Holidays to treasure in the heart of
the Cumbrian Countryside
The Accommodation
Our six specially designed cottages offer comfortable & cozy accommodation in an incredibly scenic & tranquil farm setting.
Perfect for families, couples, groups or solo travellers looking to relax and enjoy the many activities and attractions the area has to offer.
Life on the Farm
Long Byres cottages are at the heart of life on a working farm, home to sheep, horses, and many assorted birds.
Children are welcome to come and meet all of the animal residents in the yard.
Discover and Explore
Long Byres Cottages are perfectly situated for families, outdoor enthusiasts and those looking to explore the North Pennines and the Lake District.
From stunning walking and cycling to discovering the captivating wildlife, diverse landscapes and historic wonders the area has to offer, we offer a cozy and relaxing base for your Cumbrian adventure!
The properties are well located for outdoor enthusiasts with several walks available directly on the doorstep. Further walking is available throughout the North Pennines, the Eden Valley, along Hadrian’s Wall and within the Lake District.
Great cycling is available throughout the area including both Kielder and Keswick which are widely regarded as some of the best Mountain Biking locations in the UK.
Nature enthusiasts will enjoy the range of species including Lapwings, Curlews, Black Grouse, Buzzards, Hares, native Exmoor Ponies and red squirrels present across the farm and at the nearby Geltsdale RSPB Nature Reserve.
Two Unesco World Heritage sites, the Lake District and Hadrians Wall, are within travelling distance of the cottages. Bassenthwaite, Ullswater, Blencathra and Mungrisdale are all within one hour whilst Helvellyn and Thirlmere are just over one hour away. Hadrians Wall at its closest point is within a 5 mile drive whilst various Roman forts including Birdoswald, Vindolanda and Housesteads are all within a half hour drive. Sycamore Gap is also approximately half an hour away along the Roman Wall route.
The North Pennines is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and UNESCO Global Geopark. Within this area there are an abundance of heather moors, delightful dales, tumbling upland rivers, wonderful woods, glorious waterfalls including High Force, one of the most impressive waterfalls in England, fantastic birds, distinctive plants and fascinating imprints of a mining and industrial past including Alston, the highest market town in England.
The area is also widely regarded as benefitting from some of the darkest sky’s in the country and is a perfect place for stargazing. A designated observatory is present at Allenheads as well as a multitude of designated dark sky discovery sites with the closest one being located near the RSPB Geltsdale Nature Reserve.
For families the surrounding area includes Walby Farm Park, a multi-award winning visitor attraction, Carlisle Castle and Cathedral, Tullie House, Lanercost Priory, shopping at the Lanes (Carlisle) and Gretna Gateway.
Friendly local pubs within walking distance are available in Talkin (The Blacksmiths Arms) and Castle Carrock (The Duke of Cumberland). A greater range of pubs and restaurants are available throughout the surrounding countryside.
Or simply relax and enjoy the breathtaking
views and tranquillity of Longs Byres Farm at Talkin Head
We look forward to welcoming you soon!