Bowness-On-Solway, Wigton

Bank Cottage, Bowness on Solway: A Hidden Gem in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Nestled on the edge of the Solway Firth in the picture-perfect village of Bowness on Solway, Bank Cottage is a charming early 1800's two-bedroom detached home that offers not just a residence, but a lifestyle. With uninterrupted views over the tidal estuary toward the Scottish hills, this 'turn key' property is a rare and exciting opportunity for anyone looking to embrace tranquillity, nature, and character in equal measure.

Property Overview

Bank Cottage embodies everything one might imagine when thinking of a quintessential country retreat—stone walls, exposed beams, a roaring multi-fuel stove, and gardens overlooking expansive landscapes teeming with wildlife. But unlike many country homes, it comes with a thoroughly modern edge: turnkey presentation, contemporary kitchen and bathroom fittings, a jacuzzi overlooking the estuary, and a detached barn ripe for conversion into a studio, study, or even guest accommodation/holiday let (subject to planning consent). For home-workers, artists, writers, or anyone simply seeking sanctuary, Bank Cottage ticks all the boxes—and then some.

A Village with Charm and Connection - Before delving into the details of the property itself, it is worth considering its incredible location. Bowness on Solway is a small, historic village that marks the western terminus of the Hadrian's Wall Path—a UNESCO World Heritage Site that draws walkers and history lovers year-round. The village is steeped in Roman and Celtic history, with quiet lanes, stunning sunsets, and a peaceful atmosphere that seems frozen in time.

Despite its rural seclusion, Bowness on Solway is far from remote. The village benefits from a well-connected local road network, with the market town of Wigton and the historic city of Carlisle just a short drive away. Here you’ll find everything from larger supermarkets and restaurants to rail links and cultural attractions. Local amenities within or near Bowness include The Kings Arms village pub, The Solway Lounge & Garrison Bistro, The Peartree Tea Room and a small community shop, and regular mobile services, such as library and post office vans, that help maintain a close-knit yet functional lifestyle.

Nature lovers will be enchanted by the proximity to the Solway Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a haven for birdwatchers and photographers alike. Thousands of migratory birds pass through the area, and from Bank Cottage’s own patio or upper windows, one can enjoy ever-changing panoramas of sky and sea that shift with the tides and seasons.

First Impressions Matter. Approaching Bank Cottage, you are immediately struck by its quaint and characterful exterior. The stone façade sits beautifully in its surroundings, giving the property a timeless appearance. The front garden is low-maintenance and tastefully landscaped to blend seamlessly with the natural environment. A small detached barn, already semi-renovated by the current owner is positioned slightly to the side and offers enormous potential. Whether converted into a private home office, creative studio, or cozy guest annex, this space could become a real asset to the property—especially in today’s remote-working world.

Step inside through the vestibule—a smart and practical entrance area with tiled flooring ideal for muddy boots or wet paws—and the home immediately welcomes you with warmth and charm.

The Heart of the Home. The lounge/diner is perhaps the most atmospheric room in the house. Spacious yet inviting, it features exposed ceiling beams and a stunning inglenook fireplace complete with a sandstone surround and hearth. At its centre is a powerful multi-fuel stove, the perfect companion for long winter nights. Natural light floods in through two large uPVC sliding sash windows, and solid wood flooring runs underfoot, adding to the rustic yet refined aesthetic.

French doors lead directly from the lounge to the private rear patio—a space that will capture your heart. Here, the ever-changing vista of the Solway estuary unfolds in front of you, uninterrupted. Whether you're enjoying morning coffee or soaking in the outdoor jacuzzi with a glass of wine at sunset, it’s a view that never gets old.

The recently fitted kitchen is a joy for anyone who loves to cook or entertain. Thoughtfully designed and finished to a high standard, it includes stylish base units, a solid oak worktop, and a ceramic sink with mixer tap. The showstopper is undoubtedly the Smeg range-style oven and grill, complete with a five-ring gas hob and glass splashback—a setup that invites culinary creativity. There is an integrated slimline dishwasher and washing machine, plus a cleverly concealed pantry cupboard that maximizes storage without compromising style. Tiled flooring and exposed beams above complete the look, marrying traditional and modern aesthetics beautifully.

