County Durham is a county rich in history, natural beauty, and community spirit. From the iconic Durham Cathedral and Castle—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—to the stunning landscapes of the Durham Dales and Derwent Reservoir, it offers a unique blend of heritage, outdoor adventure, and vibrant local culture.
With increasing visitor numbers drawn by festivals, historic sites, and outdoor activities, County Durham has become a promising area for short-term holiday lets. If you own a property here, you could benefit from turning it into a flexible, income-generating short-let. But managing a holiday home alongside everyday life can be daunting. That’s where Pass the Keys County Durham steps in, offering professional management with a personal touch.
We’re Sean and Matthew, proud owners of Pass the Keys County Durham. Our passion for the area’s heritage and community drives everything we do. We are dedicated to providing a friendly, dependable service that reflects the warmth and care of the local community.
“County Durham has so many hidden gems and a close-knit spirit. We love helping property owners unlock their homes’ potential while giving guests the best possible experience of our beautiful region.”
With a deep understanding of the local market and a reliable network of cleaning and maintenance teams, Sean and Matthew ensure every property in their care is managed to the highest standards.
County Durham offers year-round appeal to a broad range of visitors:
Durham Cathedral and Castle attract history buffs and pilgrims alike
Festivals such as the Durham Miners’ Gala and Durham Book Festival bring waves of visitors
Local theatres, galleries, and historic towns like Barnard Castle offer enriching cultural experiences
The Durham Dales and Weardale provide hiking, cycling, and fishing opportunities
The Derwent Reservoir and Killhope Lead Mining Museum are popular day trips
Walking trails along the River Wear and countryside offer guests peaceful retreats
Steady demand from visitors to Durham University, local hospitals, and business parks
Flexible stays for students, visiting academics, and medical professionals
| Property Type | Avg Nightly Rate | Est. Occupancy | Est. Annual Revenue |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-bed city centre flat | £70–£90 | 55–65% | £14K–£17K |
| 2-bed family home | £90–£120 | 60–70% | £20K–£25K |
| 3-bed countryside cottage | £120–£160 | 65–75% | £28K–£35K+ |
Sean and Matthew provide a full-service management package tailored to local demand:
High-quality photography and compelling property descriptions
Listings optimised across Airbnb, Booking.com, and more
Multi-platform calendar syncing to maximise bookings
Smart, data-driven pricing adjusts nightly rates based on events, seasonality, and competition
Maximises revenue while keeping occupancy high
Full guest vetting and ID verification
24/7 guest support throughout their stay
Local recommendations to enhance guest experiences
Trusted local cleaning teams deliver hotel-standard cleanliness
Linen and essentials replenished between stays
Prompt maintenance and repairs to keep your property in top shape
Transparent access to bookings, earnings, and guest reviews
Flexibility to block dates for personal use
Monthly automated payments with detailed reporting
County Durham does not currently require specific short-let licences. Hosts should:
Track letting days to remain within local guidelines
Be aware of upcoming tax changes affecting furnished holiday lets from April 2025
Seek advice for business rate eligibility and relief
Sean and Matthew can also connect hosts with local tax and legal experts for tailored support.
Can I use my property myself?
Yes, you can block dates easily through the owner portal.
Is my property safe with short-term guests?
All guests are vetted, and platforms provide damage protection policies to safeguard your home.
Do I have to manage the cleaning?
No. We coordinate trusted cleaners who provide professional turnover services.
How soon can my property be listed?
Typically within 7-10 days after onboarding and photography.
One local owner transformed a Georgian townhouse near Durham Cathedral into a thriving short-let with Sean and Matthew:
Achieved 70% occupancy within four months
Increased average nightly rates by 25%
Earned consistent five-star guest reviews
Enjoyed hands-off management with personal-use flexibility
“Sean and Matthew’s care and local knowledge turned our property into a reliable income stream without the usual headaches.”
If you own a property in Durham City, Barnard Castle, or the beautiful Durham Dales, Sean and Matthew are ready to help you maximise your short-let income with professional management and local expertise.
👉 Get a free property assessment today
📞 Speak directly with Sean & Matthew
📩 Receive a tailored income estimate with no obligation
With expert local management, cutting-edge technology, and a passion for the region, Pass the Keys County Durham makes hosting effortless and profitable.