Top 10% of guest reviews in this areaTop 10% of guest reviews in this area
Highlights
Family fun awaits
Top-rated for families.
Arcade/game room
A rare find - fun for all ages with on-site arcade and game room.
7 bedrooms5 bathroomsSleeps 16
Popular amenities
Spa pool on site
Onsite parking available
Kitchen
Washing machine
Barbecue
Deck or patio
Explore the area
Oakenshaw, England
Whitworth Hall Country Park
Place, Whitworth Hall Country Park
5 min drive
Brancepeth Castle Golf Club
Place, Brancepeth Castle Golf Club
6 min drive
Crook Leisure Centre
Place, Crook Leisure Centre
6 min drive
Durham (MME-Teesside Intl.)
Airport, Durham (MME-Teesside Intl.)
39 min drive
Rooms & beds
7 bedrooms (sleeps 16)
Bedroom
1 Double Bed
Bedroom
1 King Bed
Bedroom
1 Double Bed
Bedroom
1 Double Bed
Bedroom
1 King Bed
Bedroom
1 Double Sofa Bed
Bedroom
1 Double Bed
Other sleeping area
1 Double Sofa Bed
5 bathrooms
Bathroom 1
Bathroom 2
Bathroom 3
Bathroom 4
Bathroom 5
Spaces
Deck or patio
Kitchen
Garden
About this property
Grand Country Estate 3 Hot Tubs Sleeps 16 near Durham City & Bishop Auckland
The Estate Oakenshaw – Exclusive 6-Acre Retreat with 3 Hot Tubs & Play Park
A rare opportunity to rent an entire 6-acre private estate in County Durham, complete with two luxurious dwellings, three private hot tubs, a woodland play park, and sleeping space for up to 16 guests.
Oakenshaw Estate combines a stunning 1852 stone farmhouse and a contemporary Scandinavian-style log cabin — both offering warmth, style and total tranquillity. Perfect for group getaways, family celebrations, or multi-generational holidays, this exclusive-use retreat offers space, character and unforgettable surroundings.
The farmhouse, known as The Residence, features oak beams, a log burner, designer interiors and generous bedrooms. The log cabin adds a modern rustic twist, with open-plan living, floor-to-ceiling windows, and another hot tub overlooking the trees. Together, they deliver a setting that blends heritage and indulgence seamlessly.
Outdoors, enjoy three private hot tubs, landscaped gardens, nature trails and a play park with swings, climbing frame and sunken trampoline on a barked surface. A sculptural turret at the entrance pays homage to nearby Durham Castle, Auckland Castle, and the world-renowned Kynren show — all just a short drive away.
Highlights include: • 🛌 Sleeps up to 16 across 2 beautiful crafted buildings • 🛁 3 private hot tubs • 🌳 Play park with swings, climbing frame & trampoline • 🪵 Oak beams, wood floors, log burners & “wow” interiors • 🏞️ 6-acre gated estate with lake, trees & wildlife • 🏰 Minutes from Durham, Bishop Auckland & Kynren • 🧺 Luxury welcome touches & thoughtful hosting • 🚗 Free secure parking on site
Book the entire estate for your next celebration, reunion or rural escape — a hidden gem where space, story and soul come together.
See our other properties;
The Residence https://t.vrbo.io/j04ZvSeJlVb The Log Cabin https://t.vrbo.io/gOwAUhiJlVb
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The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Strip any used beds
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Important information
You need to know
Property # 11912208
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
About the area
Crook
Crook is home to this holiday home. Notable landmarks in the area include Durham Cathedral and Beamish Open Air Museum. Travelling with kids? Consider Crook Leisure Centre, or check out an event or a game at Heritage Park Stadium.
Whitworth Hall Country Park - 5 min drive - 6.5 km
Brancepeth Castle Golf Club - 6 min drive - 4.9 km
Crook Leisure Centre - 6 min drive - 8.2 km
Durham University - 13 min drive - 11.6 km
Durham Cathedral - 15 min drive - 13.2 km
Getting around
Durham Station - 14 min drive
Durham (MME-Teesside Intl.) - 49 min drive
Restaurants
The Horse Shoe Inn (Wetherspoon) - 4 min drive
Ye Olde Horseshoe - 5 min drive
The Crook Hotel - 5 min drive
Queens Head - 5 min drive
The Green - 4 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Grand Country Estate 3 Hot Tubs Sleeps 16 near Durham City & Bishop Auckland pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at The Estate Oakenshaw: 3 spa pools?
As of 7 July 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Estate Oakenshaw: 3 spa pools on 9 Nov 2026 start from AU$2,155, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at Grand Country Estate 3 Hot Tubs Sleeps 16 near Durham City & Bishop Auckland?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Grand Country Estate 3 Hot Tubs Sleeps 16 near Durham City & Bishop Auckland?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Grand Country Estate 3 Hot Tubs Sleeps 16 near Durham City & Bishop Auckland?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Grand Country Estate 3 Hot Tubs Sleeps 16 near Durham City & Bishop Auckland located?
This family-friendly Crook holiday home is within 3 mi (5 km) of Spectrum Leisure Centre and Brancepeth Castle Golf Club. Crook Leisure Centre and Meadowfield Leisure Centre are also within 6 miles (10 km).
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
We hired the whole property for a family Christmas, and it was warm and beautifully decorated when we arrived. The main Oak kitchen is huge, so was perfect for cooking meals with everyone gathered around. The Log Cabin is great fun, with pool table, arcade games and a giant screen for watching films together.
The place was exceptional, beyond my dreams. The photos are good,but when you see the inside,wow. You will not be disappointed with anything in the property. I had my ,70th birthday there, with my husband,family and friends. I would definitely go back. Everything was spotless and clean,the host Claire kept in touch, throughout the stay.x
Elaine S.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Mar 2026
Thats fantastic to hear Elaine!
