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The Pool House

(Ref. 1085534)

Bendish near Whitwell, Hertfordshire, Cambridgeshire Show on map

4.9

Sykes rating

  • 6 Guests

  • 3 Bedrooms

  • 3 Bathrooms

  • Pets Yes

Features

  • Swimming pool
  • Garden / Patio
  • Cot available
  • Highchair available
  • Washing machine
  • Dishwasher
  • Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing
Cleanliness
Comfort
Facilities and Maintenance
  • All reviews
  • pool (28)
  • house (21)
  • lovely (20)
  • stay (19)
  • sandy (17)
  • our (16)

39 Customer Reviews

  • "Lovely place for a holiday!"

    The pool is amazing for children and being able to feed animals as much as they liked - had the best time ever! Would recommend - only thing that was a problem was there weren’t any blinds in the third bedroom and so my young daughter wasn’t woken up at the crack of dawn / could get to sleep they had to share a room - which never goes that well. My youngest fell down the steps of the outhouse seating area (her fault!) but into stinging nettles that were covering most of the steps apart from one entrance to the seats which is a bit of a hazard. Everything else - fantastic!

    Reviewed by Holly4.1Aug 2024

  • "Lovely property in very rural area."

    Got an Asda shop on the first day and saved us going out and about. Cottage was very tastefully decorated and immaculately clean. Everything you could need was supplie. We had the best week because of the weather. We dipped in and out of the pool all day. There is flight path noise but you will get used to this I think. Loved the alpacas they were so cute. We ate al fresco each evening and also used bbq.. would highly recommend and would stay again…

    It was lovely to have your family to stay. The pool came into it’s own for hottest week this year. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Kathy5.0Jul 2024

  • "This was our second stay at the Pool House, and it was again excellent."

    The heated pool allowed for some wonderful family times, and we really appreciated the comfort, modern amenities and beautiful rural location. Our hosts were very friendly and accommodating and hopefully we will be back.

    Reviewed by Paul5.0Jul 2024

  • "Beautiful property with everything you could want."

    Pool is wonderful and great for an end of day dip. Close to Watford and Luton for easy access to London. Short drive to Cambridge or Knebworth for a great day out. Hosts are brilliant, helpful and could not do enough to make sure your stay is perfect.

    Reviewed by Mike5.0Jun 2024

  • "We had a great time staying at the pool house, thanks for your hospitality."

    The kids enjoyed seeing the alpacas, horses and Dandy the dog!

    Reviewed by Andrew5.0May 2024

  • "We really liked the house and the owners!"

    The house was clean comfortable and had a big complete kitchen. Only a few smal things of attention: We could here the planes from Luton very loudly in the morning and during the evening. In morning the owners dog would bark/cry shortly around 7.30. For us not big issues we would come back here if we went for a holiday in this area again!

    Delightful family. Sorry about Dandy barking . Property Owner

    Reviewed by Petra5.0Dec 2023

  • "A beautiful setting and high end facilities throughout."

    A warm welcome from the owners and all together perfect

    Lovely to meet you Cate and best wishes for your future in your new home. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Catherine5.0Sep 2023

  • "We had a very relaxing and comfortable stay."

    Essentials available. Fitted out to a high quality. Safe parking. Host available but not intrusive. Could easily have stayed another week. Highly recommend.

    Thank you for your positive feedback regards Sandy Property Owner

    Reviewed by David5.0Sep 2023

  • "A fantastic place, wild deer right out the window on several nights."

    Owners couldn't be more helpful.

    Lovely family so pleased they enjoyed their stay. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Scott5.0Aug 2023

  • "A beautiful rural setting in the midst of the countryside within easy striking distance of lots of historic and fun sites for our grandchildren."

    The pool was a joy much enjoyed by all. The house itself had everything we could possibly have needed. The owners were absolutely super ensuring our stay was trouble free and enjoyable. A great weeks stay.

    It was an absolute pleasure to have Bhu and her family to stay here. So glad they had some good weather days and enjoyed the pool. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Bhupinder5.0Aug 2023

  • "Lovely private setting with an abundance of wildlife."

