Redgauntlet

Families and couples after a quiet coastal break will find Redgauntlet suited to them. The cottage sleeps four across two bedrooms—a kingsize and a three-quarter double—and occupies the ground floor of a Georgian-era longhouse in the hamlet of Skinburness. You have the whole property to yourself, with a private garden, decking area and fire pit overlooking the water.

The kitchen is equipped for real cooking: electric oven and hob, microwave, air fryer and slow cooker. The bathroom has a bath with shower over it. Bed linen, towels, wifi and electricity are all included. One small dog stays free. You'll need to bring your own essentials for a pet, and note that the property is non-smoking. There's private parking for one car.

Skinburness sits on the Solway Firth coast, two miles from Silloth. The location is genuinely dramatic at high tide, with waves breaking against the sea wall; calmer days bring clear views across the firth towards Scotland. This corner of Cumberland draws herons, curlews and oystercatchers regularly, and rarer sightings—sea eagles, porpoises—happen. The sunsets are noted for their quality, and light pollution is low enough for proper stargazing.