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Overview
An old stone cottage whose traditional exterior and rural setting belie its bold design and artistic pedigree.
Expect the unexpected in this eclectic rural cottage
As anybody familiar with Walltown Byre, the sister property to Lowtown Cottage, will know, its owner Sabina Forwood is the queen of vibrant colours and playful interiors. Like her larger sibling, the two-bedroom Lowtown Cottage is packed with Sabina’s signature design touches: eye-popping colours, rich textures, eclectic artworks and big views of the surrounding Northumberland countryside. An avid art collector and accomplished artist herself, Sabina encourages her guests to seek creative inspiration in the rugged countryside that envelops her homes as well as in the artworks they find within them.
First impressions of Lowtown Cottage are misleading. A narrow track brings you through acres of rolling countryside right down to an unassuming stone cottage on the edge of the Vallum. Only the dainty yellow and green sheep statue, perched on a stone at the front of the property, hints at the surprises to come.
As you approach the front door, you can glimpse a modern timber and glass extension on the west wall of the house before stepping into the converted farm cottage to discover - yellow. The entire ground floor of the cottage, comprising an open-plan kitchen, dining and sitting room and the new rear garden room, is resplendent in bright daffodil yellow. Tucked in one corner, a compact lapis blue kitchen contains everything required to rustle up delicious meals to serve at the dining table or nibbles to enjoy in the comfort of the cowhide armchairs by the inglenook fireplace.
The garden room features floor-to-ceiling windows and French doors leading out to the patio, delivering both southerly and westerly views and making it the ideal spot from which to contemplate the untouched beauty of the surrounding countryside. The peace here is complete, broken only by the calls of curlews and plovers, and the occasional passing deer.
Two vaulted en-suite bedrooms await discovery upstairs. Channel your inner Dutch master in one, where a vibrant floral print is daubed onto black wallpaper and continued in fabric adorning the blind and window seat cushions, before leading into a striking black painted bathroom. The second bedroom, dressed in striped apple green wallpaper complemented by a pink silk window seat, features a vast velvet bed flanked by bespoke Susi Bellamy lampshades and cushions.
Sabina Forwood’s interiors are not for the faint-hearted. Thought-provoking, inspiring and surprisingly restful, they invite the brave to explore colour and art in a rustic setting. Whether you envelop yourself in the romance and tranquillity of this intimate cottage with a loved one or see it as a bolthole from a larger group gathering when taken together with Walltown Byre, it will richly reward those bold enough to sleep amidst the tulips!
Finally, for guests looking to holiday together but enjoy their own space, Lowtown Cottage can be let in conjuction with Walltown Byre sleeping six, which benefits from generous reception spaces for larger parties and sits a short ten minute walk or just a few minutes drive from the property.
Property details
Ground floor
Access into open plan kitchen, dining area and kitchen.
Sitting room area with four armchairs set around an electric stove. Dining area with seating for four. Smart TV.
Kitchen with integrated units. Large fridge/freezer, separate grill and oven, induction hob, ¾ dishwasher, no coffee maker but includes a cafetiere. Island unit with two stools.
Utility room with separate washing machine and dryer, sink. Leads into ground floor WC.
Sunroom with large double sofa, single sofa, doors leading out to the patio area.
First floor
Bedroom one with 3' twin beds, side table, dressing table, window seat. Hanging space and storage can be found in the in-built cupboard on the first floor landing.
En suite shower room with large shower, heated towel rail, basin and WC.
Bedroom two with king size bed, side tables, dressing table, armchair, window seat, in-built cupboard with hanging space.
En suite bathroom with bath with shower over, heated towel rail, basin and WC.
Outside
There is a patio area to the front of the property with outdoor furniture for relaxation.
There is storage space for bikes available in the boiler room.
To retain the natural ambience of this beautiful and secluded cottage, please note that the grass adjoining the patio is not cut. This is to protect and encourage the pollinators and other insects which support the wide variety of bird species which this area enjoys. During the winter, the area is occasionally grazed by sheep. The external photograph of the cottage was taken after this area had been grazed.
