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Cosy rural retreat in the beautiful Yarrow Valley

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Exterior
Dining
TV, DVD player, books
Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop
4 bedrooms, iron/ironing board, bed sheets

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

4 bedrooms2 bathrooms

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Pet friendly
  • Parking available

Explore the area

View in a map
Selkirk, Scotland
  • Place, Bowhill House
    ‪15 min drive‬
  • Place, St Mary's Loch
    ‪15 min drive‬
  • Place, Market Square
    ‪18 min drive‬

Room options

About the neighborhood

Selkirk

This cottage places you within a 10-minute drive of Bowhill House and St Mary's Loch. The cottage includes a kitchen, a refrigerator, and a microwave.
View more Cottages in SelkirkOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Bowhill House - 15 min drive - 9.0 miles
  • St Mary's Loch - 15 min drive - 9.8 miles
  • Market Square - 18 min drive - 11.6 miles
  • Halliwell's House Museum - 18 min drive - 11.6 miles
  • Sir Walter Scott's Courtroom - 18 min drive - 11.8 miles

Getting around

  • Tweedbank Station - 34 min drive
  • Edinburgh Airport (EDI) - 97 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Cross Keys Inn - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Waterwheel Café - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Findra - ‬17 min drive
  • ‪Durty brewing - ‬17 min drive
  • ‪Traquair Arms Hotel - ‬17 min drive

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Cosy rural retreat in the beautiful Yarrow Valley

Old Kirkstead is tucked away in the beautiful Yarrow Valley between Selkirk (16 miles) and Moffat (16 miles). It is accessed from the A708 through Kirkstead Farm steading and along 0.5 miles rough track.

This traditional stone shepherds cottage has been extended to provide a large contemporary kitchen with a spacious open plan living area and four bedrooms. There is a double bedroom with en-suite shower room, and a twin bedroom downstairs; and a further twin bedroom and king size bedroom upstairs. The bathroom is located downstairs, and has an over bath shower. The utility room has space for a dog bed as well as the washing machine and tumble drier.

Warmed by oil-fired central heating, Old Kirkstead is comfortable and cosy throughout the year.

The cottage is an ideal base for hill walkers, bird watchers, wildlife enthusiasts, or families who just want to get away from it all and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Well behaved dogs are welcome, however they must be kept on a lead as this is a working farm.

There is no broadband and limited mobile signal at Old Kirkstead although there is 4G a couple of miles down the valley.
The cottage is heated and features a kitchen and 2 bathrooms, and there's space to spread out with 4 bedrooms. Guests can expect to find a TV with a DVD player. Other standard amenities include a washing machine, an electric kettle, and an ironing board.

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Property amenities

Parking and transportation

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Refrigerator
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Bedrooms

  • 4 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 2 bathrooms
  • Hair dryer
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • Books
  • DVD player
  • Games
  • TV with cable/satellite channels

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming dogs only
  • 2 pets total

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoking not allowed

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets
  • Dogs only
  • 2 total pets
  • Service animals exempt from fees
  • Note from host: Dogs must be kept on a lead

Children and extra beds

Children allowed: ages 0-17

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
  • Check-in: 4:00 PM
  • Check-out: 10:00 AM

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
  • Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit.

Property is also known as

Cosy Rural Retreat in the Beautiful Yarrow Valley Cottage
Cosy Rural Retreat in the Beautiful Yarrow Valley Selkirk

Frequently asked questions

What's there to do near this cottage?

This cottage is located in Selkirk, close to Bowhill House, Traquair House, and Three Brethren. You'll also find Robert Smail's Printing Works and Traquair House Maze nearby.

Will I be able to park at Cosy rural retreat in the beautiful Yarrow Valley?

No, this cottage doesn't offer parking.

Is this cottage next to a casino?

No, this cottage is not connected to a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at this cottage?

No, there is no indoor pool at this cottage.

Is Cosy rural retreat in the beautiful Yarrow Valley good for couples?

Amenities at this cottage that appeal to couples include a kitchen in each cottage with a kitchen in some.

Does Cosy rural retreat in the beautiful Yarrow Valley have a hot tub?

No, this cottage doesn't have a spa tub.

Does this cottage offer breakfast?

No, this cottage doesn't offer breakfast.

Does this cottage allow pets to stay for free?

Although dogs can't stay for free, they are welcome at this cottage.

Does Cosy rural retreat in the beautiful Yarrow Valley have connecting rooms available?

No, there aren't connecting guestrooms at this cottage.

Can I book a room with a balcony at Cosy rural retreat in the beautiful Yarrow Valley?

No, you won't find cottage with balconies at Cosy rural retreat in the beautiful Yarrow Valley.

