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Watchtower

(Ref. 959144)

Downderry, Cornwall Show on map

4.6

Sykes rating

  • 6 Guests

  • 4 Bedrooms

  • 2 Bathrooms

  • Pets No

Features

  • Off road parking
  • Ground floor accommodation
  • Ground floor bedroom
  • Garden / Patio
  • Cot available
  • Highchair available
  • Pub/shop < 1 mile
  • Washing machine
  • Dishwasher
  • Seaside
  • Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing
Cleanliness
Comfort
Facilities and Maintenance
  • All reviews
  • cottage (29)
  • well (22)
  • location (19)
  • lovely (18)
  • our (17)
  • great (17)

50 Customer Reviews

  • "Sehr schönes und grosses Cottage direkt neben dem Meer im ländlichen Downderry."

    Es ist sehr gut ausgestattet. Leider kämpft das Cottage gegen einige Feuchteschäden. Es ist daher nicht für Personen zu empfehlen, die empfindlich gegen Schimmel sind.

    Vielen Dank, dass Sie sich die Zeit genommen haben, Ihr Feedback zu vervollständigen. Wir freuen uns, dass Sie Ihren Aufenthalt genossen haben. Wir sind derzeit selbst in der Hütte und die in Ihrem Feedback aufgeworfenen Probleme werden behandelt Property Owner

    Reviewed by PhilippNov 2023

  • "Absolutely wonderful place to stay."

    Views absolutely lovely. 2 local bars, both nice. Negatives are, very narrow roads, even though they get double decker buses along the route. On two days, buses did not run due to road works or accidents. No local shop in the village although one bar keeps a small selection of items such as fresh bread if you're quick. Also be aware lots of speed cameras

    So sad about the shop, hoping it will reopen. Yes, the roads are Cornish! Property Owner

    Reviewed by RichardSep 2023

  • "A lovley place to stay every one was very helpfull right on the beach could ..."

    A lovley place to stay every one was very helpfull right on the beach could not ask for more I had a chilled holiday with my kids all enjoyed the beach the near by pub and coffee shops will use again Thank You

    So delighted, it is a magic spot, but glad to let others enjoy it. GS Property Owner

    Reviewed by NeilSep 2023

  • "The location of this cottage is what you pay for."

    Sensational views from the garden and the dining area, and a literal stones throw from the beach. The cottage inside, whilst dated in decor, is incredibly well equipped. It is comfortable. And the welcome pack went down a treat! For info, there is wifi in the main living areas (kitchen, lounge, dining area) but not in all bedrooms, and due to the rural area, there is limited phone signal. As it is such an historic building, there are damp issues and the cottage owners acknowledge this and provide dehumidifiers to help tackle it. They also encourage open windows. I wish we perhaps had been informed of the damp prior to booking though as we have asthmatics in the family who are triggered by damp. There is also black mould in the en suite bathroom as well as mould in both shower areas (trim and grout). Again, other families may not have issue with this but as asthmatics, these are known triggers. We also struggled with the size of the bed in the master bedroom - a footboard and a 6ft 3” guest weren’t a good mix! All that aside, if you are looking for a well equipped base with a garden view to knock your socks off, you won’t find a better cottage.

    Yes, the cottage does suffer from constant wet weather and we encourage leaving the windows open. We apologise for any asthmatic issues. GS Property Owner

    Reviewed by GarethJul 2023

  • "We had a wonderful family holiday with our elderly parents."

    The cottage was fabulous, the weather good and the pub excellent. As our Dad isn’t very mobile being so close to the sea and just sitting in the garden chatting was a real tonic for us all. Making special memories.

    Thank-you, it is for us always so sad to leave.GS Property Owner

    Reviewed by AmandaJul 2023

  • "A beautiful cottage in a great location."

    We have been there with a party of six. The cottage is fully equipped for this number of people. Great view, beach only a few steps to go. Only minus from my side: both showers are very, very small. A big person can barely turn around.

    Sorry, yes we are tight for space in the old cottage, hence not having a solid bathroom door! The new rear shower is a walk in and I would have thought ample.GS Property Owner

    Reviewed by ChristianJul 2023

  • "We loved the house and the location, the maintenance and care was very nice."

    The house was really very well equiped. Regretfully we had workers for the whole fortnight at the house detached and we did not find a really quite relax time during our holidays.

    I was not advised of this and offer you my profound apologies and regret spoiling the peace. Giles Smith Property Owner

    Reviewed by AJun 2023

  • "This is our 4th year at the Watchtower and we’ve booked again for next year already."

    It’s such a lovely place and the location couldn’t be better. The only thing I think needs addressing and I’ve mentioned it on previous reviews is that the single beds, especially the one in the single room really need replacing. The wooden bed (in the single room) and mattress is awful and feels unsafe to sit on let alone sleep on. Everything else is fantastic though and it is lovely and clean. I would highly recommend the Watchtower but gave it 4 stars due to the beds.

    Many thanks indeed for pointing out the problem with the bed, I will change it. I thought only our grandson slept there! Giles Smith Property Owner

    Reviewed by VictoriaJun 2023

  • "Love staying at Watchtower."

    So homely, clean and well equipped. Fantastic location right on the beach. Thank you.

    Reviewed by ErikaApr 2023

  • "Very nice relaxing cottage with most things we needed."

    Loved the position of it, right on the small cliff and a stones throw from the beach plus great for exploring this area of Cornwall. Parking was the only problem, we only just got our medium sized car in the allowed parking spot. Could better parking be provided by knocking down the wall (planning allowed)?

    Reviewed by ChrissieNov 2022

  • "I liked the cottage and situation very much."

    It would benefit with a nest of tables in the lounge, had to use the chairs. Maybe replace the little table with a set. Also, a fan in the ensuite is essential and the mould in the bathroom shower needs dealing with. I am accepting it is by the sea, but it would make me give a higher mark. The kitchen is excellent, as is the rest of the cottage and I am going again booked already.

    Good idea, the problem is installation, the window being the original . The nest of tables is an excellent plan, thank-you. Property Owner

    Reviewed by VivienneSep 2022

  • "On our last visit there was one sun lounger, and I did put in the comments in the visitors book it would be nice if there were two."

    This year there were none and we heard that they were only for special people so obviously we weren't that special. However it was another nice stay and hopefully next year on our return we may deemed special enough to warrant not one but two loungers.

    Yes, you deserve two, it is the space they take up. The one was behind the door to the tiny courtyard door mid passageway! Property Owner

    Reviewed by ChristineSep 2022

  • "The location is perfect ."

    The cottage although very old was lovely and had everything and more there you could think of. Lovely garden furniture with cushions, which is amazing and very well received, and beach deck chairs. We only had 1 issue with hot water but plumber came same day and we did get hot water although I think needs a bit more tweaking as main bathroom shower water kept going cool but I'm sure thet will sort it. I would definitely go back

    Thank-you, more work to be done in the ensuite shower, I agree. Property Owner

    Reviewed by SSep 2022

  • "This property has its perks and its downfalls; a lovely location overlooking a shingle beach."

    However, the inside is a little tired and dated. Having paid the same amount last year for a four bed apartment overlooking Falmouth harbour, we also felt it was very overpriced. The cottage had a damp feel to it and dehumidifiers going as we arrived which didn’t bode well. Whilst surface clean, a deep clean was very much in need. With an investment in the interior decor, this property could be more homely and comfortable. We left four days into our seven day stay.

    I am very sorry for your miserable stay, we will address the inside. It definitely needs the sunshine. We have not increased our price from last year, but sorry Watchtower did not appeal, it is old! Property Owner

    Reviewed by JulieSep 2022

  • "We found the property well located, with lovely views and very well equipped."

    We did believe that the garden lead onto the beach, unaware it was so raised up. The parking was very tight. The back door key was very difficult to lock and open. The showers were hot in the main room and a bit colder in the back bathroom. We thought that the property had lots of glasses, plates etc, the kitchen was generally very well equipped. The sofas were comfortable and views were lovely. The garden was lovely and the chairs comfortable. Bedrooms were clean and beds comfortable. Would recommend the place, and would stay there again!

    Reviewed by VickyAug 2022

  • "The secondary shower didn’t get very hot whereas the shower in the master bedroom was really hot - so there needs to be some balance."

