The Shearer's Hut

Thank you for your review. We are pleased to hear that you found the accommodation warm, comfortable, and enjoyed the views of the Holme Valley during both your stays with us. We also appreciate that you enjoyed your time here, and we would like to acknowledge that all of our interactions with you in person were polite and friendly. However, we must address your comments, as they do not accurately reflect the condition in which the property was left following your two visits. After your first stay in January, the property required a significantly extended and intensive clean, far beyond what would normally be expected after a week’s occupancy. In addition to this, there was a strong and persistent odour throughout the property, which required additional time and treatment to remove. Regrettably, following your second stay in March, the condition of the property was again unacceptable. Once again, a full deep clean was required. Due to the condition and odour, all bed linen on both occasions had to be replaced, and during the second stay this also extended to other soft furnishings. We do not consider this reasonable use of a holiday property. During both stays, we had a number of conversations with you regarding property expectations, including the use of bins and adherence to our no smoking/vaping policy. These matters were raised to help ensure a comfortable environment for both yourselves and future guests. Unfortunately, despite these discussions, the same issues persisted. We work hard to ensure all of our properties are maintained to a high standard — clean, fresh, and welcoming for every guest. While we do not expect properties to be left exactly as found, we do feel that the level of cleaning, damage, and remedial work required after both of your stays went well beyond what can be considered reasonable. We do not take the decision to decline future bookings lightly. In more than ten years of running a holiday letting business, this is the first time we have had to take such action. It followed repeated issues across two separate stays, which had a direct impact on our business — including additional costs, time, and the risk of disruption to incoming guests. We appreciate that you may feel disappointed; however, we must act in the best interests of the property, our business, and future guests. For these reasons, the restriction remains in place. Moving forward we hope that your health improves, and we wish you and your partner all the best in your search for work.

Thank you again for your thoughtful and detailed feedback - we’re so pleased you thoroughly enjoyed your stay at The Shearer’s Hut and made the most of the fantastic walks and nearby towns and villages. Having great places to eat close by (including the ever-popular Fleece Inn just across the road!) certainly makes relaxing away from the kitchen very easy. As a traditional shepherd’s hut, the space is intentionally cosy and compact. Most of our guests stay for just two or three nights as a maximum, which the layout, and pricing, is designed to reflect. For those planning a longer stay or wanting more living and cooking space, we’re always happy to recommend one of our larger properties to ensure the best possible fit. Thank you also for mentioning the low hum that you heard. Although we couldn't identify any sound ourselves, we believe it may have been the garden fairy lights making a noise. These lights have now been put on a timer switch which can also be operated from inside the hut. It was a pleasure hosting you, and we truly appreciate your kind comments about our welcome and hospitality - we’re always on hand if needed and want every guest to feel comfortable and well looked after. Kindest regards, Catherine x

Thank you so much for your kind words and for taking the time to leave a review. I’m really glad you enjoyed the quirky charm of the property, the peaceful nights, and the little welcome touches like the milk, prosecco, and games – it’s always lovely to hear those details made a difference! Just to clarify a couple of points for future guests: the radio is actually a modern DAB radio designed in a retro 1960s style to fit the décor – I’ll make sure clearer instructions are left out so it's easier to use. The TV is a digital smart TV that runs on the internet and includes all the main UK channels as well as access to Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+ and more – I’ll put together a set of instructions for future visitors who may also like support operating a smart TV. Regarding the bins, you're absolutely right they were very full – the bank holiday unfortunately delayed the usual collection, which was out of our control. However, I completely understand how this may have impacted your experience and the issue has since been addressed. Thanks again for the recommendation – your feedback is really appreciated, and I hope to welcome you back for another stay in the future!