    Nice pool but not heated. A solar cover does not constitute a heated swimming pool. Accommodation was ideal but a pity it is on the flightpath into Luton airport.

    Reviewed by Brian3.1Jul 2023

  • "First of all super hosts Sandie and Barrie."

    ..thank you.. An amazing property well equiped and modern. We all loved the pool. The garden is very spacious Alfie our cavapoo loved the freedom. Although the property is fairly remote its a fantastic base to visit London (via Luton Parkway 16mins and the Thames link which takes 23mins) Cambridge and St Albans are only a short drive away also. Hitchen nearby has lovely cafes and plenty to see and do. Local village Whitwell has a small convenience store which was handy. St Albans has fabulous market days. We were punting in Cambridge in lovely sunshine that was highlight for us. Recommend an online supermarket shop for arrival. The fridge freezer is huge and take a good stock up. Just first class. We are already booked for next year.. Craig family

    Delightful family as guests. So glad they had some sunshine to enjoy the pool. Looking forward to welcoming them back next year. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Grant5.0Jul 2023

  • "Our second time staying at The Pool House and it was just as lovely as we remembered."

    You couldn't ask for anything more in a holiday cottage. Thanks again, Sandy, we'll see you next year!

    Again a delight to have your family to stay. Alfie misses Dan especially and the horses enjoyed all the treats you gave them. See you again. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Louise5.0Jun 2023

  • "Lovely spotless holiday house in a quiet rural location, a credit to the owners."

    Everything you need in the kitchen although recycling boxes would be useful, super bathrooms, plenty of towels and comfortable beds. Had a Tesco shop delivered at 4pm on our first day which was perfect and meant we could have a coffee after our three hour drive. Secure beautiful garden for the dog with plenty of space to run around. Great shopping and cafés nearby. Welwyn Garden City and Hitchin worth a visit. We are in our 60’s, 70’s and 80’s so the stairs, which we all found difficult, would benefit from a handrail. The pool was freezing, so far too cold for us to use, which was a great shame as a heated pool was a booking factor for us, and the weather was gorgeous all week. Lovely walks in the surrounding countryside with lots of wildlife to see. Perfect outside dining area which was useful as the stools at the breakfast bar are difficult to use for the elderly. Good Wi-Fi and Smart TV. Good quality sunbeds. All in all a lovely holiday home.

    Thank you for your feedback. Sorry the pool was cooler than you expected. It is difficult to keep temperatures up when nights are so cold. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Janet4.7Jun 2023

  • "A lovely warm welcome from Sandy and Baz when we arrived at their beautifully appointed Pool House."

    We felt at home immediately in the lovely rural surroundings and enjoyed watching out for the wild life in the garden every day - deer, hares, pheasants etc. and loved visiting the owners' alpacas. We had a brilliant week, travelling to London by train (just a 25 minute ride direct to Greenwich) and enjoyed the splendour of Cambridge, as well as exploring many of the beautiful villages in the area. Hitchen was definitely our favourite, with its individual shops and so many great places to eat. The local people were so friendly and helpful. Thank you Sandy and Baz for your hospitality and for making our holiday a week to remember. We will definitely be back. Carol, Carl and Joshua

    Carole Carl and Joshua were a delight to have stay with us for the past week. They were so interesting to talk to. They would be so welcome to return anytime. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Carol5.0Apr 2023

  • "Lovely cottage with everything you need."

    We had a very nice stay.

    Lovely family left the pool house clean and tidy. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Wilfred5.0Apr 2023

  • "As we were down helping family renovate their home."

    The Pool House was the ideal place to come away and spend a restful and relaxing evening. Very comfortable and clean with everything provided. Sandy is an excellent and extremely accommodating host. Perfect place to stay as well for accommodating our two dogs who were with us. Some great walks especially straight out the door.

    Delightful family who left the house immaculate on their departure. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Mark5.0Jan 2023

  • "The Pool House was a wonderful property."

    We would certainly stay here again when visiting the area. I can imagine it would be even better staying in the summer and getting to enjoy the outside activities and pool. Wonderful and attentive host also! Thank you so much

    The pleasure was all ours. Great family to stay over Christmas. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Alan5.0Dec 2022

  • "We had a lovely time at this property, very clean and well maintained and owners very friendly."

    Lovely guests. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Sharon5.0Nov 2022

  • "The Pool House is in a beautiful location, if you want stunning views, amazing walks and a great place to access major towns and cities this is the place to stay."

    We had a very warm welcome on arrival and settled in quickly, there is everything you need to have an enjoyable, comfortable stay. We had a great time here exploring and would highly recommend.

    Reviewed by Angela5.0Oct 2022

  • "Sandy and Baz were lovely hosts who made us feel incredibly welcome from the second we arrived."

    The property is stunning, extremely clean and well equipped. We were also encouraged to feed the goats, alpacas and horses from the enormous apple tree in the centre of the grounds which quickly became the highlight of the day. We had such a good time, we're booked in again for next year already! Thank you for a wonderful break.

    Reviewed by Louise5.0Sep 2022

  • "Sandy & Baz are wonderful."

    The property is tastefully furnished and very comfortable. The pool was fantastic. I would not put anyone off renting this property as you will not be disappointed. 10 out of 10.

    You were a delightful family to stay. Would welcome you back anytime. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Jon5.0Aug 2022

  • "We had a lovely relaxing week at The Pool House."

    Sandy & her partner brilliant hosts. The facilities are well maintained, kitchen well equipped, washing machine , dryer, dishwasher all come in good use. Sandy provides you with ample towels, little toiletries and having 3 bathrooms was helpful with 2 teenagers

    So lovely to have your family here. So glad you enjoyed your stay. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Deborah5.0Jul 2022

  • "We were lucky enough to have had a fabulous stay here during the UK heatwave last week."

    Sandy was so friendly and accommodating, and had thought of everything to make our stay comfortable including fans in the bedrooms, and towels for the pool! Our children, aged 8 and 4 LOVED the pool and adored the animals. They were allowed to visit them as much as they liked, which was multiple times a day! We also saw several of the wild deer who live around the grounds. The house was spotless and the beds were very comfortable. We had some great days out too - Knebworth House and gardens was super - enough to keep us occupied all day, although the tea shop was disappointing and we recommend taking a picnic. Stockwood Park and Museum was very interesting, and free! The children enjoyed sitting in some of the real carriages. We travelled a little further out to Woburn Safari Park - another fab day for kids and again we were there all day. Hitchin is a lovely town with lots of independent shops, a great market and some really nice eateries. Recommend parking at St Mary's car park and just walking through the market or the churchyard to the shops. Found two lovely pubs to eat in - The White Horse in Tea Green, and The Rusty Gun in St Ippolyts. Both 10 min drive from The Pool House. The Rusty Gun was superb and you can even feed the piglets! If you get a chance, visit the British Schools Museum in Hitchin. There was a special event on when we went and we took part in a Victorian lesson which was brilliant fun and very educational for us and the children. Sandy has provided a few balls and an awesome lilo for the pool. We took some of our own inflatables and garden toys too, and also played table tennis in the barn several times. We were all so sad to leave and would have loved to stay another week! Thank you Sandy for making our holiday so relaxing and special. We will be back!

    It was a delight to have Charlotte and her family to stay. The pool came into its own during the heatwave. Welcome back anytime. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Charlotte5.0Jul 2022

  • "It should me mentioned that the property is on the flight path for Luton Airport with flights coming in to land day and all night."

    The breakfast bar is not fit for purpose as you can only sit on one side because of cupboards on the other. There should be a table and chairs. The pool and grounds were lovely and the toiletries that were provided were very nice.

    Reviewed by Gillian4.7Jul 2022

  • "Sandy was the most amazing host!"

    She made us feel so welcome and at home. Her property, land and animals made the whole stay feel very wholesome, which we all appreciated and loved. The pool is so much fun! My boys were in heaven.

    It was an absolute pleasure to welcome Kellie and her family to the farm. So glad they enjoyed their short break here. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Kellie5.0Jul 2022

  • "Sandy is an excellent host nothing was too much for her."

