The Orchard Country House

36 Customer Reviews

• "Had a fabulous stay with family and friends."

  House was well equipped for a large gathering. The bar area was a big hit and the small sitting room was perfect as a play room for the children. Only things that need improving, no wifi in the small sitting room (we had to use a guests hot spot), and the showers need looking at in rooms 4 and 7 as the water was dribbling out. It would be good if the cleaners checked the remotes had working batteries as we had to go out and buy some. Overall we had a great time and would recommend the house for celebrations

  Reviewed by Victoria4.7★Oct 2024

• "Having been let down by another property at fairly short notice, on reading the reviews our expectations for the Orchard Country House weren’t great."

  Yes, it was scruffy around the edges and needed modernisation, but its plus points far outweighed the negatives: • All the bedrooms had ensuite facilities and were supplied with good quality clean linen and towels • Two well equipped kitchens with 2 ovens, 2 hobs, 2 microwaves, full size freezer, 1 full size and 1 half size fridge, 2 dishwashers, washing machine and tumble dryer, 4 sinks and plenty of cooking pans, utensils etc. • Ample cutlery and crockery, serving dishes and plates. • Large dining room and separate lounge where we could all eat and sit together • Ample parking and outside seating We have hired large houses before that haven’t been so well equipped. Heating and hot water were fine and the couple of minor issues we had were resolved the same day. Location of the property was excellent with many places to visit along the nearby Jurassic Coast and there’s a lovely café 2 minutes walk away which serves great coffee, cakes and breakfast baps etc.

  Reviewed by Melissa4.1★Oct 2024

• "With the evenings turning cooler we tried to take the chill out of the house."

  Unfortunately, despite turning the thermostat up and adjusting individual radiator thermostats, we couldn’t get any heat into several rooms which appeared to be on a separate heating system. The instructions provided weren’t much help either. This was slightly annoying and did affect some guests’ comfort.

  Reviewed by Stephen3.1★Sep 2024

• "The house suited our large party well but it was tired- the shower in bedroom 2 was either scalding hot or cold and a trickle."

  There was no clear signposting of the house so spent 20 extra minutes trying to find it. The house needs modernisation in the plumbing department and a thorough deep clean. Otherwise it was a lovely stay.

  Reviewed by Gillian2.8★Sep 2024

• "On our arrival we found the property easily, the instructions to get into the house was quick and simple."

  Just a few things to note there was an awful smell in the kitchen coming from the small fridge I am assuming it’s split milk that has never been cleaned. Most of the rooms are clean and updated however some of the rooms are a bit dated and need the old curtains changed to something a bit more modern. Some of the bathroom locks didn't work. We wanted to use the bbq area but unfortunately it wasn’t in a state to be used so we decided not to. The living room sofas need updating, the cushions of the sofa have flattened so it made it really uncomfortable to sit on. Overall we had a good stay the house is really big for big family get togethers, the outdoor space is good and sufficient for families. The dining area is spacious for everyone to eat together. One safety suggestion would be if there was a gate put on the front of driveway, as we had young children we had to be extra cautious because of the road. Had there been a gate we could have closed it off and felt like it was safer for children to run around. Great facilities in the property. We had a day at the beach which was so lovely and only a 5 min drive.

  Reviewed by Tahmena3.4★Aug 2024

• "The orchard house was suitable in size for our family gathering and location was superb however the property was very tired could do with a complete makeover ."

  cleanliness needs to be improved but our biggest problem was the out of hours maintenance we contacted them wed evening as our of gas and we had no contact from the number given until Friday afternoon your better of going into the office in Lyme bay

  Reviewed by Alison2.8★Aug 2024

• "Having read previous reviews we were sceptical but on arrival were pleasantly surprised."

  The property is tired in places but that didn't worry us. The house was roomy enough for us all to be apart if needed. It was well stocked and plenty of seating for everyone. The heating was lacking in some bedrooms but we didn't need it anyway. We knew from reviews that the gardens were not secure so made provisions to enclose children and dogs but maybe this could be made clearer in the property description. Our only 'complaint' would be that maybe the house could have more grass at the rear and less gravel/car park now that it is no longer a hotel.

  Reviewed by J3.1★May 2024

• "We had a good holiday but we felt it needed a general overhaul."

  Paintwork in places was bad. Settees were not comfortable especially the ones by the TV. The worst thing was that nearly all the bedrooms had no heating - it was just as well it wasn't frosty.

