North Segganwell - Culzean Castle

47 Customer Reviews

• "Lovely cottage - but it would have been helpful to have a little more cutlery."

  Also, the sign saying the parking is just for the cottages is not very obvious - twice we had other cars parking in our space. It could do with more obvious signage. The gates are locked at 5pm each day as published, which is not a problem, but your details state that they are locked all day Tuesday and Wednesday - they are not.. The grounds and castle are open 7 days a week.

  Reviewed by Heather4.7★Sep 2024

• "Hi absolutely beautiful, stunning location, loved the cottages everything we needed, underestimated the steps up however didn’t spoil a thing."

  Dogs absolutely loved it. Just loved opening the door to that view

  Reviewed by Paula5.0★Sep 2024

• "Absolute stunning little cottage in a beautiful location, straight onto the beach."

  Reviewed by Amanda5.0★Jul 2024

• "The location is wonderful, right on the beach and Culzean Castle and park are delightful."

  However, the cottage itself had a number of issues. I can provide photos if required. - The lounge carpet was dirty and stained - The fire guard was dusty and looked as though it had been retrieved from a rubbish dump! - There was rubbish scattered around the cottage, including an old shoe! - The bed was possibly the most uncomfortable we have slept in since we were students. The mattress was bowed in the middle and as a result meant we had difficulty sleeping and gave back problems. We knew there would be steps down to the cottage but they are not in great repair and I don’t understand why, from a health and safety perspective, there is no handrail. Somebody will eventually fall and injure themselves and I would have thought the National Trust might be liable. All the above need addressing and were certainly not consistent with the fact that we were charged £300 a night, the cost of many 5 star hotels for bed and breakfast. I will be writing to Sykes asking for a refund as the cottage certainly was not up to expectations for the price charged.

  To reassure you we have investigated all of the issues that you raised, with our cleaning, maintenance and health and safety teams. The team have cleaned the carpet and replaced the fire guard. In addition to the actions already undertaken I would like to confirm that the steps are regularly checked and considered to be in a reasonable state of repair. The mattress is relatively new and has been found to be comfortable by many guests. With regards to rubbish it is not uncommon for rubbish to wash up with the tides and our rangers do undertake regular litter picks of the whole estate but it is clear that on this occasion we have fallen short of our normal high standards. We have contacted you directly as well to discuss your feedback. Holidays Dept NTS Property Owner

  Reviewed by Chris2.5★Jul 2024

• "An absolutely gorgeous property on extensive grounds."

  It’s worth staying here just to see the sunset! You can get onto the beach straight from the cottage. You could, if you wanted, not go out of the grounds for your whole stay, as there are plenty of walks, the cafes serve lovely food, drinks and cakes (and not overly expensive). There is also an ice cream shop on site. A couple of things would make it better - the signs for designated parking could be made clearer (maybe paint ‘private parking’ on the ground of the parking spots). This isn’t a massive problem, as there is parking elsewhere, but it would be nice. Also, people who are passing the cottages do tend to peek in to see what the buildings are. Maybe a sign with ‘these are rented cottages, please be respectful’ or similar may help. We had a couple of problems, which were dealt with quickly, professionally and the staff were very friendly. Very well equipped. All in all, a gorgeous place to stay when visiting Scotland. I would definitely recommend.

  Many thanks for your lovely comments about Culzean. We have asked the team at Culzean if there is anything we can do about the parking spaces for Segganwell and also let visitors know that the cottages are rented out and that please respect guests privacy. Property Owner

  Reviewed by Valerie4.7★Jul 2024

• "What an amazing place to stay - idyllic almost."

  I did get a fair mobile / internet signal which as a big surprise after reading the cottage reviews. Great location, you just need to plan a little for meals as theres a bit of a drive to get places. Would very much stay there again!

  Reviewed by Paul5.0★Jun 2024

• "This has to be one of the best locations for a holiday cottage, in the extensive grounds of a coastal castle, right on the beach."

