Downton Lodge

17 Customer Reviews

• "Some items to consider if choosing this property: The sitting room photographs are misleading."

  The actual armchairs (not in any photograph) are very old, but usable. The bath/shower room had a considerable leak from the mixer unit, leaking water all over the end wall. The second bedroom mattress was uncomfortable and should be changed. No iron No hair dryer No vacuum cleaner The door to the en-suite bedroom seemed to be locked. After four nights we realised the door required a very hefty push to open it. It should be made clear that the entrance to the property is by the five bar gate drive and not where the sign for Downton Lodge is. The property was clean and tidy but I think there is too much play on the listed building aspect. Considering this is a high end cost property it certainly needs some work. The main benefit of this property is the excellent heated swimming pool. Very clean and well looked after. A pleasure to use. We had a pleasant time and the property is in an ideal location for the New Forest and the general area. However, it is unlikely I will use Sykes Cottages again. I do not like wasting my time going through several groups of multiple choice questions several times only for the phone line to go dead at the last choice. The web site could not understand my need to change a single 'date'. ( We had to leave a day early ). Also, I do not like being 'pestered' by emails wanting to know how my first night has been and what to do when I leave. I was told by some very helpful ladies ( not Sykes ) that the emergency phone number was some considerable time out of date.

  Reviewed by Alan3.1★Sep 2024

• "Downtown Lodge is an annex joined to the main house."

  Despite this, we rarely saw anyone at the main house. As it is a listed building, it is tired in places, like many buildings of this age, but anywhere that truly matters is great. Modern bathrooms with powerful showers, beautiful master bedroom (please owner include photos on your listing), and fantastic pool. Also we were initially put off from booking as the photographed lounge furniture looked uncomfortable, however although basically decorated, the lounge also has traditional armchairs and a 2 seater sofa which were perfectly adequate. We also found the beds we used to be very comfortable but I understand this is very subjective. All in all we had a great stay considering the very competitive price we paid for a school holiday break.

  Reviewed by Jacqueline4.7★Aug 2024

• "The beds quality is appalling, we did not sleep well, plus one of the bed is hardly a double."

  .. the table outside was hardly standing, the chairs were crooked. The equipement of the kitchen is not great either, not even a peeler, ... no washing machine! it was very disappointing!

  We're disappointed to hear that you found the beds to be poor quality, just for the benefit of future guests there is a king sized double, a 4'6" double and 2 x 3 " singles. You may have struggled as there may have been more than 6 staying even though we state clearly that the cottage sleeps 6. It's strange that you thought the kitchen wasn't well equipped, perhaps if you had mentioned it when you came over to ask to use the pool outside of the contracted periods we could have done something about it. At the start of each season we run a check list of equipment and ensure there is enough cutlery etc but occasionally things get broken/go missing. If we know about it we can replace any item quickly. With regard to the washing machine we state in the property details that there isn't one. The outside furniture is made of teak and although not new is generally in good condition, however it's difficult to manage the use to which some guests put it to. As mentioned previously, if you had alerted us we could have done something about it. Property Owner

  Reviewed by Anne2.2★Aug 2024

• "Lovely property."

  Had an issue with items left in the property from before we stayed set of keys, used tissues, what has upset us the most was we found in the bed my son slept in was under the fitted sheet the top of a diabetic insulin needle top. Luckily I found it as if he did he could have touched the end where a needle was exposed and pricked himself. He then didnt want to saleep in the bed the rest of the holiday. Bare in mind we paid extra for cleaning once we left to be able to bring an extra dog whick i had absolute no issues with at all but seeing the cleaning isnt thorough its abit of a waste paying extra. Be an idea to speak or change who they ise to clean the property Overall place was nice pool lovely.

  So glad you liked the cottage, and thank you for bringing the issues to our attention. For the benefit of our future guests, please see the comments from our changeover team: "I can only apologise for something left in the drawers. These were the guests that left the place in a terrible condition. As regards the needle in the sheets, there was no way that came from us. It would have been caught by the dryer and the ironing would have melted the plastic". Now that they are aware, our changeover team will be extra vigilant for future guests. Property Owner

  Reviewed by Helen3.4★May 2024

• "After reading some of the previous feedback I was prepared for the possibility of some issues when we stayed at Downton Lodge."