  Reviewed by Elizabeth3.1★Mar 2024

• "Very disappointed to be charged for carpet stains that preexisting our visit."

  The property is only on average condition and we were not asked to photograph and note any such issues. Poorly dealt with by Sykes as well. While we would love to return we are looking elsewhere as this left the whole party feeling like we were liars.

  Reviewed by Emma3.4★Jan 2024

• "Really enjoyed our stay in the orchard country house lovely and warm plenty of hot water comfortable beds all lovely and clean ."

  Super kitchen facilities. Could do with a bit of updating in places I have recommended it to my friends it is very good site for people visiting the area would certainly use again .

  Reviewed by Pauline4.7★Jan 2024

• "We had an issue with a loose banister it was sorted quickly."

  Reviewed by Stephen5.0★Dec 2023

• "A truly wonderful large house perfect for our extended family gathering."

  It was lovely and warm when we arrived in the main area but the dining room and most of the bedrooms were cold as the heating wasn’t on. We phoned the contact number, an engineer came out and then the heating worked everywhere. We were very surprised, and disappointed, to find no provision for recycling, just one large general rubbish bin. Overall, we had a great weekend, the house is well equipped with everything you could possibly need.

  We are always happy to assist our guests with issues during their stay such as turning on the heating. The property has a commercial rubbish collection arrangement, whereby all rubbish does go into the one bin but is sorted for recycling at the deport. The Lyme Bay Team Property Owner

  Reviewed by Catherine5.0★Nov 2023

• "We felt it definitely needed some restoration there were damp in a couple of bedrooms, the fire door exit in the kitchen didn’t open and was not secure outside for dogs or children as it was on a main road and this could be dangerous!"

  ! The house was very well equipped in the kitchen area but the living areas need updating I don’t think we would return again unless this had all been addressed.

  Reviewed by Michelle3.4★Nov 2023

• "Would firstly like to say that we all had a lovely holiday."

  The space worked well for us but wasn't really thought out or planned well.. the property itself could be great but it really is unkept and uncared for. On the second floor there are two massive bedrooms but only have a double bed.. whereas room 13 is tiny and has a super king bed but then there's no room for a chest if drawers or anything else, just room for 1 bedside table that was covered in dust at the back by the lamp. For someone with a severe dust allergy that was scary. The second small lounge the sofas and chairs where absolutely covered in dogs hair so we had to hoover and clean when we first arrived. We found that the fire and carbon monoxide alarms where out of date/not working.. we discovered this as we set fire to a tea towel by accident no damage was caused but enough smoke that should have set the alarms off. We did report this so hopefully this has been resolved! Not sure why but all the handrails we sticky /dirty and had yucky peeling paint we think possibly the wrong paint was used and just over painted rather than rubbed down and painted correctly. Along the landing skirting boards there was dust and particles as if it hadn't been vacuumed for while. There was not enough if the blue laundry bags to put all the bedding and towels in not one at all fir rooms 12 and 13. Although these were keft in the hallway so a real trip hazzard as you move about. So we collected them and stored safely until our final morning. Outside was a lot smaller than the description led you to believe.. the Orchard... hmmm not much of an orchard.. my garden has as many fruit trees.. the patio/dinning area is a mess broken stones and wobbly lights with weeds that had grown really big. The location was good and great for the beach.

  Reviewed by Karen2.2★Sep 2023

• "Fantastic property, for size allowing several families to stay under one roof."

  Can accommodate the amount of people easily, plenty of crockery/cutlery, huge dining space. Lovely lounge for socialising/ bar area is a nice touch. Great size kitchen with access to all pots and pans. Big fridge and freezer for food storage. Improvements could be in internet availability and an Enclosed garden would be an improvement, especially as it’s dog friendly, but there was no gate and fences had fallen down at the back of the property. Also Gas bottles had run out, first time using the cooker. This should have been checked prior to the stay, although they were replaced very quickly once reported.

  Thank you for your comments, we're pleased that the property met your needs. We do apologise about the issue with the Calor Gas bottle, and were pleased to be able to react quickly to resolve this for you. We will check on the rear fencing panels and organise to fix them back into place. The owner is going to renovate some of the bedrooms/ensuites during the winter as part of a continuous programme of improvements. The Lyme Bay Team Property Owner

  Reviewed by Emma3.8★Aug 2023

• "The outside of the property is lovely, however upon entering nearly all the curtains are hanging off the tracks which makes everywhere look unloved."