Comfortable Bedrooms with a View. The ground floor hosts one of the property’s two double bedrooms—a generous, bright space with French doors opening directly to those signature views. Again, solid wooden flooring and recessed LED spotlights create an elegant yet cozy atmosphere. This bedroom connects to the Jack and Jill-style shower room, which serves both residents and guests with aplomb.

The shower room itself is both functional and attractive. With a corner shower cubicle, WC, and wash hand basin, it’s a compact yet comfortable space. Exposed stonework and tiled walls add texture and character, while LED spotlights and a column towel radiator provide modern convenience. A frosted sliding sash window maintains privacy without sacrificing natural light.

Upstairs Sanctuary - An inner hallway, bright with tiled flooring, leads to the first floor, where a skylight-lit landing opens to the second double bedroom—a room that feels like a private suite. This is a space of serenity, luxury, and panoramic beauty. French doors open to let in salty sea breezes and those iconic Solway views. Exposed stonework and ceiling beams offer traditional character, while a Velux window ensures the room is always bathed in natural light.

The adjacent upstairs bathroom is nothing short of stunning. Designed as a spa-like retreat, it boasts a double-ended roll-top bath, ideal for indulgent soaks. A walk-in shower with a drench head and slate seating area offers a luxury hotel feel, while the addition of a cloakroom WC, wash hand basin, wooden panelling, and attractive tiled flooring ensure both comfort and style. Another column towel radiator completes this deluxe sanctuary.

Outdoor Living, Reimagined - The garden at Bank Cottage is deliberately low maintenance, allowing you more time to enjoy the property rather than labouring over upkeep. The main attraction is the rear patio—a private and peaceful space with unobstructed views, ideal for dining alfresco or simply unwinding with nature. The jacuzzi is a standout feature, turning the patio into a year-round retreat for wellness and relaxation.

To the side, the small detached barn remains a blank canvas with vast potential. Its proximity to the house makes it perfect for a home office, creative studio, or even a tranquil reading room where you can watch the estuary wildlife undisturbed. Alternatively, the barn could also be used as a high yielding holiday let.

The Lifestyle Opportunity - Bank Cottage offers more than a place to live—it offers a whole new way of living. In an age where peace, space, and quality of life are increasingly valued, this property presents a rare chance to make those ideals a reality. Whether you’re an artist inspired by the shifting tides, a writer seeking solitude, a professional needing a serene base for remote work, or a retiree ready to embrace countryside calm, this home adapts to your dream.

Add to this the benefits of being located within an AONB, near a World Heritage Site, with views that rival those anywhere in the UK, and it becomes clear that this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity.

In every respect, Bank Cottage is a contemporary natural style property that delights the senses and nurtures the soul. Its character features, modern amenities, and breath-taking location combine to create a home that is both inspiring and practical. Whether as a primary residence, a holiday retreat, or a holiday let, this unique home in Bowness on Solway represents the very best of rural British living. (Previously listed on Air BnB generating an income of £52,000 at full occupancy)

This is not just a cottage—it’s a sanctuary. It’s not just a home—it’s a vision of peace, nature, and beauty. Bank Cottage is waiting for someone to fall in love with it. Could that be you?

In through the original front door to:

Vestibule

Lounge/Diner
25' 10'' x 11' 5'' (7.87m x 3.48m)

Recently Fitted Kitchen
14' 5'' x 10' 0'' (4.39m x 3.05m)

Inner Hallway

Ground Floor Bedroom 
14' 5'' x 8' 6'' (4.39m x 2.59m)

Jack & Jill Ground Floor Shower Room 
7' 1'' x 6' 10'' (2.16m x 2.08m)

From Inner Hallway upstairs to:

First Floor Landing

Bedroom Two 
12' 4'' x 9' 7'' (3.76m x 2.92m)

Family Bathroom 
12' 6'' x 10' 9'' (3.81m x 3.27m)

Barn 
26' 10'' x 9' 6'' (8.17m x 2.89m)

Services
Mains water, electricity and drainage. LPG gas central heating. New double glazing (uPVC and sliding sash uPVC). Freehold. Council Tax Band B.