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Our aim is to create lasting holiday memories and we intend to do so both responsibly and sustainably.
To deliver on this we've set out a number of environmental and social pledges which help to focus our efforts;
you can read more about them in our Impact Report.
This is why we've partnered with Sustonica, the first global certification for holiday lets,
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The Sustonica certification focuses on four key areas: energy conservation, water conservation,
waste reduction and promoting inclusiveness. They are on a mission to become the most widely
recognised sustainability standard for holiday rentals and a catalyst to reduce emissions of holiday
lets and influence guests to reduce their own household consumption too.
Properties that display the Sustonica badge have successfully passed the criteria,
which align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the Global Sustainable Tourism Council standards,
and their owner has made a commitment to look after our planet as well as you.
"Very pleasant stay at Cathay House, beautifully quiet but fantastic central location."
Close to shops and amenities.
Parking was a little tight - but we managed to reverse our large 7 seater car into the parking area without too much trouble - just needs a little patience.
Property was as expected - clean and tidy, just looking a little tired in places, but it is an old property. The extractor fan in the en-suite wasn’t working - but didn’t cause us any issues as we just opened a window. Beds were comfortable and the property felt very homely. Very warm cottage for such an old property - sometimes felt a little too warm as heating went on for quite a while in the evening - but at least we weren’t cold!
We look forward to visiting again in the future!
Reviewed by Joyce4.4★Nov 2024
"Thank you for letting us stay in your house, on the whole we were very happy , and would definitely stay there again, a few small problems, like the hot tap in the kitchen didn’t work , the Internet was quite poor!"
But on the whole we enjoyed our stay
Reviewed by John4.1★Sep 2024
"A lovely property and as described."
Well equipped with everything you need and local to shops, eateries and pubs.
Parking is particularly tricky, this is included on the website. The street is narrow and the drive entrance is so tight that you have to complete several manuvours to get on the drive. Simply widening the entrance would solve this as other properties have. If you have a large, longer car then Parking will be an issue.
With that said, we had a lovely stay and would visit again.
Reviewed by Karen5.0★May 2024
"Wonderfully quiet, five minutes to supermarket, walking distance to gorge."
Comfortable beds and immaculately clean.
No tea or milk left. Stairs are not suitable if you are unsteady on your feet. To reach the hand rail, you have to lean forward over the stairs going down.Fine if you are younger. Front door difficult to unlock until we learnt to pull it hard as you unlock it. Would have saved us a few minutes of panic when we couldn’t get in if we had been told. Fine when you got the knack. Off road parking is not suitable for a larger car. The lane is too narrow to turn straight in and involves a lot of back and forward to get in and out. We left the car in the lane in the end. Pegs would be handy for the washing line. The outside rubbish bin was full already when we got there, we put it out as requested but previous people obviously didn’t!
Small things, we would stay there again except for the stairs. We were quite nervous going down them.
dear Mr Gill,
Thank you for your useful comments.I'm glad you found Cathay House a nice property.It is an old properrty and hasn't been structurally modified.
The stairs are as the house was built and I can't think of a way to alter the stairs handrail but will consider asking a carpenter to have a look.
We ourselves have a large car and appreciate it can be difficult parking the car on site but this should be stated on Sykes information of the property.
Pegs can be found on the inside of the door to the understairs cuoboard.
With regards to the rubbish collection, we do not live locally so we are at the mercy of our clients to follow our request as you yourself did,
Many thanks and best wishes
Mary Woodman
Property Owner
Reviewed by Gill4.1★Apr 2024
"We have just returned from a lovely stay at Cathay House."
The only problem was getting a Tiguan into the parking area. We ended up parking on the road. Otherwise, we had a fabulous time.
So glad you had a good time, there is a bit of a knack to parking so I have put a note on the advert that parking can be tight and I hope it didn't inconvenience you too much. I will get some new gate pictures added for 2024. Thank you also for the excellent cleanliness and comfort scores, much appreciated as I and the cleaning team do everything possible to keep the property well maintained
Property Owner
Reviewed by Fay4.7★Jul 2023
"A beautiful house in a great location."
