Old Higher Lighthouse Stopes Cottage

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Features

Sleeps 4 people
2 bedrooms
1 bathroom
No pets allowed

Swimming pool
Off road parking
Ground floor bedroom
Smoke-free
Garden / Patio
Washing machine
Seaside
Broadband / WiFi

Reviews

“Have been before 4 years ago.”

Have had a new bathroom with shower which was good. No dishwasher stove very basic and not much crocery etc..Rather expensive for what was on offer.

Mrs Norton, May 2019
“I didn't book through sykes - I booked through booking.”

Com then got hounded for loads of personal details - unimpressed with that. Cottage was lovely and the owners were the perfect hosts.

Mr Downes, February 2019
“Enjoyed the views”

We stayed here around bonfire night. The design of the cottage meant we could see signs of fireworks displays in many places, which really have an appreciation of how m... more
We stayed here around bonfire night. The design of the cottage meant we could see signs of fireworks displays in many places, which really have an appreciation of how much coast we could see. The heaters worked well in the cottage, so we were able to earn up after a cold walk. There is some information hidden away about the geology in the area, and a good selection of books to read.

Sally B, November 2018
“Very nice place the lighthouse is out of this world for views out to sea, ships can be seen and the lady told us all about the place well worth a vist.”

Mr Doyle, October 2018
“Spent a wonderful week at Stopes Cottage.”

Amazing position with exceptional walks literally on the door step. Fascinating history to the cottage, we enjoyed watching the sun set from the light house in the even... more
Amazing position with exceptional walks literally on the door step. Fascinating history to the cottage, we enjoyed watching the sun set from the light house in the evening with glass in hand, remarkable views. Despite rather chilly weather we swam in the pool most days. All in all a lovely place to stay.

Mrs Gregory, September 2018
“Whilst the cottage did look as stated on the Website, in reality it was lacking in comfort.”

The towels were small, thin and in short supply. The bedding was very old and faded and thin and the quilt was as flat as a pancake. The pillows were like blocks and... more
The towels were small, thin and in short supply. The bedding was very old and faded and thin and the quilt was as flat as a pancake. The pillows were like blocks and not comfy. The mattress on the bed was firm but we still managed to roll together in the middle! The kitchen was (just about) adequately supplied for four people but the brand new unwashed tea towels were not suitable for drying pots. Being an old cottage it did have a slightly damp feel about it. The cost of the holiday here was not reflected in the quality of the accommodation.

Mrs Merchant, September 2018
“Lovely spot”

We stayed for a few days at the old lighthouse in May. Great cottage with everything we needed. Fantastic solar heated pool which we had use of, the kids swam every day... more
We stayed for a few days at the old lighthouse in May. Great cottage with everything we needed. Fantastic solar heated pool which we had use of, the kids swam every day! We loved being able to look around the old lighthouse and see the lovely views.

HD22, August 2018
“Fantastic location.”

..and a great get away cottage...

Mr Pound, October 2017
“We had a wonderful time.”

A very friendly greeting, superb location and an excellent cottage would gladly recommend to anyone.

Mr MACLENNAN, September 2017
“Lovely friendly owners fran and les made us feel very welcome and were always on hand but not intrusive.”

The lighthouse was a real experience and very special.

Ms Brown, July 2017
“Truly magical place!”

My family and I have just returned from a weeks stay in the quaint and quirky Stopes cottage. When we arrived after a 6 hour journey we were greeted by Les who showed u... more
My family and I have just returned from a weeks stay in the quaint and quirky Stopes cottage. When we arrived after a 6 hour journey we were greeted by Les who showed us round the property and filled us in on the history of the lighthouse. The cottage was incredibly clean and very well maintained. It had everything we needed including the little things that sometimes get forgotten by self catering owners...from dish cloths, salt and pepper, tea bags and milk (for that long awaited cuppa!) to blankets for those cold nights (not that we needed them!). The views were beautiful, i was able to sit in the kitchen with my morning cuppa and watch the boats go by! Bliss! The views from the lighthouse were absolutely stunning. We loved it up there. We can't wait to return. Thanks Fran and Les for a memorable holiday and for being wonderful hosts.

