Stanhope, Bishop Auckland, County Durham

2 Stanhope Hall is a splendid five-bedroom period home, one of three properties in the historic, Grade II* listed Stanhope Hall on the edge of the North Pennines town of Stanhope. The house is thought to date back to 1139 as part of an original medieval manor house, with some parts potentially from even earlier, and much of the original character of the property remains. Period details include exposed stonework, handsome fireplaces, exposed timber beams, panelled walls and various other attractive features.

The main reception room is the 32ft, split level drawing room and dining area with original flag stone floor underneath existing carpet, This reception room benefits from a grand Tudor Inglenook stone built open fireplace, Tudor mullioned windows, an impressive arched, studded door, high ceilings, rich original wood-panelled walls and window seats, as well as space for both a seating area and a family dining table. The comfortable sitting room provides additional space in which to relax, with its exposed stone walls and large fireplace, which is fitted with a woodburning stove. Also on the ground floor, the well-equipped kitchen has fitted units to base and wall level, wooden worktops, a butler sink and space for all the necessary home appliances.

On the first floor you will find a laundry room and two well-presented double bedrooms, both of which are en suite – one with a shower room, while the other has a bathroom with a bathtub and a separate shower unit. The stairs continue to the second floor, where you will find an additional three comfortable bedrooms, two of which are doubles. Each of the second-floor bedrooms are also en suite, two with shower rooms, while one has a bathroom.

Services: Mains electricity, gas, water and drainage

At the entrance to Stanhope Hall there is a private parking area with plenty of space for several vehicles. There is paved access from the parking area to the front entrance of the home, as well as a central walkway leading from the lane to the front door.

To the front of the property is a large private garden, which are enclosed by walls and fencing. To the rear of the property is an area of gravel terracing for al fresco dining, a small and manageable area of lawn and a raised deck partially shaded by a timber-framed pergola, providing further space for al fresco dining.

The property is set in a desirable position on the edge of the picturesque town of Stanhope, surrounded by the stunning countryside of the North Pennines National Landscape. Stanhope provides various everyday amenities, including local shops, pubs, a pharmacy and a primary school. There are further amenities in Bishop Auckland, 16 miles to the southeast and Consett, 12 miles northeast, including a choice of shops, independent retailers and supermarkets, as well as leisure facilities. The nearest secondary school is in Wolsingham, while both Bishop Auckland and Consett provide a further choice of state secondary schools, plus the independent Delta School in Consett.

The local area is ideal for walking, cycling and riding and many of the North Pennines’ magnificent hills and landscapes are within easy reach. These include Cross Fell and the beautiful High Force waterfall. Golf is available at Allendale Golf Club or Bishop Auckland.

The area is popular for its secluded and peaceful setting, though the A68 is within easy reach, connecting to Hexham, Bishop Auckland, Carlisle and Newcastle upon Tyne. There is a heritage railway line running through Stanhope, offering services to the mainline station at Bishop Auckland. This areas also has people from all over coming to compete in the coast to coast cycling route. This works hand in hand with the B&B potential at Stanhope.