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Old Higher Lighthouse Stopes Cottage

(Ref. 12494)

Portland Bill, Dorset Show on map

4.8

Sykes rating

  • 4 Guests

  • 2 Bedrooms

  • 1 Bathroom

  • Pets No

Features

  • Swimming pool
  • Off road parking
  • Ground floor bedroom
  • Garden / Patio
  • Washing machine
  • Seaside
  • Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing
Cleanliness
Comfort
Facilities and Maintenance
  • All reviews
  • cottage (28)
  • views (15)
  • comfortable (14)
  • lovely (14)
  • lighthouse (13)
  • place (13)

52 Customer Reviews

  • "A warm welcome on a very stormy day when we arrived."

    Cottage is warm, well equipped, very comfortable and has some interesting local history attached to it. A great place to relax and unwind, but with plenty of things to do on the doorstep and a little further afield.

    Reviewed by Paul5.0Nov 2024

  • "Was a little confused by the initial key requirements but as owner is on site it kinda made sense once we got there."

    Owner was friendly but we had plenty of privacy for the rest of the weekend (although the other cottage was empty). House was warm clean and comfortable and we enjoyed a couple of nights watching Storm Bert. Did spend a bit of time trying to find WiFi details in the house notes but finally figured it out by looking at the TV and discovering the wifi bridge behind one of the chairs.

    Reviewed by Ben3.8Nov 2024

  • "Fabulous location and brilliant hosts."

    We had a slight problem whilst at the Cottage but Brad sorted this out without fuss

    Reviewed by Alan5.0Nov 2024

  • "Absolutely amazing place, gets ranked as one of our favourites, loved every bit of it!"

    Reviewed by Jill5.0Oct 2024

  • "Myself and my three grandsons really enjoyed our stay."

    The cottage had all the equipment we needed and the ability to use the pool was much appreciated. Spotlessly clean and very comfortable. The lightouse added an extra dimension and it was a really interesting experience to be able to go up to the top.

    Reviewed by Jenifer5.0Jul 2024

  • "Found the property to be very clean tidy and the small details such as the fruit bowl, pastries, ground coffee and milk."

    Really cosy and so quite, we loved the lantern where you get great views once you brave the upper steps. Sadly didn't use the pool but would be great when the weather is hotter and would be much appreciated. Brad let us in came back 30mins later to go through things then we saw him again when we came left, nice guy and family man. Bed was good with good size bath sheets every thing you would need to cook which we did, oven easy to use as not use to electric. .

    Reviewed by Derek5.0May 2024

  • "Beautiful cottage fantastic facilities family very welcoming, we felt it was a ..."

    Beautiful cottage fantastic facilities family very welcoming, we felt it was a perfect spot to explore the area and wished we could of stayed longer

    Reviewed by Lisa5.0May 2024

  • "Lovely cottage in a beautiful scenic area."

    Everything you need is there. Nice touch having milk, tea and coffee. Also had a welcome bowl of fruit and some pastries, unfortunately we did not get round to eat.

    Reviewed by Pamela5.0May 2024

  • "Had a wonderful stay."

    Stopes Cottage is super-comfy and spotlessly clean; it had everything we needed, plus nice extras like tea and cakes for our arrival. We loved watching the sun set from the top of the lighthouse, swimming in the pool and simply relaxing in this very special place. Lots of good walking and birdwatching in the area, too. I’ve no doubt we will return.

    Reviewed by Chris5.0May 2024

  • "A well-maintained, comfortable and clean cottage on the Southern tip of Portland."

    Excellent views from the lighthouse lantern. Quiet. The owner was helpful and unobtrusive and quickly available if we had any questions. And I haven’t mentioned the history of the cottage! Highly recommended.

    Reviewed by Mark5.0Apr 2024

  • "This was a delightful accommodation."

    A unique setting and perfect for a long weekend.

    Reviewed by Neal5.0Apr 2024

  • "Only 2 sets of towels when there were 4 of us, also only 3 wine glasses"

    Reviewed by Ian5.0Dec 2023

  • "The property description shows 'fridge/freezer' when it should state 'fridge with icebox' (often we buy local goodies to freeze before we arrive)."

    Boiler & pump very noisy. (Not a complaint, just for your info). Lovely cottage, spotlessly clean, very comfortable, ideal location & with a very interesting history.

    Reviewed by Steven4.7Nov 2023

  • "Lovely cottage with everything you need provided."

    Hosts even left us fresh croissants and milk. Very cozy and warm even in the worst storms. Access to the tower is via a hallway from the cottage and up 2 spiral staircases the second one being very steep. Amazing views once you are up there. Owners live next door so are on hand if you have any problems.

