Bowness Retreat

One of five pretty pods within peaceful former rectory grounds, this holiday hideaway is less than 200 metres from the Bowness-on-Solway shoreline, and close to the westernmost point of the Hadrian’s Wall Path. Stroll into the village where there’s a welcoming pub, cafe and tea room, enjoy far-reaching views across the estuary or explore the nearby nature reserves – the Solway Coast National Landscape offers refuge to a wealth of migrating birds and wildlife.

Just 16 miles cross-country, Victorian seaside town Silloth is the place to visit for independent stores and eateries, Gretna Green (21 miles) is synonymous with secret weddings and Cumbria’s capital city, Carlisle (14 miles), is packed with places to eat and drink plus a vibrant selection of shops. For adventures further afield, it is also the terminus for the Settle-Carlisle Railway.

Stylish and specially designed to be snug at any time of year, this canine-friendly couple’s retreat features a contemporary open-plan layout with good head height, golden pine cladding and a flow of natural light through French doors to one end. After a busy day outdoors, return to find all the must-haves of home: a compact kitchen where you can prepare a hearty meal, a dining suite with space to spread out maps and guidebooks, and a sofa where you can stretch out to watch TV while the dogs snooze at your feet.

When your day is done, it’s just a few paces to your double bed and shower room. A furnished decking area at the front of the pod extends your living space, while the wow-factor wood-fired hot tub is perfect for a chill-out session.

Additional outdoor space, laid to lawn, is shared by all five pods on-site; each sleeps a further two guests and can be booked separately – please ask for details. Your pod has private parking.