space, a big family bathroom complete with a Jacuzzi, and lounges for relaxing. Décor-wise, think oak beams, brick interior walls, wooden floors, log burners, and contemporary furnishings and amenities, while outside, there's seating for al fresco meals, plus a play park with swings, a climbing frame and a trampoline.

Individually, The Barn sleeps six across three bedrooms, while The Oak houses four in a guest room and a double sofa bed in the living area.

And then there's the eco-luxury Log Cabin: Finnish design, and built from huge 100-year-old sustainably sourced logs, stacked together and insulated with sheep’s wool. Inside, discover a log burner, a retractable 83-inch TV, an arcade machine with 1000-plus retro games, an entertainment area, and an eclectic collection of objets d’art. You can also make the most of underfloor heating, a pool table and two Smart TVs.

Meanwhile, through the bi-folding doors and onto the patio, you'll find a wood-fired hot tub offering vistas across the County Durham countryside. It’s big enough for six guests, and all open-plan, with two mezzanine king-size bedrooms and a large sofa bed downstairs. We say “downstairs” out of habit: it’s actually down ladders. That means the cabin is best suited to the agile, a family with children who aren't super young, or a small group of friends.

Book The Barn and the Cabin for 12 guests, or The Oak and the Cabin for 10. Or even better, all three and invite 15 of your closest friends or family.

Out and about, visits to the famous castle and cathedral in nearby Durham City are popular, as is Beamish, the Living Museum of the North, and families will find they’re well placed for a day at Holmside Park. For a local adventure, Oakenshaw Nature Reserve is within walking distance, and several pubs are close by, as well as restaurants and takeaways.