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Key to the Esk

Cumbria » Carlisle
Sleeps up to 4
Hot Tub

Key to the Esk is a stunningly renovated terraced cottage sitting on the banks of the River Esk in Longtown, Cumbria. Positioned perfectly between England and Scotland, this Customers' Choice 2020 award-winning cottage sleeps up to 4 and is finished with stylish furnishings throughout.

Longtown sits just 3 miles from Gretna Green with the Lake District, Northumberland National Park, Hadrian's Wall and the Scottish Borders all within easy reach. A pub is within a mile and shops are just 50 yards away. The enclosed garden has a gate leading directly onto the riverbank.

The cottage sleeps 4 across one king-size bedroom and a double sofa bed (children only). The open-plan ground floor has a 50" Smart TV and woodburner.

 

About Key to the Esk

Key to the Esk is a stunningly renovated terraced cottage sitting on the banks of the River Esk in Longtown, Cumbria. Positioned perfectly between England and Scotland, this Customers' Choice 2020 award-winning cottage sleeps up to 4 and is finished with stylish furnishings throughout.

Longtown sits just 3 miles from Gretna Green with the Lake District, Northumberland National Park, Hadrian's Wall and the Scottish Borders all within easy reach.

A pub is within a mile and shops are just 50 yards away. The enclosed garden has a gate leading directly onto the riverbank.

The cottage sleeps 4 across one king-size bedroom and a double sofa bed (children only).

The open-plan ground floor has a 50" Smart TV and woodburner. The kitchen has a dishwasher, wine cooler and coffee machine.

The bathroom features a slipper bath and cubicle shower.

Gretna Green Blacksmiths Shop (3 miles, 8 mins), Carlisle Castle (10 miles, 20 mins), Hadrian's Wall at Birdoswald (18 miles, 30 mins) and Solway Coast (15 miles, 25 mins) are all close by.

The private covered hot tub seats 6 with 80 jets and Bluetooth speakers. Key to the Esk is ideal for couples and honeymooners wanting a romantic base to explore two countries.

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Need To Know

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What Guests Love

What makes Key to the Esk a brilliant stay?

Riverbank Access

A gate at the bottom of the enclosed garden opens directly onto the banks of the River Esk. Stunning and immediate.

Woodburning Stove

The open-plan living space has a woodburner with initial logs included. Cosy and atmospheric on cooler evenings.

Slipper Bath

The bathroom includes a slipper bath alongside a cubicle shower and heated towel rail. A genuinely luxurious touch.

Two Countries on Your Doorstep

Gretna Green is 3 miles away. The Lake District, Scottish Borders and Hadrian's Wall are all within 30 minutes drive.

Stylish Open-Plan Living

The ground floor is fully open-plan with a 50" Smart TV, wine cooler, coffee machine and dishwasher all included.

Getting To Key to the Esk

Find your way to your perfect hot tub retreat

By Car

To reach Key to the Esk by car, head into Longtown via the A7 or B6318. The cottage is on the banks of the River Esk in the village centre with on-road parking available directly outside.

By Train

The nearest railway station is Carlisle, approximately 10 miles south of Longtown. From Carlisle station a taxi or local bus will get you to the cottage in around 20 minutes.

On-road parking outside the cottage
Carlisle railway station (approx 10 miles)
Longtown village, Cumbria, CA6 5PS

Group Attractions & More Nearby

Things to do and places to visit near Key to the Esk

Gretna Green Blacksmiths Shop

Distance: 3 miles

DG16 5EA

Carlisle Castle

Distance: 10 miles

CA3 8UR

Birdoswald Roman Fort (Hadrian's Wall)

Distance: 18 miles

CA8 7DD

River Esk Riverside Walk

Distance: 0 miles (from garden gate)

CA6 5PS

Solway Coast Path

Distance: 15 miles

DG14 0RF

Kielder Forest & Water Park Trails

Distance: 28 miles

NE48 1BX

Gretna Gateway Outlet Village

Distance: 3 miles

DG16 5GG

Carlisle City Centre Shops

Distance: 10 miles

CA3 8NX

Local Village Shops Longtown

Distance: 50 yards

CA6 5PS

Carlisle Bus & Rail Station

Distance: 10 miles

CA1 1JB

A7 Road (Scotland/England route)

Distance: 0.5 miles

CA6 5PS

Taxi Services from Carlisle

Distance: 10 miles

CA1 1JB

Is Key to the Esk Right For Your Group

Discover why this cottage is the one for your party or family...

For Families

There is a double sofa bed in the living area for children. The enclosed garden is safe to play in and the River Esk is just through the garden gate (fenced, 100 yards). Gretna Green and Carlisle Castle are both within 20 minutes by car.