  It wouldn't cost much for curtain hooks. There was also very noticeable damp in bedroom 13 . The property is very tired throughout and is in need of a thorough redecoration. Several of the door handles need attention as were very worn almost to the point of not being able to open the doors. Painted banisters were sticky and needed a good clean. The hoover didn't work so i don't know what the cleaners used. It is a good job the washing machine worked as we had a sickness bug which started in room 13!! This could be coincidence but who knows. The kitchen facilities were very good for a large group and there was plenty of crockery and cutlery. But we made it what it was, would we return? Maybe? But only if it was thoroughly renovated from top to bottom, then this property would be worth a revisit

  Thank you for your comments about the maintenance issue which we will investigate. The owner is planning to renovate some bedrooms/ensuites and other areas later in the year. We hope that you all made a speedy recovery and enjoyed your holiday. The Lyme Bay Team Property Owner

  Reviewed by Simon2.2★Jul 2023

• "It had lots of kitchen equipment however, it didn't have a pair of scissors and we only found a grater on the last day as it was hidden at the back of a cupboard."

  When we arrived at 4.45 the 2 cleaners were still there mopping the floor, this was left very wet and we had to dry it off with kitchen roll as it was slippery. The cleanliness was not great quiet a lot of dust and bathrooms looked like they had only been briefly cleaned with wet slim still left in some. Quiet a few pieces of rubbish left down the side of beds and under sofas. All the double beds have extremely hard mattresses. Good overall size of the property with plenty of space for a large group

  Reviewed by Sarah3.4★Jul 2023

• "The house is very tired and would benefit greatly from decorating & some garden maintenance A bonus to have so many ensuite bedrooms which worked for our large party ."

  Another bonus to have a bus stop literally outside the driveway giving a very enjoyable bus ride into lyme regis .

  Reviewed by Gerry3.1★Jun 2023

• "Beautiful house but very tired, desperately in need of some TLC."

  However super facilities, especially in the catering department (just lacked a steamer for vegetables) ideal for a large party like ours who like to cook. Plenty of places to sit down and relax. The bar was a bonus with 2 drinks fridges, really made a difference. The bedrooms and bathrooms were clean, comfortable and functional. All in all a very nice place for large parties would definitely recommend it to others.

  Thank you for your feedaback. We have now purchased a vegetable steamer. The owner has plans to renovate some of the bedrooms/ensuites and other areas during the winter. The Lyme Bay Team Property Owner

  Reviewed by Tim3.8★May 2023

• "The biggest plus of this property was that it was spacious, warm and exceptionally clean."

  The cleaning team do a fantastic job. We had read previous reviews so we were aware the property needs updating… which it definitely does. Unfortunately the ‘ ongoing programme of refurbishment’ has yet to begin and small new items of furniture don’t conceal the dated decor, doors and curtains. Some sound-proofing and thicker bedroom curtains for light sleepers would also help. We had a few maintenance issues that were quickly dealt with by an efficient team, but the ‘24 hour’ on call service advertised in the house manual was difficult to access. We had rung to say we had no electricity in part of the house but we didn’t have a call-back to know whether it was being dealt with. Nevertheless, our party of fourteen enjoyed their stay in a good area for walking. There was plenty of hot water for weary limbs at the end of the day. An especially big thank you to the cleaning team who do a wonderful job. Hopefully we might return once the promised refurbishments are complete.

  Reviewed by Sue3.4★May 2023

• "We needed a large house with a big dining room and plenty of space for a family gathering and this place delivered."

  It was clean, warm and comfortable. The kitchen was well equipped and big enough to feed 25 of us in one sitting and the small bar space was a great focal point. Having ensuites to the rooms was very handy and plenty of sofas and patios for all of us. Some of the curtains looked a little tired but we weren't bothered, it didn't distract from the enjoyment. The kids played epic hide and seek and everyone had time to chat.

  It certainly makes a great house for large family gatherings doesn't it! We are pleased that you had a great time. We are continuing to make improvements to the interior and will take a look at the curtains to see which need updating. We have just installed an additional dishwasher, and are adding some other items, such as bar stalls, coat and shoe racks, to further improve the facilities. The Lyme Bay Team Property Owner

  Reviewed by Dave4.7★May 2023

• "We had an excellent time and I would recommend it but the property does require updating."

  Some of the maintenance is substandard including boiler flu area, garages outside and electrically supply to them is unsafe. Some sockets not working.

  It's great to hear that you had a great holiday. The property is undergoing refurbishments on a rolling programme, and the owner has plans to remove the garage completely. I have asked our maintenance team to look at the boiler areas, but it does have an annual Landlord Inspection to ensure all is up to standard. The Lyme Bay Team Property Owner

  Reviewed by Angela4.4★Apr 2023

• "We thoroughly enjoyed our stay, warm and lots of hot water."

  Plenty space for everyone and the kitchen equipment is excellent. Place is a bit shabby and in need of some tlc, needs a coat of paint and some of the rooms lacking hooks, and shower fixings a bit wobbly. Also quite dusty in places and when we moved the sofas to group them together, rubbish found underneath. However, none of that is going to stop us from booking for next year when we agree a date. Thank you, we had a lovely time.

  Reviewed by Margaret3.8★Apr 2023

• "This house was just what we needed to get four generations of our family together to celebrate our Mother’s 80th Birthday."

  There was plenty of space for us all to be together, but also to find some peace and quiet when needed. Unfortunately the weather wasn’t great, so we didn’t really get to use the outside space, which has plenty of seating in the garden for a large group. The village is pretty and quiet and exploring the nearby Rousdon Estate would be lovely in the sunshine. You do need a car if you want to explore nearby Lyme Regis. The kitchen was really well equipped and perfect for cooking for a large group - but a larger and more efficient dishwasher would be a good idea - it leaked when we used it and to an age to run a cycle. It was great that all the bedrooms had en suites, but there were a few issues with water pressure in showers if too many were used at once - we worked around it. Would definitely recommend staying here if your priority is having space for a large group to be together and you don’t mind the furnishings and decor being a bit worn and dated. It wasn’t an issue for us and for the price we paid we felt this suited us perfectly - everyone has a great weekend. The welcome pack of goodies was a really nice touch and was enjoyed by all.

  We're so pleased that everyone had a great celebration of your mum's birthday. The owner has agreed to purchase an additional dishwasher, and our Maintenance Team will take a look at the other one. The property is undergoing a programme of refurbishment including bathrooms and bedrooms to give it a more modern feel. The Lyme Bay Team Property Owner

  Reviewed by Deborah3.8★Apr 2023

• "Our stay was a family get together, the feeling of all was we had a great time."

  The house is situated near to all that we wanted to do (fossil hunting, walking etc...) The decor is a little bit tired looking in places. All the remote controls needed batteries that we purchased. But we are looking at booking for the house for a similar holiday next year.

  I'm glad to hear that you all had a great stay. The house is undergoing a rolling programme of upgrades, and it is planned to redecorate some of the main areas and modernise the bathrooms and bedrooms. As a local agent we are always happyo to attend to any maintenance issues, no matter how small, and if you do return to stay again I would encourage you to contact us to attend - including providing batteries! The Lyme Bay Team Property Owner

  Reviewed by Gerry4.1★Apr 2023

• "25 of us had a wonderful week."

  The house was immaculate, warm and well-equipped. Lots of space to socialise & all rooms en suite. Great value too. Thank you!

  We have made some recent improvements to the facilities offered and it is great to hear that these have made your stay more comfortable. You are most welcome back anytime! Property Owner

  Reviewed by Bridget5.0★Mar 2023

• "Property needed a bit of a revamp, especially the corridors."

  Some of the covers on the dining chairs were very grubby, and we were glad we didn't need to use all the chairs. There was an impressive amount of crockery, cutlery, and glasses, which was great. Some of the curtains also need attention. In general, it needs some tlc.

  Reviewed by Susan3.1★Mar 2023

• "This is an excellent property and provided a great (and sadly rare) opportunity for all of us to congregate in the same place (26 of us in all!"

  ). The dining room is a great size, and the bedrooms are separated well enough to not provide too much disturbance from early risers (the children!). We really appreciated the welcome bag as a particularly nice touch, the level of cleanliness was outstanding and we really appreciated the warmth in the house. Overall it was a great experience and we intend to book again. Many thanks!

  Reviewed by Nathan4.7★Jan 2023

• "Fabulous house."

  So good that we have booked again for next year! The only suggestion was that the house requires a second dishwasher.

  Reviewed by Suzanne4.7★Dec 2022

• "The Orchard Country House really lived up to our expectations ."