    Reviewed by Bobbie5.0Nov 2023

  • "The cottage was perfect for us, we would love to come back."

    Reviewed by Elaine5.0Sep 2023

  • "Wonderful stay."

    Breathtaking property, spectacular views and such history. It was so peaceful (we had glorious weather) although I'm sure watching storms coming into shore would be just as stunning. It was truly magical!

    Reviewed by Sara5.0Sep 2023

  • "Excellent spottles accommodation with great owners."

    Beautiful place to stay

    Reviewed by Jemma5.0Aug 2023

  • "We had a lovely time it was very cosy and comfortable it felt like home."

    The owner was very pleasant. Swimming pool could have been a little bit warmer. Loved the lighthouse and the accommodation provided plenty of space if you wanted some quiet time by yourself.

    Reviewed by Jennifer5.0Aug 2023

  • "We had a fabulous holiday."

    Beautiful scenery and views. Comfortable, cosy cottage and very obliging and friendly hosts. Would recommend and we will definitely be returning next year.

    Reviewed by Marie5.0Oct 2022

  • "A brilliant stay in a comfortable lighthouse bungalow."

    Lovely location with excellent surroundings ,one of the best properties that we have stayed in over the last 20 years.

    Reviewed by Jill5.0Sep 2022

  • "A very pleasant cottage in a beautiful setting."

    Reviewed by Philip4.4Sep 2022

  • "We stayed 2 nights at Stopes cottage and it was a wonderful little trip with everything meeting or exceeding our expectations."

    Lovely cottage, amazing lighthouse, exceptionally clean and well equipped, friendly hosts, wonderful surroundings and a great pool which the kids loved. We will be returning!

    Reviewed by Alexander5.0Jul 2022

  • "What an amazing place…."

    Absolutely fabulous…. We can’t wait to go back ! The owners of the properties were brilliant and so helpful… responding super quick to an issue with the cooker … new 1 on the doorstep by the next morning and fitted instantly… Views and sunsets were stunning all round … Thoroughly recommend this property..

    Reviewed by Fran5.0Jul 2022

  • "What an amazing place, it’s not every day you can climb a lighthouse and experience beautiful views including sunsets."

    Property very comfortable and had everything we needed. So much to do and see locally we only left Portland once. Tout Quarry local nature reserve and sculpture park, Little teen colony at Ferry Bridge, boat trip on the Fleet to name a few. Swimming pool was great for a dip after a hot day walking. Hosts were lovely, there if you need them. We will be going back without a doubt.

    Reviewed by David5.0Jul 2022

  • "1st class service home from home"

    Reviewed by Brian5.0May 2022

  • "WOW! What a wonderful last minute find!"

    It is in a superb position being up high to overlook the ocean. The home itself was superbly equipped & spotlessly clean, we thoroughly enjoyed a really chilled, relaxing time. When we arrived it was rather warm so we made use of the lovely swimming pool, so refreshing! The owners were on hand & showed us around, very informative & friendly too, telling us to call them if we needed anything. The climb up to the lighthouse tower gave yet more fantastic 180 degree views & was well worth the climb up to it. Hope to return, even though I am very immobile, it was so comfortable, homely & with a good book I was happy to chill. We hope to return!

    Reviewed by Josephine5.0May 2022

  • "The property was furnished sympathetically and in keeping with its history and the secondary glazing was a bonus in winter conditions."

    There is only a fridge with a small freezer compartment which was fine for us but may be problematic for a family. The WiFi is not a secure service. The listing says there is bath with shower, but actually there is a very nice large shower room. The venue itself is lovely and the owners are very helpful and friendly. Whole place is extremely clean.

    Reviewed by Terry4.1Feb 2022

  • "We loved the property - which was warm and cozy."

    The hosts were very accommodating and helpful. A few more utensils, cutlery, plates etc., in the kitchen would be an excellent addition. Overall, a thoroughly enjoyable break in a tremendous location. We hope to come back soon!

    Reviewed by Kate4.7Dec 2021

  • "A lovely place to stay beautiful views from the lighthouse, would recommend to anyone who likes a peaceful few days."

    Reviewed by Chris4.7Nov 2021

  • "A stunning cottage , with breathtaking views , supported by amazing hosts."

    Thank you

    Reviewed by Martyn5.0Sep 2021

  • "Peaceful cottage with beautiful views!"

    Great base to explore all Dorset has to offer! Hosts were extremely welcoming and ensured our stay was without issue. The pool was the cherry ontop, especially on hot days! I would come back in a heartbeat the next time I want to revisit Dorset!