  Idyllic for a relaxing holiday, I will be returning at some point. Cottage clean, comfortable and well equipped.

  Reviewed by Christine5.0★Jun 2024

• "Beautiful little cottage in very peaceful location."

  The steps up and down are quite a climb but we were aware of that before booking. Unfortunately the designated parking for cottage doesn’t have a sign to say it is reserved for the cottages and had been used by others visiting the castle so we had a longer walk to property than we should have done. The castle grounds are lovely and it’s great having access to this , although the cafe and food outlets on site were over priced so would recommend taking all your own supplies.

  Reviewed by Caroline5.0★May 2024

• "Cottage was comfortable and clean."

  Everything you need is provided. Must commend the grounds staff and Welcome gate staff as always happy to help with a smile. We have now stayed in North and South Segwell and looking forward to when we can next visit

  Reviewed by Grandvill4.1★Feb 2024

• "We had a fantastic stay in North Segganwell Cottage."

  The views outside the cottage of the Isle of Arran were simply breathtaking. There were lots of walks to do with our dog and we had a great stay. The 126 steep steps to the cottage are not to be underestimated, taking our belongings back to the car was definitely challenging! The beach outside the cottage is not private, as anyone walking in the Castle can ( and did) walk past the cottage. However this did not diminish our enjoyment and we would return again.

  Thank you very much for the lovely comments, we are very lucky at the NTS to have cottages in such historic properties and unique locations. Property Owner

  Reviewed by David5.0★Nov 2023

• "Only 2 issues were no washing machine or dryer, these used to be in outside building last time we visited the site 4/5 years ago, might still be but it was locked."

  And parking cause even though each cottage has it, people not renting the cottage often park in them, cause sign that used to be as you park in the bay in front of the car has gone.

  Reviewed by Joseph5.0★Jul 2023

• "We generally loved it apart from a couple of maintenance issues like the ..."

  We generally loved it apart from a couple of maintenance issues like the shower was very cold even on hot setting the boiler was a temperamental the toilet didn’t flush properly but all said and done we would look at going back in the future

  Thank you very much for you feedback. The facilities team have checked the cottage, the shower is best used on the ECO setting as it gives the heating element time to heat the water. The toilet is now flushing and we have tightened up the toilet seat. We hope to welcome you back to the National Trust for Scotland holidays cottages. Property Owner

  Reviewed by Jacqueline4.1★Jul 2023

• "A great cottage in a fantastic location withinin the wonderful Culzean Castle estate."

  This is our 3rd stay and we love the peace and tranquility. As others have commented repeatedly, the signage for the parking bays is very unclear and they are almost always used by other visitors. Signs fixed to the fence at the front of the bays would be a simple resolution.

  Reviewed by Julie5.0★Jun 2023

• "We had lovely stay at North Segganwell."

  The cottage is well equipped, warm and comfortable. It’s in a great position situated on the beach at the bottom of a cliff. Although there were over 100 steps to access the property the steps weren’t nearly as bad as I had imagined, they are well maintained, low rise and wide. We’re looking forward to our next visit.

  Reviewed by Phillip5.0★May 2023

• "Cottage location, condition and facilities were wonderful."

  NTS staff we encountered on site were exceptionally helpful and friendly. Feeling of being a welcome guest at cottage though totally lacking. "Welcome pack" was pathetic, a few instant coffee sachets, a couple of coffee pods and 2 fingers of short bread.Disappointing given weve gad really hood experiences with Sykes and NT in the past. Then getting message from Sykes on day 2 of a 3 day stay giving leaving instructions...... felt really welcome!

  Reviewed by John5.0★Apr 2023

• "Absolutely magical place."

  Our aim was to unwind and rest , which the location and cottage was perfect for. Access to the castle grounds, dolphin costal walk and swan pond was a treat. The beach was amazing as was the view well worth the 127 steps down to the snug warm cottage. Some extra loo roll would have been nice for a weeks visit. That was the only thing we had to leave our retreat for. Well worth another visit.

