The Roughley Cottage

Cleuchhead

and Swanshiel

The Roughley Cottage

18th-21st November, Rob and Sophie Fletcher, Edinburgh

Sophie wrote: Two years to the day since our honeymoon at Roughley. Bliss to be back. This place has worked its magic again. Roughly is a little slice of heaven. Please leave it as it is – its perfect.
Rob wrote: another memorable stay rounded off by the appearance of a passer-by sporting Hawaiian shorts. Not quite up there with the naked rambler, but impressive nonetheless in November.

5th-9th November. Amy and Jack Caputh

After being recommend by our friend, Rob Fletcher, for a bit of 'time out' it did just that. Just what the doctor ordered. Sad to leave, but I know we will return

7th - 14th October, 2011 Mr and Mrs Matthews, Selby and friends

The Roughley six return. This is our fourth time here and yet again we all instantly relax and chill out. The guys have caught 14 trout over the week, all between 1.5lb and 4.5 lbs. All caught on Stewarts Black Spiders

23rd - 30th September, 2011 Mr and Mrs Beavers, Manchester

Arrived with some trepidation, but quickly realised that we'd made a great choice in choosing Roughly. Caught several trout in the week including a 2lb brown trout. Jedburgh prison/castle is well worth a visit for local history. Fabulous place, we hope to return.

16th - 23rd September Mr and Mrs Vallender, Derby

Had a lovely quiet week. Have not left the cottage and surrounding area. Haven't felt the need to. We've walked and fished, eaten, drunk lots of wine, had lazy lie-ins, read lots of books and properly unwound. The scenery is stunning. The cottage has to be the most homely we've stopped in. Thank you

9th - 16th September Mr and Mrs Wallace-Watson, Newcastle

We found Roughley on the internet. Key words 'Scotland', 'remote' and 'no television' and expected the result to be a couple of100 miles further north.
Our two Labradors think it is doggy heaven.
10th There are several butchers in Hawick and one (Pringles in the High Street) does kangaroo, croc, ostrich, buffalo, impala etc.
11th Afternoon tea at Copshaw Kitchen, Highly recommended!
12th Recommend spending a couple of hours in the Hawick museum. Good value petrol and diesel at Sainsbury's.
13th Visit to Traquair near Peebles. The house and its history are fascinating.
14th Saw the ospreys flying high above the reservoir at Keilder.
15th The Horse and Hounds at Bonchester Bridge is recommended for fine food and beer.
Sadly it is now time to pack...
It has been lovely to have no TV, computer, internet etc

29th July - 12th August 2011 – Miss Vivas and friends

On a rainy afternoon a small blue car pulled up outside and Bill Anderson and his wife Jay cam to visit.... He had visited Roughley with his father as a small boy. He lived at the shepherd's cottage across the chain bridge.. He was born in 1947 and told us some lovely stories about his childhood as one of 15 children... and was thrilled to see how little the Roughley has changed.

One of the guests wrote: Missed 2 years but very, very happy to be back. Yesterday we trudged through wet bog and down a massive hill to the disused station at Ricarton Junction – a great walk, would recommend. Nothing better than coming back to the Roughley and sipping a hot drink in front of the fire and drying out...

22nd - 29th July 2011 – The Taylor Family

Booked cottage for my 50th birthday. Friends and family also visited. Everyone had fantastic time. Weather helped as it was glorious. A fantastic relaxing time. We will come back again.
The children wrote: First time at cottage, had an amazing time kayaking, even when I fell in. Walked up a hill and saw some cows and sheep and they ran away from me. Stars at night were beautiful.

24th June - 1st July 2011 – The Jorgensen family

Lovely peaceful week, totally relaxing. The scenery is amazing, and the view from the top of the hill is well worth the climb.

10th - 23rd June 2011 Miss Odey and friends

It has been wonderful to get away thoroughly. Enjoyed all that Roughley has to offer. To wake up each day and know that all is well and nothing is expected, time is our own – a very rare thing. We shared lots of laughter, children building dams and getting very wet, as indeed we all did from time to time. An exhilarating holiday. I and friends shall return – already looking forward to it. Just before I leave Iíll have another cast on the loch.

13th - 20th May 2011 Mrs Mitchell

(Continued our bird spotting) Quiet rivalry on who spotted what proved more challenging than scrabble. Total bird species – 55. List left in log-book. Walk through ravine behind house not for the unfit or faint-hearted, but absolutely breathtaking. The flowers were beautiful – the heavy rainfall brought the colours to perfection. We had one meal out for Janetís birthday at The Grapes – Well worth a visit.

