The Area

Local Attractions

Hidden treasures

Gainford village itself is a hidden gem. Most people bypass it by road and never see the beautiful village green. And just down the road is the Bowes Museum which has the best collection of European fine and decorative arts in the North of England, all housed in a magnificent 19th-century French-style chateau. Similarly, ten minutes away is Raby Castle, one of the finest and best-preserved medieval castles in the country surrounded by wonderful parkland. 
Beyond Barnard Castle in Upper Teesdale is High Force, one of the most spectacular waterfalls in England.

Immediate walking . . 

In front of the lodges is a short section of the Teesdale Way river path. Turning right (West) takes you to a natural sulphur spring about five minutes away; a beautiful spot for sitting and contemplating or, when the river’s not too high, the perfect spot for swimming.

In the other direction, there's a walk that follows the river into Gainford and brings you out on the village green, via the church yard. A much more pleasant walk than following the road, it takes about 20 minutes.

Further Afield

Durham and the North East

Just 30 minutes from Whispering Waters is the City of Durham with its World Heritage Site cathedral - described by Bill Bryson as "the best cathedral on planet Earth". Newcastle upon Tyne's only 45 minutes away, County Durham's coast is another well-preserved secret and, operating on Fridays and Saturdays from June until September, is what’s billed as “the UK’s most spectacular open-air live show – Kynren - an epic tale of England; a live action extravaganza that takes you on a journey through 2,000 years of history, myth and legend”.

The coast is around 45 minutes away. The Victorian resort of Saltburn is a particular favourite with the achingly gorgeous fishing port of Staiths just nearby.