Get More From Your Longtown Hot Tub Cottage Break
Booking cottages with hot tubs in Longtown gives you a peaceful base right on the edge of the Scottish Borders with the kind of space and privacy you won't find in any hotel. This small Cumbrian village sits just 10 miles north of Carlisle and offers genuine tranquillity alongside easy access to both England and Scotland's best landscapes.
We love how Longtown works perfectly for romantic breaks and family getaways alike. The village itself keeps things simple with local pubs and shops whilst the surrounding countryside delivers proper remote self catering experiences. You can book everything from boutique cottages with private hot tub facilities to large holiday houses that sleep extended families.
What to do on a family or couple's hot tub break in Longtown
Longtown grew up around the River Esk and served as an important market town for the Borders region. The village name comes from its unusually long main street which still forms the heart of the community today. You'll find traditional stone buildings and a genuine working village atmosphere rather than tourist traps.
The location makes Longtown ideal for hot tub stays because you get proper countryside seclusion whilst staying within striking distance of Hadrian's Wall, the Lake District and the Scottish Borders. We think the mix of historical sites and natural beauty gives you plenty to fill your days before returning to your cottage with hot tub for the evening.
Sightseeing in Longtown
The area around Longtown has transformed from a strategic border crossing into a peaceful rural retreat. Hadrian's Wall runs just south of the village and represents one of Britain's most significant Roman monuments. The nearby city of Carlisle offers a proper castle, cathedral and museums whilst the Solway Coast provides dramatic coastal cottages scenery and wildlife watching opportunities.
Top 5 attractions you have to see in Longtown
The region delivers a brilliant mix of historical landmarks, natural landscapes and family-friendly activities. Whether you're after cultural visits or outdoor adventures, these five attractions give you the best of what's available within easy reach of your holiday cottages base.
Hadrian's Wall
This UNESCO World Heritage Site runs for 73 miles across northern England and marks the northwestern frontier of the Roman Empire. The Birdoswald Roman Fort section lies just 15 miles from Longtown and offers exceptionally well-preserved remains including turrets, milecastles and stunning views across the Irthing Gorge.
Carlisle Castle
Built in 1092 by William II, this imposing fortress has witnessed over 900 years of conflict and intrigue. The castle houses military museums, medieval dungeons and the rooms where Mary Queen of Scots was imprisoned. It's a 20-minute drive from Longtown and provides a proper historical day out for families and history enthusiasts.
Gretna Green
Famous as Scotland's wedding capital, Gretna Green sits just 8 miles north of Longtown across the border. The Famous Blacksmiths Shop tells the story of runaway marriages whilst the village offers shopping, dining and the chance to visit Scotland for lunch. Perfect for romantic breaks and makes an easy half-day trip.
Kielder Water & Forest Park
Northern Europe's largest man-made lake sits within England's biggest forest about 40 miles east of Longtown. You can hire bikes, take boat trips, spot red squirrels and visit the observatory for dark sky stargazing. The forest holiday atmosphere works brilliantly for active families and offers proper wilderness experiences.
Solway Coast AONB
This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty stretches along the coast west of Longtown and delivers huge skies, salt marshes and incredible birdwatching. The coastal path takes you through fishing villages and past isolated beaches. We recommend visiting Bowness-on-Solway where Hadrian's Wall meets the sea for a unique historical and natural combination.
Don't Miss These...
| Attraction | What you'll experience | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Hadrian's Wall | Roman history, archaeological remains and panoramic countryside views from one of Britain's most important ancient monuments | Everyone |
| Carlisle Castle | Medieval fortress exploration, military museums and stories of border conflicts spanning nearly a millennium | Families |
| Gretna Green | Scottish border charm, romantic history and traditional shopping in the famous runaway wedding village | Couples |
| Kielder Water & Forest Park | Outdoor activities including cycling, water sports and wildlife watching in England's largest forest | Families |
| Solway Coast AONB | Dramatic coastal landscapes, exceptional birdwatching and peaceful walks along unspoilt shorelines | Everyone |
Visitor FAQs
How do I get to Longtown?
Longtown sits on the A7 road between Carlisle and Edinburgh. Carlisle railway station is 10 miles south with regular services to London, Glasgow and Newcastle. The M6 motorway junction 44 is 8 miles away making car hire or driving your best option for exploring the area.
What family activities are available near Longtown?
Families love Carlisle Castle, Tullie House Museum and the Solway Aviation Museum. Kielder Forest offers adventure playgrounds and water activities whilst many local farms welcome visitors. The big cottages and large family holiday houses in the area often include games rooms and gardens for children.
Where are the best romantic spots?
Gretna Green tops the list for romance alongside quiet walks along the River Esk. The Solway Coast at sunset provides stunning views whilst secluded lodges and luxury cottages with jacuzzi facilities create perfect intimate retreats. Book a table at one of Carlisle's boutique restaurants for special evenings.
Is there good shopping nearby?
Carlisle city centre offers high street shops and the Lanes Shopping Centre 10 miles from Longtown. Gretna Gateway Outlet Village provides designer deals just across the Scottish border. Local farm shops and markets around Longtown sell regional produce perfect for self catering breaks.
Why choose a hot tub cottage in Longtown?
The rural setting means you get genuine privacy for hot tub breaks without neighbours overlooking you. After days exploring Hadrian's Wall or hiking the fells, returning to your own private hot tub beats any hotel spa. Dog friendly and pet friendly cottages with hot tubs let you bring the whole family including four-legged members.
Cottages with hot tubs in Longtown give you the perfect combination of border country exploration and luxury relaxation. Whether you're after last minute getaways, new year celebrations or extended country breaks, the variety of places to stay from cheap cottages to unique villas means there's something for every group size and budget. Book your cottage breaks here and discover why this quiet corner of Cumbria works so well for 1 night escapes or longer holiday lets.