    The place was fantastically clean and very well stocked. It was very comfortable and we thoroughly enjoyed our stay.

    Reviewed by TobyJun 2022

  • "Found parking very hard, had two large cars and I am used to driving in the fens so together with the hills bit of a challenge."

    Luckily boathouse not occupied. Have you ever considered taking out the front garden and making it into parking? Otherwise a lovely spot and well provided for. Welcome foods much appreciated.

    Definitely considered! Parking and Hills are a Cornish problem, we have amended the description, hopefully to encourage smaller cars. Property Owner

    Reviewed by AnnJun 2022

  • "I think the parking should be explained a bit more thoroughly ."

    I couldn’t get my auris on the drive and as I need to open my door fully to get out due to titanium rods in my spine I did panic . As everywhere has double yellow lines. The housekeeper was great though and explained I could park in front and it would fit between the yellow lines and wall of the property. You do have to reverse up steep incline though . Everything else perfect

    Thank you for your feedback, we are sorry to hear that you had difficulty parking, we would usually park one car up against the wall, letting the passenger out first. The space is limited but suitable for a second car. We appreciate your comments and pleased to hear you found everything else perfect! Property Owner

    Reviewed by JoanneMay 2022

  • "We’ve been staying at the Watchtower every year for four years now and it never disappoints."

    The house is always clean and tidy and the location is perfect for our mix of young and old guests with the beach moments away and the shops and pub within easy reach. The only downside is that the price has gone up so much for next year that I don’t think we’ll be able to book again

    Reviewed by VictoriaMay 2022

  • "Really well equipped and nice cottage thanks for great break"

    Reviewed by DavidApr 2022

  • "Amazing holiday home."

    Really homely, clean, everything you need and just perfect in every way! Our 6th stay and we will be back next year. Thank you!

    Reviewed by ErikaApr 2022

  • "The welcoming cream teas were very much appreciated ."

    The cottage was very clean and comfortable. A very well equipped kitchen. We would highly recommend this cottage to anyone visiting this part of Cornwall.

    Reviewed by CarolApr 2022

  • "Cottage was a little treasure and had everything we needed."

    It was really well equipped, spotless clean and warm. The kitchen had everything you could think of right down to cleaning products. Highly recommend. Only downside our weather was shocking but that is no one's fault. If u need a taxi call kernow taxis lovely lady called mandy looked after us and you have to book. This cottage is a gem

    Reviewed by AlisonFeb 2022

  • "Great accommodation perfect holiday"

    Reviewed by DebraDec 2021

  • "We had a wonderful stay at The Watchtower - just a pity the weather was so so awful!"

    !! (Until the day we left of course!) Just of couple of things, which I hope are helpful and that you will take on board: There was only 1 toilet roll in each bathroom; most places I have stayed (if not all) have always supplied spare rolls. The 2 frying pans were not very clean and we had to wash before using - also the medium saucepan. Shower grouting mouldy and could do with sorting. Parking is a nightmare and although we could get into the spaces, we either couldn't get out of the vehicle, or were well into the Boat House parking; luckily we have friends close who could accommodate 2 cars for us. We loved staying there and will hopefully get back next year. Amazing location. Thank you for the lovely cream tea and supplies that are provided in the food cupboard. Beds are really comfortable, and we were warm and toasty.

    Reviewed by CarolineOct 2021

  • "When we arrived we had to Hoover and dust the whole cottage, there was also a strong smell of damp in the twin room which made it difficult to get a good nites sleep, The parking was tight for two small cars but adequate."

    On the plus side the cottage was ideally situated with stunning sea/beach views and a lovely garden, staying local was key to a great stay, 30 minutes in either direction there was plenty to see and do, visit Rame, Cremyll, Whitsand, Portwrinkle, Edgcumbe, Seaton and Freathy. You can also get a passenger ferry from Cremyll to Plymouth.

    Thank you for your feedback, we are glad to hear you enjoyed the location of the property. We take all comments seriously and will action them accordingly. We hope you enjoyed the rest of your stay. Property Owner

    Reviewed by RichardAug 2021

  • "The holiday was fantastic the cottage was beautiful with a great view."