Guests should be aware that the area around the property is farmland. Under no circumstances should guests walk through fields with cattle, or during lambing and calving season. Dogs must be supervised and kept on leads at all times.
Parking
There is private parking for up to three cars to the side of the property.
Electric Vehicle Charging
For safety reasons, we do not permit electric vehicle or hybrid car charging at this property. If you’re travelling by EV, discover your nearest electric vehicle charging point here.
Babies & Children
A travel cot and highchair are available on request.
Dogs
One dog is welcome at a charge of £25. Dogs must be kept strictly downstairs and are not allowed on the furniture.
The property is surrounded by a stone wall to the rear with wire fencing to the front of the property, however cannot be considered to be fully enclosed or dog-proofed.
Guests should be aware that the area around the property is farmland. Under no circumstances should guests walk through fields with cattle, or during lambing and calving season. Dogs must be supervised and kept on leads at all times.
Guest amenities
Bed linen, towels and bathrobes are provided and a hairdryer is available.
Wi-Fi & Mobile Coverage
Wi-Fi is available with good speeds of up to 20MB. Mobile coverage is reasonable.
Heating
There is underfloor heating throughout the ground floor. There are thermostatically controlled radiators upstairs. There is an electric stove in the open plan living/kitchen area.
Private Water Supply
Please note that the water at Lowtown Cottage is fed from a private supply and in particularly hot and dry conditions, the water level in the well that supplies the cottage can drop and lead to temporary water shortages. If this occurs, water will be temporarily provided by a water bowser. All of the plumbing in the cottage will work satisfactorily and guests should not notice the difference, although it would be recommended that guests do not use this water for drinking. Bottled water will be supplied for this purpose in the case of a drought.
Guest privacy
The property is secluded, detached and not overlooked. The area sits in Hadrian’s Wall Country and as a result there are likely to be walkers passing through to the rear of the property on Walltown Crags. The front facing aspect looks over rolling Northumberland countryside with plentiful wildlife.
Additional Accommodation
For guests looking to holiday together but enjoy their own space, Lowtown Cottage can be let in conjunction with Walltown Byre sleeping six, Walltown Farm Cottage sleeping six plus a child's bed and sofa bed, and Fell End sleeping eight plus five children's beds.
Lowtown Cottage is approximately a 10 minute walk away along the public footpath from Walltown Byre and Walltown Farm Cottage while Fell End is approximately a 25 minute walk away along the public footpath or a short drive.
RETURNING GUEST DISCOUNT
From July 2023, upon departure, guests who stay at this property will be offered a 10% discount for use on a future booking at any of the Walltown Crags Cottages (Fell End, Lowtown Cottage, Walltown Byre, Walltown Farm Cottage). This discount cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.
If you have previously booked one of the above properties and wish to book another, please contact us providing the lead booker’s name and cottage for the returning guest code.
Location
For eating out, the Mile Castle pub sits 2.25 miles east along the Military Road and is within walking distance down the farm track from the property within 45 minutes or so. You will also find good pub food at the Greenhead Hotel 1.25 miles west.
Alternatively, the Samson Inn, Gilsland or the Blekinsopp Castle Inn and Bistro are 2.75 and 2.9 miles respectively and both come recommended.
The Twice Brewed pub sits 4.5 miles east along the Military Road is a popular choice with walkers and has its own micro-brewery, or for a stunning dining experience with a difference, head to Restaurant Hjem which has achieved the coveted stamp of approval as the first Michelin starred restaurant in Northumberland. Guests can experience a fantastic tasting menu combining the finest Northumbrian produce with the flair and precision of Scandinavia (21 miles).
A little further afield sits the pretty market town of Hexham (21 miles) characterised by cobbled streets and historic architecture which offers quirky coffee shops, award-winning restaurants and excellent independent shops. Hexham offers more extensive shopping and amenities. It also boasts its own racecourse, theatre, cinema, golf course and leisure centre, including a pool and a ten-pin bowling alley.