  Reviewed by Samantha4.4★Mar 2023

• "Love coming here."

  The cottage has had a big glow up since we last stayed! I do miss the bunk beds :) Would be great to have the opportunity to book shorter breaks again rather than only the full week.

  Reviewed by Jude5.0★Oct 2022

• "The cottage was delightful, clean, warm and comfortable and had everything one could need."

  The setting perfect and the most peaceful cottage I have stayed in, only the sound of birds and waves. Watching the banners diving everyday on the incoming tide was beautiful. The many steps down to the cottage are well maintained and a small price for the wonderful location.

  Reviewed by Elisabeth5.0★Oct 2022

• "The position of the cottage is idyllic."

  Having stayed before pre refurb the recent uplift has been very nicely done and the cottage is cosy .Having stayed around the country in National Trust cottages the welcome pack was disappointing and rather characterless compared to the usual standard.The outside light does not seem to work .

  Reviewed by Elaine4.7★Sep 2022

• "This is one of the most unique / picturesque / romantic little cottages If u are comfortable w the steps they reference in the description this is a hallmark movie setting for you to make your own story."

  Slainte Mhath

  Reviewed by John5.0★Sep 2022

• "The cottage is in lovely location (as long as you can manage 120+ steps to access)."

  The views are excellent and being located in Culzean Country Park gives ready access to lovely gardens, a beautiful castle and fabulous coastline. The cottage has been refurbished very well and given the size it is very well appointed. The accommodation is reduced now that bunk beds are removed. This means that families will probably not be able to go there. This is a pity as the cottages were ideal for children. However, I would still recommend!

  Thank you for your very positive review, we made the decision to remove the bunk beds to allow better access to all the facilities in the cottage and more comfortable. We now have 8 properties at Culzean so we can accommodate larger families in the other cottages. Property Owner

  Reviewed by Michael5.0★Sep 2022

• "Our second year at North Segganwell and a welcome surprise to see it updated and upgraded both in comfort and facilities."

  It is in such an idyllic spot and our dog, Razzie, loved every minute of it. We brought our own folding chairs, but perhaps these could be provided to keep the journeys up and down the steps to a minimum and to enable comfortable outdoor seating to watch the fabulous sunsets over Arran. A wonderful week and we'll be back!

  Thank you so much for your comments it is great to read your comments about the refurbishment we have carried out at Segganwell. We have noted your suggestion about the garden seating and we will look into providing these. Property Owner

  Reviewed by Bruce5.0★Aug 2022

• "A lovely, cosy, comfortable stay."

  Beautiful location (our dogs loved the beach walks), with views of the Isle of Arran, and at night just the sound of waves lapping against the shore. The dedicated parking bay was mostly unavailable as tourists had parked there, but National Trust staff were helpful allowing us to park nearby. A bread knife in the kitchen would be a nice addition.

  Thank you for your feedback about North Segganwell. Good to read that our staff sorted out some parking for you. The signage does say parking for Segganwell cottages but unfortunately the general public visiting the estate don't always take notice of the signs. We have asked the housekeeping team to check the kitchen inventory and replace any missing items. Property Owner

  Reviewed by Claire4.7★Aug 2022

• "The cottage wasn't the best."

  We have three main complaints: Our privacy was not protected. People passing by on the path outside (presumably visitors to the Culzean Castle Estate) regularly stopped and stared in at the windows. At least two passers by went behind the cottage to use the back of the property it as a toilet. The designated car parking spaces were not protected. We regularly got back to find cars parked in them. That meant having to go back up the 126 steps from the beach after the park had closed to move our car. There was no overnight parking allowed other than in the spaces designated for the cottages.

