About this property
Gowanlea is a lovely 4-person cottage nestled in Falstone, Northumberland. Well-suited to families, friends or a couple seeking a tranquil corner to relax, within easy reach of all the great outdoors has to offer, this single-storey abode boasts a toasty woodburning stove and allows pets. Step inside and discover a welcoming single-storey layout, thoughtfully arranged for a comfortable stay. The cottage comprises a living room with a dining area and woodburning stove, a fully functional kitchen, a family bathroom, a twin bedroom and a master bedroom with an en-suite, providing everything needed for a relaxing retreat with loved ones. Outside, the secure garden offers a lawned cottage garden and patio area, creating a peaceful spot for dining alfresco or simply unwinding in the fresh Northumberland air, while four-legged companions can enjoy plenty of safe space to explore.
Cyclists are also catered for with a bicycle rack bolted to the garden wall. Just a few miles from Kielder Water and Forest – an extremely popular area for cycling and walking – and the Scottish Border, the surrounding area is utterly beautiful by day, and boasts over 50% of the UK’s red squirrel population! And at night…just look up. Making the most of some of the darkest skies in the world, the award-winning Kielder Observatory is within easy reach, and we have been told by the lovely locals that the Northern Lights are sometimes visible from the old railway just a short walk from the cottage!
Gowanlea is also ideally positioned for visits to some fabulous tourist spots too. With Bamburgh and Alnwick to the East and The Solway Coast to the West, and Edinburgh and Glasgow, Carlisle and Hexham all within a few hours, sightseeing can go hand in hand with a spot of holiday shopping. After days spent exploring, return to Gowanlea to cook up something delicious in the fully functional kitchen before settling beside the crackling woodburning stove for a quiet evening in. Alternatively, stroll over to the local pub for a bite to eat and a chat with the regulars. As well as The Black Cock, Falstone also has a locally run tea room housed in the Old School House.
Both establishments have specific opening hours, listed in the welcome book, and are dog-friendly. Speaking of pups, Gowanlea is very happy to welcome furry friends too, and the owners are busily putting together a guide to dog-friendly places to visit and exciting local walks. While the main shopping opportunities are around nine miles away from Falstone, we have it on good authority that Tesco delivers to the area, and a few essentials, along with some delicious treats, will be waiting for you on arrival. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure, dark sky discoveries or peaceful moments with loved ones, Gowanlea is perfectly placed for a memorable Northumberland escape.
The delightful village of Falstone lies at the foot of Kielder Water, the largest man-made lake in Northern Europe, and on the edge of Kielder Forest, the largest forest in Northern Europe. With probably the best ‘dark skies’ in England, and one of the most tranquil places in rural England, the area is ideal for outdoor activities. There are many signed walking paths through the forest, with the 26 mile Lakeside Way around the lake, as well as higher level fell walks. There are cycle tracks with different routes to suit a variety of abilities, plus fishing and an abundance of wildlife in the area, with red squirrel, roe deer and many bird species, including the Osprey. Hadrian's Wall is an easy drive away and there are many castles and fortified houses in the area, reminders from the times when the “Border Reivers” raided the Anglo-Scottish border. National Trust properties, including Wallington Hall and Cragside are also just a scenic drive away from this pretty village.
Accommodation
Off-road parking for 2 vehicles.
Single-storey.
Super-king master bedroom with shower en-suite.
Twin room.
Family bathroom with shower over full-size bath.
Fully kitted kitchen with additional dishwasher and washing machine
TV with Amazon Firestick and Netflix, WiFi available.
Woodburning stove with first basket of logs provided.
Enclosed garden ideal for dogs, with lawn and patio areas.
Fixed bike rack (bring your own lock please).
Outdoor table and seating.
Electric heating & power included in rent.
Bed linen and towels included in rent.
Well-behaved dogs welcome.
Non-smokers only and please do not vape anywhere on the property.
Village Pub and Tea Room featuring select sundries a short walk from the cottage (see welcome book for opening times)