For Couples & Romance

Key to the Esk is explicitly listed as an ideal honeymoon destination. Gretna Green's famous Blacksmiths wedding venue is just 3 miles away.

Dining & Cafes Nearby

Great places to eat and drink near Key to the Esk

The Eskdale Hotel

0.3 miles

CA6 5PY

The Graham Arms Inn

0.5 miles

CA6 5SE

The Forge Restaurant Gretna Green

3 miles

DG16 5EA

Within Walking Distance

What you can reach on foot from Key to the Esk

A short walk away you'll find village shops just 50 yards from the door, a pub within a mile and direct riverbank access through the garden gate. Longtown's quiet streets are easy to explore on foot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to our most common questions about Key to the Esk

Does this cottage have a hot tub?
Yes. Key to the Esk has a private covered hot tub in the enclosed garden. It seats 6 and features 80 jets and Bluetooth speakers.
Is it pet friendly?
No pets are allowed at Key to the Esk. If you are travelling with a dog or other pet you will need to look at alternative properties.
How many does the cottage sleep?
The cottage sleeps up to 4 guests. There is one king-size bedroom and a double sofa bed in the living area which is strictly for children only.
Where exactly is the cottage located?
Key to the Esk is in Longtown, Cumbria, sitting on the banks of the River Esk. It is around 10 miles north of Carlisle and just 3 miles from Gretna Green.
What is included in the price?
Wi-Fi, electricity, bed linen and towels are all included. Initial logs for the woodburner and a welcome pack are also provided on arrival.
Is there parking at the cottage?
Parking is on-road directly outside the cottage. There is no private driveway but on-road parking is readily available in this quiet village location.
What is the kitchen equipped with?
The kitchen has an electric oven, hob, microwave, fridge/freezer, wine cooler, dishwasher, coffee machine and washer dryer. It is well equipped for a self-catering stay.
How close are the nearest shops and pubs?
Shops are just 50 yards from the cottage. A pub is within 1 mile making it easy to eat out or pick up supplies without needing to drive.

Key to the Esk Reviews

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Attractions Near Key to the Esk

While there'll be plenty to keep you entertained at Key to the Esk itself, if you plan to get out and about and see some of what Cumbria has to offer, here are some of the nearby attractions you can enjoy during your stay. Please note that some of these activities and days out are paid and it's always a good idea to book in advance to secure your place where applicable.

Found a special day out near your cottage? Please let us know and we'll add it so that other visitors can enjoy it too!
Tullie House Museum & Art Gallery - CA3 8TP
about 7 Miles
This is a museum and art gallery in one and will suit those looking for an educational and cultural day out.  You can explore the fantastic art collection including Fine Art, Decorative Art and Textiles.  If you love nature then this aspect of Tullie House will appeal. The museum holds large and important collections of zoological, botanical and geological material. And for lovers of history there is plenty to wet your appetite here. Tullie House collects a wide range of historic materials including objects, ephemera (printed material), photographs and associated information files.  We think this museum and art gallery are excellent value for money as well.
Kielder Water Bird of Prey Centre - NE48 1BT
about 21 Miles
Housing the most fascinating collection of Birds of Prey in the North East this centre is definitely worth a visit if you are staying in the Kielder Water area. Located in Falstone it's easy to get to and makes a great day out for both families and couples.  As well as seeing the amazing birds you can learn all about the captive breeding programme and the excellent work being done there.  Some of the highlights of the day might include watching a Falcon stoop down from the skies at over 100mph and admiring the grace of the Eagles, Kites and Hawks.
Lake District Wildlife Park - CA12 4RD
about 24 Miles
We love this day out in Cumbria where you're encouraged to "take a fresh look".  Some of the amazing animals you will get to see include the only Canadian Lynx in the UK and you will have the opportunity to help their Lynx Conservation Project.  The Asian Fishing Cat is also well worth a look - these cats are known for diving under the water and catching fish!  Other activities include fantastic flying displays and play areas for the little ones...
Mabie Farm Park - DG2 8EZ
about 26 Miles
Mabie Farm Park is a firm favourite. Ideal for families with younger children ,this family oriented farm park has lots of animals to meet and also offers Donkey Rides, Paddle Boats and Slides as well as Trampolines and Bouncy Castles. Kids can run around on the Soft Play Area while mum and dad relax in the Tea Room. There is also a Farm Shop onsite selling toys, gifts and fresh local produce including cakes and jams. Seasonal activities can also be enjoyed including a spookly tea and walk on Haloween. The Farm closes for the winter on October 31st.