  Thank you for filling in the feedback. We are very sorry to read that you were disturbed by visitors passing the cottage, as you suggest it is probably guests who are visiting the whole estate for the day. We would hope that the public would respect other people's privacy. We are disturbed to read that someone used the back of the property as a toilet, we simply couldn't foresee someone doing this. We are going to explore the possibility of having either a chain or bollards for the parking spaces. Property Owner

  Reviewed by Tony4.7★Jul 2022

• "A really lovely little cottage in a stunning location."

  Beautifully refurbished with every facility you could need. Stunning views, right on a quiet beech, lots of wildlife and just a few minutes walk to the amazing NTS Culzean Castle. Our stay could not have been more perfect. One point to note, the radiator/ towel rail in the small confined bathroom is far to hot and as well as from an ecological pov and to save the owners on bills as well the H&S aspect it needs to be turned down -it really is at a level which could burn someone.

  Reviewed by Geoffrey James5.0★Jul 2022

• "Segganwell has a special place in everyone's hearts."

  To stay their is just sublime and this was more special for us since it is our 5th visit to the cottages and we saw the outline of the island of Arran every day. Just lovely and such a special place. Thank you National Trust Lynda and Nizar Bardai

  Very kind of you to leave such a lovely comment about North Segganwell. We hope to welcome you back. Property Owner

  Reviewed by Nizar4.7★Jul 2022

• "Very comfy bed."

  Clean cottage. Pleased to see toiletries. Lovely fridge/freezer. Last time I stayed the facilities were in the little shed outside so vast improvement there! The dog loved it and was very pleased to be allowed to come Would definitely like to have seen: A bread knife Salt and pepper Instructions for the appliances (said to be in folder but never found this) More knives in cutlery draw A door mat Other things to consider : Advice on what to do locally Binoculars Books on flora and fauna An additional door key Free entry to the castle You don’t need the sophisticated coffee machine, tales up too much room Of concern: The radiator in the bathroom was dangerously hot with no way to control it which was good for drying things but could easily scald a visitor/child. We had a lovely time thank you

  Reviewed by Karen3.4★Jun 2022

• "What a fantastic find"

  Thank you very much, the cottages at Segganwell are very popular - you couldn't get much closer to the sea. Property Owner

  Reviewed by Vivien5.0★May 2022

• "The location is idyllic and the cottage was realistically described."

  It was very clean and comfortable and the place had been refurbished to a high standard very recently. A slightly bigger tv would be better and not too obtrusive. Problem with the heating was remedied immediately. No complaints at all would stay there again.

  Thank you very much for your comments about North Segganwell. The team work hard to prepare the cottages and good to hear that the heating was sorted for you quickly. Property Owner

  Reviewed by Cecilia4.4★May 2022

• "Stunning location."

  Had a relaxing couple of days

  Thank you very much for your feedback, we have invested in the cottage over the past few months with a new kitchen and bathroom. Segganwell is a very popular NTS location, definitely a stunning location. Property Owner

  Reviewed by Stevie4.7★Apr 2022

• "The position of the cottage was first class."

  The cottage itself lacked some standard facilities that would have matched its location.

  Thank you for your feedback and we have plans for some upgrading in early 2022. Property Owner

  Reviewed by Kevin3.4★Dec 2021

• "I am from Ayrshire and spent many a happy time at beautiful Culzean and Croyshore."

  I have always wanted to stay at Segganwell. The cottage was cosy, clean and comfortable but in need of some TLC. It is pleasing to know that the cottages are due for rennivation in 2022 as they do need it. I was happy with my stay there however I suggest the following improvements: The welcome pack consisted of 2 teabags, coffee sachets, sugar, milk and a couple of biscuits which is very poor in comparison to other Sykes cottages e.g. eggs, bacon, butter, fresh coffee, homemade scones and jam I came prepared with logs etc but I do think a starter pack should be included. The kitchen equipment is good but sharp knifes and kitchen scissors would be useful. The shower is a sprinkle and needs fixing. I suggest a matt at the front door and shoe rack at the front door. There are no laundry facilities, not that I want to be washing clothes but I am sure this addition would be useful for families. All if these items have been conveyed in previous feedback by other customers. It is dissapointing that they dont seem to be actioned particularly with the cost of staying there. It will be lovely to see these cottages when they have been rennivated. I had my head torch but I do think there needs to be installation of lighting leading down the steps to the cottage and handrails on either side.

