✅ How to book your XL Escape

1. Choose your dates - Use the calendar below to check live availability and prices. Dates in green show when the property is available. Most homes require a minimum 2-night stay, so some single green nights may not be bookable. If a date is green and underlined, it’s part of a valid stay. 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!).

Cancellation Policy

We understand that plans can change, and we’ve designed our cancellation policy to be as fair and transparent as possible.

If You Need to Cancel

More than 5 weeks before arrival: You’ll receive a full refund, including your deposit.
5 weeks or less before arrival:
- 5 weeks or less: 30% of the booking is charged.
- 4 weeks or less: 40% of the booking is charged.
- 3 weeks or less: 60% of the booking is charged.
- 2 weeks or less: 85% of the booking is charged.
- 1 week or less: 100% of the booking is charged.

How Refunds Work

If you’re entitled to a refund, it will be processed promptly and returned via the same method of payment.

Need Assistance?

If you have any concerns or extenuating circumstances, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to help and will always try to find a solution that works for you.

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Payment Details
At XL Escapes, we strive to make the booking process as straightforward and secure as possible. Here’s how it works:
Deposits

A 20% deposit is required within 7 days of booking to secure your stay.

XL Escapes Booking Fee

We charge a small 5% booking fee, which is significantly lower than other major platforms.

Remaining Balance

The remaining balance, including any refundable breakage deposit (if applicable), must be paid 4 weeks before your check-in date.

Secure Payments with Stripe
All payments are processed through Stripe Connect, a trusted and secure platform. Your funds are safely held with Stripe until after your check-out date. This extra layer of protection ensures peace of mind for both guests and hosts. Your payment details are always handled securely, so you can book with confidence.

Check-in and Check-out

Check-in: 4 PM
Check-out: 10 AM
We can’t guarantee early check-ins or late check-outs, but our housekeeping team will update us on their progress. If the property is ready early, you can let yourself in. Similarly, if no one is arriving immediately after, a later check-out might be possible—just message us on the day to check availability.

Pets

Dogs of all breeds and sizes are welcome. 🐾
The garden is fully enclosed to keep your furry friends safe.

Hot Tub

The hot tub is for your exclusive use. It will be freshly cleaned and ready when you arrive. Please follow the usage guidelines provided in the welcome book to ensure it remains in top condition.

Parking

Parking is strictly on the driveway only.
Do not park on the grass or the private road, which is also used by neighbours.

Gatherings and Events

Small, private gatherings are welcome, but parties are not allowed.
Be respectful of the property and neighbours during your stay.

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What’s included in the booking?

We provide:

Fresh bedding and towels
Tea, coffee, sugar, sweetener, and coffee pods
A raw doggy hamper (treat your furry friends!) 🐾
Dog-friendly essentials like bowls, poo bags, and towels
A welcome hamper to make you feel right at home
Access to the luxury hot tub

What amenities are nearby?

Owl and Otter Gastro Pub and Restaurant: A 10-minute walk away. Dog-friendly with great food, cocktails, and a beer garden boasting stunning views of the Derwentside Valley.
Boutique cafes: Two charming cafes just a short walk from The Chase.
Local shops: Two within walking distance and larger supermarkets only a 10-minute drive away.

What are some recommended activities nearby?

Beamish Open-Air Museum: A dog-friendly, fantastic day out for all ages. Explore history, meet animals, and enjoy a unique experience.
More local attractions: Ask us for our Local Recommendations Guide before booking to discover even more options in the area.

Can I book The Chase for special events?

Yes! If you’re planning a small celebration or gathering, let us know so we can help accommodate your plans. Please note that large parties are not allowed.

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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.

XL Escapes Peace Of Mind Promise

We protect your money — and your peace of mind. Your payment is held securely in a separate account and only released after you’ve checked in. Every property is personally verified — whether we’ve visited it ourselves, received site plans, or had extensive conversations with the owners. We ask the questions we know matter, because as owners of XL reactive dogs ourselves, we get it! So you can book with total confidence, knowing everything is as promised.

Cancellation Policy

We know that sometimes things don’t go to plan, which is why our cancellation policy is clear and fair: - Cancel more than 4 weeks before your stay: You’ll receive a full refund, including your deposit. - Cancel within 4 weeks of arrival: The booking is non-refundable. Refunds - If you’re due a refund, we’ll process it promptly to your original payment method. Need help? - If something unexpected has come up, just get in touch. We’ll always do our best to help.

Home Rules & Useful Information

- Check in: 4pm - Check out: 10am - Bookings must be a minimum of 2 nights - Unregistered guests are not permitted - Free parking on site. - Pups are not allowed on the furniture or upstairs. - Clean up after them in the garden before departure.

