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✅  How to book your XL Escape

1. Choose your dates - Use the calendar below to check live availability and pricing for your chosen property. 2. Submit a booking request - Fill in your details to send a request directly to both XL Escapes and the property host. 3. We’ll confirm everything within 24 hours - The host will respond to confirm availability, the deposit required to secure your stay, the full balance remaining, and when it’s due (typically 4-6 weeks before arrival). 4. Pay your deposit and secure your stay - You’ll receive a Stripe payment link by email. Once the deposit is received, your booking is confirmed and your dates are locked in.

Kim & Chris Ewen

We are SO excited to welcome you to our home! As the founders of XL Escapes, we pour our hearts into creating a space where you can relax, unwind, and make lasting memories.

With two rescue dogs—Holly from Bosnia and Buddy from All Bullie Rescue—and Nala, our beautiful ginger cat (and undisputed Queen of the house), we understand how important it is to feel not just at home, but truly content and relaxed—especially when traveling with your furry companions.

Our goal is to offer more than just a holiday; we want to provide a home away from home where you can escape daily pressures, have a laugh, and enjoy quality time with loved ones. Whether it’s a cosy night in, exploring the local area, or simply making time for yourself, we’re here to make your stay special.

If you have any requests—big or small—just let us know. We’re always happy to help (and we love an excuse to bring a smile to your face, drink in hand, of course!).

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Meet Your Hosts

Gary has been in property management for several years and has a wealth of experience managing holiday homes, ensuring every guest enjoys a seamless and comfortable stay. His love for dogs is a lifelong passion, having owned them for many years. When he first heard about XL Escapes through his daughter Eve (our wonderful housekeeper), he went on a passionate 15-minute rant about how unfair it is that dogs are often considered "exempt." Gary’s own giant German Shepherd, despite the often judgmental looks, was a gentle, soft-hearted companion – proving that size and appearance don’t define a dog’s temperament. ​ Gary’s dedication to creating a welcoming environment for guests – human and canine alike – shines through in everything he does. Whether you’re visiting for business or leisure, you’ll find that Gary’s focus is always on providing a relaxed and enjoyable stay for all.
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XL Escapes Peace Of Mind Promise

Cancellation Policy

Bob Hannah Cottage

⚲ Butterknowle, County Durham

6 guests · 3 bedrooms · 2 bathrooms · 4 beds · 2 dogs allowed · Enclosed garden · 5ft fence · All breeds welcomed​

Newly renovated 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom property located in a tranquil village setting. This traditional terrace house offers a cozy, homely feel with scenic green fields in a quiet and friendly neighbourhood.

Full Property Description:

Full Property Description: Discover the charm of this newly renovated, pet-friendly retreat. Located in a tranquil village setting, Bob Hannah Cottage offers a cosy, homely atmosphere surrounded by scenic green fields. Perfect for families and their furry friends, this 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom property is ideal for a relaxing getaway. Highlights: • Secure Fencing - 1.5m high fencing ensures pets can roam safely. • Enclosed Garden - A private outdoor space for pets and relaxation. • Modern Amenities - Smoke alarms, a carbon monoxide detector, and a first-aid kit are provided for peace of mind. ​Additional Features: • Smart Video Doorbell - Adding convenience and security during your stay. • Ample Parking - On-site parking for multiple vehicles. • Dog-Friendly Guidelines - Clear rules to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for pets and guests alike. • Eco-Friendly Touches - Energy-efficient appliances to reduce your carbon footprint.

Full Property Description:

When holidaying at The Chase, you can look forward to curling up in the large, yet cosy living room and dining area. The huge corner sofa makes it a perfect area to relax and unwind with family and friends, playing board games or catching up with a Netflix binge—while your furry best friend snoozes happily alongside you. The large modern kitchen allows you to cook up a storm, with a glass dining table for meals enjoyed with garden views through the patio doors. A stunning solid wood breakfast bar, seating four, also opens onto the garden through double patio doors. The beautiful, tiered garden is perfect for unwinding on a sunny day or stargazing on a clear night. Fully enclosed, it provides a secure and private space for dogs of all temperaments, including reactive or exempt dogs. Just outside the patio doors, you’ll find an outdoor kitchen area with a BBQ, dining table, benches, a beautifully lit arbour, and two modern rattan rocking chairs—ideal for outdoor dining or relaxing with family and friends. The grassy tiers are perfect for zoomies or lounging in the sun, and the top tier boasts a lounge and bar area adorned with solar lights and an outdoor plug for added convenience. On the middle floor, there are three bedrooms and a master bathroom. The teal bedroom features a king-size bed, a single bed with an optional pull-out, and a large flat-screen TV. The white bedroom includes a double bed, dressing table/office space, and a Firestick-enabled TV. The navy bedroom offers an ornate double bed and flat-screen TV. All bedrooms have blackout blinds for a great night’s sleep. The master bathroom includes a large bath and a walk-in waterfall shower.  The top floor boasts the master bedroom with a king-size bed, LED-lit headboard, smart TV, and windows showcasing views of the Derwentside Valley and the garden. The ensuite features a bath, walk-in waterfall shower, and illuminated mirror. Whether you're holidaying with a playful puppy or a reactive dog that thrives in calm, private spaces, The Chase is thoughtfully designed to ensure every guest—human and canine—feels relaxed, safe, and at home.

Paw of Approval

Photos from real stays, with dogs who gave it their paw of approval.

Got a question about this holiday home? 

Contact us or send us an instant message now

Amenities:

Dog-Friendly Details That Matter 

- Dogs of all breeds are welcomed with up to two dogs allowed during the stay. - The garden is a medium, fully enclosed and secure area for your pups to have plenty of off-lead zoomies! - The environment is peaceful and tranquil, with closed fence boards, however, there are two connecting gardens and there are occasionally dogs walked passed the garden. - On nights such as Bonfire Night and New Years Eve, you might hear some fireworks. - There are a selection of food and water bowls available, however, you're welcome to bring your own instead. - Bob Hannah does not have dog crates available and ask that you bring your own, if required. - Bob Hannah does not have dog beds and ask that you bring your own. - Bob Hannah Hosts kindly request that dogs do not go on the furniture. - There will always be poop bags and cleaning essentials available for you to clean up after your dogs too.

Neighbourhood Overview:

Nestled in the peaceful village of Butterknowle, near Barnard Castle, Bob Hannah Cottage offers a tranquil countryside escape with stunning rural views. This friendly, welcoming area is perfect for dog lovers, with plenty of scenic walking routes right on your doorstep. Just a short drive away, you’ll find Hamsterley Forest, a paradise for both two-legged and four-legged adventurers, featuring miles of beautiful trails, family-friendly picnic spots, and even mountain biking for the more adventurous. For a relaxed day out, Barnard Castle Market Place is brimming with independent shops, cosy cafés, and local history to explore. And after a day of adventure, why not head to the Royal Oak Pub, a nearby dog-friendly spot where you can enjoy a hearty meal with your pup by your side? Whether you’re after peaceful countryside strolls or a bit of local charm, this idyllic setting is perfect for making memories with your furry companion. 🐾
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