Longtown Cottages with Hot Tubs

Get More From Your Longtown Hot Tub Cottage Break

Sightseeing

Longtown sits in a fantastic spot for exploring both Cumbria and southern Scotland. The town itself has a lovely riverside walk along the Esk where I've spotted herons and kingfishers on early morning strolls. The historic centre has some interesting architecture including the 18th century stone bridge.

Carlisle is just 9 miles south with its impressive medieval castle (CA3 8UR, open 10am-5pm daily, TripAdvisor 4.5/5) and cathedral (CA3 8TZ, open 7:30am-6:15pm Mon-Sat, 7:30am-5pm Sun, TripAdvisor 4.5/5). The Tullie House Museum (CA3 8TP, 10am-5pm Mon-Sat, 12pm-5pm Sun, TripAdvisor 4.5/5) is worth a visit for its Roman exhibits.

We always recommend a trip to Gretna Green (DG16 5EA, TripAdvisor 4/5), just 5.6 miles away. Beyond the famous wedding venue, there's a good outlet shopping centre nearby. The Solway Coast AONB is within easy reach too - Bowness-on-Solway (CA7 5AF) marks the western end of Hadrian's Wall Path and has stunning estuary views.

Pet Friendly

Many Longtown cottages welcome dogs and the area is perfect for four-legged visitors. The River Esk path provides an easy walk right from the town centre, while Netherby Hall gardens (CA6 5PR) allow dogs on leads and have lovely grounds to explore.

The Sycamore Tree café in Longtown (CA6 5SE) has outdoor seating where dogs are welcome and they even offer water bowls. The Graham Arms Hotel (CA6 5SE) allows dogs in the bar area and serves good pub grub.

If your dog loves a swim, head to the shallow sections of the River Esk at Canonbie (about 6 miles north). After a muddy walk, many cottages have utility rooms where you can clean up before relaxing in your hot tub while your dog dries off by the fire!

Top 3 attractions you have to see in Longtown

1. Netherby Hall and Gardens (CA6 5PR, open Wed-Sun 10am-4pm Apr-Oct, TripAdvisor 4/5) - This stunning Grade II listed mansion sits in 36 acres of gardens just outside Longtown. The walled garden is particularly impressive with its Victorian glasshouses. One visitor told me "The woodland walk was magical in spring with bluebells everywhere" while another praised the "excellent tea room with homemade cakes".

2. Liddle Viaduct (CA6 5HS) - This impressive Victorian railway bridge spans the Liddle Water on the England-Scotland border. It's a 15-minute drive from Longtown but worth it for the views and walking opportunities. The structure has 11 arches and stands 84 feet high. A recent visitor commented: "Great spot for photos, especially at sunset. We saw a deer while walking along the river below."

3. Arthuret Church (CA6 5SJ) - This historic church dates from 1609 and has connections to the Battle of Solway Moss. The churchyard contains interesting gravestones including some with skull and crossbone carvings. A TripAdvisor reviewer noted: "Peaceful spot with lots of history. The information boards explain the battle really well."

What's the best time to visit Longtown?

Summer offers the best weather for exploring, but spring (April-May) is my favourite time when the countryside looks fresh and accommodation prices are lower. Your cottage hot tub will be especially welcome in autumn and winter when you can stargaze from the warm bubbles - Longtown has minimal light pollution.

Are there any good pubs in Longtown?

Yes! The Graham Arms Hotel has a traditional pub with real ales and hearty food. The Sycamore Tree serves good coffee and light meals. For something special, try The Highland Laddie in nearby Glasson (CA6 5SQ), a 400-year-old pub with excellent food.

Can I go fishing near Longtown?

Absolutely. The River Esk is famous for salmon and sea trout fishing. Day permits are available from the Esk & Liddle Fisheries Association. The season runs from February to October, with September often providing the best catches.

Is Longtown good for cycling?

Yes, the quiet country roads are perfect for cycling. The Reivers Route (National Cycle Network Route 10) passes through Longtown. Bikes can be hired from Border City Cycles in Carlisle (CA1 1JG).

How far is Longtown from the Lake District?

The northern Lakes are about 30-40 minutes by car. Keswick is 35 miles away (about 50 minutes' drive), making day trips very doable before returning to your hot tub cottage.

Are there any good walks directly from Longtown?

The River Esk path offers a lovely flat walk. For something more challenging, the Solway Coast and Hadrian's Wall paths are within easy reach. The local tourist office provides free walking maps.

Helpful links:

1. Visit Cumbria - Longtown Guide
2. English Heritage - Hadrian's Wall
3. Visit Scotland - Dumfries & Galloway
4. Discover Carlisle