Doublegait Luxury Countryside Cottage

⚲ Butterknowle, County Durham

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

A modern 3-bedroom countryside escape with a fully enclosed garden and 5ft wall — ideal for reactive dogs and XL Bullies needing true peace and privacy. Stylish, secure, and surrounded by nature in County Durham.

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Full Property Description:

Welcome to Doublegait Luxury Countryside Cottage — a stylish, fully refurbished 3-bedroom escape in the heart of County Durham. This peaceful retreat is designed for comfort, connection, and complete peace of mind — especially for dog owners seeking a secure and private space. Step inside to discover a bright, modern open-plan living area where natural light pours through the windows. The lounge is a cosy, elegant space with plush sofas — perfect for curling up with a film, sharing stories with loved ones, or diving into a good book. The fully equipped kitchen features sleek countertops, high-spec appliances, and everything you need to whip up delicious meals. Gather around the indoor dining table, or head outside to the patio for relaxed alfresco evenings. Each of the three bedrooms has been thoughtfully styled to feel like a home from home. With a mix of king and double beds, soft premium linens, and calming décor throughout, everyone can settle in for a great night's sleep. A modern bathroom offers both a walk-in shower and a deep bathtub — ideal for soaking sore legs after long walks or bike rides. But what truly sets Doublegait apart is the garden. The entire outdoor space is fully enclosed by a 5ft high wall, offering rare and genuine security for dogs — especially XL Bullies, reactive dogs, or pups with a reputation for escaping. You can relax knowing your dog is safe to roam, play, and sunbathe in total privacy, without a single worry about fences, gaps, or neighbouring dogs. Whether you're enjoying a summer BBQ, letting the dogs out for zoomies, or sipping wine as the sun sets, the garden is your private green sanctuary. Back indoors, enjoy modern comforts like high-speed Wi-Fi, a smart TV with streaming apps, and a layout that’s both practical and luxurious. Every detail has been considered to make your stay as easy, relaxing, and memorable as possible.

Full Property Description:

Welcome to Doublegait Luxury Countryside Cottage — a stylish, fully refurbished 3-bedroom escape in the heart of County Durham. This peaceful retreat is designed for comfort, connection, and complete peace of mind — especially for dog owners seeking a secure and private space. Step inside to discover a bright, modern open-plan living area where natural light pours through the windows. The lounge is a cosy, elegant space with plush sofas — perfect for curling up with a film, sharing stories with loved ones, or diving into a good book. The fully equipped kitchen features sleek countertops, high-spec appliances, and everything you need to whip up delicious meals. Gather around the indoor dining table, or head outside to the patio for relaxed alfresco evenings. Each of the three bedrooms has been thoughtfully styled to feel like a home from home. With a mix of king and double beds, soft premium linens, and calming décor throughout, everyone can settle in for a great night's sleep. A modern bathroom offers both a walk-in shower and a deep bathtub — ideal for soaking sore legs after long walks or bike rides. But what truly sets Doublegait apart is the garden. The entire outdoor space is fully enclosed by a 5ft high wall, offering rare and genuine security for dogs — especially XL Bullies, reactive dogs, or pups with a reputation for escaping. You can relax knowing your dog is safe to roam, play, and sunbathe in total privacy, without a single worry about fences, gaps, or neighbouring dogs. Whether you're enjoying a summer BBQ, letting the dogs out for zoomies, or sipping wine as the sun sets, the garden is your private green sanctuary. Back indoors, enjoy modern comforts like high-speed Wi-Fi, a smart TV with streaming apps, and a layout that’s both practical and luxurious. Every detail has been considered to make your stay as easy, relaxing, and memorable as possible.

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

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Amenities:

All 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, with a 5ft wall surrounding the garden, for lots of off lead zoomies! - The environment is peaceful and tranquil, and with the high wall surrounding the garden, it could be a perfect garden for a reactive pup that does not like to hear or see other animals. However, there is a connecting garden to this home, and a path next to the home, therefore it is still possible they could hear the neighbours or passers by. - On nights such as Bonfire Night and New Years Eve, you might hear some fireworks. - There are not a selection of food and water bowls, therefore please bring your own. - Doublegait does not have dog beds and ask that you bring your own. - The 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:

Doublegait sits in the peaceful village of Butterknowle, nestled between rolling County Durham hills and rich historical landscapes. Once a mining village, Butterknowle retains a friendly, down-to-earth feel with strong ties to the area’s heritage. There are two traditional, dog-friendly pubs within walking distance — perfect after a day of exploring. You’re only 3 miles from Raby Castle, one of England’s finest medieval castles, complete with deer park, formal gardens, and a charming café. The stunning Hamsterley Forest is also nearby — ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, offering walking trails, cycle routes, and adventure play areas for families. Further afield, you’ll find the market towns of Barnard Castle and Bishop Auckland for shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. This is a place where countryside calm meets local charm — a perfect setting for slow mornings, scenic walks, and proper switch-off time.