22nd April - 2nd May 2011 The Clasper Family

Another wonderful Easter at Roughley. Weather perfect – we were able to be out all day every day. Enjoyed the royal Wedding on the radio, making it all the more enjoyable for the children.

8th - 15th April 2011 The Barnes Family

day 1 – Arrived at Roughley just before sunset, in time to get the lamps on, light a fire, cook some dinner, share a drink. Amazed by the views and prettiness of the cottage itself.
Day 2 – Hermitage Castle is well worth a visit. We sat by a stream and cooked lunch on the way back. In the evening we entertained ourselves with board games in front of the fire – wonderful.
Day 4 – Another beautiful day. (A long walk) to the remains of Riccarton Tower, that evening we enjoyed the fire – can anyone ever get bored with that!
Day 5 – Walked to Bloody Bush Stone – the border with England. Spent the evening reading poems from the wonderful selection of books on the shelves at Roughley.
Day 6 – (Had a meal at The Grapes) Nice, and the lady behind the bar was very friendly and welcoming.
Day 8 – Thank you for a wonderful week in your delightful cottage

18th - 25th March 2011 Miss Matthie

Our first time at Roughly and it was fantastic! Lots of time spent in front of the fire, on the lock and walking through the fields. Excellent fun – I wrote a novel set around the cottage.

4th - 11th March 2011 The Byrnes

First time at Roughley. Arrived to mist covered hills - clear next day to see the fantastic views.
Weather a mixed bag - rain, snow, hail, sleet, wind and sun. Great walking with lovely views. Cosy, comfy cottage in a fabulous location. Hope to return some day – soon!

19th – 26th November 2010 – Mr and Mrs Hartley, Cambridge

A stupendous week! Thanks.

12th - 19th November 2010 – Mr and Mrs Farwell, Frodsham

Wow! How much fun can a couple have?
Weather variable, but when the sun came out the autumn browns, yellows etc were truly amazing!!!
We explored and did some cycling... again, what scenery. 35 miles later and only 23 cars in nearly 3 hours. Unbelievable!
Now for the sad bit, going home. The adventure comes to an end, and our honeymoon is over.

29th October – 5th November 2010 – Mr and Mrs Matthews, Selby

Our third time at Roughley. It feels like coming home. We have caught 9 good quality brown trout and taken 4 over the course of the week. All were taken on Pheasant tail nymphs either beaded or lightly weighted. We hate going home as we love the quiet and stillness of the area.

22nd – 29th October 2010 – Mr Robinson, Bradford and family and friends

Great place to unwind. Have experienced all the seasons in one day, forget that... 1 hour...

17th – 24th September 2010 – Mr and Mrs Matthews, Okehampton

First time a Roughley, but hopefully not the last. First evening treated to beautiful sunset viewed from boat house, followed by first of many cosy evenings by fire and gas light. TV never missed. What a place! Fishing challenging, with plenty of top of the water action on green and yellow hoppers and daddy long legs.

3rd – 10th September 2010 – The Roughley Family, Merseyside

The cottage certainly lived up to our expectations. No electric, no phone, no telly! Various friends and family visited during the week. Everyone loved the place... The open fire very welcoming after a day's fishing or exploring. Hope everyone else enjoys it as much as we have. We'll be back.

7th – 20th August 2010 – Emily Viras and friends

We've had a wonderful two weeks here once more. We enjoyed riding at Bailey Mill as well as the many delights of Hawick. The museum there is fascinating and the new Heritage Centre has interesting bits of social history on display. Hawick, I am told, has eight butchers, and we tried a few, and had some great BBQ's. What a friendly 'toon'!

27th August – 3rd September 2010 – Fiona and Andrew Gale

Weather has been perfect – not too hot for some lovely walks – cottage is lovely – thank you.

11th – 18th June 2010 – The Forsyths of Dorset and Israel

Sincerely hoping to be Roughley's most distant fans, having come from Tel Aviv, Israel, to enjoy a week of relaxation, good food and country exploits in the Scottish Borders... We had a great time rescuing our Mom's showbiz shitszu from the lake after he fell off the dock. A day trip to Glasgow was perhaps the highlight – lots of shopping and art galleries. The central heating worked perfectly, the cottage was incredibly charming, and we just about managed to survive a week with the parents and in-laws.

4th – 11th June 2010 – Mr and Mrs Happer, Norwich

Enjoyed much laughing and lots of wine. Our 15 month old lurcher, Toby, has had the best of times on his first hol and has been worn out each evening.

