Bowness Escape

One of five curvaceous pods within the grounds of the village’s former rectory, this peaceful retreat sits less than 200 metres from the Bowness-on-Solway shoreline. It’s also near the western edge of the UNESCO World Heritage Hadrian’s Wall. The village has a welcoming pub, cafe and tea room, which is worth the short stroll – make sure you take in the far-reaching views across the estuary before you head back home too. The Solway Coast National Landscape offers refuge to a wealth of migrating birds and wildlife, and is a great destination for walks or cycle rides on unfrequented roads and tracks. For fun further afield, drive 16 miles cross-country to the Victorian seaside town of Silloth, which is home to independent shops and eateries. Gretna Green (21 miles) is synonymous with secret weddings and Cumbria’s capital city, Carlisle (14 miles), has historic sites. If you’d like to venture further, it’s also the terminus for the renowned Settle-Carlisle Railway.

Stylish and comfortably snug at any time of year, this canine-friendly couple’s retreat features a contemporary open-plan layout. You’ll have plenty of head height, and the golden pine panelling and the natural light, courtesy of French doors at one end, will relax you at any point of the day. Spend the day exploring the area and then return home to cook in the compact kitchen, before devouring a hearty meal at the extendable table in the dining area. With a full belly, stretch out on the sofa and watch TV while the dogs dream at your feet. When your day is done, it’s just a few steps to your double bed and shower room.

A furnished decking area at the front of the pod extends your living space, while the oval, wood-fired hot tub is perfect for a couple’s 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.