Brook Cottage

30 Customer Reviews

• "We stayed at Brook Cottage on 15th Sept 2023 and had book 5nights on arrival and approaching the cottage we could see that the area was very overgrown and not as the picture on advert we couldn't see the fields behind the property for huge trees and shrubs so advert picture must have been taken some years ago with little maintenance."

  We got the key and entered to be hit with the smell of wet dog and tatty paintwork and that was only the start we went further into the cottage and found the laminate flooring was very worn and loose and moved when stepped on, the sofas still had dog hair on and the decor was very neglected identical to the photos as like the outside not maintained or updated since the original pictures were taken. There was plaster missing from the wall in the lounge and the TV didn't work at first so had to turn it off and on at the plug which was behind the TV unit I don't think that has ever been moved with the amount of dust and hair behind it. The kitchen floor was very worn and tatty as well and there was a lack of utensils a tiny heater situated in the kick board that when used heated the flooring up so bad it felt like it would be a fire risk. The bathroom looked like the most up-to-date room however was full of black mould with a sign taped to the window saying to leave window open as much as possible to help prevent the mould though not harmful it is unsightly, think you will find black mould is harmful and I am asthmatic. The bedroom was tidyish but yet again exactly the same decor as photo there were god knows what sort of stains in the heart shaped transfer above the beds headboard and there was a dehumidifier running 24/7 that needed emptying twice a day that's 4 liters of moisture per day. The garden had very worn out AstroTurf that smelt of dog wee the hot tub cover was torn through the centre so let out a lot of the heat however was probably the best part of the stay. It just so happened that the time we had booked away was really wet and windy weather which made us our poor dog and the cottage very cold and damp the only heater we had to use that worked without risking a fire was in the lounge which was air conditioning this didn't do a very good job of keeping us warm or drying out our wet clothes and jackets. There was an identical heater in the bedroom however it never worked, so on only our 3rd morning we decided to leave the property as what clothing we had left was damp. We let the owners know we had left due to damp and lack of working heating and their reply was the heating was checked and was all working we probably weren't using it correctly which makes us stupid. We also contacted Sykes as the agent to complain but was told that the owner wouldn't compensate, despite the fact that they are advertising a very substandard property. We would not recommend anyone to stay here until a substantial amount of time and money is spent to bring the place up to a suitable standard

  Please note I am not allowed to repeat any of the guest language. Very sad that someone with Asthma should ignore advice and book a stay at a cottage next to a stream actually called Brook Cottage which clearly states it is in a remote woodland setting. Also sad that despite my phone number being on display the guests chose not to ask when they had problems operating the technology such as the digital TV and the powerful heating system. To actually complain that I have provided dehumidifiers! Property Owner

  Reviewed by Sonia1.3★Sep 2023

• "Very peaceful stay with a lovely comfortable bed and the hot tub was very welcome after long walks in the countryside (but could do with a deeper clean between stays as there was a bit of a "tide mark" all around)."

  The quality of fixtures, fittings and appliances etc are very good. However, the property is let down by the current standard of cleaning. Upon first entering the property, we were greeted by an overpowering smell of damp dog, which did not disappear even after opening all the windows and doors. Unfortunately, the smell is impregnated into the two sofas in the living room and no amount of airing improved this over the course of the week. We were aware that the property allowed dogs (we have dogs ourselves) and have stayed in other homes where dogs are allowed, but have not before experienced such an overpowering smell to ruin the stay. The other issue regarding pets was outside and, when it warmed up and we sat in the small garden, there was a strong smell of dog wee coming from the worn astro turf, which made it quite unpleasant sitting outside. The cottage was also quite damp with black mould in places, which probably didn't help with the overall smell. Just before leaving, when packing up and making sure nothing was left behind, we removed the sofa cushions and realised that they had not been cleaned for a long while, as there was a thick mat of dog hairs etc under the cushions. Under the bed had also not been cleaned for a while, as there was dust, dirt, crumbs and tissues, which again we realised when checking under the bed for any socks etc that may have slipped underneath. Had we seen these two issues at the beginning of the week, we would have contacted the owner and asked for it to be cleaned properly. We want to give a balanced review as the cottage was obviously well appointed and it now just feels a little unloved. The outside, both front and back, is very tired and needs cleaning/ updating. The arbour, once bright and inviting (as per photos), is now dark and gloomy with algae etc. We had a small issue with needing new frying pans (the ones at the property were very scratched and burnt) and the owner was quite happy for us to purchase new ones and reimburse us, which he did swiftly! I'm not sure how long it is since the owner has visited the property and checked the cleaning and condition (and condition of cookware etc), but this is something that maybe needs doing more regularly to keep on top of issues before they arise. Overall, the cottage could be a fantastic place for a relaxing break but, sadly, we would not return as our holiday was marred greatly by the awful smell in the living room, making it hard to relax of an evening. It is a huge shame as there was obviously lots of love and effort put into the property to start with, but it now feels forgotten and a bit sad. If the sofas were deep cleaned and then waterproof backed covers used, that could be washed and replaced, this would combat the smell of dirty/ wet dog and it would be a much more pleasant place to stay. Likewise, if the back was paved, rather than having astro turf, it would be easy to bleach down to eradicate the smell of dog wee etc outside. Just a few small changes and it would be such a beautiful, pleasant smelling place to stay! We holiday just once a year and it was very disappointing this year compared to other years due to the issues above and I hope the owner can take on board our comments as constructive criticism, so that these issues do not crop up for holidayers in the future and the cottage can feel loved again!

