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Sustainable Property
Sustonica, the first global sustainability standard for holiday lets.
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,
to support our owners to be more sustainable.
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.
Really enjoyed our stay. Fantastic cottage. Thank you
Reviewed by Jill Caroline5.0★Mar 2025
"Stopes Cottage is a very special place and we had a lovely weekend there."
It was a shame that we couldn’t stay the full 3 nights (minimum booking) as work commitments meant that we had to leave early. The cottage itself was spotlessly clean and very well equipped. There were some very thoughtful and welcome touches - like, the milk in the fridge and the lemon and blueberry muffins. Thank you. For the price, we’d have liked the cottage to be a little more upgraded in terms of quality and style of furniture/bedding/bathroom but that is just a personal preference. However, the lighthouse more than made up for any tiny gripes we may have had. It was truly a very special experience and staying there has created some wonderful memories.
Reviewed by Lorraine4.7★Jan 2025
"The cottage was just perfect for our weekend away."
The accommodation was warm and cosy with everything we needed.
The view from the lighthouse is amazing snd we were lucky to have both sunshine and a storm to experience.
Communication from the owners was excellent. They were on site if anything was needed but left us alone to enjoy our weekend. The welcome goodies were also really appreciated and we would not hesitate to recommend for a very unique getaway.
Reviewed by Michelle5.0★Jan 2025
"We loved our stay over Christmas."
Location was perfect, loved going up the lighthouse, weather was kind, a Smart TV was a welcome surprise and we had a Christmas tree.
Kitchen was well equipped but a little dated and it took us a few days to get used to the very soft bed. Overall very happy.
Reviewed by Dave4.1★Dec 2024
"The four of us have been holidaying and having weekends away for 21 years."
This is the first time we’ve felt that we’re ‘home from home’, we stayed in and cooked. Everything was so easy and well managed.
Extra bonus, we experience a storm, the wind buffeted around the lighthouse was so noisy. It was amazing.
We’ll definitely be going back.
Reviewed by Alan5.0★Dec 2024
"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 Paul5.0★Nov 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 Ben3.8★Nov 2024
"Fabulous location and brilliant hosts."
We had a slight problem whilst at the Cottage but Brad sorted this out without fuss
Reviewed by Alan5.0★Nov 2024
"Absolutely amazing place, gets ranked as one of our favourites, loved every bit of it!"
Reviewed by Jill5.0★Oct 2024
"Wonderful stay at stopes."
Our two boys loved bird watching from the top. It was magic to watch the sunset and a real experience to be able to go up there. The owners were fantastic and very helpful when one of our children were unwell. The cottage was cosy and clean. The views from the windows were lovely... you could see portland bill too. We loved the area. The boys loved the pool. The lighthouse was the highlight of their summer. They couldn't wait to tell their friends they had stayed in a lighthouse. Lots to do locally. We fished from weymouth, went to brownsea Island to hunt for red squirrels, loved kimmeridge bay and the snorkel trail, fireworks on the beach, hunting for Anthony Gormley sculptures, rnli open days. We loved going over to studland. The boys enjoyed the tank museum.
Reviewed by Graham4.7★Aug 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 Jenifer5.0★Jul 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 Derek5.0★May 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 Lisa5.0★May 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 Pamela5.0★May 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 Chris5.0★May 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 Mark5.0★Apr 2024
"This was a delightful accommodation."
A unique setting and perfect for a long weekend.
Reviewed by Neal5.0★Apr 2024
"Only 2 sets of towels when there were 4 of us, also only 3 wine glasses"
Reviewed by Ian5.0★Dec 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 Steven4.7★Nov 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 Bobbie5.0★Nov 2023
"The cottage was perfect for us, we would love to come back."
Reviewed by Elaine5.0★Sep 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 Sara5.0★Sep 2023
"Excellent spottles accommodation with great owners."
Beautiful place to stay
Reviewed by Jemma5.0★Aug 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 Jennifer5.0★Aug 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 Marie5.0★Oct 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 Jill5.0★Sep 2022
"A very pleasant cottage in a beautiful setting."
Reviewed by Philip4.4★Sep 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 Alexander5.0★Jul 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 Fran5.0★Jul 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 David5.0★Jul 2022
"1st class service home from home"
Reviewed by Brian5.0★May 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 Josephine5.0★May 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 Terry4.1★Feb 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 Kate4.7★Dec 2021
"A lovely place to stay beautiful views from the lighthouse, would recommend to anyone who likes a peaceful few days."
Reviewed by Chris4.7★Nov 2021
"A stunning cottage , with breathtaking views , supported by amazing hosts."
Thank you
Reviewed by Martyn5.0★Sep 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 Thomas5.0★Jul 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 Susan4.4★Jul 2021
"Had a great holiday, I would recommend this cottage,
Really interesting history of the place"
Reviewed by Stephen5.0★Jun 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 Anne5.0★May 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 Hugh5.0★Sep 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 Claire5.0★Aug 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 Teresa5.0★Jul 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 Beryl3.4★May 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 Elisabeth5.0★Feb 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 Patrick5.0★Oct 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 Annie5.0★Sep 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 Deborah2.5★Sep 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 June4.4★May 2018
"Fantastic location."
..and a great get away cottage...
Reviewed by Richard4.8★Oct 2017
"We had a wonderful time."
A very friendly greeting, superb location and an excellent cottage would gladly recommend to anyone.
Reviewed by BRUCE5.0★Sep 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 Alison4.6★Jul 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 Irene4.8★Jun 2017
"Very helpful owners in adjacent cottage."
Reviewed by Mike5.0★Apr 2017
"The hosts were amazing."
Very kind and friendly.
Reviewed by Claire4.8★Nov 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 Debbie4.8★Oct 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 B4.6★Oct 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.
Two bedrooms: 1 x double with basin, 1 x twin with basin
Walk in shower and WC
Separate 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!
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
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