  . However, I needn't have worried. We enjoyed our stay so much that we are already planning to rebook. The house is indeed a little tired in places, however being a grade ll listed building there will be many rules and regulations to navigate regarding its upkeep, and this needs to be taken into account.. The house was clean, full of character and well equipped. There are many little touches that show that love has gone into the house, and many efforts to make sure that the guests are comfortable. Pros - A lot more privacy around the pool area than I was expecting, aka not as overlooked as it first appears. The owner was lovely, and very accommodating. Especially when it came to use of the pool! The aga was a big plus point for me, having grown up with one I loved cooking on an aga again, and enjoyed showing it to my children who had never seen one. The sitting room, contrary to the pictures, does not only have conservatory furniture - but also has armchairs and a sofa. The showers are remarkably powerful. The best I've seen in a long time. When staying in holiday homes we normally find "bath towels" that don't look big enough to be away from their mother. The ones in Downton Lodge are huge, fluffy and good quality. The location is superb, within easy reach of the beach, shops, local towns and plenty of places to explore. Cons - just the one... The lack of a washing machine! To be fair I did know there wasn't one available when I booked, but I hadn't anticipated how much I would need one. Due to the pool and having 3 girls I found myself doing quite a few "handwashes", and while this isn't the biggest deal in the world - it would be nice not to have had to. Maybe the owners could think about installing one? As there is space... All in all, we had an amazing break away in a tranquil, beautiful setting. Thank you to the owner Karen. We look forward to visiting again soon!

  Hi Jane, We're so pleased you and your family enjoyed your stay with us. We'll be doing some repairs and renovations during the winter which we hope will address some of the tired areas. Look forward to seeing you again next year, All the Best, Karen & Abe Property Owner

  Reviewed by Jane4.1★Aug 2023

• "We had a wonderful break at Downton Lodge, the property was delightful, comfortable and well equipped with helpful hosts."

  Great position to explore the New Forest and the pool was a special treat.

  Dear Mark, Thank you so much for your comments, we really appreciate the feedback. We hope that if you consider holidaying in the New Forest again you'll stay with us, All the Best, Karen & Abe Property Owner

  Reviewed by Mark5.0★Jul 2023

• "We very much enjoyed our stay here."

  We found the accommodation charming and spacious. Kitchen was well equipped. My only quibble (and it’s a very small one) was that it was advertised as dog friendly but the garden at the front was not enclosed and I could not leave the dog alone outside for any time. Good location lots of easy to reach facilities.

  Dear Deborah, We're so pleased you enjoyed your stay, we're really trying to make staying at Downton Lodge as pleasant an experience as possible. Your comment regarding the front garden is really appreciated and we're now in the process of getting it enclosed so that future guests with dogs can have peace of mind. We wish you all the best, and if you happen to be in the area again please pop in for a cuppa! All the Best, Karen & Abe Property Owner

  Reviewed by Deborah4.7★Jun 2023

• "Totally upset with the accommodation only booked because my grandchildren were coming for the weekend and I knew they would love the pool."

  It certainly wasn’t the stated 82 degrees they got in but had to get out again far too cold. The house is very basic and needs painting. If my son and grandchildren weren’t coming I would have turned around and walked back out. The house needs help ,as a company I really don’t know why you have given it 4.7 stars. It’s no excuse saying it’s a listed building you are allowed to decorate and boy does it need it. The owner did try to help with the temperature of the pool but the day we left it still wasn’t up to stated temperature. Very disappointed!!!

  Dear Julie, Thank you for your feedback. It does seem to be a case of trying to do someone a favour which backfires. We don't normally open the pool at weekends to guests, but as you made the request we thought we'd try and accommodate you. The heating for it has only just been turned on and it appears there was an unforeseen issue with the pool boiler which we addressed immediately. Although it tends to average 80 degrees, it can never be guaranteed. Your grandchildren and son certainly seemed it be enjoying it even if it wasn't as warm as it could be. Clearly you were disappointed and this may have jaundiced your view of our house and in that situation it's easy to be less tolerant of any faults. We acknowledge it isn't perfect but we don't advertise it as 5* accommodation, and it's priced accordingly, however, some of the rooms have recently been re-decorated. On the bright side, I think you'll agree, it is in a great location to enjoy the New Forest and the beaches at Milford on Sea and Highcliffe, the yacht clubs in Lymington, The Beaulieu Motor Museum, the list of fantastic things to do is endless. Property Owner

  Reviewed by Julie1.6★May 2023

• "We have really mixed feelings about Downton Lodge as we really enjoyed some parts (good location - the pool was fab in the hot weather - the showers were amazing - comfy beds etc) but were a little disappointed with other parts (generally it’s very dark throughout - kitchen not well equipped - garden/conservatory furniture used in the lounge very uncomfortable)."

  Felt like it needed a good clean too - and maybe a bit of an update as it is certainly quite “tired” in various places (which is contrary to the listing which we felt set us up for disappointment on arrival sadly). However we can appreciate that it’s a great house for the right people but perhaps just not for a young family like we have.