28th May – 4th June 2010 – The Cook Family from Surrey

Our third time at Roughley, and it really felt like coming home. We were pleased to see that other than a few coats of paint and maintenance, it was the same old roughly that we very much love.
The kids have had a super time and have chilled out more and more each day. Lots of mad dancing and mad games especially at Charlotte's 4th Birthday party on Sunday. Zoe's first time here, and she got well into the spirit of it (aged 1). I feel all of us have really enjoyed each other's company, and are going home a closer family.
We'll be back next year, but hopefully for two weeks again – one just isn't enough.

21st – 28th May 2010 – Mr and Mrs Brow from Glossop

Having been here in October (2004), which we loved, a week in May was equally enchanting for all the contrasts.

14th – 21st May 2010 – Mr and Mrs Lee form Cullompton

Henry, our 6-year old, was very interested in watching Mr Tennant fishing. He cam e back with 2 fish and instructions on how to catch a fish, which we enjoyed for breakfast.

9th – 16th April 2010 – Julie and Nick Tysoe

Great location to get away from it all. Superb views of Hermitage. Fishing was good all week. Saw curlews, oystercatchers, wheatears, chaffinches, blue tits, great tits, hedge sparrows, pipits, swallows and house martins. Have enjoyed the walks and feel totally chilled out. Had the chance to play my bagpipes with no-one to complain at the noise.

April 29th, 2010 – The Clasper Family

Easter at Roughley. What can we say that hasn't already been said about the unique place? The location is breathtakingly beautiful, as are the stars on a clear night. One trout caught and eaten. Children loved the mud. How lovely to arrive to blazing fire.
The Children wrote:
I thought Roughley was great. I got a bow and arrow from Hermitage Castle and then we went to the chapel and I climbed and jumped on rocks and pretended to be Indiana Jones. We saw a millipede.

Christmas 2009 The Jobson Family from Newcastle

20th December 09: Arrived at Roughley on the back of a quad bike. Snow so bad we had to leave the car and walk the rest of the way. Fell in love with the place immediately.
22nd December 09: Snow unbelievable, may be stuck here 'til spring.
Christmas Day: Opened pressies in front of roaring fire, then spent the morning sledging. Ate enormous dinner, played games, then went for a walk in the snow. Peace, perfect peace.

19th – 22nd November 2009 Sofie & Rob Fletcher from Edinburgh

Spent the last leg of our honeymoon at roughly. What a joy. Come rain, come shine, this place pulls out all the stops. Border perfection. Till next time.

24th October 2009 – The Sandoe Family from Yorkshire

Great to get away from crazy home life. We have enjoyed rowing on the Lock, walking to Hermitage Castle and mooching about Hawick. Listening to Harry Potter by gas light certainly adds to the atmosphere.

Mr Jallard. Nottingham 21 September - 9 October 2009

First time at Roughley, but not the last. Enjoyed the lake, the solitude, the scenery, the sunsets, the misty early mornings with a covering of frost. Roaring fire has been fantastic, and gas-light reading at night atmospheric. Long rabbit-chasing walks with the dogs delightful. Roared with laughter at the old Roughley logs especially 'grumpy man' and the 'we stayed 3-dayers'. This holiday was fab.
'Grumpy Man' is sad
We needed a long rest
Roughley is the best!
Hope you enjoy it as much as we did!

Mr and Mrs Jones. Nottingham. 11 - 18 September 2009

The sounds of Roughley - the trout turning to flies, the sound of the trout laughing at my attempts to catch them, the sound of the silence. The clear skies and the masses of stars. The buzzards so close and the 'overfed sparrow' (pheasant) which come for food. I will take home some very happy memories.

The Lowe family and friends 4 - 11 September 2009

Havent see Carl for 2 1/2 days as he's been fishing and has fallen in love with the boat. By Sunday 10 am he'd caught 4 trouts. We're all enjoying the 'no electricity' experience and the peace and tranquillity of no mobiles. The cottage is cosy and comfortable and just right – we love it. Thank you for this lovely weekend back in time at roughley. It's perfect in our eyes – we have had a 'MUST TRY AGAIN EXPERIENCE'

Mr and Mrs Bernaski. New York. 29 August - 4 September 2009

Thank you for having us. A nice irony to have found this peaceful low-tech santuary by way of the www. The library is lovely.

