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The Chard, Longtown

Visitor Rating
Rating
Exceptional
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The Chard is a romantic shepherd's hut for two set in the peaceful countryside of Cumbria. This cosy retreat offers a private hot tub and sits within easy reach of the Lake District National Park. The location makes it perfect for couples wanting to explore the fells whilst enjoying a quiet rural escape.

The surrounding area features rolling farmland and open countryside. You're close to Carlisle and the Scottish borders. The North Pennines lie to the east.

The accommodation sleeps 2 guests in 1 bedroom with 1 bathroom. Inside you'll find a compact living space with a double bed, small kitchen area and seating. The shepherd's hut design maximises every inch whilst maintaining comfort.

About The Chard

The Chard is a romantic shepherd's hut for two set in the peaceful countryside of Cumbria. This cosy retreat offers a private hot tub and sits within easy reach of the Lake District National Park. The location makes it perfect for couples wanting to explore the fells whilst enjoying a quiet rural escape.

The surrounding area features rolling farmland and open countryside. You're close to Carlisle and the Scottish borders. The North Pennines lie to the east.

The accommodation sleeps 2 guests in 1 bedroom with 1 bathroom. Inside you'll find a compact living space with a double bed, small kitchen area and seating. The shepherd's hut design maximises every inch whilst maintaining comfort. The wood burner keeps things warm during cooler months.

Hadrian's Wall runs nearby at Birdoswald Roman Fort (8 miles, 15 minutes). The Lake District National Park boundary sits 12 miles away (20 minutes). Talkin Tarn Country Park offers walking and watersports (4 miles, 10 minutes). Carlisle Castle provides historical interest (7 miles, 15 minutes).

The Chard suits couples after a peaceful countryside retreat with hot tub relaxation. Book here for genuine rural seclusion combined with access to outstanding outdoor adventures.

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At Sykes Cottages

Need To Know

More Glamping With Hot Tubs You May Like

Local Insights: The Chard

Unique information you won't find on booking sites

Longtown, Cumbria

Weather & Local Conditions

9°C

Overcast

Updated: 22 Aug 2026, 2:53am

🌡️
9.40°C
Temperature
💨
5 km/h
Wind Speed
💧
91%
Humidity
🧳
Packing Tip: UK weather can turn quickly, so pack layers whatever the forecast. A waterproof and sturdy shoes mean the whole group can head out whatever August throws at you.

What to Expect Through the Year

  • May - September: Warmest, longest days - ideal for long days out, gardens and BBQs
  • October - November: Crisp autumn colour, cosy evenings by the fire, quieter attractions
  • December - February: Perfect for a snug winter escape - great for Christmas and New Year gatherings
  • March - April: Spring blooms, longer evenings returning, wildlife becoming active
🌧️
Rainy Day Tip: A cosy glamping stay comes into its own on wet days - board games, a long lunch and a film beats a cramped hotel any day. Check the tabs here for nearby pubs and attractions with indoor options.

Dark Skies & Stargazing

The Chard sits in a location with genuinely dark skies - a real treat for a group, and something you rarely get at home in town.

Bortle Scale Rating

The Bortle scale measures night sky darkness from 1 (darkest) to 9 (brightest urban):

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
🌌
Class 4 - Rural/suburban transition
This location's dark sky rating

What You Can See From the Property

The Milky Way is visible overhead, though light domes may be visible on the horizon towards larger towns.

The Milky Way is visible on clear, moonless nights.

Best Stargazing Conditions

  • New Moon periods: Darkest skies, best Milky Way visibility
  • Winter months: Earlier darkness, crisper skies, Orion constellation prominent
  • After 11pm: Neighbouring lights typically switched off
  • Allow 20 minutes: Let your eyes adjust to darkness before looking up
📱
Pro Tip: Download a stargazing app like "Sky Map" or "Star Walk" before arrival. Mobile signal can be limited, and these apps work offline - a fun activity to share of an evening.

Location & Elevation

40m

(131 feet above sea level)

The Chard sits in a peaceful Cumbria setting - space to spread out and the perfect base for a glamping escape.

🏔️
40m
Elevation
📍
Longtown
Nearest Village
🌲
Rural
Setting

What the Elevation Means for Your Stay

  • Fresher air: Expect it a touch cooler than coastal areas - bracing walks and restful sleep
  • Clearer air: Less pollution and haze, better views and stargazing
  • Morning mists: Valley fog sometimes forms below, creating magical sunrise views
  • Walking access: Higher starting point means shorter climbs to hilltops and summits
🚗
Driving Note: The roads to Longtown are typical Cumbria lanes - narrow in places with passing spots. If the group is arriving in several cars, share the postcode and a meeting point in advance.

