County Durham contains one of England’s true gems of a city. But there are also plenty of wide-open spaces to explore from one of our holiday cottages in Durham, making this a great destination for a relaxing break in the countryside.Nature still rules the roost in the North Pennines, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty with few signs of human activity – perfect for walkers and wildlife enthusiasts. Durham also boasts England’s highest waterfall in High Force, a popular destination for a day trip. Nearby is Middleton-in-Teesdale, a wonderful example of an 18th Century “company town”, built by Quakers to house the workers in the lead mines here.A visit to the historic city of Durham is one thing you must fit in during one of our Durham cottage holidays. The whole of the historic centre, built high on a bend in the river, is a World Heritage Site. Here you’ll find the magnificent cathedral, with its breathtaking vaulted ceiling, the castle and the colleges of the ancient university. The city also has a varied selection of cafés and galleries as well as a profusion of small independent shops. Truly a unique experience.