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Near Bank Cottage

(Ref. 801)

St Abbs near Berwick-upon-Tweed, Scottish Borders Show on map

4.9

Sykes rating

  • 4 Guests

  • 2 Bedrooms

  • 1 Bathroom

  • Pets Yes

Features

  • Off road parking
  • Open fire
  • Garden / Patio
  • Pub/shop < 1 mile
  • Washing machine
  • Seaside
  • Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing
Cleanliness
Comfort
Facilities and Maintenance
  • All reviews
  • cottage (48)
  • location (20)
  • lovely (19)
  • comfortable (18)
  • well (16)
  • abbs (16)

59 Customer Reviews

  • "The cottage had lots of attractive features."

    The open fire is a draw for some people. The electric storage heaters provided background warmth if the fire was not used. Bed was comfortable. The cottage was spotless and the kitchen was well stocked with equipment. We had a wonderful holiday watching the deer and the birds in the area. We would rebook but the cottage is fully booked up for our times next year.

    Reviewed by Margaret4.1Sep 2024

  • "We thoroughly enjoyed our stay the cottage felt very homely and the courtyard garden was a joy to sit in and watch the birds, read my books etc."

    ..

    Reviewed by Adam5.0Aug 2024

  • "Near Bank Cottage was all we thought it would be and more."

    Such a quaint old world place ,it reminded me of my grandparents home more than 50 years ago. With all the mod cons that we would need, also really quiet and dark at night. The garden was a lovely place to relax with a coffee and cake, watching and listening to the many birds. Al made himself available to us if we had any issues, of which there were none. Hopefully we shall return in the near future,.

    Reviewed by Neil5.0Aug 2024

  • "Loved the cottage and location Enjoyed watching the sheep being rounded up and moved Would highly recommend the whole package ."

    Sylvia

    Reviewed by Sylvia5.0Jul 2024

  • "Second time we've been to this location."

    A wonderful peaceful spot , can walk into St Abbs or to the beach at Coldingham. Everything you could want in Near Bank although tv reception not great when the wind blues!

    Thank you Richard for the feedback. A super review. Regarding the TV reception we have today replaced the TV for a 43 inch. We have also discovered that a tree in the garden was interrupting the satellite signal. That too is now sorted. Much appreciated the heads-up. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Richard4.7Jun 2024

  • "Love the scenery at St Abbs and Near Bank Cottage suits us, being a little away from the main village so very quiet, while still within walking distance."

    Having little motorised traffic passing the door helps too - love the sheep passing and the birds on the feeders in the garden! The cottage itself was very clean and comfortable for two although I think it might be cramped for more people. We've stayed several times in the past but this was the first time for a fortnight's stay and we will be back.

    Reviewed by Jackie4.7May 2024

  • "Lovely cottage, great holiday."

    Reviewed by Kerry5.0Apr 2024

  • "We had a lovely time."

    The cottage is very pleasant and comfortable. The Berwickshire coast is world-class photogenic, both the immediate coast at St Abbs Head and the nearby Fast Castle and Siccar Point. I also love photographing the Berwick Bridges. There's masses more of course - Edinburgh, Lindisfarne, Ross Bank Sands...Excellent bakery at East Linton.. Wifi is v slow. Forewarned by comments I brought my 4g EE router which worked great from the upstairs front bedroom (30mbps download compared to < 2mbps). The owner may like to think about a 4g router. I didn't notice a dustpan and brush. I must mention the back garden, delightful to sit in. Lovely stay. Thanks.

    Reviewed by Mark4.7Mar 2024

  • "We gave comments in the Guest Book, a charming and unspoilt cottage, so nice to have a proper coal fire; took us all back to childhood!"

    Very comfortable beds and all facilities as advertised. A lovely area for walks and wildlife, Eyemouth and Berwick not far away either, and some glorious beaches..would definitely stay again. Thanks for a lovely family break!

    Reviewed by Julie5.0Dec 2023

  • "We have had holidays at Near Bank Cottage for a number of years and love the cottage and the area."

    This year was no exception, we had a great stay and will hopefully be returning in 2024

    Reviewed by Keith4.4Dec 2023

  • "Absolutely fantastic place to spend a week away from it all."