Coordinates

Latitude: 55.0472321° N | Longitude: 2.9344822° W

Sunrise & Sunset Times

Today's sun times for Longtown (Saturday, 22 August 2026):

4:57am

Sunrise

6:31pm

Golden Hour

7:31pm

Sunset

🌅
4:57am
Sunrise
🌇
7:31pm
Sunset
📸
6:31pm
Golden Hour

Planning Your Days by Season

  • Summer (Jun-Aug): Sunset around 9:30-10pm - long days for group walks, days out and late alfresco dinners
  • Autumn (Sep-Nov): Sunset 5-7pm - perfect timing for an after-dinner drink as the stars come out
  • Winter (Dec-Feb): Sunset around 4pm - cosy early evenings by the fire, ideal for stargazing
  • Spring (Mar-May): Sunset 6-9pm - watch the evenings grow longer each day
🌙
Golden Hour: For the best light, plan your group photo or evening walk around golden hour (6:31pm). The warm colours make for lovely holiday photos before you head back in for dinner.

August Daylight

This month in Longtown, you have approximately 14.57 hours of daylight. The long summer days mean plenty of time for group adventures before a relaxed evening back at the property.

Practical Essentials

Everything the group needs to know before you arrive at The Chard.

Mobile Phone Signal

📱

Signal Strength

Good

Mobile signal is generally good in this area across most networks.

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Signal Tip: All major networks should work well here.

Nearest Essentials

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Arrival Tip: Fill up with fuel before you arrive - petrol stations can be sparse in rural Cumbria. With a larger group it's worth doing one big supermarket shop on the way, especially if arriving late.

Family & Fun

Data updated: 22 Aug 2026 | Location: 55.0472321, -2.9344822

Information unique to this location - not available on booking sites

What Guests Love

What do previous guests think about their stay at The Chard

Private Hot Tub

Soak under the stars in your own hot tub with countryside views all around you for complete relaxation and privacy.

Romantic Shepherd's Hut

Perfectly designed for two with thoughtful touches and cosy interiors that create an intimate atmosphere for couples.

Wood Burner Warmth

The traditional wood burner adds authentic warmth and creates a wonderfully cosy atmosphere on cooler evenings.

Rural Seclusion

Surrounded by peaceful farmland with no near neighbours means total tranquillity and a proper escape from daily life.

Lake District Access

Just 20 minutes from the National Park boundary puts world-class walking and scenery within easy reach for day trips.

Hadrian's Wall Proximity

Ancient Roman history sits on your doorstep with Birdoswald Fort just 15 minutes away for fascinating historical exploration.

Getting To The Chard

Find your way to your perfect countryside retreat

By Car

To reach The Chard by car, take the M6 to Junction 43 and follow the A69 towards Brampton. Turn onto minor roads following directions to the property. You'll have convenient off-road parking available upon arrival.

By Train

For those travelling by rail, the nearest station is Carlisle, approximately 7 miles away. From there, you'll need a taxi to reach the property as public transport options are limited in this rural area.

Off-road parking available
Carlisle station (7 miles)
Accessible from M6 Junction 43

Attractions & More Nearby

Stuff to see & do on your glamping break!

Birdoswald Roman Fort
Distance: 8 miles
CA8 7DD
Carlisle Castle
Distance: 7 miles
CA3 8UR
Talkin Tarn Country Park
Distance: 4 miles
CA8 1HN
Hadrian's Wall Path
Distance: 8 miles
CA8 7DD
Talkin Tarn Circular Walk
Distance: 4 miles
CA8 1HN
Gelt Woods
Distance: 6 miles
CA8 1RN
Brampton Town Centre
Distance: 5 miles
CA8 1NN
Carlisle City Centre
Distance: 7 miles
CA1 1QY
Tesco Superstore Brampton
Distance: 5 miles
CA8 1SZ
Carlisle Railway Station
Distance: 7 miles
CA1 1JB
Carlisle Bus Station
Distance: 7 miles
CA3 8HA
Brampton Medical Practice
Distance: 5 miles
CA8 1RX
Birdoswald Roman Fort
Distance: 8 miles
CA8 7DD
Carlisle Castle
Distance: 7 miles
CA3 8UR
Talkin Tarn Country Park
Distance: 4 miles
CA8 1HN
Hadrian's Wall Path
Distance: 8 miles
CA8 7DD
Talkin Tarn Circular Walk
Distance: 4 miles
CA8 1HN
Gelt Woods
Distance: 6 miles
CA8 1RN
Brampton Town Centre
Distance: 5 miles
CA8 1NN
Carlisle City Centre
Distance: 7 miles
CA1 1QY
Tesco Superstore Brampton
Distance: 5 miles
CA8 1SZ
Carlisle Railway Station
Distance: 7 miles
CA1 1JB
Carlisle Bus Station
Distance: 7 miles
CA3 8HA
Brampton Medical Practice
Distance: 5 miles
CA8 1RX

Is The Chard Right For You?

Is this hot tub glamping retreat best suited to couples or families? What standout glamping features and private hot tub can you look forward to? And is it a dog-friendly getaway? Discover if this short break is the right for you.

