Byre cottage is only 200 yards off A689, accessible even in the most severe weather. If come from A1/M1, can take various scenery roads to join A689.

If come from M6, take A686 from Penrith in Cumbria to Alston, which was chosen by the AA Magazine as one of their 'Ten Great Drives'. Between Alston and Melmerby, the road climbs the Hartside Pass to a height of 1904 ft, from where there are magnificent views across the Solway Firth to Scotland.