    Will definitely be going back

    Reviewed by Carolann5.0Nov 2023

  • "Wonderful stay as always it's beautiful haven Comfy, clean, warm and welcoming"

    Reviewed by Barbara4.7Sep 2023

  • "I really enjoyed my stay ."

    The house is delightful and in a perfect place. It is very well appointed . Only two observations based on my other stays at similar properties A bath mat for the shower A hairdryer which wasn’t listed but would have been appreciated.

    Reviewed by Irene5.0Aug 2023

  • "Enjoyed our stay"

    Reviewed by Paul5.0Jul 2023

  • "A wonderful cottage."

    Spotlessly clean and very comfortable. Everything that you need in the kitchen, comfy beds and a decent shower. Great location, 10 mins into St Abbs by foot and the cliffs and nature reserve on the doorstep. Only thing that let it down was the very poor if not, non existent WiFi. Thank you to Alastair who looks after the cottage. You do a great job!

    Reviewed by Bridget5.0Jun 2023

  • "Just perfect."

    The location was idyllic and the cottage was exactly as expected.

    Reviewed by Melanie5.0May 2023

  • "This was probably the third or fourth time we've stayed at Near Bank Cottage and have had a super time every time; enjoying the cottage, walking in the area, the wildlife, the scenery etc."

    Hopefully we'll be back another year and thanks to Al the caretaker for keeping it so nice and clean.

    Hi Jackie, we much appreciate the encouraging feedback. We’l look forward to your next visit. Al is indeed a star. Best regards Stuart Property Owner

    Reviewed by Jackie5.0May 2023

  • "Near bank is a comfortable cottage to stay in."

    It has lovely outside space and is very well equipped. It’s location is also a great asset, as being on the footpath onto St Abbs Head nature reserve, it couldn’t be better located for walking in the area.

    Reviewed by Patricia5.0May 2023

  • "We booked it quite late at a very good price which was good."

    The cottage is situated next to a quite busy sheep farm right next to the lighthouse trail which was very nice. A very spacious place with everything you need even coal. Nice comfortable beds and a well equipped kitchen. The internet was a nice touch but struggled to stay connected which wasn’t good, especially for us who rely on it as we don’t do the tv thing. I don’t know why but it was a problem. We weren’t happy with lack attention paid to the cleanliness of the kitchen, the utensils were quite dirty, some spoons even had dried food on them which wasn’t nice at all. The kitchen had a stale smell which wasn’t pleasant. The utensil tray was quite grubby with crumbs inside. Hygiene is paramount these days. The coal fire was very difficult to light, despite being quite good at it over the years. Fire lighters are needed to make this easier or you will be there for ages. Overall a very pleasant stay, but the points I’ve outlined took the edge off.

    Reviewed by Stephen3.8Mar 2023

  • "We've been to this cottage quite a few times over the years and really love it."

    We take our dog and tour the area which is lovely. The cottage is cosy and Alister the care taker is at the end of the phone if you need anything. Can't wait to return next year.

    Keith, thank you very much for your feedback. We are so pleased that you enjoy Nearbank as much as we do. We hope you returned home refreshed and we look forward to welcoming you again. Alistair is of course a star. Best wishes for Christmas and wishing you and your family a peaceful New Year. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Keith5.0Dec 2022

  • "Enjoyed our stay here, small peaceful cottage and love the fire."

    Even though next to a farm and busy walking pathway to the lighthouse inside was really soundproof. Only suggestion is please can the property have couple of fans as it was a tad hot during the heatwave. Those who are staying here, please fill the bird feeder, there are tits, sparrows, pigeon and a crow who demands regular meals!

    Reviewed by Imalka4.7Jul 2022

  • "Wonderful cottage, loved sitting out in the garden at the end of the day and ..."

    Wonderful cottage, loved sitting out in the garden at the end of the day and enjoying all the different birds feeding and the antics of the squirrel enjoying the nuts as well(pity it was a grey)

    Reviewed by Dek5.0Jun 2022

  • "Near Bank Cottage is an excellent place to stay."

    Warm, comfortable, clean and in an excellent location. We enjoyed all the pictures on the walls! and we had a super holiday so thank you

    Reviewed by Jane5.0May 2022

  • "This is our third visit to the cottage."

    It's really Cosy and in a great location for visiting the local attractions. Alister is great he looks after the property and makes himself available to help with any issues. We love this cottage and the area so hopefully will return next year

    Reviewed by Keith5.0Dec 2021

  • "Cottage was very cosy and warm."