    Reviewed by Thomas5.0Jul 2021

  • "Lovely cottage in a fantastic location."

    The hosts were welcoming and friendly. The kitchen could do with updating and maybe a dishwasher, but it wouldn’t put us off going again

    Dishwashers are being added to both of our cottages in January . Many thanks Milly Property Owner

    Reviewed by Susan4.4Jul 2021

  • "Had a great holiday, I would recommend this cottage, Really interesting history of the place"

    Reviewed by Stephen5.0Jun 2021

  • "We particularly liked the care and thought that had gone into the small detail which makes living comfortable."

    Things like enough soap/ shower gel holders in the amply proportioned shower. This isn’t the most trendy decor but it was very comfortable and everything worked. The owners were available but unobtrusive, friendly. We would recommend.

    Reviewed by Anne5.0May 2021

  • "Stopes Cottage is actually nicer than it appears in the listing."

    It was clean with a good shower and a comfortable bed. The views particularly from the lighthouse are spectacular. The WiFi works and there is parking by the front gate.

    Reviewed by Hugh5.0Sep 2020

  • "We had a wonderful time at Stopes Cottage."

    The owners were helpful and friendly; the cottage is extremely comfortable and very homely; and the lighthouse is beyond fantastic. In these challenging times it was a total joy to find a location that was so peaceful and so beautiful. Thank you!

    Reviewed by Claire5.0Aug 2020

  • "Owners were very accomidating and nothing to much trouble."

    The peace and quiet and stunning views and walks are breathtaking. We had the addled bonus of the swimming pool which was brilliant to chill out. All in all a fantastic place to stay. Highly recommended.

    Reviewed by Teresa5.0Jul 2019

  • "Have been before 4 years ago."

    Have had a new bathroom with shower which was good. No dishwasher stove very basic and not much crocery etc..Rather expensive for what was on offer.

    Reviewed by Beryl3.4May 2019

  • "I didn't book through sykes - I booked through booking."

    Com then got hounded for loads of personal details - unimpressed with that. Cottage was lovely and the owners were the perfect hosts.

    Reviewed by Elisabeth5.0Feb 2019

  • "Very nice place the lighthouse is out of this world for views out to sea, ships can be seen and the lady told us all about the place well worth a vist."

    Reviewed by Patrick5.0Oct 2018

  • "Spent a wonderful week at Stopes Cottage."

    Amazing position with exceptional walks literally on the door step. Fascinating history to the cottage, we enjoyed watching the sun set from the light house in the evening with glass in hand, remarkable views. Despite rather chilly weather we swam in the pool most days. All in all a lovely place to stay.

    Reviewed by Annie5.0Sep 2018

  • "Whilst the cottage did look as stated on the Website, in reality it was lacking in comfort."

    The towels were small, thin and in short supply. The bedding was very old and faded and thin and the quilt was as flat as a pancake. The pillows were like blocks and not comfy. The mattress on the bed was firm but we still managed to roll together in the middle! The kitchen was (just about) adequately supplied for four people but the brand new unwashed tea towels were not suitable for drying pots. Being an old cottage it did have a slightly damp feel about it. The cost of the holiday here was not reflected in the quality of the accommodation.

    Reviewed by Deborah2.5Sep 2018

  • "On a bumpy road which was half a mile from main road."

    Getting to property was difficult due the potholes on the road. The owners were very nice. The home was very clean and tidy.

    Reviewed by June4.4May 2018

  • "Fantastic location."

    ..and a great get away cottage...

    Reviewed by Richard4.8Oct 2017

  • "We had a wonderful time."

    A very friendly greeting, superb location and an excellent cottage would gladly recommend to anyone.

    Reviewed by BRUCE5.0Sep 2017

  • "Lovely friendly owners fran and les made us feel very welcome and were always on hand but not intrusive."

    The lighthouse was a real experience and very special.

    Reviewed by Alison4.6Jul 2017

  • "Shower system a bit awkward to use but it is described as 'hand held'."

    Owners very nice and helpful and we enjoyed our stay in the cottage exploring the area around the Jurassic Coast.

    Reviewed by Frances Irene4.8Jun 2017

  • "Very helpful owners in adjacent cottage."

    Reviewed by Mike5.0Apr 2017

  • "The hosts were amazing."

    Very kind and friendly.

    Reviewed by Claire4.8Nov 2016

  • "Very comfortable and Portland has a lot to offer, castle, lighthouse, castle and church ruins, Weymouth, Chesil Beach , amazing cafes, Jailhouse cafe, iron age fort."

