Dog-friendly Cumbria

Mark Close Farmhouse, which accommodates 20, is within a 15-20 minute walk from beautiful Alston, with its great pubs, cafés and shops. The town is central in the North Pennines and lies on the borders of Northumberland, Durham and Cumbria, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, referred to as ’England’s last wilderness’, and is also said to be the ’Highest Market Town in England’. The house occupies a fantastic position, central to the Lakes, Yorkshire Dales, Hadrian’s Wall, the Scottish borders and Northumberland’s coast and castles.
The property is set in a large garden bordered by mature trees with panoramic views over green fields and wild fells. In the paddock next door to the Farmhouse, there are five very friendly Alpacas. The area remains unspoiled by large traffic queues or intrusive tourism. The town has a beautiful cobbled street with public houses, mini markets, petrol stations, butchers and bakers.
There is additional accommodation for two adjacent to the Farmhouse - a small fully equipped one bedroom cottage called Mark Close Milking Parlour (ref 25137). Ideal for a couple who would prefer peace and quiet, the Milking Parlour also has a small hot tub suitable for four people at once.
Go for a ride on Alston’s narrow-gauge railway, follow Isaac’s Tea Trail or browse in the excellent gift shops. There’s fishing, riding and golf nearby, as well as Killhope and Nenthead Mining Centres. Follow some of the local ramblers on the Pennine Way. Walk over Crossfell (the highest point in the Pennines) or search for the sources of the four great rivers to which the North Pennines gives rise, the Tyne, the Wear, the Tees and the Eden.
The glorious coast and countryside of Northumberland are within travelling distance as are the Lake District, the Yorkshire Dales, Hadrian’s Wall and the Scottish Borders. There are water sports at Talkin and Keilder Water. Or perhaps some retail therapy in the Metro Centre Gateshead, which is only an hour away, one of Europe’s largest shopping centres with restaurants, multi-screen cinemas, playland and bowling alley. Alternatively, just stay at home and relax in front of the fire and eat together with family or friends in the farmhouse kitchen

These three, 18th century barn conversions, (refs 80043, 28645, 28646) are located just 1 mile from the market town of Alston, one of the highest towns in the country and a charming backdrop to many a period film and TV series. Situated behind the owner’s home, these holiday cottages offer comfortable accommodation with their own sitting-out areas.
Guests have shared use of the hot tub where views can be enjoyed towards Mount Hooley and over the South Tyne Valley. The changing landscape throughout the seasons makes for picturesque views all year round. After a day out exploring this delightful area, what better way to soak those tired limbs and relax.
This is a good base for exploring Tynedale and the North Pennines by foot, bicycle or car, with many places of interest to visit, including Alston’s narrow gauge railway, Pennine Pottery and local crafts. The Pennine Way runs past the door, with walks in all directions. Alston, with its quaint cobbled main street, has a range of individual shops, character inns, restaurants and tea rooms. Within the area is an historical Roman fort and tourists will enjoy the museums, exhibitions and sites along Hadrian’s Wall. The Lake District, Beamish Museum, Newcastle, the Metro Centre, Carlisle and the Scottish Borders are all within driving distance. Ideal for families or friends to get together, these properties (red 80043, 28645 and 28646) can be booked together to accommodate up to 10 guests. Shop, pub and restaurant 1 mile.

These three, 18th century barn conversions, (refs 80043, 28645, 28646) are located just 1 mile from the market town of Alston, one of the highest towns in the country and a charming backdrop to many a period film and TV series. Situated behind the owner’s home, these holiday cottages offer comfortable accommodation with their own sitting-out areas.
Guests have shared use of the hot tub where views can be enjoyed towards Mount Hooley and over the South Tyne Valley. The changing landscape throughout the seasons makes for picturesque views all year round. After a day out exploring this delightful area, what better way to soak those tired limbs and relax.
This is a good base for exploring Tynedale and the North Pennines by foot, bicycle or car, with many places of interest to visit, including Alston’s narrow gauge railway, Pennine Pottery and local crafts. The Pennine Way runs past the door, with walks in all directions. Alston, with its quaint cobbled main street, has a range of individual shops, character inns, restaurants and tea rooms. Within the area is an historical Roman fort and tourists will enjoy the museums, exhibitions and sites along Hadrian’s Wall. The Lake District, Beamish Museum, Newcastle, the Metro Centre, Carlisle and the Scottish Borders are all within driving distance. Ideal for families or friends to get together, these properties (red 80043, 28645 and 28646) can be booked together to accommodate up to 10 guests. Shop, pub and restaurant 1 mile.

Located in a quiet unspoilt Cumbrian village close to the market town of Appleby-in-Westmorland, this cosy traditional holiday cottage has the bubbling Banley Beck which runs into the River Eden running alongside it. Set in the Eden Valley, which has much to offer visitors who want to enjoy the quiet countryside walking, cycling or fishing. Within a short distance is the Yorkshire Dales National Park and the Lake District National Park, both well renowned for their beauty, picturesque scenery and many tourist attractions. The historic cities of Durham and Carlisle are only a short journey away. A lovely traditional cottage in a village setting, well located for touring. Shops, pubs and restaurants 2 miles.