  Thank you for your feedback, we appreciate all comments from our guests. We are pleased to read that you found the cottage clean and comfortable. We have some work planned for early 2022 to upgrade the experience for our customers. The welcome pack we offer is the normal offering for a selfcatering property. We note your comment about the starter pack for the wood burner, we do clearly say we don't provide one. We have noted your other suggestions, given the location of the cottage it is challenging to offer some facilities. Property Owner

  Reviewed by Karen3.4★Dec 2021

• "A beautiful cottage in my most favourite place."

  Always love staying at Culzean and have many happy memories.

  Reviewed by Trish5.0★Nov 2021

• "Kitchen utensils could be quickly and inexpensively replaced."

  There are no sharp knives. Access to utility building and washing machine should be reinstated. Staff very friendly and helpful The cottage remains lovely and nicely located. A beautiful property.

  Reviewed by Michael4.4★Nov 2021

• "No new linen !"

  ...but after a quick call , a team arrived within 5 mins and we were efficiently sorted and cleaned throughout Maybe an option to provide a bag of logs at an extra cost , as lugging a bag down 130 steps with other luggage a bind . Great to sleep with sound of waves lapping up , and the estate is fabulous for walking the dog . Especially the "dolphin" walk along coast Everyone friendly , and facilities fine . It was listed that phone signal patchy , but we found it good ,and tv worked . Understand property due a lick of paint next year , which would be needed by then . Would return for sure if get the chance

  Reviewed by William4.1★Nov 2021

• "We have been holidaying at Segganwell for over 30 years."

  Very disappointed that occupancy has now gone down to 2 per cottage, which makes the possibility of family holidays impossible. My kids have been going since birth, and still love it but as there are now 7 of us, we just can't continue.

  Reviewed by Margaret3.8★Oct 2021

• "Love this cottage so much."

  Location perfect for us.

  Reviewed by Jude4.7★Oct 2021

• "The listing indicated that there would be fuel provided but there were no logs for the wood burner - if that is not included the description should have said - we could have brought some."

  The woodburner had been used but had not been cleared out of ashes.

  Reviewed by Jacqueline3.4★Oct 2021

• "Cosy , well furnished cottage in stunning location."

  Can’t recommend highly enough. Loved it .

  Reviewed by Lorna5.0★Oct 2021

• "Only 2 teaspoons and 1 coffee spoon."

  Corkscrew broken. Needs a mat to wipe feet on entering. Everything else was good. We had a really good holiday and would have considered returning. However I note that the price for the same week next year has increased by £300 — 60%.

  Reviewed by David3.8★Sep 2021

• "Loved the location!"

  Your photos don’t really do it justice! Comfy bed, cosy little home. Can’t quite imagine more than 2 people in it though!

  Reviewed by Harry4.4★Sep 2021

• "The location was perfect, in fact exceeded my expectations, however, the cottage could be improved & I felt it was overpriced for what it was."

  The living/dining area was good. Bedroom was a good size, however, if being advertised as sleeps to, it would be better to take the bunk-beds out. The kitchen was a bit pokey and dark. The chopping boards were very worn and as a vegetarian, I was concerned about contamination. I went and bought one for my own use from the supermarket! The sharp knives, as fairly normal in self catering places, were blunt. I understand that you don't want to provide top quality as sadly, people will take them, however, when you can't actually cut your food, it makes the idea of self-catering limited. There were no scissors and no bread knife! It's fine not providing these things, but don't advertise it as self-catering. Lastly, a coat of paint and removal of black mould on the walls would be great. I couldn't seem to find any information about the property, i.e. dealing with rubbish and recycling or whether there were any outdoor chairs to sit on other than the bench. The information may have been in there, but I didn't find it, so it would be good to leave it on the table along with a 'things to do in the area' for people to read on arrival. Overall, I had a good time and loved the location and I would go back. However, a little TLC on the property would make it better and worth the cost.