Kath P, June 2017
“Mrs”

On arrival we followed the directions given which were perfect...straight to the front door. Although we arrived slightly early our host fran kindly let us unpack which... more
On arrival we followed the directions given which were perfect...straight to the front door. Although we arrived slightly early our host fran kindly let us unpack which was great after a 9 hour drive...as we unpacked les, frans husband knocked and showed us around...both les and fran were really nice and helpful. The property was just what you would expect from a lighthouse keepers cottage and had everything you needed from a large swimming pool to a b.b.q. our 7 night stay was brilliant and would not hesitate to reccommend this property from very good hosts to absolutly 360° sea views from the lighthouse tower....brilliant holiday...thankyou les and fran.

johnmcdonald97, June 2016
“This superb private lighthouse with adjoining cottage is a hidden gem. Unbeatable Views!!”

I must say the only existing review on Tripadvisor nearly put me off visiting Stopes Cottage. What a mistake that would have been!! That location, in a Lighthouse..... more
I must say the only existing review on Tripadvisor nearly put me off visiting Stopes Cottage. What a mistake that would have been!! That location, in a Lighthouse.. we had to give it a go. We are delighted that we did. This is simply a fantastic location. If you want 360 degree stunning views of the Dorset Coast and Portland Bill this is unbeatable. The cottage has lovely large rooms and everything you could need. It was impeccably clean and had everything you could want; really good heating (just hit the Advance button in the kitchen if you want a boost); large TV with Blu-ray; separate kitchen TV, Wi-Fi, large bath with shower; 2nd WC, washing machine, iron and as with the Lighthouse stunning views out to sea from most rooms. The beds were very comfortable. There is a decent sized garden with bbq, seating and even an outdoor pool which looked great for when the British summer arrives. Our hosts Les and Fran were very welcoming; available nearby if needed (they weren’t) after our initial welcome. Many of Fran’s paintings hung around the cottage (available to buy). A 2nd rental property on the grounds (Branscombe Lodge) also has access to the Lighthouse (via separate entrance), but there is more than enough room at the top of the Lighthouse for all; however we were the only ones up there when we stayed. The top of the lighthouse is the perfect location to enjoy a drink whilst taking in the views during the day; at sunset (we didn't make sunrise!) or even star gazing. There is a door so you can step outside for even better views (possibly best on a calm day; you are atop a lighthouse after all!) Portland Bill is far less developed that other local Dorset towns (in a good way), but there are still enough restaurants, pubs, and amenities in the area to cater for most needs. Weymouth is a 10 minute drive. A large new Tesco 4 minutes away (and they deliver). If you want a home from home with what have to be the best views in the area then I highly recommend Stopes Cottage. We will be back!! Little pointers to note- Stairs for the final climb to the Lighthouse are very steep; but very solid with excellent hand holds. Electricity is by £1 coin meter; but don’t be put off; you will get change out of £1 per day. Lastly the select number of local eateries do get busy; so book a table!!

mrmarkk, March 2015
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Old Higher Lighthouse Cottages

A unique opportunity to stay in two Grade II listed cottages, situated in what must be one of the most peaceful and stunning locations on Dorset’s rugged Jurassic Coast at Portland Bill. Situated right beside the sympathetically restored 18th century Old Higher Lighthouse, once the home of Dr Marie Stopes and visited by George Bernard Shaw, H.G. Wells and Thomas Hardy, these Portland Bill cottages have been comfortably furnished throughout to offer visitors a home-from-home holiday experience. Together, they can accommodate up to eight people in comfort, where you have shared use of the seasonal outdoor heated swimming pool and Jacuzzi. There are superb opportunities for walking and bird watching as well as climbing and diving, or why not just simply relax in the lighthouse and take in the sensational sea views or unwind beside the swimming pool? A short stroll takes you to The Bill itself, craggy rocks jutting out into the sea dominated by the current Trinity House lighthouse. The Bill’s friendly cafe and local pub provide good food and refreshments should you wish to take time out whilst exploring the dramatic coast. The owner of these cottages can offer reflexology, spiritual and crystal healing, plus Emotional Freedom Technique on site by arrangement, making them a holiday experience you’ll never forget!