Thanks so very much for your lovely review.
We are so happy you made such wonderful memories on your 70th birthday.
We'd welcome you back any time.
Thanks so much
We’ve just returned from a two-day New Year’s break with three other families, and we had a fantastic time. The layout of the barn at Oakenshaw is perfect for groups and families, giving everyone plenty of space to relax and enjoy being together.The barn itself is ideal for a celebration or get-together, and we certainly made the most of the facilities — especially the bar, pool table, and the generous space for fun family games.On the second night, we really enjoyed using the fabulous kitchen area. It’s perfect for large groups, and the big kitchen island meant we could all chat, cook, and enjoy each other’s company at the same time.All four families had a truly wonderful stay, and we wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it.
Simon C.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Jan 2026
Thank you so much for taking the time to share such a thoughtful review of your New Year stay at The Barn, Oakenshaw.
We’re delighted to hear that the layout worked so well for your group and that all four families were able to enjoy both the shared spaces and the room to relax. It’s especially nice to know the bar, pool table, and kitchen island became such a focal point for spending time together — that’s exactly how the space was designed to be used.
We’re really pleased you made the most of the kitchen on your second night and that it supported a sociable, relaxed evening for everyone. Feedback like this means a great deal to us.
Thank you again for your recommendation. We’d be very happy to welcome you back in the future!
We had the most amazing weekend at The Barn in Oakenshaw for a hen do with 16 of us! It was the perfect place for a weekend full of laughs, dancing, prosecco, and making forever memories with the bride to be. It was cosy and welcoming but with loads of space for everyone to get together and enjoy all the hen do fun. Claire, the host was fantastic throughout, from the moment we booked there was great communication and she was always on hand if we needed anything, which made the whole trip so easy and stress free! We were lucky enough to have some gorgeous sun meaning we could make full use of the outdoor space and bbq area soaking up the sunshine all while celebrating. It really was the cherry on top for such a special weekend.We had the best time from start to finish and couldn’t have asked for a better place to celebrate. I honestly couldn’t recommend The barn enough. Thank you again for having us and helping make our bride to be’s send-off so memorable! Xx
Leah C.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 1 June 2026
I’ve never seen anything so awesome and well organised. Appreciate the pics and love to see what a wonderful time you all had it looked so fabulous!
Hope the wedding is just as epic and thanks for being great guests
We’d welcome you back anytime!
Had a lovely stay at this very large property, well 3 properties, but The Oak and The Barn can form 1 large building and that was how we had it with The Cabin being a seperate building, We used that as our evening entertainment space with it having the pool table extra large Tv and games machine. The kitchens have ample crockery/pans, utensils etc. and the appliances are top of the range. It was a typical wet, windy and cold weekend so didn’t get to use the hot tubs but that didn’t dampen the kids (aged nearly 2 and nearly 5) and 4 of the younger adults enthusiasm for the play area especially the trampoline. Overall an excellent family weekend was had.
Barbara F.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Oct 2025
Thanks for being a great guest Barbara. I'm very glad you and your family had a great time. Your comments are valued and appreciated. We'd love for you all to visit us again in the future!
About the host
Hosted by Claire Glendenning
Welcome to The Estate, a place where life slows to the rhythm of the countryside. Set in the heart of Oakeshaw, our home has been lovingly prepared to offer you the perfect mix of comfort, style, and connection to nature.
The Estate began as a private retreat — a sanctuary for family gatherings, lazy afternoons, and evenings by the fire. Over the years, it’s evolved into a place we’re proud to share with guests from near and far. Each room has been thoughtfully designed, blending timeless charm with modern convenience, so you can relax and feel truly at home.
Here, mornings start with birdsong and coffee on the terrace, afternoons are for exploring the surrounding fields and footpaths, and nights are best spent under a blanket of stars. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, reconnecting with loved ones, or simply taking time for yourself, The Estate offers a backdrop for moments that matter.
We look forward to welcoming you and being part of your story.
Why they chose this property
We fell in love with Oakeshaw the moment we arrived. It’s a place where rolling fields meet ancient woodlands, where the air feels fresher and life moves at a gentler pace. The village blends old-world charm with a warm, welcoming community, and there’s a sense of history in every lane and hedgerow.
For us, Oakeshaw offers the perfect balance — peaceful seclusion when you want to switch off, yet close enough to quaint market towns, cosy pubs, and scenic walking trails to fill your days with new adventures. Whether it’s the seasonal colours that sweep across the landscape or the star-filled night skies, this is a location that has a way of making you slow down, breathe deeply, and appreciate the simple joys.
It’s a place we knew we wanted to return to again and again — and now we’re excited to share it with you.
What makes this property unique
The Estate isn’t just a place to stay — it’s an experience. From the moment you arrive, the setting feels private and peaceful, surrounded by the natural beauty of Oakenshaw. The property combines the warmth of traditional country living with the comforts of modern design, so you can enjoy rustic charm without sacrificing convenience.
One of the true highlights is our fabulous log cabin, tucked within the grounds. Built from rich, natural timber and styled with cosy furnishings, it’s a retreat within a retreat — perfect for a romantic hideaway, a quiet reading spot, or a unique guest space. It’s the kind of place that instantly makes you slow down and savour the moment.
Every detail at The Estate has been considered: a spacious kitchen for shared meals, inviting living spaces with cosy seating, and large windows that frame views of the gardens and countryside. Outside, landscaped lawns and open green spaces invite you to enjoy morning coffee, sunset drinks, or simply let the day drift by.
Whether you’re gathered around the fireplace, exploring nearby walking trails, or relaxing in the log cabin under a starlit sky, The Estate offers the kind of atmosphere that turns a holiday into a lasting memory.
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests