Watchtower

62 Customer Reviews

• "The property was welcoming and comfortable."

  We loved the quirkiness of the cottage and the original features and the homely feel.we found the kitchen very well equipped.lovely to dine with a sea view.The mobile phone reception was fine in the dining area.We found the interior to be clean and tidy.proximity to the beach was wonderful and we walked there every day and found the locals very friendly.The parking adequate for two small cars,I reversed our Seat Ibitha into the space easily.The pub and Tapas restaurant where within easy walking distance.We also found the farm shop at Tredinnick very good a short drive away

  Reviewed by Simon5.0★Nov 2024

• "The property was worn out and very dirty."

  Parking very limited. As a party we arrived with two cars and could barely fit in the allocated space with one tiny car and one small car. Greeted by bin bags, weed killer and dead flies in porch. Opened cottage door to be greeted by damp smell. Kitchen work surfaces covered in crumbs, as was floor. Drawer and door handles sticky to touch. Bin lids covered in much. Random food articles left in cupboard. Under sink cupboard awash with cleaning products obviously not used! One double at back of property adjoining single room very damp smelling, looked like you’d be sleeping in a shed. Raddiator coming away from wall and broken trunking. Peeling paper, moth casts and damp on one side of bed. On the other side I tried to plug in the lamp cable and gave up as when I pulled it up cobwebs and dust encircled about an inch across. The space around bed so narrow it was difficult to traverse. Numerous cobwebs and spiders. Wardrobes and cupboards piled untidily with towels and bedding. The duvet set on bed was very tired looking. Twin room very damp smelling, very tired again. Thick dust under radiator about an inch thick and very noticeable elsewhere. Sheets smelt damp. Grey bathroom had dirty towel radiator. The sink plug hole was dirty there was toothpaste splashes all over the tap. The cupboard front was peeling and covered in toothpaste. Floor very dirty. Shower mouldy. Front bedroom peeling paint on ceiling, mould behind mirror, dirty blind over alcove, dusty with cobwebs. En-suite dirty, mouldy, the worst bathroom window I’ve ever seen with what looked like blood on the windowsill. Living room sofas very soft and worn. Covered in bobbles. My son hoovered the house and you could hear a myriad of detritus flying into the hoover bag. He spent an hour doing this and we decided to give up on this. After all after six hours driving why should this be necessary!!!! I also cleaned grey bathroom so we at least had one to use. Dehumidifiers clogged with dust and muck. Due to asthma issues arising with three of my party we tried to ring Sykes as we really were disgusted and not wanting to stay in the property. I was greeted by a voice message saying they were closed and lines opened Monday. No emergency contact number. We made the decision to book somewhere else for the next day if we were able. Myself and another party member spent night on sofa, the back bedrooms were that bad. Now asthma and arthritis bad. We moved out on the Sunday. Owner rang me Monday to see why we had gone and apologised. I’ve been in contact with Sykes and been refused a refund. They say I didn’t contact them and they could have sent cleaners in but a legion of tradesmen would have been required too. Nice holiday break. Thanks Sykes! Photos sent to both Sykes and owner. Owner has only apologised again. Appalled and disgusted. The photos on site clearly do not in anyway reflect the true nature of the property.

  Reviewed by Jane1.3★Oct 2024

• "I have not been able to open or access a Sykes account, so cannot contact the complaints department."

  I booked and paid online and confirmed by phone. I have no information about the property owners. Information regarding The Watch Tower (TWT) on this website is incorrect and misleading. It needs reviewing and updating urgently. E.g. There is no Post Office or shop in Downderry, the property photos are not current. We arrived at TWT to find it cold, damp and grubby. The main entrance porch is scruffy, the floor clearly hadn't been swept or washed. All week there was an unpleasant oily odour, presumably from the boiler. The heating was not on but my husband managed to rectify that. It comes on at times set by the owners and there are no instructions as to how alter that so we had to use a lot of the other portable heaters provided to keep the property warm. We had no welcoming flowers and/or cream teas as apparently from the visitors' book comments other guests were given. Parking was impossible. A very small car would fit into the larger parking space and a motorbike into the smaller one. We parked our CRV up against the wall on the double yellow lines using my husband's blue disabled parking badge and my daughter had to leave her Civic parked up in the village. We booked this holiday at the end of one of our recently widowed daughter's chemo and radiotherapy treatment for some much needed rest and relaxation for us all following a distressing year. As a result of this she has a low immune system and needs to rest/sleep. She and I both have asthma, so the damp and mould were particularly problematic for us. She had the en suite room, which had cobwebs and peeling paint on the ceiling. Having a curtain between the bathroom and bedroom was peculiar, and that and the curtain on the wardrobe both need washing. The plain glass in the bathroom window meant she had to leave the blind down. The duvets in the other two bedrooms were very thin and all the bed linen was past its best. There were no pillow protectors. The wardrobes were crammed with towels and bed linen but there were no bedspreads as shown in the photos, or spare blankets, we utilised the duvets from the spare beds, although the cover on the one from the single room didn't look very clean. The twin room was particularly cold. There was a short curtain over one window and a long one over the other which also covered the radiator, which had a bed pushed up against it so no warm air could circulate. We swapped the curtains over, moved the bed and had a small oil heater on all the time in there. The pillowcases didn't match the duvet covers, and the poppers were broken. I opened the curtains (no nets} one morning to find walkers on the pavement looking through the window. There was very little room on either side of the double bed, that should be a single room. We moved it up against the wall to give more access space. It clearly hasn't been vacuumed or cleaned behind for some time. I left the things I found behind it out for the cleaners to dispose of. The basin in the bathroom is too small to wash in. My husband & daughters are all 6ft+ so had little headroom in the bathroom shower. The bathroom cupboard door is damaged and the paint is peeling above the basin. The toilet brush is badly stained. Only 4 toilets rolls were provided for the week for 4 people. Both showers had thick, black mould so, having already driven from the Isle of Wight, my husband then had to drive another 9.5 miles to Liskeard to buy bleach. As stated in the guest information pack the nearest shop is at Widegates, which is 4.5 miles away, but that was closed at that time. We started our holiday by cleaning the showers and washing up the dirty crockery and cutlery which had been left in the kitchen cupboards. There was a lot of food and condiments in them, presumably left by previous guests. The worktops needed a good wipe down. Other than the microwave none of the appliances had any instructions and it took us some time to get the dishwasher working. One of the top kitchen cupboard doors is loose. One of the cups is chipped. The sitting room furniture appears from the photos to have been recovered, but is worn and difficult to get up from, and faces away from the view of the sea. The wooden dining chairs don't have seat pads so are uncomfortable and the table is unstable. There is no main light in the dining area. The skirting boards were dusty. There was a hole for a washing line outside and although we didn't need to do any washing we couldn't find one. The many rugs with curling edges, especially in the bedrooms, are a trip hazard. One in the double room looks very grubby & feels damp. The whole property is cluttered with ornaments, books, games & pictures which need dusting. Access to the neighbouring cottages appears to be through TWT's garden. There were workmen re-roofing the cottage next door, with consequential noise disturbance from them working & their radio, starting at about 8am most days till late afternoon, except on the day we left when they didn't arrive but we had to get up early anyway. We had to ask them to turn it down. They, one of whom had a dreadful cough, and the other cottages' occupants, continually walked past the sitting room windows. Therefore we had to keep the curtains partially closed, obscuring the view. They were working outside the double bedroom's window so we also had to keep those curtains closed. The website should have been updated to advise potential guests about this scheduled work. The wi fi code in the guest information folder is wrong on one page and illegible on another. We got the code from the router but wi fi is not available in all rooms. The mobile phone signal is negligible. The main door is very difficult to lock from the outside. The garden is a reasonable size, but hardly lovely as described. The garden furniture is nothing like that in the photos. The beach is indeed at the bottom of the garden - at the bottom of a steep drop the other side of the wall. Access is a short walk down a steep road, which was too far for my husband to undertake. The view from TWT of the sea is wonderful, but that is not the same as sitting on the beach at the bottom of the garden. We were asked to sort rubbish into various coloured bins and bags, none of which were yellow, but were only left yellow bags & one black one to use. TWT is very expensive compared to other, much better quality, properties we have recently stayed in. We were unable to travel on a Saturday to take advantage of the cheaper price offer. We thought from the price, description and photos that we had booked luxury accommodation. This holiday was meant to be a special treat for our daughters and we are so disappointed and embarrassed at what it turned out to be. In 40 years of taking self catering holidays in Cornwall this is the most expensive and worst accommodation we have ever had. Charm and a homely atmosphere as advertised are very desirable but must be accompanied by cleanliness, good quality furnishings and heating appropriate for the time of year. This property, and its furnishings, in its present state is not fit for purpose. We have run a Guest House for 30 years and know that guest reviews on websites can be unreliable so generally don't take any notice of them, but on this occasion we wish we had. The Watch Tower did not meet our expectations.

  I am so sorry that you had a really rotten experience, we have closed over the winter to deal with the issues mentioned, which will be sorted. GS Property Owner

  Reviewed by John2.2★Oct 2024

• "Another stay for us at Watchtower, we love the character of this old former coastguard cottage and the view is amazing as you are so close to the sea."

  It has a well stocked kitchen, pans, crockery, cutlery etc it’s perfectly suited for self catering. If experiencing the uniqueness of this old property and all its charms appeals, then it’s a holiday for you. If having everything uniformed and pristine appeals more, then maybe booking a hotel would suit you better.

  Thank you for the appropriate and honest comment. Property Owner

  Reviewed by Veronica4.1★Sep 2024

• "We enjoyed our holiday at watchtower with brilliant sea views plenty of local places to visit and good local pub on seafront 5 minutes walk away ."

  Bill Esme & family

  Thank you so much, delighted all went well, Giles Property Owner

  Reviewed by William5.0★Aug 2024

• "Our review of this accommodation would have been devastating if the owner had not reacted so quickly and very, very kindly and ensured that the housekeeper will be replaced soon."

  The apartment was very, very dirty, a final cleaning had obviously not taken place. There was hair in the bathroom, used towels, thick layers of dirt on doors, moldings, radiators, a kitchen with sticky surfaces and floors that had not been vacuumed. The housekeeper was hard to reach and was neither forthcoming nor helpful! We had to clean ourselves, which of course is the last thing you want to do in a vacation rental. It was only through the helpful and very friendly gardener that we got in touch directly with the owner, who actually got back to us straight away and apologized. If this apartment is well cleaned and tidy for the next tenants (and we are sure that the owner has made sure that this happens immediately!!), then it is a beautiful house in a very nice location, a garden with a wonderful view of the sea and the sound of the sea. That's what we really loved!

  We did meet and as a result of your problems for which we apologise, we have moved on. Property Owner

  Reviewed by Silke1.9★Jun 2024

• "Everything was great thanks perfect location for our coastal walks"

  Reviewed by Tim4.4★Jun 2024

• "Another fantastic stay at the Watchtower and we’ve booked again for next year (5th year in a row)."

  When we arrived we found that the garden table had previously been smashed and there was glass all over one section of the grass, I contacted the caretaker and she was amazing, literally on her hand and knees making sure it was all removed then left blankets for us to cover the area just in case she’d missed any of it as we had a toddler. The only downside of the place is that the owner really needs to invest in some better mattresses especially the single ones as they’re like sleeping on bouncy air beds. Fabulous location though and we love it there. Can’t wait for our next visit

  Reviewed by Victoria4.4★Jun 2024

• "Great views of the coastline and kitchen very well equipped."

  Cottage clean and well presented. Had great difficulty obtaining information about obtaining key as the land line supplied no longer exists and mobile signal is poor in that area. If you own a car larger that a Fiat 500,parking is difficult. I managed to "shoe horn" my car into the "larger" parking space to find the offside rear wheel 10cm in the air! Cottage smells of damp and there are stains of damp on the wall in one bedroom. Due to lack of maintenance, in general, front door is a nightmare to lock and unlock.

  Reviewed by Geraint3.8★May 2024

• "This cottage is fantastic."

  The location is breathtaking-right on the cliff edge overlooking the sea. Beach is stoney but easily walkable and access is 1 minute away. The cottage is extremely well appointed with everything you need for your stay. It has a real homely feel and the perfect place for a relaxing break. The property manager is very helpful and accommodating. There was milk in the fridge on arrival and some scones, jam and clotted cream in the kitchen. There is a pub (The Inn on the Shore) serving great food about a 200yd walk away and the village has a tapas restaurant and vegetarian café. Unfortunately, no shop. We would definitely stay here again.

  So pleased you had a great time, the shop closure was a disaster! Property Owner

  Reviewed by Jayne5.0★May 2024

• "Probably the most comprehensively equipped holiday Lett we have ever stayed in, even down to a "Fish Poacher" The location is stunning but beware if you have a large vehicle parking is extremely tight."