I was surprised by the small size of the bunk room which was much smaller than I would have hoped but, given the age and layout of the building I can see the constraints on fitting in a third bedroom. There were a few broken items and lamp bulbs not working but nothing that had a huge impact on the holiday. We spent quite a while trying to find the WiFi code (crucial for the kids) as we are not familiar with the BT router having it on the back. Might be handy for future guests if you put a note on the kitchen notice board explaining where to find it.
Thank you for your comments, I try to be as transparent as possible with the photo of the bunk room so guests can make an informed decision as to whether the property is suitable for them. The lamp bulbs were replaced and the wifi info is now ion the notice board as well as on the back of the router, thank you for the suggestion.
Property Owner
Reviewed by Keith3.1★Apr 2023
"This is the the second week of a 13 day stay."
No cleaners arrived before the start of this week, so nothing had been replenished, luckily the supermarket is only a short distance away,
I resorted the recycling bins out, so these were emptied this week, the refuse bin is still overflowing, this was due to be collected the following week while the house is unoccupied, we informed the caretaker about the state of the refuse.
Thank you for your feedback. I'm aware that you had advised you did not need a complementary full changeover refresh in between the two weeks and am sorry if there was any particular item you ran short of. I am also ensuring that info for guest regarding bin collection days are added to the notice board and thank you for letting the caretaker know so that it could be attended to
Property Owner
Reviewed by Brian3.1★Dec 2022
"Everything was as expected apart from the refuse & recycling bins,
these were all full and overflowing, I sorted some of these out but only glass bottles were taken on collection day, I noticed there is no collections for refuse in December."
I had no problems with the entrance gates, or reversing the car in (Golf), the gates seem to be in good condition but just need a little adjusting to make them work better.
The small bedroom contains bunk beds, it would be much better with just one bed, so you could at least move about in there.
I'm sorry for any inconvenience you had if there was bin collection issue in the lead up to Christmas. I now also have new gates and also try to be transparent with the pictures of the bunk room so guests can make an informed decision if the property is suitable for them.
Property Owner
Reviewed by Brian3.8★Dec 2022
"Thank you for a pleasant stay."
Our colleagues were very satisfied with the accommodation and we would definitely like to return in the future. Too bad we couldn't stay longer.
Thank you very much.
Guests from the Czech Republic
Thank you for your feedback and for acknowledging how clean and comfy the property was with your top scores. I do hope you can visit again.
Property Owner
Reviewed by Alena5.0★Nov 2022
"There have been a lot of negative reviews, so I'd like to try and dispel those a bit as we actually really liked this cottage."
Cathay House is a traditional property, and yes everything is just a little bit "tired and dated" as they say on Homes Under the Hammer, but honestly we were so comfortable here and there was nothing the cottage lacked. The living room and bedrooms were lovely and everything was clean (apart from the garden furniture, but that didn't bother us as it was October!) The bunk bed room was very small and only a small child would fit in the top bunk as the sloping ceiling is literally inches from the bed.
Everyone has mentioned the gates and yes, they are tricky. You have to do a 90 degree turn from a narrow lane with a stone wall opposite, up a steep ramp through narrow gates. A confident driver is needed and even then we did scrape our Skoda Octavia once (my poor directions to spouse were at fault!). The gates themselves do need attention too, as the wood has warped and they are not easy to open or close.
The location is great, with a Tesco Express at the end of the road and Chinese and Indian takeaways within a few minutes' walk. There is a wealth of things to do and see in the area.,
The cottage could do with the owners going through it and chucking out some of the more dubious junk (i.e. all the 1970s discards in the kitchen cupboards). And the decor, fixtures and fittings do need freshening up in places. If you like your holiday cottages pristine and contemporary, this one is not for you. We are fine with rustic and traditional, so we liked it. It was comfortable and well-equipped, and there were some things I loved, like the beautiful original fireplaces. I would stay here again were it not for the tricky access through the gates, which is unfortunately a bit of a pain.
With a bit more attention to detail from the owners - and caretakers (e.g. the heating was switched off completely when we got there and it took a bit of detective work for me to track the issue back to the boiler) and easier access (don't know how they resolve that one!) this would actually be a really lovely holiday house.