  ..even more so! 20 of us celebrated Birthdays and early Christmas together and there was plenty of communal space/bedroom options/facilities/utensils/parking, indeed the property had everything we needed. One of the main reasons I chose this property over others was because of the large communal lounge and dining room, large groups can all be together without having to split over a number of rooms. Another reason was that everyone had an en-suite (no arguments there). We did have some intermittent water pressure/heating issues but minimal and nothing to complain about. The overall decorative/maintenance state is slightly tired, but again, this did not detract from a wonderful stay here. We would definitely return to The Orchard Country House if the price was right.

  Reviewed by Sandra4.7★Nov 2022

• "We were a party of 26 adults staying at the Orchard Country house."

  Everybody loved the house, It was just the right size for our party and although it is a little tired it worked perfectly for us. The kitchen has plenty of equipment and the prep kitchen, not shown in photos, is large and includes a large fridge, separate large freezer, one dishwasher, 2 four slice toasters and more than enough crockery and cutlery for 26. The dinning room and lounge look very large in the photos but in fact we’re just the right size. We were all able to sit in the lounge, we didn’t even use the separate small lounge, not shown in photos. Nearly all the bedrooms were of a good size and comfortable. Bedrooms 3 and 4 were small doubles and not as large as the others. The showers worked but don’t expect a power shower. Our party thought the house was perfect for our needs and would return another time. We liked the fact that the Rousdon estate was just across the road where you could go for a lovely walk.

  Reviewed by Judy4.7★Oct 2022

• "Very tired looking in most areas."

  We used this property last year & nothing has changed. A fresh coat of paint would make a huge difference. The showers all need attention,the water runs very slow,takes a very long time to have decent hot water. A big reassurance while having dogs & small children there would be to have gates on the front of the property. Don’t think we will use this property next year as the price hike is enormous. Which is a great shame as Orchard House was ideal for our annual family breakaway.

  Reviewed by Elizabeth4.1★Oct 2022

• "It is an excellent place for family or friend groups to get together at a very good price."

  We did have a problem with showers and no water when we arrived, but it was speedily dealt with. We have rented this place several times and hope to again next year. Bus stop right outside if you do not want the hassle of trying to park in Lyme Regis or Seaton.

  Reviewed by Patricia5.0★Sep 2022

• "We had a great week at The Orchard Country House."

  Reading the reviews we were expecting the house to be a bit run down however we were pleasantly surprised at how nice it actually was. The kitchens were well stocked with ample plates, cutlery etc... and all areas of the house were as described. The outdoor space was perfect and had a supply of chairs (but we would recommend bringing your own as well so everyone has a seat). There were a couple of issues which is why the scores have been marked down. In a few rooms the towel heating rails were on and we could not turn them off (not great in the current heatwave). Despite contacting Sykes this was never sorted out (although they did send a maintenance team round very quickly). The showers in some rooms are pretty useless, either no hot water or no pressure. The drain at the back of the house appears to be broken so overflows and has a bit of a smell coming from it when the door is open, The final issue was we found a few random items in the lounge area so the cleaning wasn't great in this area. Not house related but one minor downside is that the house location is a bit remote and you require cars - we did one walk into Lyme Regis on the coastal path and it was not easy going and no sea views (we did however get taxis from Lyme a few times and these were good value). However just to add - these few points and issues didn't massively impact our enjoyment and we had a great holiday so we would recommend a stay here.

  Reviewed by Ian3.8★Aug 2022

• "A good affordable venue for a large group."

  Its not really close to any amenities or public footpaths, so a car makes life simpler, and there is also a regular bus service. We had a lovely stay with a large group of friends and all shared cars for regular walks and swims. Its a practical space, not particularly characterful., but does the job, we will be rebooking.

  Reviewed by Janey3.8★Jul 2022

• "Place was clean and good range of kitchen equipment."

  There are some maintenance issues which I list below for benefit of future guests. It was great for a gathering of old friends and we really enjoyed our stay. New information folder needed Definitely would be improved with gates across main entrance to keep dogs safe Curtains need attention in rooms 4 and 11 Showers poor in 4, 6 and 13 Poor water pressure in 8 Bathroom radiators in 4 6 and 11 too hot (dangerously) and on 24 hours Extra dishwasher would be useful for larger groups Internet not available in bedrooms

  Reviewed by Rosemary3.4★Jul 2022

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