  Watchtower is spacious & would easily sleep 6/7, equipped with two separate bathrooms with showers & the on-suite with a bath. The shower head in the on-suite most defiantly requires replacing it's black with a mould like covering. Watchtower forms part of a block of fisherman's cottages reputedly built in the early 1800's & you should bear this is mind if you intend to stay here its not a modern building. It is only fair to mention that we felt the property is in need of a good spring clean, cobwebs could be found in most rooms & the furniture has most definitely seen better days i.e.; bedside tables draws are very difficult to shut, both of the side boards are well past the there usable life, some of the internal doors are almost to impossible to shut. However, the Watchtower is extremely comfortable & there are numerous heaters if it gets cold. The property has both a washing machine, tumble dryer & an ironing board. We did contact the housekeeper on the Wednesday of our stay to ask about the iron which she advised had broken the previous week, she asked us to leave the key the next day & she would replace it, for whatever reason the never happened. There is no longer a shop in Downderry so be advised the nearest Supermarket is either Liskard or Plymouth.

  Thank-you for your comprehensive review, all sound points. The cottage has been struggling in the damp. Julie will sort the issues. The Farm Shop at Tredinnick at Widegates is the nearest shop and has newspapers. Property Owner

  Reviewed by Peter4.1★Apr 2024

• "We had a fantastic holiday!"

  The watchtower was perfect for our family, the accommodation was lovely and the view from the house was incredible. The area was lovely eith the beach being right at the bottom of the garden and was in a great location to get to other places, with Looe only being a 20 minute drive away. When we arrived we found the house was well stocked with everything we needed for our stay. We would highly recommend the watchtower and would definitely return in the future. Thank you so much!

  So pleased all went well and look forward to your return. Property Owner

  Reviewed by Sharon5.0★Mar 2024

• "Sehr schönes und grosses Cottage direkt neben dem Meer im ländlichen Downderry."

  Es ist sehr gut ausgestattet. Leider kämpft das Cottage gegen einige Feuchteschäden. Es ist daher nicht für Personen zu empfehlen, die empfindlich gegen Schimmel sind.

  Vielen Dank, dass Sie sich die Zeit genommen haben, Ihr Feedback zu vervollständigen. Wir freuen uns, dass Sie Ihren Aufenthalt genossen haben. Wir sind derzeit selbst in der Hütte und die in Ihrem Feedback aufgeworfenen Probleme werden behandelt Property Owner

  Reviewed by Philipp4.4★Nov 2023

• "Absolutely wonderful place to stay."

  Views absolutely lovely. 2 local bars, both nice. Negatives are, very narrow roads, even though they get double decker buses along the route. On two days, buses did not run due to road works or accidents. No local shop in the village although one bar keeps a small selection of items such as fresh bread if you're quick. Also be aware lots of speed cameras

  So sad about the shop, hoping it will reopen. Yes, the roads are Cornish! Property Owner

  Reviewed by Richard5.0★Sep 2023

• "A lovley place to stay every one was very helpfull right on the beach could ..."

  A lovley place to stay every one was very helpfull right on the beach could not ask for more I had a chilled holiday with my kids all enjoyed the beach the near by pub and coffee shops will use again Thank You

  So delighted, it is a magic spot, but glad to let others enjoy it. GS Property Owner

  Reviewed by Neil5.0★Sep 2023

• "The location of this cottage is what you pay for."

  Sensational views from the garden and the dining area, and a literal stones throw from the beach. The cottage inside, whilst dated in decor, is incredibly well equipped. It is comfortable. And the welcome pack went down a treat! For info, there is wifi in the main living areas (kitchen, lounge, dining area) but not in all bedrooms, and due to the rural area, there is limited phone signal. As it is such an historic building, there are damp issues and the cottage owners acknowledge this and provide dehumidifiers to help tackle it. They also encourage open windows. I wish we perhaps had been informed of the damp prior to booking though as we have asthmatics in the family who are triggered by damp. There is also black mould in the en suite bathroom as well as mould in both shower areas (trim and grout). Again, other families may not have issue with this but as asthmatics, these are known triggers. We also struggled with the size of the bed in the master bedroom - a footboard and a 6ft 3” guest weren’t a good mix! All that aside, if you are looking for a well equipped base with a garden view to knock your socks off, you won’t find a better cottage.

  Yes, the cottage does suffer from constant wet weather and we encourage leaving the windows open. We apologise for any asthmatic issues. GS Property Owner

  Reviewed by Gareth3.8★Jul 2023

• "We had a wonderful family holiday with our elderly parents."

  The cottage was fabulous, the weather good and the pub excellent. As our Dad isn’t very mobile being so close to the sea and just sitting in the garden chatting was a real tonic for us all. Making special memories.

  Thank-you, it is for us always so sad to leave.GS Property Owner

  Reviewed by Amanda4.4★Jul 2023

• "A beautiful cottage in a great location."

  We have been there with a party of six. The cottage is fully equipped for this number of people. Great view, beach only a few steps to go. Only minus from my side: both showers are very, very small. A big person can barely turn around.

  Sorry, yes we are tight for space in the old cottage, hence not having a solid bathroom door! The new rear shower is a walk in and I would have thought ample.GS Property Owner

  Reviewed by Christian4.4★Jul 2023

• "We loved the house and the location, the maintenance and care was very nice."

  The house was really very well equiped. Regretfully we had workers for the whole fortnight at the house detached and we did not find a really quite relax time during our holidays.

  I was not advised of this and offer you my profound apologies and regret spoiling the peace. Giles Smith Property Owner

  Reviewed by A4.7★Jun 2023

• "This is our 4th year at the Watchtower and we’ve booked again for next year already."

  It’s such a lovely place and the location couldn’t be better. The only thing I think needs addressing and I’ve mentioned it on previous reviews is that the single beds, especially the one in the single room really need replacing. The wooden bed (in the single room) and mattress is awful and feels unsafe to sit on let alone sleep on. Everything else is fantastic though and it is lovely and clean. I would highly recommend the Watchtower but gave it 4 stars due to the beds.

  Many thanks indeed for pointing out the problem with the bed, I will change it. I thought only our grandson slept there! Giles Smith Property Owner

  Reviewed by Victoria4.7★Jun 2023

• "Love staying at Watchtower."

  So homely, clean and well equipped. Fantastic location right on the beach. Thank you.

  Reviewed by Erika5.0★Apr 2023

• "Very nice relaxing cottage with most things we needed."

  Loved the position of it, right on the small cliff and a stones throw from the beach plus great for exploring this area of Cornwall. Parking was the only problem, we only just got our medium sized car in the allowed parking spot. Could better parking be provided by knocking down the wall (planning allowed)?

  Reviewed by Chrissie3.8★Nov 2022

• "I liked the cottage and situation very much."

  It would benefit with a nest of tables in the lounge, had to use the chairs. Maybe replace the little table with a set. Also, a fan in the ensuite is essential and the mould in the bathroom shower needs dealing with. I am accepting it is by the sea, but it would make me give a higher mark. The kitchen is excellent, as is the rest of the cottage and I am going again booked already.

  Good idea, the problem is installation, the window being the original . The nest of tables is an excellent plan, thank-you. Property Owner

  Reviewed by Vivienne4.4★Sep 2022

• "On our last visit there was one sun lounger, and I did put in the comments in the visitors book it would be nice if there were two."

  This year there were none and we heard that they were only for special people so obviously we weren't that special. However it was another nice stay and hopefully next year on our return we may deemed special enough to warrant not one but two loungers.

  Yes, you deserve two, it is the space they take up. The one was behind the door to the tiny courtyard door mid passageway! Property Owner

  Reviewed by Christine4.1★Sep 2022

• "The location is perfect ."

  The cottage although very old was lovely and had everything and more there you could think of. Lovely garden furniture with cushions, which is amazing and very well received, and beach deck chairs. We only had 1 issue with hot water but plumber came same day and we did get hot water although I think needs a bit more tweaking as main bathroom shower water kept going cool but I'm sure thet will sort it. I would definitely go back

  Thank-you, more work to be done in the ensuite shower, I agree. Property Owner

  Reviewed by S4.7★Sep 2022

• "This property has its perks and its downfalls; a lovely location overlooking a shingle beach."

  However, the inside is a little tired and dated. Having paid the same amount last year for a four bed apartment overlooking Falmouth harbour, we also felt it was very overpriced. The cottage had a damp feel to it and dehumidifiers going as we arrived which didn’t bode well. Whilst surface clean, a deep clean was very much in need. With an investment in the interior decor, this property could be more homely and comfortable. We left four days into our seven day stay.

  I am very sorry for your miserable stay, we will address the inside. It definitely needs the sunshine. We have not increased our price from last year, but sorry Watchtower did not appeal, it is old! Property Owner

  Reviewed by Julie2.8★Sep 2022

• "We found the property well located, with lovely views and very well equipped."

  We did believe that the garden lead onto the beach, unaware it was so raised up. The parking was very tight. The back door key was very difficult to lock and open. The showers were hot in the main room and a bit colder in the back bathroom. We thought that the property had lots of glasses, plates etc, the kitchen was generally very well equipped. The sofas were comfortable and views were lovely. The garden was lovely and the chairs comfortable. Bedrooms were clean and beds comfortable. Would recommend the place, and would stay there again!

  Reviewed by Vicky4.7★Aug 2022

• "The secondary shower didn’t get very hot whereas the shower in the master bedroom was really hot - so there needs to be some balance."

  The place was fantastically clean and very well stocked. It was very comfortable and we thoroughly enjoyed our stay.

  Reviewed by Toby4.7★Jun 2022

• "Found parking very hard, had two large cars and I am used to driving in the fens so together with the hills bit of a challenge."

  Luckily boathouse not occupied. Have you ever considered taking out the front garden and making it into parking? Otherwise a lovely spot and well provided for. Welcome foods much appreciated.

  Definitely considered! Parking and Hills are a Cornish problem, we have amended the description, hopefully to encourage smaller cars. Property Owner

  Reviewed by Ann4.7★Jun 2022

• "I think the parking should be explained a bit more thoroughly ."

  I couldn’t get my auris on the drive and as I need to open my door fully to get out due to titanium rods in my spine I did panic . As everywhere has double yellow lines. The housekeeper was great though and explained I could park in front and it would fit between the yellow lines and wall of the property. You do have to reverse up steep incline though . Everything else perfect

  Thank you for your feedback, we are sorry to hear that you had difficulty parking, we would usually park one car up against the wall, letting the passenger out first. The space is limited but suitable for a second car. We appreciate your comments and pleased to hear you found everything else perfect! Property Owner

  Reviewed by Joanne4.7★May 2022

• "We’ve been staying at the Watchtower every year for four years now and it never disappoints."

  The house is always clean and tidy and the location is perfect for our mix of young and old guests with the beach moments away and the shops and pub within easy reach. The only downside is that the price has gone up so much for next year that I don’t think we’ll be able to book again

  Reviewed by Victoria4.7★May 2022

• "Really well equipped and nice cottage thanks for great break"

  Reviewed by David5.0★Apr 2022

• "Amazing holiday home."

  Really homely, clean, everything you need and just perfect in every way! Our 6th stay and we will be back next year. Thank you!

  Reviewed by Erika5.0★Apr 2022

• "The welcoming cream teas were very much appreciated ."

  The cottage was very clean and comfortable. A very well equipped kitchen. We would highly recommend this cottage to anyone visiting this part of Cornwall.

  Reviewed by Carol5.0★Apr 2022

• "Cottage was a little treasure and had everything we needed."

  It was really well equipped, spotless clean and warm. The kitchen had everything you could think of right down to cleaning products. Highly recommend. Only downside our weather was shocking but that is no one's fault. If u need a taxi call kernow taxis lovely lady called mandy looked after us and you have to book. This cottage is a gem

  Reviewed by Alison5.0★Feb 2022

• "Great accommodation perfect holiday"

  Reviewed by Debra5.0★Dec 2021

• "We had a wonderful stay at The Watchtower - just a pity the weather was so so awful!"

  !! (Until the day we left of course!) Just of couple of things, which I hope are helpful and that you will take on board: There was only 1 toilet roll in each bathroom; most places I have stayed (if not all) have always supplied spare rolls. The 2 frying pans were not very clean and we had to wash before using - also the medium saucepan. Shower grouting mouldy and could do with sorting. Parking is a nightmare and although we could get into the spaces, we either couldn't get out of the vehicle, or were well into the Boat House parking; luckily we have friends close who could accommodate 2 cars for us. We loved staying there and will hopefully get back next year. Amazing location. Thank you for the lovely cream tea and supplies that are provided in the food cupboard. Beds are really comfortable, and we were warm and toasty.

  Reviewed by Caroline3.8★Oct 2021

• "When we arrived we had to Hoover and dust the whole cottage, there was also a strong smell of damp in the twin room which made it difficult to get a good nites sleep, The parking was tight for two small cars but adequate."

  On the plus side the cottage was ideally situated with stunning sea/beach views and a lovely garden, staying local was key to a great stay, 30 minutes in either direction there was plenty to see and do, visit Rame, Cremyll, Whitsand, Portwrinkle, Edgcumbe, Seaton and Freathy. You can also get a passenger ferry from Cremyll to Plymouth.

  Thank you for your feedback, we are glad to hear you enjoyed the location of the property. We take all comments seriously and will action them accordingly. We hope you enjoyed the rest of your stay. Property Owner

  Reviewed by Richard2.8★Aug 2021

• "The holiday was fantastic the cottage was beautiful with a great view."

  Everything you needed was there. Would definitely go back again and would recommend.

  Reviewed by Kelly5.0★Jul 2021

• "Beautiful cottage, very roomy with a fantastic view of the sea."