    Great location for walking to St Abbs harbour and further out to St Abbs Head. Also only an hour drive to Edinburgh where we would recommend visiting Royal Yacht Britannia. Good wifi.

    Reviewed by Alison4.4Oct 2021

  • "Such a lovely cottage!"

    It is set in a great place - right on the edge of the reserve, so there are loads of walks right from your doorstep. The cottage is charming. The garden is lovely and as you are on the end of the row it is very quiet - very limited traffic - mostly farm traffic. We watched the farmer going to and fro with his sheepdogs. Lovely! The cottage is very spacious. The lounge is very comfy with a lovely open fire and coal is provided. The kitchen is well equipped. The main bedroom has a comfortable double bed. The second bedroom has two singles with a lovely view. The bathroom has an electric shower. Heating was storage heaters- they were more than sufficient. Overall we loved our stay at the cottage. It's set in a beautiful spot close to a wonderful coastline. We explored beyond St. Abbs and were rewarded with stunning scenery at every turn. We will be going back!

    Reviewed by Joanne5.0Oct 2021

  • "Wonderful cottage and an absolutely superb location."

    A most relaxing break in a very tranquil setting.

    Reviewed by Les5.0Oct 2021

  • "A lovely cottage in a peaceful and beautiful location."

    The Cottage was cosy comfortable and very well equipped. St Abbs was an easy walk from the Cottage and had useful amenities. The visitor centre in St Abbs is well worth a visit as is the lovely cafe in the old school. The cliff path walk to Coldingham bay was gorgeous and only took 10 minutes. A really lovely place to holiday.

    Reviewed by John5.0Aug 2021

  • "The reason we marked the cottage down from Five Stars to Four Stars is because - no towels are supplied - there is no hair drier - the dining table is very awkward to sit at, even for two people - no dishwasher (now standard in holiday lets) - poor overhead lighting, particularly in the kitchen - the toilet seat would not stay up, making male urination tricky to say the least!"

    Now for the bit you can publish : We have stayed at Near Bank many times in the past fifteen years. We really appreciate the way that the owners continually improve the property - this time new walls in the back garden made it a very nice place to sit in the evening. The house is very clean, comfortable and the kitchen is well equipped with pots, pans and cutlery. The position is perfect, giving easy access to the cliffs and beaches. The neighbours are friendly and Ali is a very efficient and personable caretaker. We will be back - but not until the prices return to a more reasonable level.

    Reviewed by Philip4.7Jul 2021

  • "This is a very well equipped comfortable cottage."

    It has a perfect location next to the St Abbs reserve. The cottage was very clean on arrival. St Abbs is a quaint little village.The wider area is great to explore and we did it all without a car. Fully recommend this property.

    Reviewed by Christopher5.0Jun 2021

  • "Great property."

    Fabulous location. Easy booking process, from start to finish. Well recommended.

    Reviewed by Allison5.0Jun 2021

  • "Terrace house in secluded position close to scenic St."

    Abb's Head.

    Reviewed by Richard4.4Nov 2020

  • "We were very unlucky with the weather, as always the cottage is warm and cosy."

    The addition of WiFi and tv choices was a welcome addition. We even managed the discovery walk in the rain.will be back next year.corvid permitting.

    Reviewed by Barry5.0Aug 2020

  • "Nice and comfortable peaceful house lovely garden enclosed ideal for your dog ..."

    Nice and comfortable peaceful house lovely garden enclosed ideal for your dog located on a private road and loads of great walks on your door step the house is well kept and clean we had a nice relaxed holiday and where lucky with the weather loads of wild life even a friendly red squirrel comes to visit you we would defiantly visit again if we get the chance 10/10

    Reviewed by David5.0Aug 2020

  • "A fabulous cottage in a wonderful place."

    We have a lovely weeks holiday. St Abbs and the surrounding area is spectacular. You can't beat the area for costal walking and wildlife sight seeing.

    Reviewed by Janet5.0Aug 2020

  • "The cottage is in the perfect location."

    It is very well equipped, comfortable and the wifi fast enough to keep our teenager happy! The walks from the cottage are spectacular and St Abbs has lovely places for lunch if you just want a quick stroll and some fresh air. We will definitely be returning

    Reviewed by Nicola5.0Feb 2020

  • "Cottage rather dated but it adds a certain charm to the place."