  Thanks for the comments and suggestions. Brook Cottage has now had a deep clean and subsequent guests have remarked how clean and fresh it is. Fabric covered sofas would not be our first choice for a holiday cottage but were inherited from previous owners. Property Owner

  Reviewed by Susanna2.5★Aug 2023

• "Property filthy on arrival minimal cleaning had between performed hot tub unusable as chemical levels too high owner disputed this and insisted it was correct but you couldnt sit in it for more than a few minutes as the fumes would make you cough and also affect your eyes."

  We are hot tub owners ourselves and know how to maintain levels and knew over treatment was the cause of this. Owner did nothing to remedy this.

  Reviewed by Janette1.9★Jul 2023

• "Very nice stay in an extremely quite place."

  The owner, Tony, came over to help sort a problem with the Internet and was very friendly. Just a small thing, but we could have done with a bit more crockery and cutlery, as, although there were only two of us, it was difficult to fill the dishwasher to make it worth using. Nevertheless, we had a nice, pleasant stay at Brook Cottage.

  Reviewed by Neil3.8★Jul 2023

• "Brook Cottage is a lovely little cottage."

  Spotlessly clean and very comfortable. Everything that is needed for your comfort is supplied - from kitchen essentials down to towels, dressing gowns and shoes for use of the hot tub. Hot tub spotless and a welcome addition at the end of the day. Completely private. So quiet and peaceful. Lovely walks for dogs. Perhaps the only downside from my point of view would be the narrow entrance into the parking area.

  Reviewed by Susan4.7★Jun 2023

• "Very good place to stay , silent , loot of nice place around village ."

  Contact with owners very good.

  Reviewed by Grzegorz5.0★Oct 2022

• "A wonderful little cottage in the most beautiful surroundings, well equipped with all you’ll need."

  It was week away to refuel and there were plenty of walks nearby, some right on the doorstep, my dog had a great time exploring. The sound of the Brook running is so calming and relaxing and in such a beautiful area a perfect place to return to in the future.

  Reviewed by Ruth5.0★Sep 2022

• "Stay was spoilt by extractor fan in bedroom staying for 2nights."

  Our first night was Saturday with fan on .Could not sleep because of it .The same on Sunday. Tried ringing owners but no answer so left message.Also Sykes cottages.m managed to speak to Sykes Monday and they got in touch with owner who came down and disconnected extractor fan . I had not slept for two days and shattered. The owner said he not. Get phone call off me even though I have records on my mobile. I asked owner for 75£ but he was not interested and rubbished my claims Tod me contact sYkes

  Reviewed by Carole2.8★Sep 2022

• "Fantastic little place spacious yet adorable ,every thing was clean and ready to ..."

  Fantastic little place spacious yet adorable ,every thing was clean and ready to use modern , had an amazing time and will be back at some point

  Reviewed by Shelley5.0★Jul 2022

• "A beautiful little cottage in a very peaceful place."

  With a reactive dog it was lovely for him, no noise, 6ft secure fencing around the back garden. The kitchen was great, very high spec mod cons. Comfy sofas and bed. Never saw a person all week! Lovely being in the garden and listening to the sheep and birds. Would highly recommend especially if you need some R&R. Lots of places nearby for walking the dogs.The hot tub is amazing, we loved winding down in the there in the evening.

  Reviewed by Liane5.0★May 2022

• "We really loved our stay at Brook cottage."

  It was a beautiful and remote location. The setting was idyllic. Everything was really clean and perfectly prepared. The hot tub was a fabulous experience in the evenings under the trees. The bed was incredibly comfortable and I couldn’t recommend it enough. Anyone looking for a getaway in a really gorgeous natural environment would love it.

  Reviewed by Elly5.0★May 2022

• "We had an amazing time and will definitely consider visiting again."

  The cottage was spotless, can't fault the facilities and the location is brilliant with loads to see and do! We ate at the Globe Inn nearby twice and it was incredible, we had the risotto, tortalini and roast dinners, and the local Indian was the best I have ever had. I think next time we should have messaged to see if the spa temperature could be adjusted as it was probably set 2 degrees too hot for us, but it was a very sunny Easter Bank Holiday! But either way still very much enjoyed the experience! Gutted to leave. Easily could stay a week next time. Thank you for such a wonderful stay. Shannon and Sam

  Reviewed by Shannon5.0★Apr 2022

• "Our stay at Brook cottage was nothing short of perfect, myself, my partner and our 2 dogs stayed for a week."