  We all thought the dining area was a bit dark in the evening as there was no central light and only one tall standard lamp. Other than that the cottage was perfect and in a superb location , with a very well stocked shop nearby. We are all missing the sea view already , a great way to start the day over breakfast!

  Reviewed by M4.7★Jul 2021

• "Really enjoyed our stay."

  Recommended. We were blessed with great weather most days but even when you can't go out you can sit in the lounge and watch see the sea. The bungalow is well appointed, clean and comfortable. It is not ultra modern but with good WiFi you can stay in touch if you're wanting to. The kitchen is a bit away from the dining room but has a good electric stove/oven and is fine. Plenty of local walks, we walked to Portwrinkle on the coastal path, used the nature walk from Seaton to Hessonford (the Copley Arms was closed though) and Seaton to Millendreath. The Inn on the Shore (Downderry) is a good pub but we could only sit outside and can get a bit chilly after walking, the Smugglers Inn in Seaton has a more secluded outdoor area. Food in both is good, not spectacular but perfectly passable.

  Reviewed by Adrian4.4★May 2021

• "We had a really wonderful week at The Watchtower."

  We were welcomed with a cream tea and flowers on the table which was a lovely touch. We took all cleaning equipment etc with us as usually I like to clean everything myself before I unpack but I didn’t need to do this at all as everything was already very clean. The view from the garden was fabulous, and with the shop and pub minutes away we couldn’t have asked for a better location and have booked again for next year. The only thing that definitely needs attention is the bed in the single room as it’s very wobbly even for my 3 year old. The parking albeit very tight is fine for two cars.

  Reviewed by Victoria4.7★Sep 2020

• "Location, parking, comfort, facilities and ease of booking all excellent."

  So good we have booked the same cottage for next year, that speaks volumes.

  Reviewed by Grahame5.0★Aug 2020

• "Wonderful family location with excellent views a wonderful holiday cottage with good amenities enjoyed by all the family young to old lovely garden with a lovely surprise cream tea welcome couldn't ask for more Parking was tight but more than adequate for our 2 cars."

  Reviewed by Andrew5.0★Aug 2020

• "The Watchtower is rather like a Tardis , so much bigger on the inside."

  It was one of the most well equipped cottages I have stayed in, especially the kitchen. It was lovely to lie in bed with the sound of the sea and although it was January we We’re lucky with the weather and had the most wonderful sunsets. The beach is open to dogs all year so lots of walkers and everyone very friendly. The local pub is a 2 minute walk and serves good food and is very hospitable. There is a local cafe too and the shop has all of the basics and includes a post office. The best route in to Downderry is via Seaton which has a beach side cafe open all year. We loved just walking the beach and exploring the rock pools...the geology is fascinating. It is a really lovely spot and a great escape..

  Reviewed by Tim5.0★Jan 2020

• "A very cosy, lovely cottage, with a great view !"

  Reviewed by Sarah4.7★Dec 2019

• "Great size cottage right by the sea for 6 people and a very helpful manager."

  Children loved the beach with all the rock pools

  Reviewed by Bryn5.0★Oct 2019

• "The holiday cottage was lovely and although it was a very old cottage with a lot of character it still had all the modern conveniences."

  It was also lovely and warm and comfortable.The view of the sea from the lovely garden was fantastic. Two things you should be aware of though is that the ensuite only had a curtain between it and the bedroom, wasn't a problem for us but might be for some people. Also the parking is not easy for a big car.

  Reviewed by Jean4.7★Sep 2019

• "We had a comfortable week here unwinding."

  The kitchen is well equipped and the living room views are fantastic. The weather was a bit stormy during the week so chances to sit outside were limited and the seaweed blown onto the coast started to smell somewhat. Perhaps the main bathroom could do with a refurbishment?

  Reviewed by Edward4.4★Aug 2019

• "We had a lovely stay at the watch tower , views from the garden and walks on the beach were fabulous ."

  Only down side a few times we had maintenance visits that were an inconvenience this should really be done when the house is empty.Kitchen was very well equipped best we have ever seen , highly recommend for a visit to beautiful Cornwall . There was an issue with the electricity this was dealt with via the owner.

  Reviewed by Hannah3.8★Aug 2019

• "Watchtower cottage didn't meet our expectations."

  It is quirky and functional but tired. The location is good but the 'enclosed' garden has a communal footpath running through it which is used by the occupants of 3 other cottages. Also, unfortunately for us, a maintenance man spent one of the days during our stay trimming all the hedges and mowing all the lawns. We couldn't enjoy the garden at all on that day on account of the noise of his machines and all the cuttings- which were eventually thrown over the sea wall at the bottom of the garden. Also worth noting, the ensuite is separated from the bedroom by just a curtain. The second double bedroom, accessed through the single bedroom, has no furniture with surfaces and a locked wardrobe. This room looks out onto next door's spinerette washing just a foot or so away. Our spinnerette washing line was rusty.