Thank you for your feedback, it was lovely having you stay with us.
In regards to the gates, unfortunately these were previously damaged by vandals, we are due to have them replaced soon, we are sorry any inconvenience caused, this won't be an issue going forward.
We love the area and are thrilled you got to experience so much of it whilst you were here. We would love to have you back so you can see what improvements we have made.
Kind regards
Property Owner
Reviewed by Katie3.4★Oct 2022
"Front gates need attention."
Door locks in general need checking and lubricating. Inner front door warped and difficult to lock from inside. Shower door needs attention and some TLC. The sky light window in the main bathroom leaks into bath with heavy rain. There is an obvious patch of damp on the dining room chimney breast. The back gate lock is currently only held on with one screw. The outdoor furniture is filthy and in need of cleaning. No one responds to contact number given when there is a problem.
I am very sorry that you found so much wrong at Cathy House but hope you enjoyed your visit to Cheddar and surrounding area. We are awaiting a quote for the renewal of the double gates plus the side gate which was damaged in a vandal attack. The shower is also in line for replacing. The velux window in the bathroom was secured early in the year but was opened during the recent hot spell by a former guest and will have to be attended to. The garden furniture is also something I need to attend to. It was cleaned at the beginning of the season but has obviously weathered badly. With regards to your attempts to ring me I'm afraid I was at the theater and my Phone wasn't switched on until the Monday. Please accept my apologies for the problems you experienced.
Property Owner
Reviewed by Sandra2.8★Sep 2022
"We were very disappointed with this property."
It is the most expensive one we have used from Sykes
1 The gates were very difficult to open on arrival.
2 The green door was also difficult to open & no proper instructions were given.
3. The white garden chairs were very dirty & uninviting.
4 Generally in a few places throughout the property it could be cleaner.
We feel the property owner should seriously consider improving the drive way & gates, we feel one gate only would be much better than 2.
The garden chairs will be replaced and the gate will be changed but will still be two gates, the green door will of course be checked.Thank you for letting me know.
Property Owner
Reviewed by Karen3.4★Aug 2022
"Great cottage."
Few things that should be highlighted to guests. Not only is the gate narrow and tight to drive into but the ramp is steep and if your car is loaded it'll catch the bottom.
Whilst kitchen roll, cling film, tin foil is provided, surprisingly very little toilet roll so you need to bring your own. Saying "we remind you this is self catering" is unhelpful (never in any other self catering have I had to provide my own toilet roll) and why provide everything else when you aren't going to provide enough toilet roll!!
The bunk bed room is small and somewhat claustrophobic, worth mentioning.
No food compost bin was provided despite a note on the notice board mentioning it.
However, the other bedrooms are lovely, the beds very comfortable, kitchen well stocked, water is hot, views and proximity of Cheddar fantastic. Everything was very clean.
Hi There,
Thank you for your feedback, we will discuss this with our housekeeping.
We hope that issues aside, you enjoyed your stay with us at Cathay House.
Property Owner
Reviewed by Rebecca3.8★Jun 2022
"Comfortable and spacious."
Location perfect. Had read that parking was tight, our friends had a transit van with bikes on the back and they managed to get through the gates with a little shuffling.. The cottage is a little dated but very clean and comfortable, a little attention is needed to the gates, back gate and shower screen. Sadly no BBQ. Could also do with an instruction folder rather than having to hunt through drawers and notice boards looking for back door key, wifi codes, rubbish days etc.There is a Tesco Express and cycle hire at the end of the road. The tourist part of Cheddar is only a 10 minute walk away. Would recommend this cottage.
Reviewed by Carole4.7★May 2022
"The cottage is in a great location."
Cheddar is a lovely village and we really enjoyed our stay. The interior of the cottage is a little tired and in need of some cosmetic refurbishment, but overall had everything we needed for our stay. Would recommend and would stay there again.
Reviewed by Janet4.1★Mar 2022
"Our family have stayed here before and we were happy to return."
Reviewed by Tim5.0★Dec 2021
"Great location."