The property

Named after Old Higher Lighthouse's former owner, Dr Marie Stopes, this cottage offers comfortable single-storey holiday accommodation linked to the lighthouse itself by a long corridor, and boasts sea views from the south-facing sitting room, kitchen and twin bedroom.

Enjoy access to the round observatory at the top of the lighthouse from where there are stunning seascapes, or relax beside the shared outdoor swimming pool and Jacuzzi.

The charming gardens with their ornamental fishponds are a delight, a great place to relax on a balmy Dorset evening after your day's exploring.

A memorable cottage offering a sensational and unique holiday home.

Note: This cottage is next to ref 12497, together they sleep 8.

Summary

All ground floor
Two bedrooms: 1 x double with basin, 1 x twin with basin
Bathroom with bath, hand-held shower, basin and WC
Basin and WC
Kitchen with dining area
Sitting room with electric fire.
Calor gas central heating with electric fire
Electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge/freezer, washing machine, 2 x TVs with Freeview, DVD, CD/radio, WiFi, selection of books, games, CDs and DVDs
Fuel & power inc. in rent
Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
Ample off road parking for cars and boats
Lawned area and patio with garden furniture and ornamental fish pond
Shared seasonal outdoor heated swimming pool with Jacuzzi (available May - September inclusive)
Shared access to lighthouse observatory via steep steps
Sorry, no pets and no smoking
Shop 2 miles, pub 5 mins walk
Note: No children under 5 years due to ponds and proximity of cliff edge.

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About the location

PORTLAND BILL

Easton 3 miles; Fortuneswell 4 miles; Weymouth 9 miles.

Portland Bill is a narrow promontory on the end of the rugged Isle of Portland peninsula which is joined to the mainland via Chesil Beach, a pebble spit, which stretches 18 miles towards West Bay. Situated on Dorset's spectacular Jurassic Coast, now a World Heritage Site, Portland Bill is home to three lighthouses, the most recent built in 1906 being the 35 meter tall, white and red striped Portland Bill Lighthouse. Portland Bill is home to a pub and a restaurant/café as well as the Portland Bird Observatory. Formerly a quarrying area, the stunning coastal scenery and footpaths provide excellent walking and the surrounding countryside is well known as a birdwatcher’s paradise! The local communities of Fortuneswell and Easton boast a good variety of shops, pubs and restaurants. With great climbing opportunities and an array of watersports activities on offer locally, plus the wonderful sandy beaches and the pretty harbour at Weymouth just 9 miles away, this super holiday destination is not to be missed!

Region Information

Note: No children under 5 years due to ponds and proximity of cliff edge.

This property offers the following short breaks:

Winter
Off-season
Last minute
Christmas

Old Higher Lighthouse Stopes Cottage

Portland Bill, Dorset (Ref. 12494)

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Features

Reviews

“Have been before 4 years ago.”

“I didn't book through sykes - I booked through booking.”

“Enjoyed the views”

“Very nice place the lighthouse is out of this world for views out to sea, ships can be seen and the lady told us all about the place well worth a vist.”

“Spent a wonderful week at Stopes Cottage.”

“Whilst the cottage did look as stated on the Website, in reality it was lacking in comfort.”

“Lovely spot”

“Fantastic location.”

“We had a wonderful time.”

“Lovely friendly owners fran and les made us feel very welcome and were always on hand but not intrusive.”

“Truly magical place!”

“Mrs”

“This superb private lighthouse with adjoining cottage is a hidden gem. Unbeatable Views!!”