  Reviewed by Anne3.4★Jul 2019

• "We loved the Watchtower cottage!"

  Great location and the view was outstanding. We loved the character of the cottage. So many have tried to go so modern that all of the character is taken out of these older buildings. It was comfortable, clean, tastefully decorated, has everything you need, and an overall lovely place. We highly recommend it. We were a very short walk to the beach. We loved our daily walks along the shore. I could go on and on, but the short answer is - if you are looking for a quiet, beach front, place with some character to stay while visiting Cornwall - this is it. We found it convenient for exploring all parts of Cornwall - so we were very happy with its location.

  Reviewed by Tim5.0★Jun 2019

• "The watch tower at Downderry was beautiful, was very very well equipped."

  ......you name it and it was in a cupboard some where. A little dusty in places, but I think they had a quick turn around the day we arrived. I would go again just for the views alone......being on the cliff as it’s part of the old coast guard station you couldn’t have got a better view.......A+++, A*****.....

  Reviewed by Rosemary4.7★Jun 2019

• "Absolutely love the cottage, our fourth time staying there."

  Homely, well equipped and spacious with everything you could want (even toys for the children!!). Booking and payment easy and straightforward. Thanks

  Reviewed by Erika5.0★Apr 2019

• "The sea view and the wonderful light in the sitting room are what makes this cottage so memorable."

  We were there during high winds (November) and could easily have spent all day just watching the waves roll in. It was lovely and warm and excellent for drying off wet clothing. The local facilities are good for topping up shopping with good food pubs in Seaton. It's a lovely location.

  Reviewed by Margaret5.0★Nov 2018

• "The cottage was in a great location with sea views and the kitchen facilities were great and the bathrooms all has hand soap and flowers were left on the table so the presentation of the cottage was great and there was lot's of bits left there such as binoculars puzzles games washing up liquid hand soap and cleaning materials which was great and the bed linen was clean and pressed."

  However, the beds were not comfortable and the mattress's probably need replacing and the sofa's in the front room were also very uncomfortable. We noted that the kitchen cupboards had been painted but the whole property could probably do with a bit of updating. However, Mrs Bawden was very helpful and all in all we enjoyed our stay.

  Reviewed by Caroline3.8★Nov 2018

• "We loved the house."

  All the character, which is still evident. Comfortable. Plenty of books and games. And, not least,the views Only criticism was why on earth the owners decorated the kitchen cupboards and drawer fronts, with ordinary house gloss paint !? Extremely badly executed, and left the cupboards feeling like they had been smeared with jam. But, we got used to them ! We had a lovely stay, and would come again.

  Reviewed by Debra4.7★Oct 2018

• "We had a great holiday,the cottage and the setting was fantastic,great views from the cottage,a real pleasure to wake up to."

  sorry we had to leave.

  Reviewed by Brendan5.0★Sep 2018

• "Great cottage and location."

  Sykes staff and caretaker very helpful. Information and reminders sent by email very helpful too.

  Reviewed by Cindy5.0★Jul 2018

• "Watchtower cottage was an excellent cottage,the views are exceptional,the size of the cottage is tardis like,we could not believe it,we spent most of our days in the garden taking in the beautiful sea views."

  The cottage is clean,homely and is very well stocked with everything you could need,the only thing I would say is the parking space for a medium to large car( Nissan Qashqai)) is a little tight but we managed but I would gladly stay here again.Absolutley loved it.

  5.0★Jun 2018

• "The cottage was very nice and comfortably furnished and had a very nice view of the sea."

  We felt immediately comfortable. The house was very clean. The outdoor area with the sea view was great. We were able to make nice trips, as the house is very close to some attractions.

  Reviewed by Stefanie5.0★Jun 2018

• "We were delighted with the cottage."

  Super location. Very well equipped and maintained. The only issue was with respect to the heating. The first morning we were freezing as the heater was scheduled to turn off at night and, moreover, had broken down. This was solved within two hours as a plumber came by to repair the motor. He also gave us a course in restarting the heater when it goes off, which it did regularly. While the problem was manageable, a place that has so many going for it merits a new heater. A special note of appreciation to the rental agent, Julie Bawden, who was especially helpful. The owner was also very kind.

  Reviewed by Ginette4.8★Feb 2018

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