Located in the border town of Longtown, Cumbria, Borders Retreat is a cosy 1-bedroom flat on Swan Street, just 7 minutes from M6 Junction 44/45, making it ideal for breaking up long journeys. Perfect for solo travellers or couples, it features a comfortable double bedroom, bright living area, and a fully equipped kitchen. Just 10 minutes from Gretna Green and 20 minutes from Carlisle. Up to 2 small dogs welcome.
Borders Retreat is a bright and homely 1-bedroom flat located on Swan Street, right in the heart of Longtown, a peaceful border town surrounded by scenic countryside and historic landmarks. Set on the second floor, this cosy flat is ideal for couples or solo travellers looking to unwind, explore, or break up a longer journey.
🛏️ Sleeping Arrangements
* One bedroom with a comfortable UK standard double bed
* Travel cot available on request (cot bedding not provided)
🍽️ Fully Equipped Kitchen
* Electric oven and hob
* Fridge freezer
* Microwave, kettle, toaster
* Crockery, cookware, and utensils provided
🗺️ Discover the Local Area
Set in a quiet town with everything you need on your doorstep:
* Walk to local pubs, takeaways, cafés, and convenience shops
* Just 7 mins from M6 Junction 44/45 – ideal for stopovers or road trip breaks
* Only 10 mins to Gretna Green – famous for weddings, shopping, and historic charm
* 20 mins to Carlisle – visit the cathedral, castle, museum, and shops
* 30 mins to Hadrian’s Wall – explore Birdoswald Fort, Lanercost Priory, and Roman trails
* Easy access to the Scottish Borders – Annan, Langholm, and the Solway Coast
Also located just 15–20 minutes from popular wedding venues including Hidden River Cabins, Skitby House, Kirklinton Hall, Springkell, and Kinmount House – making it a convenient and peaceful place to stay before or after the big day.
Whether you’re exploring the region or simply relaxing in a quiet spot, Borders Retreat offers a comfortable and well-located base.
Other Details to Note
🚗 Parking
* Free on-street parking available directly outside the property
* No permit required or time restrictions
🛏️ Linen & Towels
* Bed linen and towels are provided
* Travel cot available free of charge (please bring your own cot bedding)
🐾 Pets
* We welcome one well-behaved small dog. Please ensure your pets are included in your booking details when reserving your stay.
* Please note: the flat does not have a garden or secure outdoor space, but Longtown offers plenty of great walks nearby, including scenic routes along the River Esk—perfect for stretching paws and legs alike!
🚭 No Smoking Indoors
* Smoking is permitted outside only
🎉 No Events or Parties
* Please respect our home and neighbours – no parties or gatherings allowed
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🏡 Neighbourhood Guide: Longtown, Cumbria / Scottish Border
Situated just minutes from the England - Scotland border, Longtown is a friendly rural town in north Cumbria, surrounded by rolling countryside, historic sites, and easy transport links. It’s the perfect stopover location for guests travelling between Scotland and England - or for those attending a wedding nearby, exploring Hadrian’s Wall, or seeking a quiet country escape.
📍 Top Local Landmarks & Attractions:
* Longtown Bridge & River Esk – Scenic walks and salmon fishing along the river
* Hadrian’s Wall (20 mins) – Visit Birdoswald Roman Fort, Banks Turret, or Lanercost Priory
* Gretna Green Famous Blacksmiths Shop (10 mins) – Iconic elopement and visitor attraction
* Carlisle Castle & Cathedral (20 mins) – Explore the historic city of Carlisle
* Carlisle City – Independent shops, cafés, pubs, and convenience stores
* Talkin Tarn Country Park (30 mins) Lakeside strolls, café, and boat hire
* Gelt Woods & River Gelt Trails Peaceful woodland walks (30 mins)
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💍 Popular Wedding Venues Nearby:
* Gretna Green Famous Blacksmiths Shop (10 mins)
* Smiths at Gretna Green
* Gretna Hall Hotel
* The Mill Forge
* Skitby House (15 mins)
* Kirklinton Hall (20 mins)
* Springkell (20 mins)
* Kinmount House (25 mins)
* Hidden River Cabins (30 mins)
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🛍️ Local Amenities:
* Local pubs, chip shop, takeaways, newsagents, and convenience stores
* Pharmacy, petrol station and Post Office
* Cafés and traditional pubs offering meals and local ales
* Supermarkets (Tesco, Asda, Aldi, Lidl) in Carlisle (20 mins) or Gretna (10 mins)
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🚗 Nearby Towns & Day Trips:
* Carlisle (20 mins) – Historic city with museums, nightlife, shopping, and train station
* Gretna Green (10 mins) – Wedding capital with outlet shopping and romantic sights
* Brampton (25 mins) – Market town near Hadrian’s Wall and Talkin Tarn
* Langholm (20 mins) – Scottish border town with great walks and independent shops
* Lake District National Park (45 mins+) – Perfect for day trips into the fells, lakes, and picturesque villages
* Northumberland National Park (45 mins) – Castles, open countryside, and Roman ruins
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🚆 Travel & Transport:
* M6 Motorway – Just 5 minutes away, ideal for travellers heading north or south
* A7 & A6071 – Direct routes to Carlisle, Hawick, and the Borders
* Carlisle & Gretna Railway Stations - with services to Glasgow, Edinburgh, London, and beyond
* No Uber – Local taxi companies available (pre-booking highly recommended for weddings or evening plans)