    Everything you needed was there. Would definitely go back again and would recommend.

    Reviewed by KellyJul 2021

  • "Beautiful cottage, very roomy with a fantastic view of the sea."

    We all thought the dining area was a bit dark in the evening as there was no central light and only one tall standard lamp. Other than that the cottage was perfect and in a superb location , with a very well stocked shop nearby. We are all missing the sea view already , a great way to start the day over breakfast!

    Reviewed by MJul 2021

  • "Really enjoyed our stay."

    Recommended. We were blessed with great weather most days but even when you can't go out you can sit in the lounge and watch see the sea. The bungalow is well appointed, clean and comfortable. It is not ultra modern but with good WiFi you can stay in touch if you're wanting to. The kitchen is a bit away from the dining room but has a good electric stove/oven and is fine. Plenty of local walks, we walked to Portwrinkle on the coastal path, used the nature walk from Seaton to Hessonford (the Copley Arms was closed though) and Seaton to Millendreath. The Inn on the Shore (Downderry) is a good pub but we could only sit outside and can get a bit chilly after walking, the Smugglers Inn in Seaton has a more secluded outdoor area. Food in both is good, not spectacular but perfectly passable.

    Reviewed by AdrianMay 2021

  • "We had a really wonderful week at The Watchtower."

    We were welcomed with a cream tea and flowers on the table which was a lovely touch. We took all cleaning equipment etc with us as usually I like to clean everything myself before I unpack but I didn’t need to do this at all as everything was already very clean. The view from the garden was fabulous, and with the shop and pub minutes away we couldn’t have asked for a better location and have booked again for next year. The only thing that definitely needs attention is the bed in the single room as it’s very wobbly even for my 3 year old. The parking albeit very tight is fine for two cars.

    Reviewed by VictoriaSep 2020

  • "Location, parking, comfort, facilities and ease of booking all excellent."

    So good we have booked the same cottage for next year, that speaks volumes.

    Reviewed by GrahameAug 2020

  • "Wonderful family location with excellent views a wonderful holiday cottage with good amenities enjoyed by all the family young to old lovely garden with a lovely surprise cream tea welcome couldn't ask for more Parking was tight but more than adequate for our 2 cars."

    Reviewed by AndrewAug 2020

  • "The Watchtower is rather like a Tardis , so much bigger on the inside."

    It was one of the most well equipped cottages I have stayed in, especially the kitchen. It was lovely to lie in bed with the sound of the sea and although it was January we We’re lucky with the weather and had the most wonderful sunsets. The beach is open to dogs all year so lots of walkers and everyone very friendly. The local pub is a 2 minute walk and serves good food and is very hospitable. There is a local cafe too and the shop has all of the basics and includes a post office. The best route in to Downderry is via Seaton which has a beach side cafe open all year. We loved just walking the beach and exploring the rock pools...the geology is fascinating. It is a really lovely spot and a great escape..

    Reviewed by TimJan 2020

  • "A very cosy, lovely cottage, with a great view !"

    Reviewed by SarahDec 2019

  • "Great size cottage right by the sea for 6 people and a very helpful manager."

    Children loved the beach with all the rock pools

    Reviewed by BrynOct 2019

  • "The holiday cottage was lovely and although it was a very old cottage with a lot of character it still had all the modern conveniences."

    It was also lovely and warm and comfortable.The view of the sea from the lovely garden was fantastic. Two things you should be aware of though is that the ensuite only had a curtain between it and the bedroom, wasn't a problem for us but might be for some people. Also the parking is not easy for a big car.

    Reviewed by JeanSep 2019

  • "We had a comfortable week here unwinding."

    The kitchen is well equipped and the living room views are fantastic. The weather was a bit stormy during the week so chances to sit outside were limited and the seaweed blown onto the coast started to smell somewhat. Perhaps the main bathroom could do with a refurbishment?

    Reviewed by EdwardAug 2019

  • "We had a lovely stay at the watch tower , views from the garden and walks on the beach were fabulous ."

