"To be completely fair, the cleanliness of the kitchen was a concern and would benefit from a deep clean, along with some additional touches to enhance the space."
The kitchen equipment is outdated and needs upgrading to align with the rating of the property. A toaster would be helpful, and providing updated utensils and more cutlery would improve comfort. It’s always best to have more than necessary. Additionally, areas like under the sink need attention, and the freezer should be defrosted.
The lounge area is very relaxing, clean, and comfortable. The presence of a smart TV was a nice touch. The room felt cozy, clean, and airy, but some of the cushions were quite worn with visible holes and splits. Furthermore, the coffee table is very small; while I understand the concern about space, it feels inadequate for accommodating the maximum number of guests.
The downstairs bathroom had a damp smell, likely due to a previous flood or a damp issue, which is evident in the wall decorations behind the toilet. Additionally, the hand wash provided was empty; in our opinion, it would be better not to provide it at all than to leave it empty. This area could also benefit from a deep clean—it wasn't dirty, but it could use some refreshing.
The overall appearance upstairs was bright, airy, and pleasant. The master bedroom presents challenges for elderly guests or those with mobility issues due to the tight space around the large bed, which is situated too close to the radiator. While the bed was luxurious and comfortable for sleeping, it is not ideal for rental accommodation considering access around the room. Also, only one of the bedside lamps worked, and the ornamental wardrobe handle needs to be fixed as it keeps falling off.
In Bedroom Two, our guests expressed complaints about the comfort of the mattress springs. I believe a new mattress would significantly improve the situation. Nonetheless, the room was clean, tidy, airy, and pleasantly adorned with cottage furnishings.
The upstairs bathroom shower could use some cosmetic updates, including new fixtures and a showerhead. A few vanity amenities would also improve the appearance under the sink, along with some general bathroom comforts to meet the property’s ratings.
Lastly, the cottage would benefit from having a TV in the bedrooms for a more luxurious and comfortable feel, as some guests prefer to relax in bed. We believe that having a TV, at least in the master bedroom, is necessary to align with the cottage's rating. Although a vacuum is provided, it is insufficient for the size of the property; another vacuum could be easily added. No mop or broom was found either, which would be beneficial to have on hand.
We felt that the garden space leading from the kitchen is nice, but it doesn't fit in well with the area or the neighboring gardens. It lacks shrubs, and some cut borders would enhance its appearance. Overall, the garden is somewhat disappointing for a cottage setting, especially considering the official property rating. A barbecue and a four-seater table with chairs would also be a nice addition. However, the front garden area is lovely, and the general approach to the building is appealing.
In general, the property is pleasant. The windows, blinds, and decoration are superb, and the area is calm, relaxing, and peaceful. We enjoyed the short walk to the local pub, and the town has an air of class and superiority with its surrounding shops, restaurants, and local sights, all of which were very clean.
Thank you for providing us with our stay. However, we feel that the property did not fully meet the official ratings provided. If the above points are addressed, it could easily attain a rating of 4 to 5 ticks. It is essential to provide accurate ratings for individual properties, considering the cost and the risk of disappointment.
Kind regards.
Thank you for your review. Everything is duly noted.
The garden needs time on it , with the property being fully booked for the last few months this has been difficult. It did have shrubs in a lovely border , but a long term tenant did not look after them. And time has been the problem since. I do agree it needs a table and chairs for four.
The cushions in the lounge are brand new , they should not have holes in them. I will check them.
I agree that the bathroom shower needs updating , that is something that is on going at the moment , again time.
The down stairs cloakroom contains the air source boiler behind the toilet. It’s a working area when the engineer comes. Hence possibly the smell.
The lamps in the master bedroom are new , as are the bulbs , I will check and replace. The super king bed was put in for luxury , they are large beds , but the length is the same as any bed.
I didn’t provide a mop , but there is a broom in the shed. I will get a dust pan and brush.
All the kitchen equipment , including pots and pans , crockery and cutlery are new.
Thank you for your other comments. All noted.
Thank you.
Property Owner
Reviewed by Andrew2.2★May 2025