Walltown Byre

A colourful and creative country retreat, complete with hot tub and dedicated entertainment barn, beautifully secluded in rural Northumberland.

Set within 700 acres of rolling Northumberland countryside, surrounded by outrageously scenic country footpaths and bridleways, and accented by a huge, ever-changing sky, Walltown Byre has a lot to offer those who love getting lost in spectacular views.

That goes for the interiors just as much as the amazing rural scenery, by the way. The 17th century retreat's owner, Sabina Forwood, is also an artist who has filled the property to the brim with colour and creativity.

Dog-friendly, and sleeping up to six guests, there's no reason for anyone to miss out on all the fun and relaxation to be had at Walltown Byre, which includes its very own hot tub, heated kennels, and a dedicated entertainment barn with a huge cinema screen, a ping pong table, and an electric piano!

‘Byre' is the old English word for ‘cowshed', though you won't find much trace of the stone building's former residents here. The luxurious open-plan design is sociable and light-filled, containing plenty of space for everybody to stretch out and relax, surrounded by quirky pieces of art, vintage fabrics, upcycled furnishings, and rich, vibrant colours.

Original stone arches form a natural divide between the lounge and dining areas, while the gorgeous, pillar-box red kitchen is a joy to cook in - all set off by those amazing countryside views.

Then, there are three awe-inspiring bedrooms to choose from.  The master kingsize room features a beautiful arched window with a seat for you to gaze lazily out over the fields, and a sumptuous en-suite with a large bath.  

The downy twin room comes complete with an en-suite shower room, while the third en-suite room also features twin beds, with warm, richly coloured furnishings.

Claim your favourite sleeping space, then head outside with a well-deserved welcome drink. Be warned, however: the views here can get seriously addictive, whether you're enjoying them from your furnished patio, the enclosed gravelled courtyard that faces the North Pennines, or your bubbling, six-person hot tub.

If you're moved to leave at any point (we know, it'll be a difficult decision!) there's plenty to captivate your attention in the surrounding area. Northumberland is Hadrian country after all, so why not begin with the Hadrian's Wall National Trail, a designated World Heritage site that passes through some of the finest countryside you'll ever set eyes upon?

In the mood to be spoilt?  You've got the option to return to your byre not simply to greet the sunset, but to enjoy a delicious dinner cooked by Lucy, the friendly property manager (and an excellent chef!) Catering options span everything from a full-service meal or a hearty breakfast, to a delicious packed lunch to take on your travels.

With every last sensory detail so well covered, there's only one thing left for you to do. Enjoy your holiday!

Things to note

Arrive on Friday at 4pm (arrival day can be flexible during low season), depart by 10am. A highchair and travel cot are provided. Dogs are welcome at an additional charge per dog, to be kept in the heated kennels until clean and dry, and on a lead in the immediate vicinity due to livestock on the working farm site.