This charming, detached, wood-fronted holiday cottage is set in the beautiful Eden Valley down a long private stone track, in quiet idyll. Cosy and comfortable, it lies adjacent to the owner’s home and has two well-furnished living rooms to provide flexible family living arrangements whether you are lounging in front of the wood burner watching the birds on the feeder or watching a DVD from the selection in the cottage. With various breeds of birds in the woodland overlooked by the decking, this is a little nature haven. Nestled between the Pennines, Scottish Borders, the Lake District and North Yorkshire National Parks, this is the ideal touring base for a wide range of activities. Nearer home is a range of pretty villages, stunning surroundings, great farmers’ markets and traditional village shows. Cumbria is a fantastic place for the cycling, walking and climbing, whether out on the natural crags or the climbing walls at Penrith and Kendal. There is also horse riding and go-karting nearby. The ancient market town, Appleby is a 5-minute drive away and the Lake District is 30 minutes. Shop and restaurant 1½ miles, pub 1 mile.

This former detached coach house stands in its own garden and is furnished and decorated to a good standard. Warm and cosy, this cottage makes an excellent base from which to tour the northern lakes, Northumberland and Scotland. Watch the steam trains pass by at the bottom of the field on the Settle/Carlisle Railway.
Carlisle, with its rich history dating back to Roman times, offers a delightful mix of cultural and modern attractions. Stroll through the cobbled streets of the city center, where medieval architecture meets contemporary boutiques and eateries. Immerse yourself in the history of Carlisle Castle, a formidable fortress that has stood for over 900 years, or visit the Tullie House Museum to discover the city’s fascinating past. For those seeking a bit of retail therapy, the Lanes Shopping Centre provides a diverse array of shops, ensuring you find that perfect holiday souvenir.
A short drive from Cumwhinton will take you to the charming town of Brampton, where the cobbled market square and historic buildings create an enchanting atmosphere. Explore the Moot Hall, a distinctive octagonal building that houses a local museum, and wander along the peaceful riverbanks of the Irthing. Brampton is a gateway to the beautiful landscapes of the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering scenic walks and opportunities to connect with nature.
No visit to this region would be complete without experiencing the awe-inspiring Hadrian’s Wall. Stretching across the rugged countryside, this UNESCO World Heritage Site provides a glimpse into Roman life and the frontier of the Roman Empire. Explore the well-preserved forts and milecastles along the wall, such as Housesteads Roman Fort, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Shop, pub and restaurant 1½ miles.

This traditional detached Cumbrian holiday cottage is ideal for a romantic sanctuary. It has been carefully renovated to retain a wealth of charm, including a large inglenook fireplace, whilst providing all the contemporary conveniences such as large waterfall shower. You can explore Brampton, with its range of good restaurants and pubs, or sit yourself in front of the woodburner and have a relaxing night. The property is set on the A689 in the village of Hallbankgate, which means you are ideally placed for exploring Hadrian’s Wall, Carlisle, the Scottish Borders, Alston and the Lake District. RSPB Geltsdale reserve, 1 mile. Shops 4 miles, pub and restaurant 350 yards.

This delightful, semi-detached single storey holiday property is situated on the edge of the Lakeland town of Cockermouth. It has a enclosed rear garden which is ideal for relaxing on warm summer evenings. Cockermouth is a bustling market town with small shops, museums, art centre and eating places and is best known as the birthplace of William Wordsworth. It makes an ideal location for exploring the northern and western Lake District as well as the Solway Coast. The Lorton Valley and the Lakes of Buttermere, Loweswater, Ennerdale and Wast Water offer stunning scenery and walks to suit all ages and types. The city of Carlisle with its medieval fortress, Hadrians Wall and Scottish Border are all within an easy drive. Shop, pub and restaurant 0.5 miles.

These two attractive holiday lodge chalets (refs B5697 and 30250) have been furnished and equipped to a very good standard. Tucked away in a very pleasant position, they are two of a small group of eight chalets, which sit on the National Park boundary; with peaceful rural views across the local countryside towards Skiddaw. They are conveniently situated just off the A595 Cockermouth to Carlisle road, making it an excellent choice for guests wanting easy access to the Northern Lake District and the Scottish Borders. Cockermouth is 5 miles, Keswick 12 miles and Carlisle 18 miles. Beach 8 miles. Shop and restaurant 6 miles, pub 1 mile.

For a holiday with a difference, Whitehall Pele Tower is a wonderfully atmospheric 14th-century Pele Tower providing a magnificent setting for a large family or group, perfectly placed for exploring the Lake District and Solway Coast. Grade I listed, the house has been owned by the same family for 150 years and has a long and fascinating history. An addition to the original building was made in the 16th century and the first restoration was made in 1861, after it was bought by the merchant and philanthropist George Moore.

Whitehall Pele Tower has all the benefits of modern living, whilst retaining its original character. The house stands in an acre of grounds containing the picturesque ruins of a Victorian manor house. Two of the larger lawns can be used for family games. Inside the house are spacious rooms, including a first floor sitting room with Chrome cast, giving the ability to stream from your device to the TV, and an enormous Tudor stone fireplace, looking out over tranquil pastureland. The grounds are full of birdlife and the scenery of the Northern Lakes is close at hand. Bassenthwaite Lake, 7 miles. Whinlatter Visitor Centre, Altura Mountain Bike Trail and Go Ape, 17 miles. Cockermouth, 10 miles. Hadrian’s Wall, 16 miles. Keswick, 16 miles. Ullswater, 26 miles. Shops and restaurant 4 miles, pub 2 miles.