Tucked away in the northern reaches of the North Pennines, Williamston Barns sits in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty with stunning scenery and wildlife as well as endless opportunities for walking, cycling and country sports right on the doorstep. Spread across 1000 acres of rolling countryside and lush river valleys, a stay at Williamston promises a luxury escape away from the madding crowd.
Williamston Cowshed was once a working granary and milking parlour that has now been converted into fabulous modern accommodation situated around a cobbled courtyard. The bedrooms extend over two levels, with a large open plan living space on the ground floor. The Cowshed is perfect for family groups and friends of up to six, and benefits from disabled access.
The large open plan living area includes a fully equipped kitchen, with plenty of space for dining as well as entertainment with cinema surround widescreen TV set around a wood-burning stove. Wifi is provided throughout the property. Three double bedrooms sleep up to 6 and are all en-suite with king size beds, two of which can be adapted to twins as required.
Willamston has a sustainable ethos at its heart and The Cowshed benefits from underfloor heating supplied from a biomass woodchip boiler; stoves fuelled by seasoned wood from the farm; electricity generated from its own 6kw wind turbine; and fresh filtered water from its own spring source.
For larger parties, Williamston Cowshed can be let in conjunction with the adjoining Williamston Barn (four bedroom) which combined, offers generous accommodation for up to fourteen guests
Accommodation
Fully equipped kitchen with Rangemaster double oven cooker with induction hobs, microwave oven, toaster, electric kettle, large dishwasher, integrated fridge and freezer. A coffee Nespresso machine is also available, guests are welcome to bring their own capsules. A washing machine and dryer is provided in a separate area of the property.
Dining area with formal seating for 6, with access to its own seating area in the cobbled yard.
Sitting room with plenty of seating space to relax. Features a woodburning stove (initial supply of logs provided).
Bedroom one - first floor master bedroom with fixed superking bed, side tables, hanging space. Private seating area, Velux windows. En-suite with shower, heated towel rail, basin, WC.
Bedroom two - ground floor bedroom with zip and link beds which can be adapted to twin or superking as required. Chest of drawers, hanging wardrobe. Glazed door to cobbled courtyard. Large en-suite shower allowing disabled access, heated towel rail, double basin, and WC.
Bedroom three - ground floor bedroom with zip and link beds which can be adapted to twin or superking as required. Beamed ceiling, side tables, chest of drawers, double wardrobe. Glazed door leads to a cobbled courtyard. En-suite with bath and shower over, heated towel rail, basin and WC.
Heating
The property benefits from underfloor heating throughout which can be independently controlled in each room to suit.
There is a contemporary woodburning stove in the sitting room area (initial supply of logs provided).
Technology
Samsung Smart TV with Freeview
Sound bar and sub woofer
Bluetooth compatible
DVD / Blu-ray player
Wi-fi and mobile reception
BT Infinity wi-fi is available which benefits from speeds of around 30mbs. Mobile reception can be variable depending on the network.
Garden and grounds
There is a cobbled courtyard including a table for outside dining and a barbecue. Guests are welcome to explore the wider grounds of the farm and the estate.
Catering
The Cowshed can be booked on a self-catered basis or a number of catering options are available including dinner delivered right to the kitchen offering a full range of delicious menus using fresh local produce.
Babies and Children
A travel cot and high chair are available on request.
Dogs
You may bring two well behaved dogs (no puppies) at a charge of £35 per dog. Please note - it is important that you refer to the dog policy of the property prior to booking.
Boot Room - with bench seating and hanging space.
Ground Floor Cloakroom - with basin and WC.
Storage
There is a drying area for wet gear - separate to accommodation.
Washing Faciliites
A washing machine and dryer is available for guest use.
Other
There is an electric car charging point - charges apply. Please enquire for details.
A hairdryer is provided in each bedroom.
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted in the property.
Activities & attractions
Sitting in over 1000 acres, Williamston Barns are perfectly placed for outdoor pursuits right from the doorstep. The owners have created a number of local walks around the farm and local area taking in short riverside trails to scenic valley views. Walk to the top of the moor and enjoy a picnic lunch or a toasty fire at the old shepherd's hut, or take in the stunning scenery and wildlife of the South Tyne valley, perhaps stopping along the way for a welcome refreshment at the dog-friendly Kirkstyle Inn.
There is a fantastic variety of wildlife and birdlife across the area, including red squirrels and roe deer which can be viewed close to the barns, as well as oyster catchers, dippers and the occasional kingfisher on the river. Watch kestrels, sparrowhawks and buzzards on the fell, or you may be lucky enough to spot Blackgrouse and Greyhen's on the moor. Guided wildlife tours can be arranged on request.
For those interested in field sports, the estate offers some challenging shooting with walked-up grouse days for up to 4 guns from mid September, or mixed walked-up shooting days for pheasant, partridge and woodcock later in the season. For fishing, the estate have a mile of single bank fishing on the South Tyne for brown trout, while good fishing for salmon and sea-trout can be had from August to October providing the river conditions are right.
For cycling, Williamston sits on National Cycle Route 68 and just north of the Coast to Coast cycle route for those seeking more challenging high energy treks. Alternatively there are plenty of local trails for all ages and abilities including a leisurely 10 mile loop along the South Tyne valley, or a 9 mile stretch running along the old railway line taking in Lambley Viaduct.
For more watery pursuits, canoeing and kayaking can be arranged on the South Tyne, across in the Lake District or on the River Eden in Cumbria with escorted tours from Wild River who will take care of all the logistics to ensure a happy day paddling.
For sightseeing, the Killhope lead mining museum or Nenthead Lead Mine provides a fascinating insight into the area's rich past, or a drive of under 30 minutes will take you to Hadrian's Wall, the historically significant heritage site taking in Roman hill forts and some fantastic big sky views.
A little further afield, Penrith (40 mins) is the gateway to the Lake District, or take a visit to Durham city to explore its castle and cathedral and rich history and heritage.