The McLellan family – Enfield. 14 - 28 August 2009

A bat fell down the chimney into the bedroom and clung to the curtain. It would not go out of the open window. Luckily Mr Tennant called in and rescued it. It lay in the gutter for about 15 minutes and we have some super photos of it waking up, preparing to fly and then taking off. Two nights were clear enough to see the stars, inlcuding the Milky Way, some shooting stars, and Jupiter with 4 moons. The wonderful fire and vases of sweet peas were much appreciated when we arrived.

Emily Vivas and friends. N London. 31 July - 14 August 2009

Roughley highlights this year include:
Food - Five BBQs including Shaws beef and T Elliot (local butcher) sausages, roughley raspberry and black currant jam, Upper Dinley Cottage eggs.
Walks - Arnton Fell, Riccarton Junction, Ruber's Law, Watts Burn, Roughley Burn, Nine Stanes Rig.
Falling stars and beautiful sunsets.
Roughley we love you.

Mr Stanyer. 26 June 2009

It is better than the average RSPB hide sitting here...

Frankland and Witty famlies. 8–12 June 2009

Scenery simply stunning. Total stress-free week. TV not missed. Will return with whole family next year.

Harvey family. 22nd May 2009

A long drive up from the Isle of Wight, but well worth it, as we were greeted by beautiful evening sunshin, and the cottage warm and welcoming. Couldnt wati to get the rods out - caught and released several beautiful trouts - cooked dinner and opened the wine! The time here has been idyllic.

Miss Warren and her boyfriend Alan. 10 – 15 December 2008

Alan wrote – Went for a moonlight walk around the frozen pond. Absolutely beautiful as the moonlight glistened off the ice. Came back into the warmth and after a real feast proposed to Naomi. She said yes and we intend to have many happy years back here.

Mr and Mrs Talbot. 27 September – 4 October 2008

Had dinner by candle light. Very warm and cosy. Went outside later and were greeted by stunning celestial display – the milky way directly above...

I wish we had found out about this amazing place years ago. We have travelled the Highlands and Islands of Scotland, but have never felt the profound sense of peace that we have at Roughley.

Mr and Mrs Smith. 16 – 23 . August 2008

Did the walk to 9 Stanes Rig, but it was a huge disappointment. Them prehistoric men didn't have much flair. All the people we met were friendly and helpful.

Mary Geancy. Some nature highlights over the week 26 july – 9 August 2008

Spotting my first red squirrel on Kershope road, saving a mallard from becoming a stoat's dinner, the variety of flowers in the hedgerows. It was my second time at Roughley – it's a magical place for me – and, as last year, I am about to be dragged, kicking and screaming, back into that big bad world outside this magic kingdom.

Emily Vivas. 26 July – 9 August 2008

This was my 5th time at Roughley in 6 years and it's as lovely as ever... tears will be shed at departure time. We had some great riding at Bailey Mill thanks toPam and Ian who let us ride unaccompanied in lovely countryside. We had a wonderful evening hound trailing on the Langholm road.

Mr and Mrs Benskin. 19 – 26 July 2008

We return to Norway tomorrow. We shall take happy memories of this place, and images of a landscape that we hope to know better.

Mr and mres Rossart. 12 – 19 July 2008

Who needs and alarm clock when you have the house martin dawn chorus through the wall.

Mr and Mrs Sherman. 14 - 21 June 2008

As with most of those who've visited Roughley, we're sad to be leaving.

Garry and Gretcha Davidson. 31 May – 7 June 2008

Up at 7 am. Caught 1½ lb trout for breakfast. Lovely condition brown. Baked Trout in oven... scrummy!

We LOVE the splendid isolation, the lack of electricity we found to be a bonus and both feel totally relaxed. The trout lake got me fishing again after a 30 year lapse.

The Mitchell Family - May 24 - 31st 2008

The surrounding area is so beautiful it is difficult to know where to start. We are all hooked by the magic of Roughley. Saw 53 different species of birds including Grasshopper Warbler, Willow Warbler, Reed Bunting, Crossbill, Tufted Duck and Pied Flycatcher. Heard, but did not see: Blackcap, Chiffchaff, Whimbrel and Snipe.

The Cook family 26 April - 10 May 2008

What a wonderful welcome. Both fires blazing, a bunch of gorgeous daffs on the table, and Roughley look remarkably clean. Highly recommended the butcher in Newcastleton. In 7 outings on the loch I caught 12 trout - ate 6 of them - all in the 1 - 1 1/2 lb range.