    Only down side a few times we had maintenance visits that were an inconvenience this should really be done when the house is empty.Kitchen was very well equipped best we have ever seen , highly recommend for a visit to beautiful Cornwall . There was an issue with the electricity this was dealt with via the owner.

    Reviewed by HannahAug 2019

  • "Watchtower cottage didn't meet our expectations."

    It is quirky and functional but tired. The location is good but the 'enclosed' garden has a communal footpath running through it which is used by the occupants of 3 other cottages. Also, unfortunately for us, a maintenance man spent one of the days during our stay trimming all the hedges and mowing all the lawns. We couldn't enjoy the garden at all on that day on account of the noise of his machines and all the cuttings- which were eventually thrown over the sea wall at the bottom of the garden. Also worth noting, the ensuite is separated from the bedroom by just a curtain. The second double bedroom, accessed through the single bedroom, has no furniture with surfaces and a locked wardrobe. This room looks out onto next door's spinerette washing just a foot or so away. Our spinnerette washing line was rusty.

    Reviewed by AnneJul 2019

  • "We loved the Watchtower cottage!"

    Great location and the view was outstanding. We loved the character of the cottage. So many have tried to go so modern that all of the character is taken out of these older buildings. It was comfortable, clean, tastefully decorated, has everything you need, and an overall lovely place. We highly recommend it. We were a very short walk to the beach. We loved our daily walks along the shore. I could go on and on, but the short answer is - if you are looking for a quiet, beach front, place with some character to stay while visiting Cornwall - this is it. We found it convenient for exploring all parts of Cornwall - so we were very happy with its location.

    Reviewed by TimJun 2019

  • "The watch tower at Downderry was beautiful, was very very well equipped."

    ......you name it and it was in a cupboard some where. A little dusty in places, but I think they had a quick turn around the day we arrived. I would go again just for the views alone......being on the cliff as it’s part of the old coast guard station you couldn’t have got a better view.......A+++, A*****.....

    Reviewed by RosemaryJun 2019

  • "Absolutely love the cottage, our fourth time staying there."

    Homely, well equipped and spacious with everything you could want (even toys for the children!!). Booking and payment easy and straightforward. Thanks

    Reviewed by ErikaApr 2019

  • "The sea view and the wonderful light in the sitting room are what makes this cottage so memorable."

    We were there during high winds (November) and could easily have spent all day just watching the waves roll in. It was lovely and warm and excellent for drying off wet clothing. The local facilities are good for topping up shopping with good food pubs in Seaton. It's a lovely location.

    Reviewed by MargaretNov 2018

  • "The cottage was in a great location with sea views and the kitchen facilities were great and the bathrooms all has hand soap and flowers were left on the table so the presentation of the cottage was great and there was lot's of bits left there such as binoculars puzzles games washing up liquid hand soap and cleaning materials which was great and the bed linen was clean and pressed."

    However, the beds were not comfortable and the mattress's probably need replacing and the sofa's in the front room were also very uncomfortable. We noted that the kitchen cupboards had been painted but the whole property could probably do with a bit of updating. However, Mrs Bawden was very helpful and all in all we enjoyed our stay.

    Reviewed by CarolineNov 2018

  • "We loved the house."

    All the character, which is still evident. Comfortable. Plenty of books and games. And, not least,the views Only criticism was why on earth the owners decorated the kitchen cupboards and drawer fronts, with ordinary house gloss paint !? Extremely badly executed, and left the cupboards feeling like they had been smeared with jam. But, we got used to them ! We had a lovely stay, and would come again.

    Reviewed by DebraOct 2018

  • "We had a great holiday,the cottage and the setting was fantastic,great views from the cottage,a real pleasure to wake up to."

    sorry we had to leave.

    Reviewed by BrendanSep 2018

  • "Great cottage and location."

    Sykes staff and caretaker very helpful. Information and reminders sent by email very helpful too.

    Reviewed by CindyJul 2018

  • "Watchtower cottage was an excellent cottage,the views are exceptional,the size of the cottage is tardis like,we could not believe it,we spent most of our days in the garden taking in the beautiful sea views."

    The cottage is clean,homely and is very well stocked with everything you could need,the only thing I would say is the parking space for a medium to large car( Nissan Qashqai)) is a little tight but we managed but I would gladly stay here again.Absolutley loved it.