    As the cottage lies at the end of a farm track road it can get rather muddy after a period of rain. Overall had an excellent holiday , lots to do and explore and great central point for calling at nearby villages and towns.

    Reviewed by Terry4.4Feb 2020

  • "This is a lovely cottage."

    Cosy and ideal for a relaxing week at this time of year. It has everything you need. We are regular visitors to this cottage and can highly recommend it

    Reviewed by Kerry5.0Dec 2019

  • "We had a wonderful time!"

    They had literally thought of everything! From pads and paper, jigsaws and books! We had a magical Christmas, beautiful walks immediately on our doorstep! We of course had to watch Avengers Endgame whilst we were there which was filmed in the harbour immediately below the cottage! We will definitely be back! Thank you for having us!

    Reviewed by Graham5.0Dec 2019

  • "The cottage is lovely and cosy and we loved every minute of the holiday."

    The national park is about 10 metres away from the cottage so it was ideal for walking out dog. The area around the cottage is stunning with St Abbs Harbour only half mile walk away. Lovely unspoilt area already thinking about returning next yesr. Will use the same cottage

    Reviewed by Keith5.0Dec 2019

  • "Location, location, location ."

    .. nestled at the foot of St Abbs nature reserve this property is in an amazing location for exploring the coast. We saw dolphins & seals galore & even saw an otter! Stunning place and a lovely warm clean property.

    Reviewed by Luke5.0Nov 2019

  • "Lovely location, cosy comfortable cottage, enjoyed by the whole family."

    Thank you

    Reviewed by John5.0Aug 2019

  • "Best property we have ever found."

    Reviewed by Roger5.0Jun 2019

  • "I have stayed at this cottage on several occasions over the last few years and dearly love it."

    It is superbly situated if you want immediate access to walking by the wonderful sea cliffs and wildlife of the nature reserve. You can also use it as a base to explore the stunning coastline and countryside of the borders area.The cottage is very comfortable, well maintained and has a lovely secluded garden which is a sun trap and is frequented by beautiful birds with fields beyond. It offers perfect relaxation in a quiet location.

    Reviewed by Catherine5.0Jun 2019

  • "The cottage was all we expected with the exception of the towel situation."

    On our confirmation it stated bed linen and towels were included. When we couldn't find any towels we contacted Al who stated they were NOT included. He did however loan us towels as there had been an error on your website. We found Al very helpful and friendly.

    Reviewed by Jeff4.7May 2019

  • "If you want a peaceful,relaxing break this cottage is perfect you can watch ..."

    If you want a peaceful,relaxing break this cottage is perfect you can watch nature from the garden or go on many of the surrounding stunning walks

    Reviewed by Barbara4.7Mar 2019

  • "Outstanding cottage, well positioned for walks around Northumberland , We had a ..."

    Outstanding cottage, well positioned for walks around Northumberland , We had a great break with no rain and plenty of sunshine,

    Reviewed by Barry5.0Mar 2019

  • "Weather was kind, cottage is just as described, we will look to come again in spring 2019."

    Cottage is located a short walk from St Abbs village and adjacent to many nature trails.

    Reviewed by Barry5.0Nov 2018

  • "We thoroughly enjoyed our week at Near Bank Cottage."

    It is situated in a beautiful location and the cottage was clean, well equipped and very cosy. An ideal place to recharge your batteries but not too far from the attractions of the coast.

    Reviewed by Rosemary5.0Oct 2018

  • "No towels supplied, more baggage to pack, Bed linen not ironed !"

    ! But a nice cottage to hire,

    Reviewed by David4.4Sep 2018

  • "Very comfy cottage with lovely sunny garden situated in beautiful countryside."

    Lots of good walking from the cottage and good sandy beachs with rock pools.

    Reviewed by Bridget5.0Aug 2018

  • "Near bank cottage at St Abbs is everything you would want from a holiday home."

    It's extremely well equipped and comfortable and the garden leading off the living room is a beautiful sun trap with loads of outdoor seating and bird feeders that attract loads of birds. St Abbs, Coldingham and eyemouth are all in close proximity and are lovely places to visit. A super location for exploring the coastline and a short drive to Edinburgh or Northumberland. Great place 5 star. Would definitely come again ... Probably many times!