  Reviewed by F3.4★Aug 2021

• "The location is fabulous."

  Sunset every night over the Isle of Arran if you’re as lucky with the weather as we were. Our dog loved the freedom and the chance to make many other furry friends among the friendly passersby on the footpath. A problem with the toilet seat was dealt with very promptly by.a very resourceful repair man. Evenings and early mornings wonderfully peaceful with the sound of the sea and the calling of the birds. Having access to the castle grounds outside opening hours was a real treat. We loved it. We have booked again for next year.

  We look forward to seeing you next year, Segganwell is a popular location and rightly so. Pleased to read that the team dealt with the toilet seat promptly. See you next year. Property Owner

  Reviewed by Bruce3.8★Jul 2021

• "The location is perfect and the details do make it clear that there are a lot of steps down to this cottage."

  It’s not so clear though that the cottage sits on a public right of way and walkers picnic on the lawn in front of the cottages - not all of them take their rubbish with them! The details do say that there is a shared washing machine which there isn’t, or at least if there is no information on the location is provided. We didn’t really need it and most people obviously don’t go on holiday to do washing but the details are incorrect. A clothes airer would be a very useful addition to this cottage to be able to dry towels and swim things, we had very good weather and hung things in the trees to dry, not sure how we’d have managed to dry things if we didn’t have such good weather.

  Thank you for your feedback and it is great that you enjoyed beign by the sea! The note about a shared Washing Machine has been removed from Sykes website. We will put a clothes airer in the cottage. We can only hope that visitors take their rubbish away with them to look after the area and reduce pollution. Property Owner

  Reviewed by Sharon3.1★Jul 2021

• "The cottage was lovely and the view stunning, we really loved our stay."

  The kitchen might need a bit TLC as there was a bit of mold alongside the windows and window seal. The parking spot could be signed posted a bit better, as we found it a bit hard to find and someone did parked there and we were unsure if we could park on another spot.

  Many thanks for your comments, glad to read you enjoyed your stay. We plan to carry out improvements to Segganwells at the start on next season. Property Owner

  Reviewed by Mailis4.4★Jun 2021

• "We had a fantastic stay at North Segganwell."

  There is another cottage next door, South Segganwell, so both can be booked for larger groups. The cottage was spotlessly clean and very comfortable, with sea views. It is in the grounds of Colzean Castle, and you can access all the attractions on site. As well as the castle there is a swan pond, adventure playground, visitor centre, coffee shop, deer park, second hand book shop. Please beware there is no washing machine. We would highly recommend this cottage, and will definitely come back.

  Thank you for your positive feedback, we have amended the details so no washing machine is shown. The team are pleased to read that you found the cottage spotlessly clean, a testament to their hard work - they have to be very fit to service Segganwell. Property Owner

  Reviewed by Jane4.7★May 2021

• "The cottage is in a beautiful spot ,very cosy and clean and well provided with crockery and furnishings and is ideal for the dogs."

  The bed sheet was a bit worn with a few holes but very clean and the pillows and mattress were protected with covers. It was a little disappointing not to have a welcome tray or any fuel provided for the log burner but I suspect some of this was due to covid concerns. Overall a truly lovely week in fantastic surroundings.Although advertised on Sykes for 2 it would accommodate children with 2 bunks in the single bedroom as well as the double bed.

  Thank you for your comments and we have noted the comment re the sheets. We have taken the details off Sykes about the Bunk beds to allow more space for a couple. Property Owner

  Reviewed by Elaine5.0★May 2021

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