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Waters Edge

(Ref. 1085797)

Stranraer, Ayrshire and Dumfries & Galloway Show on map

4.5

Sykes rating

  • 8 Guests

  • 4 Bedrooms

  • 2 Bathrooms

  • Pets Yes

Features

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

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing
Cleanliness
Comfort
Facilities and Maintenance
  • All reviews
  • well (8)
  • no (8)
  • property (8)
  • views (8)
  • our (7)
  • water (7)

15 Customer Reviews

  • "The lounge smelled like a dog kennel."

    We left the following note "we were most upset on arrival at the property due to an overwhelming smell of dogs especially in the lounge. (we left a small sample of the dog hair we scraped from the carpet. the settees were dirty and worn and the whole place appeared shoddy). We were shocked to find on arrival that there was chalk graffiti covering the paths, patio and patio furniture (if you can call it that). We did photograph everything if you wish to see it.

    We are very sorry to hear that you found some dog hair under the sofas when moving them. Our housekeeping team normally get excellent feedback on their cleaning. We will pass this on and have have also purchased a new pet hoover. We are also sorry to hear that there was some chalk graffiti, left by children, on the patio. As the chalk disappeared very quickly after it rained, we haven’t had the opportunity to see it however we would agree that it’s not ideal. In our welcome pack we provide our mobile number incase there are any problems during your stay. Had you been in touch we would have been happy to help resolve these issues. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Peter2.2Sep 2024

  • "This was our second visit to Watersedge."

    Lovely house very clean and comfortable. Close to town centre. Our only issue is the access to the house. Path is very uneven and broken in areas. Difficult to move the pram . A gate at the top of the path would be great to keep children and dogs safe.

    Reviewed by Elaine4.7Sep 2024

  • "Had such a relaxing week at Waters Edge."

    Plenty of space with stunning views. Bring binoculars and cafetiere! Easy flat walk into town through lovely park with daily activities. Friendly locals and great shops and cafes - 3 supermarkets! Really hope to return and would recommend . Points to note for info only - parking, one small, awkward space and narrow road to turn. Alternative parking is out of sight from house. House windows tired and needed cleaning inside and out - condensation inside glass panels spoilt the view. Poor maintenance of steep path and plants proved challenging for pram. Old bird dropping s on glass balustrade - all easy to rectify for next guests. Don't be put off ! We would still recommend and hope to return next year

    Reviewed by Fiona4.1Jun 2024

  • "Good position in a quiet area with ideal dog walks."

    No real garden and not enclosed. Although comfortable, with good beds etc.some aspects are needing a little attention. Shower silicone needs replacing or cleaned. Hook hanging off wall. All window sealed units have failed.

    Reviewed by John4.4Jun 2024

  • "This was a last minute booking and we were pleasantly surprised at the outlook as well as convenience to Stranraer."

    The property was spacious, comfortable, clean and well equipped. It was ideal for our requirements. I am slightly disabled so had to be careful approaching and care had to be taken when parking. Otherwise, full marks, thank you

    Reviewed by Gordon4.7Sep 2023

  • "We were a party of 6 adults."

    Subjectively, Waters Edge was everything I expected it to be, well equiped and comfortable with a vista that was stunning. Objectively, (this wasn' a problem for us) as the front door is some 10 to 15 feet above road level anyone with a distinct mobility problem might find the steps a bit of a challenge, although there is a very sturdy handrail.

    Reviewed by Martin4.4Aug 2023

  • "Very well equipped one of the best properties we have stayed at."

    Our only reservation is the path access is poor , very uneven surfaces from the pavement onwards although the stairway was fine. Thankyou for providing ramps however which made it a bit easier for wheelchair access. Otherwise have no problems recommending this property.

    Reviewed by Patrick5.0Aug 2023

  • "Really enjoyed our stay at Water's Edge, the house was very comfortable, spacious and relaxing and I don't think we could've found fault with anything if we tried."

    We did have one small issue with a fault on the refrigerator door and we informed the owner Theo who came down and fixed it no problem at all. The views from the front windows over to the ferry ports across Loch Ryan were stunning. We would definitely recommend Water's Edge as a place to stay if holidaying in this area.

    Reviewed by Simon5.0May 2023

  • "Great week in a well maintained and high standard property."