    The children enjoyed the wildlife and the swimming pool. We enjoyed our stay very much, the Pool House is lovely.

    Delightful family to have stay they left the house so clean and tidy. They thought they had booked for Herefordshire but Hertfordshire proved it’s a great destination. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Roy5.0Jun 2022

  • "Had a lovely week at the pool house I only have one negative and I would say it should be listed as not disabled friendly but that is purely because we have a disabled person in our party."

    The property and its surrounding are beautiful, our host was on hand but not intrusive … we had a good week thank you

    You were lovely guests Property Owner

    Reviewed by Helen5.0Jun 2022

  • "Sandy was a fantastic host."

    She went the extra mile to make sure we felt welcome. Highly recommended. Nips

    Reviewed by James5.0Jun 2022

  • "Our family with two young toddlers had a lovely stay at the Pool House, and Sandy is so welcoming and helpful."

    The farm is idyllic, and perfectly located for us as we wanted a peaceful break within proximity of varous locations in Herts and London. Plenty opportunity for countryside walking nearby, and the house is wonderfully comfortable and well-equipped. We would love to revisit in future.

    Lovely family would welcome them back anytime. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Stephanie4.4May 2022

  • "We thoroughly enjoyed our stay, not just a beautiful place, but also such a welcoming host."

    We will definitely revisit the Pool House. Highly recommended, by us and our two doggies.

    Gemma and her family were great guests. I would love to welcome them back to the Pool House. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Gemma5.0Mar 2022

  • "We all had a fantastic weekend staying at The Pool House!"

    The house was pristine clean and was equipped with everything you could possibly need during your stay. The owner Sandy went above and beyond to ensure we had everything we needed and was great at interacting with our children, letting them check the chicken hut for eggs in the morning and letting us all explore the gardens and animals. A great place to stay for a relaxing weekend with friends - thank you!

    It was an absolute pleasure having Kerry and family to stay. So glad my hens are back laying! Property Owner

    Reviewed by Kerry5.0Mar 2022

  • "Lovely cottage with superb grounds."

    A dining table would have been more user friendly for 6 diners than the island unit. Really comfortable settees in the lounge.

    Delightful guests who fully appreciated the location and facilities of the Pool House. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Sandra5.0Feb 2022

  • "We had a lovely weekend at the Pool House."

    Sandy the owner is very friendly, thoughtful and helpful. We feel the experience is truly Home-From-Home. The house is specious, clean, airing, and with all the facilities that a home could offer. The extra bonus is a lovely small holding farm with greens and sweet animals around. It is a hidden treasured place in a safe and quiet countryside but is also so close to the towns nearby. We will definitely return and spend more of our valuable time in the Pool House in the future.

    Reviewed by Dan5.0Dec 2021

  • "Property was amazing, immaculate, comfy and everything you would need for your stay."

    The host Sandy was so accommodating and anything you needed you just had to ask. The grounds were so vast and beautiful. We will definitely return.

    Claire and her family were a delight as guests. The Pool House was left in an immaculate way on their departure. Look forward to welcoming them back anytime. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Claire5.0Nov 2021

  • "A lovely house and really convenient stay!"

    The gardens were a lovely space with chance to see Alpacas! The kitchen facilities were great and the bathrooms upstairs were very nice with big big showers and freestanding bath! Would love to visit in summer when the pool is open!

    Reviewed by Amy4.7Nov 2021

  • "We enjoyed our stay at the Pool House."

    Sandy was an excellent host - friendly, approachable and helpful without being intrusive. The house was warm and comfortable and tastefully furnished to a high standard. We really appreciated the fact that some items such as washing up liquid etc were provided and Sandy had also included a welcome pack. The area is very quiet and peaceful with beautiful countryside around. One does hear the occasional plane coming into land at Luton Airport but they were infrequent during our stay. A relaxing and peaceful break.

    Reviewed by Anne4.7Oct 2021

  • "It is a great place to find some peace and quiet."

    The farm is beautiful with lots of lovely animals and Sandy is a great host. She was very helpful from the beginning. Thank you Muge

    Reviewed by Muge5.0Sep 2021

  • "We loved our stay at the Pool House, Sandy was an excellent host & went above & beyond to make our stay comfortable and enjoyable."