Great space and facilities in cottage. Could do with a deep clean and perhaps a de clutter of the ornaments. Parking entrance was very tight but appreciated the off road parking.
Reviewed by Jody3.4★Aug 2021
"One thing that needs highlighting is the parking."
......yes, there is off street parking for three cars but the entrance is very small. We drive a Range Rover Evoque (not the biggest car in the world) and it was very tight, it would have been useful to have known about the restricted access.
Three bedrooms: 1 x double with en-suite shower, basin and WC, 1 x twin, 1 x children’s bunk
Bathroom with roll top bath, basin and WC
Kitchen
Dining room
Sitting room with electric coal effect fire
Sun room
Gas central heating with electric coal effect fire
Electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge, freezer, dishwasher, 2 x TV with Freeview and WiFi
Fuel and power inc. in rent
Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
Off-road parking for three cars
Enclosed courtyard with seating
Sorry, no pets and no smoking
Shop 0.1 mile, pub 0.2 miles
Please note that parking access point can be tight
Please note: No bookings over 14 nights.The property is for holiday rentals only
Please Note: The bunk room at this property is not suitable for adult use - this property accepts a maximum of 4 adults
The property
This pretty little cottage is set down a quiet lane in the heart of Cheddar, close to a wealth of amenities.
Offering a welcoming interior with chic touches throughout, Cathay House provides a heart-warming base for families eager to escape the rush of everyday life.
After a day of touring the local towns and villages, get comfortable within the sitting room, complete with two leather sofas, an alluring electric fire and TV, you’ll have no trouble easing into your evening.
A quaint sun room is positioned at the front of the house, offering an alternative space to sit and lose yourself in a good book.
Dust off those cooking books and head to the kitchen, amply equipped with all you the essentials for a short break, including an electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge, freezer and even a washing machine, so you won’t have to pack your whole wardrobe.
Serve family feasts in the dining room or enjoy alfresco dining from the enclosed courtyard, perfect during the warmer months.
As the evening comes to a close, there are three tasteful bedrooms to choose from; the master includes a double bed and en-suite shower, while the second bedroom hosts twin beds and a child’s bunk room completes the sleeping quarters.
Serving these cosy dwellings, the family bathroom boasts a feature roll-top bath with attractive fixtures and fittings, allowing you to recover after a day of walking.
Cheddar is a lovely village to base your holiday, it is a quaint place with plenty of quirky shops and tea rooms as well as pubs and restaurants to choose from.
Walkers can follow a nearby footpath which leads to the summit of the Cheddar Gorge from where you access many other footpaths and discover the surrounding area.
Take a scenic drive towards the stunning coastline for a range of local sandy beaches where you can treat the children to an ice cream, or simply let them run and play in the sand, while you soak up the sunshine.
However you choose to spend your holiday, return each evening to the warmth of Cathay House.
Note: This property has a Good Housekeeping bond of £1000.
View on map
Where you’ll be staying
CHEDDAR
Wells 9 miles; Weston-super-Mare 12 miles.
The large Somerset village of Cheddar is a major tourist destination on the edge of the Mendip Hills, renowned for SSSI Cheddar Gorge, the largest gorge in Britain, which includes several show caves such as Gough’s Cave, through which Britain’s biggest underground river runs. The Cheddar area is unique; apart from the chasm, the Cheddar Gorge cliffs are Britain’s highest inland limestone craggs and create a spectacular sight. The village gave its name to Cheddar cheese and has also been a centre for strawberry growing, the crop being transported on the railway, which now provides a fabulous cycle path. Cyclists will also enjoy the picturesque paths that cross the Somerset Levels, while Wells - the country’s smallest city, with it’s beautiful cathedral, is perfect for culture lovers. Visit the ancient town of Glastonbury, well known for its annual music festival and connections to all things mystical. Alternatively, the scenic Somerset Coast and Exmoor National Park are both easily accessible, truly spoiling you for choice of how to spend your holiday!
Any stays over 2 weeks have to be authorised by the owner so please call in No same sex groups No worker bookings Please Note: The bunk room at this property is not suitable for adult use - this property accepts a maximum of 4 adults.
This property offers the following short breaks:
Winter
Christmas
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