The popular tourist village of Corbridge is 25 miles and offers a variety of shops, a delicatessen, and one or two restaurants and cafes, while Matfen Hall (26 miles) offers excellent spa and leisure facilities.
In the other direction, the pretty market town of Brampton, with Lanercost Priory close by, is 10 miles away and the historic city of Carlisle is 21 miles away. There is a wealth of things to see and do in Carlisle including the award-winning Tullie House Museum and Gallery, Carlisle Cathedral, Carlisle Castle. Walby Park Farm is a family favourite where you can meet farmyard favourites and rare breeds with plenty of opportunity for the younger ones to burn off some steam. Carlisle offers extensive shopping, a cinema, a railway station and various bars and restaurants.
If you or your guests are coming by plane or train, the new Carlisle Airport, with flights from Southend, Belfast and Dublin, is 16 miles away. Car hire is available at the airport.
Newcastle and Carlisle have mainline train services with direct trains to London and Edinburgh/Glasgow, and there is a local train between Newcastle and Carlisle that stops at Haltwhistle which is 2.5 miles away.
There is a bus (the AD122) linking the major Roman sites, together with Hexham and Haltwhistle which has a stop at the Roman Army Museum which is ¾ mile from the Byre or a 15-minute walk. This runs between Easter and the 1st October.
Activities
Surrounded by footpaths and bridleways, big skies and wonderful views, the area has plenty to offer those seeking dramatic ridges and panoramic views.
For walking, the Hadrian’s Wall National Trail is a designated World Heritage site with an unbroken 84 mile signposted trail stretching from coast-to-coast, passing through stunning countryside and rugged moorland. The Byre is some three miles from the intersection of the Hadrian's Wall trail and the Pennine Way making it a walkers' paradise.
Notable visitor attractions include the English Heritage site of Walltown Crags Wall and Turret, one of the finest places to view Hadrian's Wall, as well as the Roman Army Museum which sit less than a mile away from the property. The Sill, Vindolanda, and Housesteads are all within a ten minute drive.
Hadrian's cycleway runs from coast-to-coast and is part of the National Cycle Network boasting incredible scenery which takes in various forts, milecastles and settlements along the line of the wall. As well as off-road options, it boasts 100 miles of purpose-built trails for the peddle-hungry looking to soak up mile after mile of never-ending trails.
For history buffs, this is a perfect base from which to explore Chesters and Vindolanda which are steeped in Roman history and offer a fascinating insight into Roman life on the edge of the empire 2000 years ago. Here you can see in incredible 3D detail what life was like on the wall in the life of a Roman soldier, and discover latest artefacts, including the world famous Vindolanda writing tablets.
For some later history, visit Hermitage Castle (60 minutes), a Norman Castle built in 1240AD and famous for a visit there by Mary Queen of Scots to the wounded 4th Earl of Bothwell. She later married Bothwell, despite the fact that he was implicated in her husband's murder.
Lanercost Priory, founded in 1169AD is only 18 minutes drive away. It is partly built from stones from Hadrian’s wall and was visited a number of times by Edward I. In August 1311, Robert Bruce, King of Scotland, came with his army and made it his headquarters for three days.
You can enjoy plenty of outdoor adventures in over 13,000 acres at Wallington Hall (45 minutes) with gentle woodland strolls to more extensive hikes, or take your bike and explore the Dragon Cycling Trail, a safe family-friendly route where you may be lucky enough to spot one of the resident red squirrels in the woods. For less active pursuits, head to the Clocktower Cafe for a coffee and cake stop, or take a tour of the main house for a fascinating insight into the rich history and artefacts of this 300 year old home.
Cragside House and Gardens offer a captivating day out for the family where you can discover the first house in the world to be lit by hydroelectricity. Crammed full of gadgets developed by Victorian inventor, innovator and landscape genius, Lord Armstrong, Cragside is truly a wonder of its age. The adventure playground with its network of paths and tunnels will be a huge hit with children, and the gardens here are an absolute delight.