  Dear Jeremy, Thank you very much for your feedback. We really appreciate it when our guests leave a review as it helps to focus on areas where we can improve. Our aim is to try and ensure anyone who stays in our cottage has the best possible experience. We were a little surprised at your comment regarding the kitchen as it has all the equipment needed for general cooking, but maybe you needed specific items for a particular cuisine? The property is rated as 3* to manage expectations therefore may not have been as luxurious as you were hoping, it’s priced accordingly, however it receives a thorough deep clean before every guest arrives. It is a little “tired” due to it being a listed building, but we are slowly improving it as and when the appropriate craftsmen become available. We do, however, try to ensure everything works, we’re glad you found that to be the case. The majority of our guests tend to be young families, the pool is a big draw, and we keep it at a comfortable 80*F, so even if the weather isn’t so good, it’s still fun in the pool. If you’re ever in the area again, why not pop is and see how much it’s changed? Abe & Karen Property Owner

  Reviewed by Jeremy3.1★Aug 2022

• "Lovely cottage with ample room/ facilities for 6 people."

  Owners very accommodating and we were able to use the pool as often as we liked. Parking is a little restricted if you have two big cars. Had never used an aga before so some instructions would have been good. The cleaners weren’t brilliant more care needed in the bathrooms and food was left in the kitchen presumably by the previous occupants. The shower in the main bathroom was temperamental It’s a lovely old cottage with rustic charm and a great kitchen. Couldn’t fault the master bedroom either. Fantastic location for staying in the New Forest. Would definitely go back.

  Dear Lorraine, Thank you for your comments, they really help us to try and improve in the areas that matter most to our guests. We'll make sure the shower is fixed during the next maintenance window, and we'll try to ensure the cleaners are a little more diligent. We'll write some notes for using the Aga to help future guests, but if you come again we'll be happy to give you some tips on how to make the most of it. Abe & Karen Property Owner

  Reviewed by Lorraine4.7★Jul 2022

• "The Owner was extremely helpful and amenable."

  The lodge is very well situated for exploring the New Forest area and was very well equipped. The pool was a fabulous attraction given the record breaking temperatures during our stay. The lodge is quirky and lived in but suited our needs.

  Dear Gerard, We really appreciate your comments, thank you. We are always trying to improve things although we are a little restricted due to the building being listed. We're so glad you enjoyed the pool, and if you're ever in the New Forest again please don't hesitate to pop by. Abe & Karen Property Owner

  Reviewed by Gerard4.7★Jul 2022

• "We had a wonderful stay at the delightful Downton Lodge."

  A gorgeous character listed cottage which is annexed to the main house where the owners live. The cottage is very spacious with a large kitchen packed with everything you could possibly need. The beds are v comfy and great power showers! There are plenty of games to play in the Lounge. And there is the added bonus of a lovely pool which we used every day. The owner Karen is extremely helpful and made us feel very welcome. I highly recommend it.

  Dear Tracy It was a real pleasure having you to stay in the annex. Whenever you're around this area please do call in, it would be lovely to see you again. Property Owner

  Reviewed by Tracy5.0★Jul 2022

• "We had a great family holiday at this pretty cottage, which was very well equipped with everything we needed for a really comfortable week away."

  We especially enjoyed the pool and I enjoyed using an Aga for the first time and got to grips with it quickly after some instruction from Karen on our arrival! As a party of 6 adults and one infant, the 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and 2 separate toilets worked very well. Good position for touring the New Forest and the coast. We hope to return.

  Dear Ian We are so pleased you enjoyed your stay. We look forward to you coming back and I'll make sure I'm around to give more tips on how to make the best use of the Aga! Property Owner

  Reviewed by Ian5.0★Jun 2022

• "We had a fantastic time celebrating the Jubilee weekend at this lovely property."

  It was rustic and cute and the pool was much appreciated. As my sister said, you should have more pictures to show off how beautiful this property is.

  Dear Simon, We are so pleased you enjoyed your stay, and thank you for your comments, we're still fairly new to holiday lets so we're learning as we go. We'll take your advice and get more pictures. We do hope you'll return and maybe next time we'll share a glass or two, All the Best, Abe & Karen Property Owner

  Reviewed by Simon5.0★Jun 2022

• "We loved the cottage."

  It was such a treat to enjoy the use of an Aga. Our kids enjoyed the board games and the range of TV channels. We really hope to come back again soon.

  Reviewed by Ronnie5.0★Mar 2022

• "We really enjoyed our 3 night stay."

  The cottage was spacious warm and comfortable. We were very pleasantly surprised as to how well the kitchen was stocked with crockery and utensils. A very pleasant place to stay.

  Reviewed by Jane5.0★Jan 2022

• "Lovely cottage in great location near to New Forest and the coast."

  Having a heated outdoor pool was a real bonus.

  Reviewed by Gerard5.0★Aug 2021

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