Before I start I want to point out that we've stayed in a number of cottages over the years that we've booked through Sykes, but Mead House has got to be one of the best yet! The house was spotless on our arrival with fresh Tea, Coffee, milk & biscuits provided by the owners, nice thought. We found the fixtures & fittings all to be of good quality with the furniture and bedding all very comfortable with the extra large double giving a good nights sleep. The open plan layout was surprisingly cosy and relaxing with the benefit of the washing machine being downstairs we were able to eat or watch TV without the noise disturbing us.
As a base for exploring the local area we were able to visit Middlsborough, Durham, Whitby, Gateshead & the wonderful Beamish Museum as all are within an easy drive. As a side note if you are planning a visit to Beamish do so at the weekend as they are usually "themed", with our visit was based on past transport.
Overall highly recommended if you are able to manage the layout of the house over 3 floors.