Reconnect with nature at this beautiful former water mill dating back to 1824 sitting right beside the River Esk in the Esk Valley - just 7 miles from Langholm. Sleeping two people in one bedroom, it's the perfect accommodation option for romantic couples who are yearning for a quirky riverside retreat to call home while they explore the Scottish Borders, Hadrian's Wall Country and the Lake District together. Sit back and spot red squirrels, hedgehogs, deer and birds of prey in your garden, or set off to explore the Tarras Valley Nature Reserve and meet its clan of ancient wild goats. In the evening, come home to your cottage to share a romantic dinner and snuggle by the wood burner as the soothing sounds of the Esk drift through the windows.
Pull into your private parking spot (there's room for two cars) and step inside via the sunroom, which is set up for wildlife-watching and sketching. Head along the hall to the kitchen, where stone flooring, a wood-clad ceiling and an exposed feature wall meet contemporary design touches. The open-plan living area is a striking space with exposed stonework and a cathedral-style ceiling, where soft seating tempts you to relax by the wood burner, and a dining table sets the scene for romantic meals for two. A spiral staircase leads you to a magnificent mezzanine bedroom overlooking the lounge. Here you’ll also find a handy dressing room and a quaint seating area and a second Smart TV, as well as a bathroom with a spa bath and a large shower. In the morning, head outside and sip your coffee on the patio, before you stroll over to the paddock and let yourself out of the gate to take a morning stroll along the riverbank.
Cast a line on the River Esk, or head off for a hike at Castle O'er Hill Fort (5 miles), the base for the Selgovae tribe, who ruled much of southwest Scotland during the Iron Age. Further afield, make your way into Langholm to visit Samye Ling (7 miles), Europe's largest Buddhist centre.