Owl Cottage
Near Morebattle
Kelso
Roxburghshire
Scottish Borders
Sleeping 6, 3 bedrooms
The owner's mother loved owls, and there are certainly plenty of them to be heard, and occasionally seen, in the trees around Owl Cottage, which nestles beside the Kale Water in the Border hills near Morebattle (2m, shops, pub).
Formerly a farm worker's cottage, it has now carefully restored to provide cosy holiday accommodation for 6 people. Whilst retaining many of its quirky, cottagy features, such as the turning staircase, the open range in the sitting room, the coombed ceilings in the upstairs bedrooms and some good quality, solid, period furniture, it has also been extended into a lovely light conservatory at the back, which has wonderful views over the valley and hills beyond. To the rear also there is an enclosed garden, securely fenced off from the river, with a patio (furniture, BBQ) and gravelled and lawned areas.
The cottage stands on a very quiet, unclassified, country road, and there is off-road parking for two cars in a bay right at the door.
The area is a walkers' paradise. St Cuthbert's Way, which runs between Melrose and Lindisfarne, can be joined just half a mile from Owl Cottage, while the Pennine Way ends at Yetholm, (5m). Students of history will also enjoy walking along stretches of nearby Dere Street, the old Roman road, which is still readily visible, and there are many fine castles, stately homes and ruined abbeys to visit in the area.
Golfers will find many excellent courses to play, the nearest being at the attractive Border towns of Jedburgh (12m, all facilities) and Kelso (10m, racecourse, leisure centre, ice rink etc.). Riding is also available at Kelso. Not-too-serious fishing can be enjoyed on the Kale (permits from the local pub). Edinburgh, at 55 miles, is easily accessible for a day's visit, and, if you don't want to walk St Cuthbert's Way to Lindisfarne and its lovely beaches, you can go by car - it is only 30 miles distant.
The cottage has oil-fired central heating (
included) and a basket of logs is provided for the open fire. Further supplies are available for purchase. Electricity is
included. Bed linen and towels are
included. A cot is available for hire. There is also a payphone. Pets are welcome by arrangement.
Accommodation (sleeps 6):
Downstairs:
- Sitting room, open-fire, TV/VCR.
- Kitchen, microwave, electric oven/hob, washing machine, etc.
- Cupboard, deep-freeze, tumble-drier.
- Room with shower, WC, basin.
- Conservatory.
- Twin-bed room.
Upstairs:
- Double-bed room, ensuite room with shower, WC and basin.
- Twin-bed room.