    Spacious and well equipped ideal for family break Fantastic views

    Reviewed by Heather5.0Apr 2023

  • "The property was beautifully clean on arrival, which was most appreciated, thanks to the high standards of the housekeeper!"

    ! The house is situated perfectly, the views from the front room/bedroom were stunning and the walks around Loch Ryan were just perfect for the photographer, like myself. I shall miss the Oyster Catcher and Curlew noises from the bedroom in the evening and morning!! We done a visit to Belfast on the Stenaline, we managed to pick a day where it was just £15 each, apparently there are 3 days out of the 7 that are priced cheaper to get you over to Belfast shopping??!! We were happy with that! Portpatrick was a beautiful place to visit and walk around also. Overall we were extremely happy with our stay, the property was perfect and Stranraer had lots to offer us, we'll be back, regards Amanda Baldwin

    Reviewed by John5.0Feb 2023

  • "We booked Waters Edge for Christmas and had a most enjoyable stay."

    We would like to thank the owners for decorating the house and putting up a Christmas tree for our arrival. The house was very spacious and clean. The views from the lounge and the bedrooms looking over Loch Ryan were wonderful. It was like being on a cruise ship looking out onto the sea. There were a few issues with leaking windows which didn’t impact on our stay as we contacted the owner who responded promptly. The kitchen was large and had plenty of cupboard space and was well equipped. We enjoyed eating our Christmas dinner at the large dining table. Location is good as it is a short walk into town although you have to drive to the nearest beach. Despite it being dog friendly lack of a garden was an issue. If you are going in the winter months bring a torch with you to navigate the uneven concrete steps down to the road. There is a light on the porch but it doesn’t help going down the stairs. A security light on the garage door would help solve this situation. The owners were good enough to let us use their garage as we had two cars with us but it was tricky to navigate into as you have to reverse in at an angle. The parking for the other car was also difficult as it wasn’t easy negotiating the uneven concrete parking space. Some of the furnishings didn’t reflect on the price that we paid for six nights (£1200). Beside cabinets in the main bedroom were more suited for a bathroom and small plastic lamps were not a good look. There were two side tables in the lounge but both had lamps on them. A couple of extra tables or a nest of tables is necessary as there was nowhere to place our drinks or snacks. None of the bathroom windows had blinds but windows were covered with a plastic film which made them look unfinished. The upstairs bathroom in particular needed a blind as the top part of the window had no plastic film on it and you felt as if the neighbours could see in. Some of the issues may seem as minor but again reflecting on the price would need to be addressed. Unfortunately we would not return due to the lack of garden and the parking issue. If we had had a third car, as the house accommodates eight people, I would not like to park my car 100 yards from the house. We would still recommend this holiday house for families if you don’t mind the issues we have highlighted.

    Reviewed by Daniel4.4Dec 2022

  • "This is a dog friendly property a few minutes drive from the local shops, Morrisons, Lidl and a terrible Tesco."

    There is even a dog friendly cafe The Royal Cafe…..which we found on the last day. Waters Edge is a redecorated four bedroom (two of which are downstairs……) 70’s house with splendid views over Loch Ryan as far as the Irish Sea. I didn’t venture upstairs but my husband had a tour so I’m aware there are two bedrooms and a bathroom. On arrival, we were delighted by the appearance of the house and it’s proximity to the Loch. There’s a great lobby for coats and outdoor paraphernalia which is certainly a plus for keeping the interior clean and tidy. However, on opening the connecting door the overwhelming smell of cooking/dogs was most unwelcoming; perhaps an open window or two might have made this more bearable? The front bedroom has a very small double bed but, as we wanted the view, this was the room we settled on; our stay would have benefited vastly if the Master bed had been in this room. The kitchen diner is large and extremely well equipped, but there was food in the freezer and an (open) bag of some sort of savoury biscuits in the cupboard and many of the plates/pizza tray were filthy. A broom would have been good, I am disabled to the point where I can’t use a vacuum cleaner, There was an abundance of loo rolls, towels, bedding, which was brilliant but no bleach for the showers or the loos. Also, the electric shower power is desultory at best and you have to wait a long time for the water to heat up, but the absolute negative was the size if the showers - they are tiny. Agreed, there are baths, but I haven’t been able to access one of those in 17 years so it’s a shower or nothing. My tummy is black and blue from the shower door knobs. For that reason alone we could not recommend this property despite it’s excellent nature and dog friendliness. Also, there is no garden which people with dogs need to be advised about; it’s a dark, dangerous step to the park late at night for last walkies. And, please note, there is no milk at the property (other companies ensure a “welcome” pack of one degree or another). There was some fudge, but we left that behind as we wanted to leave everything exactly as we had found it, as instructed time and time again by Sykes Cottages who really do know how to write the rudest email messages I’ve ever read, implying all paying guests are somehow filthy, entitled and disrespectful. Overall we had a great time and the area is very relaxing especially with the five days of lovely weather when we could enjoy the patio table, but as much as we’d love to, I guess we won’t be back because the facilities do not meet my personal needs.