A 45 minute drive will take you to the Kielder Water and Forest Park, with something for everyone including water sports enthusiasts, cyclists, walkers, naturalists, artists, families and photographers. A highlight is the star gazing treat at the Kielder Observatory where you can view the outstanding dark skies of the Northumberland National Park.
Golf enthusiasts are well catered for at Matfen Hall, or take a drive to the championship courses of Close House and Slaley Hall.
The stunning beaches of the Northumberland coast are an easy day trip, including the iconic Alnwick Gardens and Alnwick Castle, home to the Duke of Northumberland. With its rich history, exquisite art, beautiful gardens, and film location for Harry Potter, there is plenty of wizardly magic and mayhem to keep all ages entertained.
To the West, the coast of the Solway is 50 minutes away and the North of the Lake District is well within reach, with Ullswater, for example, being a 60 minute drive
Finally a trip to the city of Newcastle with its amazing Millennium revolving eye bridge and the fantastic glass Sage building for music. Admire the wonderful architecture of the north-east’s most eminent architect John Dobson or perhaps enjoy an evening of arts at the wonderful Theatre Royal.
C&C experiences
We invite you to enjoy the most coveted and exclusive local experiences available in the North of England and the South of Scotland on your next Crabtree & Crabtree adventure.
Find Out MoreServices
Additional housekeeping
Award yourself a real break and let us provide a pair (or more) of helping hands.
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Dog sitting
Our experienced dog sitters will look after your furry friends whilst you are out exploring.
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Wine delivery
Crabtree & Crabtree have teamed up with Corney & Barrow one of the longest established independent Wine Merchants in the UK to offer a bespoke service.
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Holiday photography
Family holidays, reunions and honeymoons kindle priceless moments that deserve preserving.
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Reviews
"Fabulous House! Such a relaxing and beautiful location with amazing walks on the doorstep. Thank you to Lucy for looking after us. Greenhead hotel is a must for dinner."
Grant & Debbie“What a wonderful place! A fantastic holiday spot for walking!”
Mr & Mrs Manson"Fab relaxing week - what a fab place you have! Watching finches feed off teasels in the morning in the wild garden. Lovely walks on doorstep. Blessed with great weather. Hope to visit again! Stars at night - fab!"
Wrightson family"Lovely cottage, amazing views and perfect for cycling. We definitely recommend a trip to Vindolanda."
Mr & Mrs Vevers"Love this house, love Northumberland! Had a fabulous week, what amazing landscape - lots of walking."
Ms Bell"Wonderful location. Fantastic walks and beautiful views. Enjoyed reading in the sunroom and looking at the rain. Didn't venture far but Corbridge is worth a visit."
Mr & Mrs Leban"Amazing location - good for walking and great views. Beautiful cottage too! We enjoyed our stay very much and will recommend."
Mr & Mrs Pearce"What a wonderful location and cottage. We have had the best week! A few lazy mornings to enjoy the setting, lots of visits and walks. I am sure we will be back!"
Mulberry Family"Magical cottage and location. Wonderful wildlife and fantastic history."
Mr & Mrs Mcgill"We had a wonderful and very sunny week. Loved the cottage and the views!"
Regan Family"A beautiful and comfortable cottage. We love the colour! Wonderful location."
Mr Walmsley"What an amazing location. We even heard a cuckoo! Beautiful yet practical cottage."
Ms Calaghan"A very funky, quiet place to escape the bustle of Essex."
Mr & Mrs Rudge"A most magical and inspirational place."
Miss Waterman"We loved the cottage and the area. Visited great Roman sites and Lanercost Priory. The guided your at Corbridge was interesting. Super food shop - Cranstons in Scranton."
The Saunders & The HirstsAvailability
- Two dogs are welcome with a charge of £25 per dog.
- Wi-Fi
- Bath
- Guests who stay at this property will qualify for a returning guest discount at any of the Walltown Crags Cottages. Please see property details for further information.
- Typical arrival day: Friday during high season. Flexible out of high season.
- Arrival time: 4pm
- Departure time: 10am
"Watching the deer warm themselves in the morning sun from the comfort of your bedroom window seat."Sabina, owner of Lowtown Cottage