Cosy rural retreat in the beautiful Yarrow Valley Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 87 out of 89 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 89 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 89 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 89 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 89 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jason N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great as always! Thanks so much!
Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

8/10 Good

Mihaela S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a great stay here,the location is amazing,very quiet,with beautiful view of the hills and the little river behind the house.The host was very kind,she made the Christmas tree for us,left lots of chocolates for the kids and cakes.The house was very clean and cosy.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nikki P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful stay in a beautiful cottage and location. The property was well equiped and stocked with some lovely touches left by the owner. The cleanliness was immaculate and we have a fantastic stay. Will certainly return.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mary Y.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely stay

A lovely place to get away from it all.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lara C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing break

Love the secluded location, great social space and super comfy!!
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lara C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great get away

Wonderful spot and very comfortable home.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Allan M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Short break to celebrate a 50th birthday with friends

The Old Kirkstead was the perfect getaway with friends. The house had everything we needed & was in the perfect location.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Russell H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful location

Beautiful location, so peaceful. Lovely well equipped house
Stayed 14 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

susan edna s.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

new year in yarrow

beautiful place loved it.the children also loved it.so did the dog.will deffo book again.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Helen P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A gem!

A beautiful property both inside and out. Perfect place to stay, can’t wait to return.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

JE v.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A place to rest.

Just a proper place which is basic and inclusive at the same time.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jason N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A repeat rental

Clean, quiet, comfortable. Always a pleasure to stay here!
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Marie J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cosy getaway

Cosy getaway with all mod cons and plenty of space for 8 adults. We enjoyed exploring the beautiful countryside surrounding the cottage, playing games and sharing home cooked meals.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jim D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Rural comfort.

Fantastic rural location, hidden from the main road. Comfortable beds and spacious lounge and kitchen/dining room. Perfect for my family of 6 adults and 2 teenagers.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jason N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Away from it all

This is our second stay at Old Kirkstead and we love it. Great place to disconnect from everything (no cell or internet which is wonderful!)
Stayed 4 nights in May 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jessica W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect getaway

We all absolutely no complaints on our stay, the properly was cleaned for our arrival and we even had a cake with some wine left for our arrival. I only gave 4 stars for accuracy of online listing due to the maps location on the posting did not match where the location actually was and we got a lil lost but a quick call with the host and we found it.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ala R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic view

The property was nice and clean enough to sleep 8 peoples and more. Very comfortable and nothing lacking, the host has provided everything needed. Lovely communal areas and outside space. We've enjoyed the seen and the walk to St Mary's Loch. Would recommend and go again :)
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rachel F.

Amazing cottage in the most beautiful setting

We loved our stay as much as our last visit to this truly idyllic location. The cottage is very spacious and has everything you need - the homemade cake on our arrival was a very nice touch. It’s an amazing location if you are looking to get away from it all and the surrounding area has lots of good walks for those looking to just get outdoors and for the more experienced walker too. We will definitely be booking again
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2018
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful stone cottage in amazing setting

Beautiful old cottage that has been perfectly retrofitted for comfort without ruining the ambiance. Nice large public areas, very well equipped kitchen, pleasant bedrooms… The setting is absolutely gorgeous, albeit with a bumpy road in for a short distance. Wonderful hiking all around. I would love to come back!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jacqueline I.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Stunning Stay

Our stay was in stunning setting. Recommend getting there before dark as it is set back but then you are sitting in a postcard. We had a delicious lemon loaf and well equipped kitchen and home over the holidays. Thank you Hilary!
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie R.

Perfect getaway in peaceful beauty

A wonderful, clean and tidy cottage, hidden away in beautiful hillsides. We loved the animal on the farm surrounding us, the walks, the Loch, the views and the games at the cottage! We also appreciated having no WiFi!!! Perfect week away, we will certainly be back soon!!!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2018
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rachel F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Complete relax and recharge

This is our 3rd visit and it never fails to deliver. The location is idyllic for a complete get away from busy everyday lives. The cottage is immaculate and has everything you need. Our family love our time here where we can enjoy walks in the stunning surroundings and totally relax in the well presented cottage. The home baking on arrival is a very personal touch
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Thomas S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Old Kirkstead

Old Kirkstead is a really nice spot which was enjoyed by kids and parents alike. We'd never been to this part of Scotland before but we'll be back for longer in the summer having only had three nights this time round. Hilary (the host) couldn't have been more helpful after we managed to completely mess up the booking too!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

David B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Exceeded our expectations

Completely remote and surrounded by wildlife, this cottage exceeded our expectations. We recommend: a walk around St Mary's loch from the cottage stopping at the Glen Cafe for cake, eat out at home from the Gordon Arms, and a visit to one of the many historic houses and gardens nearby. We were surprised to find so much to do, that we couldn't fit it all in one week. Our two dogs loved the holiday as well.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Fiona B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely, isolated house in the Borders.

Thank you Hilary for a lovely stay despite the wet weather. We all enjoyed our time in the house and thanks for the loan of jump leads. The house was well equipped and warm and well set up for 4 adults and 3 kids. The games were a godsend! Thank you. Fiona
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2021