    Cottage is single storey and warm and comfy. A small point, bring your own towels as those provided are a hand towel and bath towel is more of a small shawl than a bath towel.

    Reviewed by Debbie4.8Oct 2016

  • "As a disabled person I found it difficult using a shower in a bath but the solitude was wonderful when you live on busy road."

    Reviewed by B4.6Oct 2016

  • "Set in an unforgetable location we had the best ever week of holiday."

    Whatever the weather there was something to do and we hardly needed the car at all. A really special place.

    Reviewed by Elizabeth5.0Aug 2016

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Summary

  • All ground floor
  • Two bedrooms: 1 x double with basin, 1 x twin with basin
  • Bathroom with bath, hand-held shower, basin and WC
  • Basin and WC
  • Kitchen with dining area
  • Sitting room with electric fire.
  • Calor gas central heating with electric fire
  • Electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge/freezer, washing machine, Dishwasher, 2 x TVs with Freeview, DVD, CD/radio, WiFi, selection of books, games, CDs and DVDs
  • Fuel & power inc. in rent
  • Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
  • Ample off road parking for cars and boats
  • Lawned area and patio with garden furniture and ornamental fish pond
  • Shared seasonal outdoor heated swimming pool with Jacuzzi (available May - September inclusive)
  • Shared access to lighthouse observatory via steep steps
  • Sorry, no pets and no smoking
  • Shop 2 miles, pub 5 mins walk
  • Note: No children under 5 years due to ponds and proximity of cliff edge.

The property

Named after Old Higher Lighthouse's former owner, Dr Marie Stopes, this cottage offers comfortable single-storey holiday accommodation linked to the lighthouse itself by a long corridor, and boasts sea views from the south-facing sitting room, kitchen and twin bedroom.

Enjoy access to the round observatory at the top of the lighthouse from where there are stunning seascapes, or relax beside the shared outdoor swimming pool and Jacuzzi.

The charming gardens with their ornamental fishponds are a delight, a great place to relax on a balmy Dorset evening after your day's exploring.

A memorable cottage offering a sensational and unique holiday home.

Note: This cottage is next to ref 12497, together they sleep 8.

Old Higher Lighthouse Cottages

A unique opportunity to stay in two Grade II listed cottages, situated in what must be one of the most peaceful and stunning locations on Dorset’s rugged Jurassic Coast at Portland Bill. Situated right beside the sympathetically restored 18th century Old Higher Lighthouse, once the home of Dr Marie Stopes and visited by George Bernard Shaw, H.G. Wells and Thomas Hardy, these Portland Bill cottages have been comfortably furnished throughout to offer visitors a home-from-home holiday experience. Together, they can accommodate up to eight people in comfort, where you have shared use of the seasonal outdoor heated swimming pool and Jacuzzi. There are superb opportunities for walking and bird watching as well as climbing and diving, or why not just simply relax in the lighthouse and take in the sensational sea views or unwind beside the swimming pool? A short stroll takes you to The Bill itself, craggy rocks jutting out into the sea dominated by the current Trinity House lighthouse. The Bill’s friendly cafe and local pub provide good food and refreshments should you wish to take time out whilst exploring the dramatic coast. The owner of these cottages can offer reflexology, spiritual and crystal healing, plus Emotional Freedom Technique on site by arrangement, making them a holiday experience you’ll never forget!

View on map

About the location

PORTLAND BILL

Easton 3 miles; Fortuneswell 4 miles; Weymouth 9 miles.

Portland Bill is a narrow promontory on the end of the rugged Isle of Portland peninsula which is joined to the mainland via Chesil Beach, a pebble spit, which stretches 18 miles towards West Bay. Situated on Dorset's spectacular Jurassic Coast, now a World Heritage Site, Portland Bill is home to three lighthouses, the most recent built in 1906 being the 35 meter tall, white and red striped Portland Bill Lighthouse. Portland Bill is home to a pub and a restaurant/café as well as the Portland Bird Observatory. Formerly a quarrying area, the stunning coastal scenery and footpaths provide excellent walking and the surrounding countryside is well known as a birdwatcher’s paradise! The local communities of Fortuneswell and Easton boast a good variety of shops, pubs and restaurants. With great climbing opportunities and an array of watersports activities on offer locally, plus the wonderful sandy beaches and the pretty harbour at Weymouth just 9 miles away, this super holiday destination is not to be missed!

This property offers the following short breaks:

  • Winter
  • Off-season
  • Last minute
  • Christmas