    Jun 2018

  • "The cottage was very nice and comfortably furnished and had a very nice view of the sea."

    We felt immediately comfortable. The house was very clean. The outdoor area with the sea view was great. We were able to make nice trips, as the house is very close to some attractions.

    Reviewed by StefanieJun 2018

  • "We were delighted with the cottage."

    Super location. Very well equipped and maintained. The only issue was with respect to the heating. The first morning we were freezing as the heater was scheduled to turn off at night and, moreover, had broken down. This was solved within two hours as a plumber came by to repair the motor. He also gave us a course in restarting the heater when it goes off, which it did regularly. While the problem was manageable, a place that has so many going for it merits a new heater. A special note of appreciation to the rental agent, Julie Bawden, who was especially helpful. The owner was also very kind.

    Reviewed by GinetteFeb 2018

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This property is part of the Cornish Cottage Holidays collection.
Over 500 carefully selected and perfectly located Cornwall and Devon properties, helping you create your perfect holiday.

Summary

  • All on one floor
  • Four bedrooms: 2 x double (one with en-suite bath, shower cubicle, basin and WC), 1 x twin with basin, 1 x single (walk through to a double)
  • Bathroom with walk in shower, basin and WC
  • Laundry room
  • Sitting room with dining area
  • Kitchen.
  • Oil fired central heating
  • Electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge freezer, dishwasher, washing machine, tumble dryer, TV, WiFi, espresso coffee machine
  • Fuel and power inc. in rent
  • Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
  • Cot and high chair available
  • Off road parking for 2 small cars/1 medium car
  • Enclosed garden with furniture
  • Sorry, no pets and no smoking
  • Pubs 3 mins walk
  • Beach at the end of the garden

The property

Just above the beach at Downderry, Watchtower nestles peacefully in a row of charming 19th century coastguard cottages.

Seaward-facing, it boasts uninterrupted, panoramic sea views of Rame Head and Eddystone lighthouse from the garden and dining area.

Great care has been taken by the owners to retain the original character of the cottage, making it truly homely and welcoming.

Taking advantage of the wonderful outlook, the lounge/dining area has double–aspect windows and offers a lovely, sunny spot for watching the world go by.

The pale blue country-style kitchen is well-equipped, and the four comfortable bedrooms offer restful sanctuaries - each complete with a selection of books.

Outside, the lawned garden is perfect for family gatherings, right above the sea with a fantastic azure vista.

Enjoy your morning coffee al fresco and relax to the sound of waves lapping the shore.

Everything you could need for your holiday is close by at Watchtower; just a short walk to the village centre will bring you to a beach shop, with a community shop opening soon and the excellent Bewshea's By The Beach Restaurant and traditional Inn on the Shore, which offers a range of locally-brewed ales.

When you are ready to explore, this beautiful corner of the county has much to see and do.

Spend lazy days on the beach, hire a kayak or boat and see the coast from a new perspective, walk the coastal footpath or discover the Lanhydrock Estate, Looe Monkey Sanctuary, or the fantastic Adrenalin Quarry with its 490m-long zip wire and giant A-frame cliff top swing!

View on map

About the location

DOWNDERRY

Looe 6 miles; Liskeard 10 miles; Polperro 11 miles; Plymouth 18 miles.

Downderry is a small quiet coastal village situated in south east Cornwall. Downderry has a sheltered beach, Post Office and shop, deli, and a cliff top pub and an excellent restaurant, serving quality local food. At low tide it is possible to walk along the beach from Downderry to Seaton, where you will find a family friendly south facing beach and the nearby Seaton Valley Countryside Park and Nature reserve is home to wildlife, including otters and kingfishers and also offers great cycling and walking opportunities. The picturesque working harbours at Looe and Polperro are within an easy driving distance away, and the wonderful stretches of the South West Coast Path in this part of Cornwall take you to rocky coves, dramatic headlands and tales of shipwrecks and smugglers. Further afield is Plymouth, where you will find plenty to see and do, including a marine aquarium, a theatre, large shopping centres and the historic Barbican waterside area.

Note: property sleeps up to six adults only