Burnstones Cottage

Burnstones Cottage, set near the peaceful village of Slaggyford in the heart of the South Tyne Valley, is a refined countryside escape on the Knarsdale estate. Nestled in the North Pennines National Landscape, the area is widely celebrated as ‘England’s Last Wilderness’. Spanning 770 square miles across County Durham, Northumberland and Cumbria, it is the second-largest National Landscape in the country and holds status as a UNESCO Global Geopark. Its vast, open moorlands, hay meadows and ancient woodlands provide a sanctuary for some of Britain's rarest species including black grouse, peregrine falcons, red squirrels and water voles.

With its superb location, guests can enjoy a wealth of walking from the Lambley viaduct walk to the famous Pennine Way, as well as wonderful cycling routes and several places of interest within easy reach.

A beautifully presented base, Burnstones Cottage is approached via a quiet country lane and boasts a charming and characterful exterior with traditional stonework and elegant sash windows. Through the front door, you’ll find an inviting living space with a muted pink kitchen at its heart. A thoughtfully positioned window above the sink draws in natural light - a lovely spot for cooking up something delicious.

In perfect harmony with the pink-toned kitchen, a sumptuous blue sofa and mid-century inspired armchair offer a comfortable place to unwind. With a large, upholstered ottoman at the centre, the space is gently divided to create a defined seating area and banquette style dining nook for four guests. A round pedestal table, upholstered seating in playful chequered fabric and a scalloped pendant lamp create an elegant setting for sociable, laid-back meals.

The first of four cosy bedrooms is located downstairs where custom cabinetry envelopes an inviting king size bed. Accent cushions in bright yellow, with warm toned botanical print curtains add a splash of colour and countryside charm. The en suite bathroom with panelled walls and geometric tile flooring features a bath with polished brass fixtures.

Upstairs lies a twin room with curved upholstered headboards, which can be made into a super king on request. Soft furnishings in mustard yellow paired with decorative matching quilts beautifully complement the otherwise neutral colour palette of the room. A further two single bedrooms are found upstairs. The first is home to a cosy cabin bed, tucked within an alcove and framed with soft green panelling. A curtain along the bedside creates a snug, cocooning like retreat whilst the window seat offers pretty views down the lane. The second single bedroom is compact yet charming with an upholstered headboard, muted green lamp shades and matching throw.

Two well-appointed family bathrooms are positioned off the upstairs hallway, both home to rainforest showers and patterned wall tiles.

The cottage is within walking distance of the award-winning Kirkstyle Inn for a delicious meal after a day of exploring. A scenic 20-minute drive will take you to Haltwhistle, nestled at the foot of Hadrian’s Wall, where you can discover centuries of Roman history and immerse yourself in the rugged landscape of Northumberland National Park. For those wishing to venture further afield, the Lake District lies only an hour’s drive away where you can hop on a boat trip around one of the many serene lakes or explore the enchanting former homes that inspired the beloved tales of Beatrix Potter. If you’re in the mood for something different, the estate can also arrange several on-site and local experiences. From fishing on the South Tyne River and immersive upland safaris to exclusive chef-led dining experiences and distillery tours.

Burnstones Cottage offers flexibility for larger groups with the option to book in conjunction with The Old Rectory, located about a third of a mile away.