    Thank you for your feedback. Your comments have been read by the owner and their team, and they would like to clarify a few points. - Both the walk-in corner showers are of standard size. - The bed in the downstairs, front bedroom is a king-size. - The outside area is a patio with seafront views. These features are described correctly on the website and can be seen in the photographs prior to booking. Agnew park can be found a few metres away with a grassy area and beach for walking dogs. - Outside lighting is available and can be turned on using the light switch by the front door. This is explained in the welcome pack. - On arrival we offer a gift of hand made fudge, made locally in Dumfries and Galloway. We also provide some kitchen essentials such as tea, coffee, cooking oil, salt, pepper, dishwasher tablets and a selection of cleaning products. These can be found in the cupboard under the kitchen sink. - Our cleaning team will ensure that the freezer and cupboards are cleared between each stay. - The kitchen diner, hallway, porch, bathrooms, WC and games room have laminate flooring which we hope helps to creates a clean and fresh living space. We are sorry to hear that you will not be returning to the property, however wanted the opportunity to respond and thank you for taking the time to feed back your thoughts. Thank you - The Owners of Waters Edge. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Nicolene3.1Sep 2022

  • "Lovely and clean with a very homely feel to the property."

    Kitchen well equipped, fantastic range cooker. Perfect to be able to step outside the property and be right by the water - the sound of the waves just incredible. It was difficult with the dogs without an enclosed garden but there is a green area a few metres away, just had to be on leads. Overall a hidden gem of a place, within walking distance to lots of shops in the town centre and right by the water - perfect for us!

    Reviewed by Laura5.0Sep 2022

  • "The property is well presented and the views are incredible."

    Local amenities and plenty to do and see in the surrounding area. Wouldn't hesitate to book again only change would be to stay for longer.

    Reviewed by Matt5.0Aug 2022

  • "Absolutely fantastic holiday home - the photos don't do it justice."

    Loads of room, plenty of seating - and the views are amazing. The games room was great for the kids - they loved the beds by the windows looking out over the sea. Can't wait to return.

    Reviewed by Jacqueline5.0Jul 2022

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Summary

  • Four bedrooms: 1 x ground-floor super-king-size (zip/link, can be twin on request), 1 x ground-floor king-size with TV, 2 x twin
  • Bathroom with bath, walk-in shower, basin and WC
  • Ground-floor bathroom with bath, walk-in shower, basin and WC
  • Cloakroom with basin and WC
  • Kitchen/diner
  • Sitting room
  • Games room with sofa bed
  • Gas central heating
  • Multi-fuel range with oven and hob, microwave, fridge/freezer, washing machine, dishwasher
  • 2 x TV with Sky and Netflix, WiFi
  • Fuel and power inc. in rent
  • Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
  • Travel cot and highchair
  • Off-road parking
  • Free Car Park 100 yards up the road
  • Front garden (not enclosed) with patio and furniture
  • There is a small enclosed area at the back of the house
  • Two well-behaved pets welcome, (a small enclosed area at the back of the house, suitable for pets.)
  • Sorry, no smoking
  • Shop and pub 0.4 miles
  • Note: There are stone steps or path access to the property entrance
  • Note: The games room is glass-fronted with safety glass, please take care
  • Note: Check-in from 4pm and check-out by 10am
  • Note: The path leading up to the property is a little uneven, so please take care
  • Note: Strictly no access to the tiered garden at the rear

The property

Waters Edge is a characterful, detached cottage resting in Stranraer, Dumfries, and Galloway.

With ground-floor living and fabulous views of Loch Ryan, the cottage welcomes a family or group of eight to explore the idyllic landscapes of Scotland.

Park up in the off-road parking and admire the peaceful scene of the Loch, before taking the stone steps or path leading up to Waters Edge.