  The property was very dog friendly but you really couldn’t tell a dog had stayed previously, no hairs were found anywhere! The facilities were amazing, everything you could need was provided in the kitchen. The hot tub was sheltered which was really nice and also had a wine cooler which was ideal. Tony was super helpful from start to finish providing maps and suggestions to local amenities. If you’re wanting a relaxing break Brook cottage is perfect.

  Reviewed by Jessica5.0★Apr 2022

• "Arrived and there bed sheets and robes were stained, also the walls in the bedroom where filthy!"

  Heavy mould in the kitchen and bathroom with some mould in the living area.. Poorly laid astroturfing in the garden. Under the sink leaked resulting in me spending my holiday mopping up dirty water by the Wednesdays we had enough and went home 3 days early.

  Really difficult to know how to respond Adam since I was unaware of your issues until I saw the feedback posted online despite phoning you to check. If considering our cottage please read our previous very positive reviews and make your own judgement. Thanks for looking. Property Owner

  Reviewed by Adam1.9★Oct 2021

• "The cottage was beautiful and spotlessly clean in a very tranquil position."

  Parking was a little tight but not a problem. Hot tub was very clean and secluded definitely a place to go to if you need to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet and forget about the world. Would we go back in a heartbeat.

  Reviewed by Ian5.0★Jul 2021

• "I have been kept up to date at all time , the cottage was great and I will certainly used Sykes again"

  Reviewed by Julie5.0★Jun 2021

• "Did not affect us but it said parking for 2 cars but with bigger cars this would be difficult."

  Reviewed by Brian4.4★May 2021

• "Beautiful cottage in quiet location, which we throughly enjoyed with added bonus of a hot tub."

  We found it ideally situated to tour around Wales.Also the Forrest of Dean was fabulous. Well worth a visit

  Reviewed by Gloria5.0★Sep 2020

• "This was a lovely little cottage."

  Parking abit tight but ok. The inside of the property was immaculate and the little extras were carefully thought of. The hot tub was amazing. Would definitely recommend this property

  Reviewed by Michelle5.0★Nov 2019

• "Had issues with the car park space and entrance being very small and difficult to access"

  Reviewed by Jeanette4.7★Oct 2019

• "Set in a quiet spot down a country lane, cottage well equipped with everything you needed with a bonus of a hot tub, perfect for a relaxing holiday."

  Reviewed by Andrew5.0★Sep 2019

• "Would highly recommend this cottage."

  It is perfect for a peaceful break. Very clean and a lovely welcoming atmosphere. Very comfortable, with everything you need provided. Hot tub was very much appreciated. Will definitely be returning.

  Reviewed by Jacqueline5.0★Aug 2019

• "As soon as my wife and I walked in to the cottage we both said Wow !"

  It’s a lovely cottage in an amazing setting, very peaceful and relaxing, there is absolutely no noise at all. The place is extremely clean and the hot tub is a lovely added bonus. I would recommend this cottage to anyone I know. Absolutely amazing.

  Reviewed by Sam5.0★Jul 2019

• "The cottage was in a lovely location and was beautifuly finished and had everything we needed for our stay"

  Reviewed by Neill5.0★Jul 2019

• "Brook cottage is a beautiful out of the way hideaway, perfect for exploring the forest of dean and surrounding area."

  there are 2 good pubs in the village, and a nice café at the Taurus arts centre just up the road.

  Reviewed by Yvonne5.0★Jul 2019

• "Would be great to have a stick vacumn for when you go to hot tub as brings leaves into bedroom."

  Lovely cottage, well equipped, lots of welcome extras. Great to be left alone using pin code entry rather than being disturbed by caretakers but just a call a way if needed.

  Reviewed by Chantelle5.0★Apr 2019

• "Lovely relaxing trip in a very private location."

  Wonderful place to stay with many clever little features, such as speakers in the bathroom. Hot tub was wonderful, and cleanliness of it very encouraging. The only downside we found was a fair amount of mould in the bedroom. Have made owners aware and hope it will be addressed in the near future.

  Many thanks for your feedback, we have fed your comments back to the owner in order to maintain our property standards. Your views are as valued as your initial booking so that we can keep providing the best UK holiday experience. Property Owner

  Reviewed by Heather4.7★Mar 2019

• "Hi Thank you for the most peaceful and tranquil holiday that myself and my wife have had for a long time."

  The hot tub made it extra special we would highly recommend Brooke cottage to any one wanting a nice peaceful break. Thank you again. Mr and Mrs Timmins

  Reviewed by Robert5.0★Oct 2018

• "The cottage is in a secluded spot, ldeal for anyone looking for rest and relaxation, but still handily placed to the main Gloucester to Chepstow road."

  The Globe is an excellent pub in the next village and Lydney has a range of shops and a Supermarket. Fantastic walks in the Forest of Dean.

  Reviewed by David5.0★Sep 2018

• "Excellent cottage, all you needed (and more) from the hot tub to cotton buds."

  Would recommend it to anyone,

  Reviewed by Jane5.0★Sep 2018

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