Back to Roughley Cottage web page

Cleuchhead

18th - 24th November Ms Ainslie, Stanley

Arrived quite late on Friday evening to a lovely warm cottage. Fantastic and very thoughtful. The cottage itself I found wonderful, peace and quiet, warm and cosy, not to mention very well-equipped... it felt very much like a home from home. Ours days were split with me lazing on the sofa with a book (most of the time), and Paul off enjoying the bike trails in Newcastleton and Kielder. Evenings spent in front of a roaring fire, very romantic.

8th – 15th October, 2011 Deb and Steve Pritchard and dogs

Had a great week and are sad to be leaving. We love it here.

1st - 8th October, 2011 Mr and Mrs Gascogne, Nottingham

Highs and lows of British weather this week. 27 degrees down to 7 degrees. All in all, we had sun, strong wind and rain. The moorland road from Newcastleton to Langholm is stunning at this time of year, especially with the sun on it. Black and red grouse on the moors. Around Cleughhead heard tawny owls each night and saw crossbills, red polls, siskins, buzzards and ravens. Dippers are common on rivers and we saw a merlin at Hermitage. Had a very good meal at the Grapes

3rd – 9th September, 2011 Mr and Mrs Smith, Falkirk

Great cottage, great location. Loved the peace and quiet, especially down at the Loch. Enjoyed watching the huge dragon flies buzzing about the reeds.

20th August, 2011 The Clasper Family

Another wonderful holiday here. Two weeks this time, and not long enough. Hope to be back here and to the Roughley.
Edward – son – wrote: excellent view. I caught a trout, it was 2lb. Me and Dad tied some fishing flies. Here is a picture of a fly called a Butcher.

12th - 19th August, 2011 The Gibson family

We have very much enjoyed our stay at Cleughhead and visits to hermitage Castle, Caerlaverock Castle, Vindolanda and the Roman Army Museum at Greenhead.

30th July - 6th August – Mr and Mrs Marsden, Stoke-on-Trent

We have walked miles all around this beautiful area. Our 4 little dogs have walked their legs off, but they have loved every minute of it. Hopefully we will come back and do it all over again

23rd - 30th July – The Henson Family

Another thoroughly enjoyable stay... Note to young families – English Heritage are running special ëTime Travellersí activities for children at Chesters Fort and Birdoswald Fort. Fantastic days out! Thanks again for a peaceful and enjoyable stay, hopefully weíll be back again soon.

The Happer Family. June 11th - 18th 2011

Raffy (aged 19 months) has thoroughly enjoyed the rope swing - much giggling whilst holding on for dear life - and lots of tadpoling. Elliots in Newcastleton make what Abdul has declared 'the best sausage rolls he has ever eaten' and have stocked some fabulous meat. Returning tomorrow happy and refrested, laden with a cool box full of sausage rolls and cheese and onion pasties. Thanks for a lovely stay.

The Archer Family. May 14th - 21st 2011

Had a lovely time - peace and quiet, just what we needed. can recommend The Olive Tree, Hermitage Castle, and Joyce's baking.

Drs Brown-Grant and Rigby, Manchester. April 2nd - 9th 2011

Thank you again for a lovely stay in this cottage, which is starting to feel like a real home form home. Some new walks done.... We hope to be back again for another restful but active week in this wonderful place.

Hazel Henson family. 27 August 2010 - 2 September 2010

We were blessed with some of the best weather of the summer, and thoroughly enjoed having no phone. The drives to our destinations were beautiful and unspoilt. The children had a great time watching the sheep being rounded up and sorted. We have been able to relax completely and discover a different part of our country. Thank you for a wonderful holiday.

The MacDonald family. 20 - 27 August

Beautiful views from everywindow make washing upa joy. Done some exploring – tasted Joyce's fabulous cooking. Loved the woodburner. So much to see and do but we ran out of time...

Mr Bowman. 13 - 20 August 2010

A lovely setting, very quiet and peaceful. Some great walks take you straight back into history.

Clasper and Mcdonald families. 6 - 9 August 2010 2010

The children wrote – Me, Edward and Ciaran went gold panning but didn't find anything. The rope swing was good. Me and Edward enjoyed our new game, deadly dares. We did stream walking, mountain climbing, forest walking and cliff climbing.

The Wilson Family. 30 July 2010 - 6 August 2010

We have had an enjoyable, peaceful week in this lovely area of the country. We have found the house very comfortable, with a very well-equipped kithen and idyllic surroundings. Enjoyed the local attractions – we recommend the Armtrong Museum in Langholm –very informative, and all the family enjoyed learning about the history of the local clan.