A patio area wraps around the cottage with outdoor seating to make the most of this spectacular view with your morning coffee in hand.

Step inside to find a handy porch area to kick-off boots and coats, before finding a spacious sitting room with beautiful bay windows; settle into the sofas, choosing from a plush corner sofa and two leather suites and watch the ferries peacefully glide along the Loch with the hills as their backdrop, or switch on the TV to catch your favourite shows.

Prepare delicious home-cooked meals in the well-equipped kitchen/diner which is also perfect for hosting family dinners at the dining table after the day's adventures.

Retreat to the quirky, glass-fronted games room on the first floor to watch your favourite film on the TV or stretch out on the sofa bed with a good book.

Two convenient, ground-floor bedrooms can be found in Waters Edge, a king-size and a super-king-size zip/link, to climb under the sheets and catch your rest.

A ground-floor bathroom is within easy reach for relaxing soaks in the bubble bath or rinsing off the day in the walk-in shower, whilst a separate cloakroom is perfect to quickly freshen up before venturing out.

Climb the stairs to find two twin bedrooms, both offering incredible views of the Loch and harbour, well-worth waking up to watch the sunrise.

Another bathroom contains a bath and walk-in shower, so the whole group can get ready with ease.

Be sure to venture out from this wonderful spot to explore everything Dumfries and Galloway has to offer; the centre of the delightful harbour town of Stranraer hosts excellent amenities for your self-catering stay, including supermarkets, eateries, bakeries, and attractions such as the harbour and marina to wander along and admire the views, or head to Stranraer Museum and Castle of St John to discover the town's fascinating history.

Perfect for families, head to Agnew Park, a short walk from Waters Edge, home to an excellent children’s play area, lake, café, and train, or perhaps travel to Stranraer to The Ryan Centre, for an afternoon swim.

Avid walkers can take the Southern Upland Way, a popular half-day walk to Portpatrick via Killantringan Lighthouse, taking you along dramatic cliff top paths and secluded bays.

Stranraer Golf Club is a must-visit for keen golfers and one of Scotland's Top 100 Golf Courses, whilst the gardens of Castle Kennedy, Glenwhan Gardens and the renowned Logan Botanic Gardens are all within easy reach for those seeking a peaceful escape.

Spend the day by the sea at Portpatrick, with pretty pastel-coloured houses and a popular site for sea angling, whilst the rugged coastal paths guide you to the picturesque ruins of Dunskey Castle.

Golden Sands Trekking Centre in Sandhead is also a popular recommendation, offering pony trekking and alpaca walks, whilst Glentrool in Newton Stewart promotes various walking trails, family cycling and mountain biking.

Journey a little further to Newton Stewart, a small market town along the River Cree surrounded by the Galloway hills, making it a favoured spot for hikers, bikers and walkers; head to Galloway Forest Park for some of Scotland's most breath-taking scenery with a wealth of wildlife, followed by a well-earned meal at one of the many restaurants or pubs in the town's centre.

For longer trips, head to the famous Trump Turnberry Golf Course, or perhaps tour the grand grounds of Culzean castle, perched upon Ayrshire cliffs.

For a truly spectacular base for exploring the south west coast of Scotland, choose Waters Edge as your home-away-from-home.

EPC Rating: Band C

EPC Rating: Band C

Short-term Holiday Let Licence No: DG-00957-F

Note: This property has a Good Housekeeping bond of £500.

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About the location

STRANRAER

Portpatrick 8 miles; Newton Stewart 25 miles.

Stranraer, which became a Burgh of Barony in 1596 and a Royal Burgh in 1617, lies on the shores of Loch Ryan on the northern side of the isthmus joining the Rhins of Galloway to the mainland. There are many shops and cafes to while away an hour or two and the Stranraer Town Trail explains some of the fascinating history. For walkers, the Southern Upland Way touches Stranraer on its way through the Galloway Hills, having begun in Portpatrick, 7 miles to the west. Three nearby gardens are open to the public and well worth a visit at Castle Kennedy, Glenwhan and Logan. Stranraer has several beaches, however it is worth travelling to Sandhead and New England Bay for wonderful sandy beaches. A short drive south and you come to the Mull of Galloway, Scotland’s southernmost point. The lighthouse on the headland looks over some of the last remaining sections of natural coastal habitat on the Galloway coast and an RSPB nature reserve has been set up to retain this spectacular and diverse area.

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