Kingfisher Cottage is a rather spectacular conversion of part of an old mill dating from 1774, and now carefully renovated to provide all 21st century comforts. It stands in a tiny cluster of houses and farm buildings overlooking the Bowmont water, just half a mile from the village of Town Yetholm (shop, pub) and 8 miles from Kelso in the Scottish Borders.
From the front, there are lovely views over Staerough Hill, the river and the surrounding countryside. The cottage is right beside a pond, with a very picturesque bridge which leads from the front of the house to the garden.
Inside too, there is plenty of Wow! Factor. The large, light sitting room has a partially glazed roof, and a wood burning stove, with stairs to a gallery which is used as a study/games area. There is a shower room located in the galleried area. Also on the ground floor are the fully equipped kitchen, separate WC, utility room and a double bedroom overlooking the pond at the front. There are two other upstairs bedrooms, with beamed ceilings and a further bathroom.
Just across the field is the river, where it is possible to swim and kayak. Yetholm is at the end of the Pennine Way, while St Cuthbert's Way from Melrose to Lindisfarne, passes the cottage to the rear, so walkers really are spoiled for choice. It is also excellent cycling country, with lots of quiet and scenic byways to enjoy.
There is plenty of scope for fishing, and permits are available locally. The nearest riding stables are at Nenthorn, just north of Kelso, where there is a swimming pool, ice rink and racecourse, as well as a wide selection of interesting shops and excellent restaurants.
Kelso is also the site of Floors Castle, seat of the Duke of Roxburghe, and this is just one of the many castles, keeps and stately homes which are open to the public in this historic area. Nearby Sunlaws is also home to the prestigious Roxburghe golf course. However, if you prefer to set your sights a little lower there are any number of excellent courses in the area to suit all tastes and pockets.
Kelso is only 22 miles from the sea. The RSPB sanctuary on the dramatic cliffs at St Abbs is well worth a visit, perhaps combined with an afternoon on the lovely sandy beach at Coldingham. Edinburgh, Scotland's elegant and sophisticated capital city, is just over an hour's drive away.
In short, whatever your interests and pursuits, there is plenty to keep all members of the party well entertained in these lovely surroundings.
Oil fired central heating, electricity, bed linen and towels are all INCLUDED in the rental. Sorry, pets are not accepted and smoking is not permitted within the cottage.