The Wagstaff family, 28 May - 4 June 2010

Fantastic, relaxing week with mostly beautiful weather. This is a fantastic place to unwind and enjoy everything the area has to offer.

Drs. Brown, Grant and Steve Rigby, 26 March - 2 April 2010

Thank you for a wonderful stay in this excellent cottage in which we felt at home from the very start. It has been great to explore the area on foot... There is so much to do and so much variety of walking that we hope to return on the autumn to see the beech trees in full flame.

30 April - 3 May 2010

Had a wonderful stay. Lovely cottage. Men enjoyed fishing and 5 kids loved exploring. Our second visit and we'll be back again... Children had a lovely time stroking the lambs and playing with the tadpoles.

Tysoe family. 3-9 October 2009

Fantastic time, thank you for a wonderful week with my family and our first holiday with our grand-children. Going home with some wonderful memories.

Lindsay children. 29 August - 5 September 2009

This place is so beautiful and we all had an amazing time. Fishing was very unsuccessful but brilliant fun! Going to Hadrian's Wall and Vindolanda was really nice and waking up to baa-ing sheep was very funny. We loved it all. We had so much fun here.

Glasspool family. 15 - 29 August 2009

Best stately home – Traquair House with good tea room and maze – ideal for family. Good fishing shop at St Boswell's and excellent bookshop. Good outdoor wear shop at Otterburn if you need it.

The Phillips family. 1 August - 8 August 2009

Had a truly lovely holiday. We live within throwing distance of a 4 lane A road so this was fantastically quiet for us. We loved it. As everyone has said, the Grapes was great. The Birds of Prey at Kielder Lake are superb. People round here are so friendly. We spent 2 days doing a geography river project knee deep in the local rivers – much laughter and very wet.

The Brodie family. 25 July - 1 August 2009

Our second visit. A very relaxing week again – lovely comfy beds. Went back to The Grapes, excellent food. The Olive Tree café warranted a few visits for coffee, cake and fresh bread.

Gannon family. 4-18 July 2009

Lunch at The Grapes Newcastleton – v. good. The swallows and wagtails are teaching their young to fly. It has been great to have time to sit and watch their antics. Cottage lovely and warm. It's great to be inside listening to the wind hwling around outside and the rain beating down. Home tomorrow – where has the week gone?

The Sayers family. 27 June - 4 July 2009

...the cottage is amazing. The converted room at the back is especially beautiful with all the old beams. Stunning scenery and great walks. We come to Scogtland almost every year and it's never been a disappointment (and this year it certainly wasn't). The surrounding towns always prove to be wonderful and the people always friendly.

Mrs and Mrs Van Hecke, Belgium. 16 - 23 May 2009

It was great to be here... This place is so magical. We've been for lovely walks in quiet places. Visiting Hermitage Castle, Lanercost Priory, Hadrian's Wall, Smailholm Tower, Mellerstain House and garden, Hume Castke... It was all fantastic. The cloud formations are tremendous. The sky is changing every feww minutes... The light is playing a game and it so magnificent. So, we love it here - we'll be back. Thank you Cleuch Head!

Mr and Mrs Allen, Norfolk. 9 - 16 May 2009

We love the unspoilt, peaceful surroundings. Watch the sheep and their lambs, seeing the shepherd and his dogs at work.

Mrs Harper. 2 - 9 May 2009

Despite awful weather we have had a lovely week. The cottage is delightful (we were worried it wouldn't match up to Roughley!) nice and warm and with everything you need.

Mrs Wood. 25 April - 2 May 2009

A quiet and peaceful holiday - exactly what we wanted. The cottage was great - well equipped and cosy and we love the fire.

The Maes Family, Essex and East Yorkshire. 11 - 18 April 2009

Comfortable cottage, beautiful scenery and lots of peace and quiet. A lovely dry sping week to welcome the lambs in the field opposite. An excellent holiday destination.

Mr Coffee, Wallaby. 28 March - 4 April, 2009

Sun shining, birds singing m a very quiet and peaceful week. It was wonderful.

Mrs Higson, Accrington. March 14 - 21 2009

We had a wonderful anniversary week. The cottage and locations are everything we wanted and more. The privacy and peacefulness have been a luxury that is hard to find these days.

Deb and Steve Pritchard. 8–22 November 2008

Enjoyed another visit to Cleuchhead... sorry to leave – the two weeks have flown by. Looking forward to our next visit already.

Mr and Mrs Coffee. 13–20 September 2008

Had a thoroughly enjoyable week's stay. The cottage is idyllic.