For Families
The Chard is designed specifically as a romantic retreat for two adults and isn't suitable for children. The shepherd's hut accommodation sleeps only 2 guests in one double bedroom with no additional sleeping space. The compact interior and rural location make this property ideal exclusively for couples rather than families with children.
Glamping Features
The shepherd's hut features a traditional wood burner that provides authentic warmth and atmosphere during cooler months. Outside, your private hot tub offers countryside views and complete seclusion for starlit soaking. The compact design maximises every inch whilst maintaining comfort. Outdoor seating areas let you enjoy the rural surroundings during daylight hours. The combination of rustic shepherd's hut living with modern hot tub luxury creates the perfect glamping experience.
Pet Friendly
The Chard welcomes dogs so your pet can join the countryside adventure. The rural location provides excellent walking opportunities straight from the door across farmland and quiet lanes. The surrounding area offers miles of footpaths and open countryside for daily exercise. Nearby Talkin Tarn Country Park sits 4 miles away with dog-friendly trails. The shepherd's hut accommodation gives your dog space to settle comfortably alongside you.

Dining & Cafes

Taste the local flavours during your stay at The Chard

The Howard Arms

Located 3 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: CA8 2HN

The Sands Centre Café

Located 7 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: CA2 5AS

Foxfield Smokehouse

Located 5 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: CA8 1SB

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to our most common questions about The Chard

Is The Chard pet friendly?
Yes, The Chard welcomes pets so you can bring your dog along. The rural setting provides excellent walking opportunities right from the door.
What are the hot tub arrangements?
The private hot tub sits outdoors with countryside views for your exclusive use throughout your stay. It's perfect for evening relaxation after days spent exploring the surrounding area.
What sleeping arrangements does The Chard offer?
The shepherd's hut contains one double bedroom sleeping two guests in total. The compact layout maximises space whilst maintaining comfort for a romantic couple's retreat.
What cooking facilities are available?
The small kitchen area includes basic cooking equipment suitable for preparing simple meals. You'll find everything needed for breakfast and light meals during your stay.
How far is The Chard from the Lake District?
The Lake District National Park boundary sits approximately 12 miles away. You can reach the park in around 20 minutes by car for excellent walking and scenery.
What outdoor facilities does the property have?
Outside you'll find the private hot tub plus outdoor seating areas. The rural location means you have direct access to countryside walks from the property.
Is there mobile phone signal at The Chard?
Mobile signal can be limited in this rural Cumbrian location. It's worth checking with your provider beforehand if connectivity is essential during your stay.
What historical sites are nearby?
Hadrian's Wall runs close by with Birdoswald Roman Fort just 8 miles away. Carlisle Castle sits 7 miles distant offering more historical interest within easy driving distance.

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The Chard Reviews

Peaceful,tranquil and beautiful surroundings. We have booked again!
Gorgeous place and incredibly relaxing, we had such a lovely stay. The hosts were very helpful and kindly provided a high chair and even some matches for our BBQ when we asked. The only very minor downsides were that a larger mirror would have been useful, and the location is quite remote so there isnt anything within walking distance. That said, we were aware of this before booking, so it wasnt an issue for us.
Harrison
Really good stay with large private field if bringing pets as long as there okay with wandering wildlife chickens rabbits and ducks etc. family who run it are really helpful and have done a great job building these lodges only small issues would be the size of the sofa and tv although these were barely used, used the komoot app to find local walks in the area and you are just a short travel from most as well as being near to Longtown which has any shops youll need during a short stay. And maybe one improvement would be having bbq equipment as all thats provided is a portable stove however rest of the facilities were good will likely stay again. Bathroom well above what we expected and hot tub was great set up by the owners when we first arrived.
Robert
Stunning, the cabin the location amazing, hot tub absolute bonus. Waking up to wildlife walking past your door was unforgettable. Cabin was comfortable shower was out of this world parking right next to cabin. Only thing missing and its minor just my opinion was large mirror and maybe extra cooking facilities, but seriously not a fault or issue.
This was the perfect place for a peaceful and relaxing getaway. The accommodation was clean with everything we needed. The outside space was private with a lovely view, and the hot tub was great. We will definitely be back.
We had a lovely 3 nights stay. We were there to relax and unwind and thats exactly what we did with beautiful view. My only input would be that a clothes maiden would be beneficial to hang towels and costumes. It really dark at night especially in hot tub and some lighting around on the fence might light it up a bit. If Im going to be picky a mirror on the wall as hand mirror small a clock so dont have to look at our phones but this did not effect our wonderful stay.
The accommodation itself was absolutely beautiful and outside was even better. The hottub was perfect and the owners were so friendly and helpful. Will definitely be going back
Could do with some sort of mesh door so you can open door without the risk of animals coming in. Also could really do with an oven. Other than that, really lovely place and we really enjoyed it
Stayed for the bank holiday weekend, everything was perfect. Highly recommend.
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