Old Quarrington, Durham

Grey Gables is an elegant former vicarage set within approximately 8.9 acres of gardens, grounds and paddocks, enjoying far-reaching countryside views. Rich in period character, the beautifully maintained home features light-filled reception rooms, marble fireplaces and traditional shutters, alongside a welcoming kitchen with classic cabinetry and an AGA at its heart. Outside, mature gardens and sweeping lawns create a peaceful setting, complemented by excellent equestrian facilities including an eight-box stable block, floodlit manège, horse walker and well-fenced paddocks offering an exceptional country lifestyle.

Step Inside - Grey Gables is an elegant former vicarage where period character and modern comfort combine to create a distinguished country home. Beautifully maintained and thoughtfully updated, the property retains a wealth of original features including decorative cornicing, marble fireplaces, traditional shutters and original doors, all of which lend a sense of timeless charm.

Stone steps lead to a welcoming entrance porch and into the spacious reception hall, setting the tone for the well-proportioned interiors beyond. The principal reception rooms flow naturally from here, offering versatile spaces for both everyday living and entertaining.

The drawing room is a light-filled, dual-aspect space centred around a marble fireplace, creating a refined yet comfortable setting. A second sitting room provides a more contemporary retreat, complete with bespoke cabinetry, integrated cinema screen, projector and Bang & Olufsen surround sound, ideal for relaxed evenings or entertaining.

The dining room enjoys an atmospheric feel with a traditional fireplace and outlook across the gardens, offering an elegant setting for formal dining.

At the heart of the home is the kitchen and breakfast room, a warm and sociable space fitted with cream cabinetry, wooden work surfaces, a Belfast sink and a classic four-oven AGA. Adjoining practical spaces include a boot room, utility and laundry room, ensuring the home functions effortlessly alongside its impressive scale.

The first floor hosts the principal bedroom with far-reaching views across the gardens and surrounding countryside, complemented by a dressing room and bathroom. Two further bedrooms complete this level.

On the second floor are three additional bedrooms arranged around a generous landing, along with a stylish family bathroom featuring a freestanding bath, separate shower and twin basins.

Throughout the home, light-filled rooms, original architectural details and carefully considered modern touches combine to create an elegant yet welcoming family residence.

Step Outside - Set within approximately 8.9 acres of gardens, grounds and paddocks, Grey Gables enjoys a private and elevated setting with far-reaching views across the surrounding countryside.

Approached through wrought-iron gates set between stone pillars, a sweeping driveway leads to a generous gravelled parking and turning area to the front of the house.

The gardens are mainly laid to lawn and framed by mature trees, creating a peaceful and private setting. With a favourable south-facing aspect, the grounds offer wonderful spaces for outdoor dining, entertaining or simply enjoying the tranquillity of the rural surroundings.

Beyond the gardens lies an impressive range of equestrian facilities. A modern stable block provides eight loose boxes arranged around a covered central yard, with power, lighting and water. A further stable building offers additional storage and tack room facilities and houses the biomass boiler system.

Additional outbuildings include an open pole barn for horsebox or machinery storage, while the floodlit manège (approximately 48m x 28m) provides an excellent all-weather riding arena. A Monarch four-horse walker further enhances the professional-standard facilities.

The surrounding paddock land extends to approximately 6.6 acres and is divided into well-fenced enclosures, many with independent water supplies and linked by an access track.

Together, the gardens, land and equestrian amenities create a rare opportunity to enjoy an exceptional country lifestyle in a beautifully private setting.

Seller's Insights - We have been fortunate to call Grey Gables home since April 2010, and from the very beginning it was the sense of space and freedom that captured us. The setting offers a rare balance; generous open land, established equestrian facilities and the ability to ride straight out from your own property, yet all within easy reach of Durham and the A1.

Over the years, it has given us the perfect backdrop for family life: large gatherings spilling out into the gardens, celebrations with 30 or more friends and family, and the simple daily pleasure of uninterrupted privacy and fresh air. It’s a home that allows you to breathe, to spread out, and to truly enjoy your surroundings.

The location has always felt wonderfully convenient without ever compromising on tranquillity. Durham city centre, retail parks and excellent local amenities including pubs, shops, supermarkets, doctors and a post office are all close at hand, and regular bus services just down the road made school and social trips easy for our children as they grew up here.

For anyone seeking space for equestrian pursuits or simply a lifestyle defined by land, privacy and character, Grey Gables offers something genuinely special - a home where there is room to grow, to gather, and to enjoy both countryside freedom and city convenience in equal measure.

Location - Old Quarrington, Durham, is a picturesque village with roots dating back to medieval times. The area features historic stone cottages and traditional farmhouses, reflecting centuries of rural life, and lies close to the remnants of early parish settlements. Just a short drive from Durham city, residents enjoy peaceful countryside living while remaining connected to schools, amenities, and transport links. Surrounded by scenic landscapes and nearby heritage sites, Old Quarrington offers a unique blend of history, charm, and modern convenience.

Directions - Old Quarrington, Durham, is easily accessible by car and lies just a few miles south-east of Durham city. From Durham, take the A690 toward Bowburn, then follow signs for the A688 toward Quarrington Hill. Exit at Quarrington Hill/Old Cassop and continue along the local roads past Quarrington Hill to reach the peaceful hamlet of Old Quarrington, situated between Bowburn and Quarrington Hill. If coming from the A1(M), leave at Junction 61 onto the A688 eastbound and follow the same local route. The village is small and tranquil, with the DH6 postcode area serving as a useful reference for navigation.

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Utilities And Property Information - Utilities – Mains Electricity, Private Water and Drainage and Biomass Boiler
Tenure – Freehold
Property Type – Detached
Construction Type – Standard
Council Tax – Band G
Parking – Garage and driveway for several vehicles with access to an electric vehicle charging point
Mobile Phone Coverage – Check with your provider
Internet Connection – Check with your provider
Public and Private rights of way – There is a right of way across the property at the rear boundary
Viewing Arrangements – Strictly via the vendor’s sole agent at Fine & Country North Yorkshire and Durham. Please note that there is CCTV at the property that will be in operation during viewings.