Paul de Louve, Maryke Berten, and friends from Belgium 2–9 August 2008

We have thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Cleuchhead Cottage, its secluded location, its splendid isolation, the very comfortable accommodation, its cosiness, the well-equipped kitchen, the central heating.

After strenuous walks along Hadrian's Wall, across Arnton Fell, on the Pennine Way or in the environs of Sir Walter Scott's house, it was great to come back to this welcoming haven... We will recommend this place to our friends in Belgium, and we are hoping to spend another holiday in this area of outstanding natural beauty, which is a comfort to the heart, a joy to the mind, and a consolation to the soul.

Niki Turner and Keith Robinson 19–26 July 2008

Another superb stay here. We were blessed with glorious weather – Dogs loved it as always and our new pup took to swimming at each and every opportunity.

Joyce's baking (Rustic Kitchen) was wonderful as always and the roast beef at the Grapes was must yet again. Saw a red squirrel.

12–19 July 2008

Our two boys caught their very first trout. 1 x 1½ lb, 1 x 10 oz, 1 x 8 oz. Fantastic!

Weather has been changeable but dramatic. Children have really had a fantastic time in the burn and loch.

Hermitage is a must, butcher at Newcastleton sells fantastic (that word again) pies and pastries.

Ann, Sandra, and Jenny. 21–28 June

Hermitiage very impressive. Seen bastle houses at Back Midden and Woodhouses. Beautiful day at Wallington – really enjoyed watching the moorhens walking on the lily leaves.

Walked up the valley from Kershope bridge- a multitude of wild flowers.

Kellys and Glovers. 7–14 June

We have all had a wonderful holiday.Enjoyed the walks, but most of all loved the peace and quiet.

Andy and Laura Gascoigne 10–17 May 2008

Fantastic weather, great cottage. Best days were spent walking round the cottage, then fishing and sunbathing in the afternoon. Everyone has been extremely friendly.

Malcolm and Fiona 3–10 May 2008

This place was just what the doctor ordered – peaceful and relaxing – rustic living at its best and the weather was stunning.

The Walker family 19 April – 3rd May 2008

Our second stay at Cleuchhead and yet another greast break. We enjoyed all the old haunts as well as discovering new ones.

Back to Cleuchhead web page

Swanshiel

22nd - 29th October Elaine and Tom Clarke, Leeds

We have had a wonderful week in this fantastic cottage. The views, peace and quiet are amazing... For the first time ever we saw a red squirrel. Feed the birds, and you will be well rewarded with nuthatches, chaffinches, tree creepers, pheasants etc. The cottage is really cosy and lovely and clean, one of the best we've stayed in over the last 10 years. Thank you Ena (The Housekeeper) for the comfortable stay. We hope to be back in the near future with the grandchildren. They would love it here.

11th - 18th June The Swarbricks, Blackpool

Such peace and comfort. Wildlife all around and those beautiful botanical (and other) drawings in the cottage. Must also mention the embroideries and tapestries – so beautiful.

4th - 11th June Mr and Mrs Oliver, King's Lynn

Had a lovely week. Such an idyllic spot to relax and enjoy our very own 'springwatch'. Swallows in the barn, Wagtails and Chaffinches on the lawn. Lots of pretty towns to explore. Steak night at the Horse and Hounds and Sunday Carvery excellent. Really enjoyed the Borders.

9th - 16th April The Ball family, Leeds

A great, isolated spot, lovely for exploring Borders, Dryburgh and Melrose Abbeys and Traquair House strongly recommended.

26th March to 2nd April, 2011 Sue and Nigel Townsend and dogs

Yet another lovely week spent relaxing and unwinding in your cottage. Many thanks. 4 years since we last came... the new fire is a lot better. Good meals at both Horse and Hound and Grapes Hotel (Newcastleton). Still found walks to do that we have not done before. Going home very reluctantly.

January 2011. The Owen Family, Newcastle.

Very worthwhile short break. Children slept soundly and the adults left very rested. Comfortable, clean, quiet cottage.

25 September-2 October 2010. Marilyn and Lynn Wainwright and Dogs.

Lovely cottage – lovely setting. Perfect for a chill out week. It worked wonders. Had a lovely meal at the Horse and Hound on Steak Night.

18-25 September 2010. The Mitchells.

Plenty of wildlife for the observant. A flock of 21 long-tailed tits are regulars in the garden, along with woodpeckers, buzzards, barn owl and tawny owl.

5-11 September 2010. The Shiltons, Tamworth.

