Burnhopeside Hall

I am still quite beside myself that we stumbled upon the quiet majesty of Burnhopside Hall for our long weekend retreat. It was as though the universe conspired to lead us to this haven just when rest and restoration were most needed, post recovery from a heart operation. From the moment we pulled into the grounds, I felt a gentle assurance that we were in the safest of hands, not merely guests, but cherished visitors. Burnhopside Hall is not simply a house of bricks and mortar, it is a place that breathes warmth and serenity. It wraps around you, whispering calm, contentment and a curious sense of being loved. The hosts, with their gracious attentiveness and genuine hospitality, embody the spirit of the home, welcoming, generous and kind. The grounds are a pastoral dream and the house itself a treasure trove of charm. We found ourselves utterly enchanted, from the elegant rooms that seemed to sigh with history, to the snooker table and the grand piano, which invited playful tinkering and gentle melodies. Wildlife is in abundance, the rabbits and hares darting through the grass, hedgehogs rustling at dusk, bats flitting overhead as night draws in, butterflies dancing in the late Summer sun and the birdsong that serenaded our breakfast each morning. Ah, breakfast...A veritable feast, both continental and cooked. I must commend the sausage and scrambled eggs, which were nothing short of divine. And then there were our constant companions... the adorable Barney and Spencer, the resident Springer Spaniels, whose charm is matched only by their loyalty and impeccable manners. My ball-throwing technique has improved immeasurably thanks to their patient tutelage and our strolls together were filled with cheerful chatter and quiet joy. The love of a dog truly leaves an imprint on one's heart. One moment stands out above all: a golden Saturday evening, the sun dipping low behind the walled garden, the dogs at our feet and time itself seeming to pause.

Our second stay, this time with Americans, and they were as enchanted as we are. The lovely proportions of the house, the country manor ambience, the enthusiastic dogs you can take for a walk to see the happy piggies who contribute to your breakfast. Tea on arrival, fresh milk in thermos in the rooms as well, very informative farming journals (I want that tractor!), good books. The breakfast table is shared, so you can talk to other real humans for interesting conversations.

Goodness, what an incredibly delightful.experience at Burnhopeside Hall. Absolutely nothing we could fault. Thank you ,Christine for letting us into your wonderful home. Pure luxury and everything of the most high quality.. A huge bedroom really more a suite, and so beautifully furnished. A country house full of wonders and a billiard room too! . Nothing was any trouble and the wonderful cooked breakfast was made to order plus ahuge choice of fruits, cereals ,yogurt was fantastic served in beautiful Regency dining rooms. Cannot praise Christine , her son James and Burnhopeside Hall enough, wonderful.

A wonderful stay with Christine making you feel right at home. It’s not a bnb as such, more a historic country home where you have the pleasure of staying at. A comfortable big bed and cosy room. Loved walking the two friendly spaniels (Spencer and Barney) to go and say hello to the piggies before breakfast!

It was a pleasure to stay at Burnhopeside Hall, a historic family home, where the owner Christine, welcomes you to enjoy while you stay. The large bedroom , comfortable large bed and bathroom (including deep bath) were first class, as was the full English breakfast, fruit and cereals and access to sitting rooms and the gardens around the home. We enjoyed walking to the river with resident dogs Spencer and Barney and made the most of the park and ride to visit Durham.