What’s Press Mains Farm like?
Press Mains Farm is located in a peaceful valley, just 20 minutes away from Berwick-upon-Tweed. It has four holiday cottages to hire, sleeping from two to six people.
We were travelling with my parents, so stayed in the largest – Castle Cottage – which has three bedrooms. At the end of 2016, Press Mains was taken over by new owners who have renovated the cottages and improved the farm.
How dog-friendly is Press Mains Farm?
Pets are allowed in all of the cottages and bowls, biscuits and blankets are provided. Dogs are welcome to explore the site on-lead and each property has an enclosed garden so your four-legged friend will be able to enjoy all the sights, sounds and smells of the farm. Ernie was very interested in the resident pheasants!
Tell me more about Press Mains Farm
The country-style cottages are a real home-from-home and have everything you need for a relaxing break. Three-bed Castle Cottage, which dates back to the 1850s, is ideal for families with two bathrooms – one on each floor. There’s also a fully-fitted kitchen, a large flatscreen TV and DVD player, plus free wifi and an iPod dock. Some of the cottages even have Jacuzzi baths.
If you visit during the winter months, you can cosy up in front of the wood burner in the lounge. Alternatively, the eco-friendly biomass boiler will keep you nice and warm.
What’s the food like at Press Mains Farm?
All the properties are self-catering so you’ll need to stock up on supplies before you arrive. Due to the rural location, there are no shops within walking distance. The nearest, in Coldingham, is a ten-minute drive away while the closest supermarket can be found in Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Coldingham is also where you’ll find the nearest pub – The New Inn. Dogs are allowed in the lounge bar and the food is excellent.
Are there resident dogs at Press Mains Farm?
Yes! Resident farm dog Dug, above, will be on hand to greet you and is always up for making new friends.
Where are the best dog walks near Press Mains Farm?
A stroll around the farm itself is great for a little leg stretch but there are many more attractions nearby. Coldingham Bay, four miles up the road, has a great dog-friendly beach. From there, you can pick up the Berwickshire Coastal Path and walk for miles.
If you like rugged cliffs and dramatic sea views, check out St Abbs Head National Nature Reserve. There’s a lovely two-hour circular walk you can do that hugs the coast and passes a lighthouse. For more ideas for things to see and do with your dog, see our Ruff Guide to the Scottish Borders.
What Ernie loved about Press Mains Farm
Trying – and failing – to catch a pheasant, long walks in the countryside
What I loved about Press Mains Farm
The peace and tranquility, the amazing night skies full of stars
How to book Press Mains Farm
Short breaks at Castle Cottage, which sleeps six, start from around £250 for three nights. To find out more, visit the Press Mains Farm website or call 07802 213515.
Fully agree, great place to stay, and our old fella loved playing with Dug. Don’t forget the small Co-Op in Eyemout, which also has a dog friendly beach.