Another lovely week in this beautiful part of the world. Great walks near Newcastleton and at Hyundlee. We also recommend 'Steak Night' at the Horse and Hounds

21-28 August 2010. The Victoir Family, Belgium.

We have had a tremendous time in Swanshiel Cottage... We'll go back to Belgium with luggage full of memories.

14-21 August 2010. The Davidson Family, York.

We have had a wonderful time in this beautiful cottage. Rob (aged 9) said: My favourite part of this holiday was playing cricket in the garden. Mary (8) said: My favourite part of this holiday was building dens in the dark ditch.

7-14 August 2010. The Allen/Zoller Family, Norfolk.

Outstanding location. Cottage a pleasure to live in and we'd love to come back.

Lucy aged 12 wrote – I think Swanshiel Cottage is beautiful and the house is very comfy... Me, James and Sal loved exploring the garden. At Rock UK and Kielder we tried canoeing which was really fun and cheap. The Horse and Hound pub serves delicious food.

19-26 June. Chalmes Family from Edinburgh.

Excellent holiday in beautiful setting. Very peaceful even with 18 month old baby.

5-12 June 2010. Family from Worcester.

Back again, third time in 12 months. Haven't found a nicer cottage than this. Multi-fuel stove is excellent and warms up the whole cottage well.

29 May-5 June 2010. Carole and Norman Notarangelo from East Lothian.

It has really been a glorious week – brilliant sunshine. Thanks to the owners for accepting our four wee dogs. They have had a 'whale of a time'. Lovely views from the cottage and very peaceful.

10-17th April 2010. The Converys from Yorkshire.

Had lots of fun exploring the woods and stream. Hope to come back very soon.

Weekend 3 April 2010. Colin and Joy Baines, Merseyside.

Great cottage, wonderful spot with loads of wildlife. Saw a pair of roe deer in the garden,... A passing fox, tawny owl, jays, bats... a red squirrel seen down the lane. Lots of nice walks from the doorstep. Melrose worth a visit and St Abb's Head spectacular. We've had a great week – very relaxing.

28 December 2009-5 January 2010. Reynolds Family, Leicestershire.

Beautiful setting, Lots of snow, which we loved. Miss Lauder and Mr McCallum very helpful – Thank you. Happy New Year.

2009

14-21 February 2009. The Shelton family.

We arrived to a lovely covering of snow. Having visited many parts of Scotland previously, we were surprised to find how scenic the Borders are. The cottage and its setting are both delightful and we feel so at home!

28 December 2008-4 January 2009. The Hudson family.

A lovely cottage in an idyllic and tranquil location. Swanshiel is ideal for rest and relaxation, and is a world away from everyday city life. Many thanks.

2008

11-15 October 2008. Mr Dewar

Had a lovely short stay. Visit Hermitage Castle - its brilliant.

20-27 September 2008. The Beards family.

The perfect hideaway location, peaceful and quiet. No sirens or noise like at home.

30 August-6 September 2008. The Willis family.

Fantastic location, beautiful scenery, wonderful cottage. Felt like home, but better. Horse and Hound at Bonchester Bridge does great food and has a games room for kids. Our 2 Border terriers had a great time too.

2-9 August 2008. The Lambert family.

We have had a fabulous time at Swanshiel Cottage, and the children have had great fun playing in the garden

12-19 July 2008. The Quintons.

We have spent many years on holiday in Scotland-always something to delight.

28 June-5 July 2008. Mrs Verhoeff from Holland.

We have had a very good time at Swanshiel Cottage. Very peaceful and quiet compared to Holland, where we do not get views like these. We roamed quite far afield – Edinburgh – Hexham, we even walked on Hadrian's Wall. Sometimes it was difficult to tear ourselves away from the bookcases, a very good feature of the cottage.

14-21 June 2008. The Edwards family.

"What do you mean, we have to go home? We love this place!"
PS. the views are incredible wherever you go be sure to bring a camera. (Maria aged 11)

12-19 April 2008. Irwin family.

Had a great week – enjoyed making dens down by the stream and collected tadpoles. Went for long long walks. (Kirsty aged 11) We enjoyed paddling down in the stream. At Jed Forest we watched lambs being born and got to feed them. Saw a hawk hovering and diving. It was a great holiday! (Gavin aged 9)

December 29th - 5th January 2008 Litchfield Family, Sutton in Ashworth

It snowed at the end of the holiday and we enjoyed playing outside building snowmen. We all had an amazing time, and the dogs thoroughly enjoyed running around the garden.

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