    Reviewed by Linda5.0Jul 2018

  • "We have been coming to this cottage for quite a few years now and it never fails to meet our needs."

    Lots of places to visit and walks to satisfy the keenest of walkers.

    Reviewed by Alan5.0Jul 2018

  • "Great place to stay, cottage was just as expected."

    Location is great for walking and not far from main towns like Berwick or Dunbar. We will be returning later inyear when prices are lower.

    Reviewed by Barry4.7Mar 2018

  • "This was our second visit to near bank cottage and will definitely go again."

    Ideal surroundings close to village and coastal walks everything you need for a relaxing holiday or if you enjoy walking as my family do perfect for that too. Can't fault this cottage or the area

    Reviewed by Linds5.0Feb 2018

  • "Cottage set in a beautiful location, offering both a countryside and seaside ..."

    Cottage set in a beautiful location, offering both a countryside and seaside holiday Very quiet location only broken by the farm traffic and visitors driving to lighthouse Cottage itself very comfortably housing four people and a dog

    Reviewed by Karen4.8Aug 2017

  • "Quiet and relaxing spot that never fails to satisfy"

    Reviewed by Alan5.0Jul 2017

  • "Fantastic comfortable cottage very well equipped a real home from home in a superb position highly recommend"

    Reviewed by Ann5.0Jun 2017

  • "Lovely holiday cottage, very clean, nice secluded garden, parking space next to house."

    Only draw back is due to being on route to nature reserve some people drive too fast past the cottage and they're children playing on bikes etc. Lots of nice walks from the door, beach short drive away or coastal path walk from St Abbs to Coldingham.

    Reviewed by Kathryne4.6Aug 2016

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Summary

  • Two bedrooms: 1 x double, 1 x twin
  • Shower room with shower, basin and WC
  • Well-equipped fitted kitchen with pantry
  • Cosy sitting room with dining area and open fire
  • Beds Equipped with Hypnos mattresses.
  • Electric night storage heaters with open fire in sitting room and wall-mounted fan heaters in shower room and kitchen
  • Electric cooker, fridge/freezer, washing machine, TV and WiFi
  • All fuel and power inc. in rent
  • Bed linen inc. in rent
  • Off road parking for two cars
  • Recently extended rear garden with garden furniture
  • One well-behaved dog under strict control welcome
  • Sorry, no smoking
  • Shop and pub 1 mile
  • Please note the property only accepts dogs

The property

Originally built for the lighthouse keepers of St Abbs, this delightful traditional end-terrace stone-built cottage is a very special retreat for the nature lover, being in a wonderful position beside St Abbs Head National Nature Reserve and surrounded by beautiful countryside.

There is access to the nature reserve directly from the cottage and St Abbs village is a short half mile walk or drive away.

The cottage provides comfortable, cosy accommodation and is a great base for walking, cycling or touring this lovely area of Berwickshire.

The A1 is just 4 miles away, giving excellent access to the Scottish Borders and the Northumberland Coast.

Boat trips and fishing are also available locally.

EPC Rating: Band G

Please note: Check in for this property is from 4pm
Please note: The property only accepts dogs

EPC Rating: Band G

Short-term Holiday Let Licence No: SB-00158-F

View on map

About the location

ST ABBS

Berwick-upon-Tweed 11 miles; Edinburgh 49 miles.

Just over the Border into Scotland, St Abbs is a picturesque fishing village with a delightful harbour and fishermen's cottages hugging the hillside, situated on a beautiful stretch of Berwickshire coastline. Diving can be enjoyed from the harbour, while the nearby St Abb's Head National Nature Reserve has a rich variety of wildlife and is a paradise for birdwatchers! An ideal location for walks - the Cheviots, Scottish Borders and the spectacular coastline all offer excellent walking. There is a safe, sandy beach 3 miles away in nearby Coldingham, which is very popular with surfers. The historic fortified Border town of Berwick-upon-Tweed, with shops, a museum and a castle, is nearby, and is well worth a visit. Holy Island, the Farne Islands, the attractive seaside villages of Craster, Eyemouth and Seahouses, and Edinburgh, capital city of Scotland, are all within touring distance.

Please note: Check in for this property is from 4pm
Please note: The property only accepts dogs