    The alpacas & chickens were a hit with our daughter as well as the fresh eggs & apples we picked from the orchard! The house has everything you need and more, thank you for a wonderful break.

    Reviewed by Isobel5.0Sep 2021

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Summary

  • Three bedrooms: 1 x double with en-suite bathroom with roll-top bath, walk-in shower, basin, heated towel rail and WC, 1 x double with Jack-and-Jill access to shower room, 1 x single with pull-out trundle bed and Jack-and-Jill access to shower room
  • Shower room with walk-in shower, basin and WC
  • Ground-floor basin and WC
  • Kitchen
  • Sitting room
  • Please note: This property can sleep a maximum of 4 adults only
  • Electric central heating
  • Electric range oven and hob, microwave, American-style fridge/freezer, washing machine, dishwasher
  • Smart TV, WiFi
  • Fuel and power inc. in rent
  • Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
  • Travel cot and highchair available
  • Ample off-road parking
  • Enclosed patio with furniture and access to swimming pool and shared garden with duck pond and paddocks
  • Two well-behaved pets welcome
  • Sorry, no smoking
  • Shop 1.3 miles, pub 1.4 miles
  • Note: There is an unfenced pond, please ensure children are supervised at all times
  • Note: The owner has goats, alpacas and horses on-site, please take care
  • Note: Heated pool available from June - September Pool House is on a rural farm and in winter Wellington boots are necessary for dog walks.

The property

Whitwell 1.3 miles.

Nestled within the generous grounds of the owners home in the peaceful hamlet of Bendish rests this stylish property, The Pool House.

Idyllically positioned in a rural setting and enveloped by scenic countryside, The Pool House makes for a lovely base to enjoy an escape from reality with both family and friends.

Renovated to a high standard with quality fittings and furnishings and offering a luxurious setting for a staycation, park up on your private driveway before unloading your belongings and making your way inside your new home-from-home for the duration of your trip.

Enter the property through the spacious kitchen, beautifully-presented with a gleaming and contemporary interior, stylishly tiled throughout and home to an elegant island taking centre stage in the sociable space.

Make use of the range of modern amenities provided, including a handy dishwasher so there's no time wasted doing the washing up, and gather together with your loved ones to indulge in a heart-warming meal, or carry the conversation outdoors for a spot of alfresco dining in the peaceful setting of your private courtyard.

Soak in the last of the evening sun as you recount the day's adventures over a bottle of wine before heading back indoors to prepare for bed.

Climb the stairs to the first floor where you'll find the master bedroom, boasting a contemporary en-suite bathroom fit with a bath and a walk-in shower, so you can choose between a luxurious soak or a quick rinse, as well as a further double and single bedroom benefiting from Jack-and-Jill access to the shower room.

In the morning, kick-start your day by swimming a few lengths in the pool, or walk amongst the dew with a scenic stroll through the landscaped gardens surrounding the owners home, stopping to feed the ducks and meet the goats, alpacas and horses as they roam.

A short journey from your doorstep will bring you into the heart of the nearby village of Whitwell, traditionally decorated with half-timbered and early brick houses dating back to the 18th century; here you'll find your local amenities, including a well-stocked convenience store to pick up and last-minute essentials and a traditional country pub to enjoy an evening tipple or a bite to eat.

Keep entertained with a visit to the bustling town of Luton, where you can treat yourself to a spot of retail therapy at The Mall, immerse yourself in the regional history on display at Stockwood Discovery Centre, or watch the world go by amongst the tranquil grounds of Wardown Park.

Just outside the town is ZSL Whipsnade Zoo, stretching over 600 acres and playing home to a staggering 2500 animals; come face-to-face with the Giraffes or try your hand at zoo-keeping with a thrilling experience day!

Further afield is the charming market town of Hitchin, home to two fascinating museums outlining both local and national history; make a splash at the outdoor swimming pool, catch a spot of live sport at Hitchin Town Football Club, or board the train and explore the delights of the surrounding area.

With Luton Airport Parkway train station around 12 minutes from the property, this provides access to London within around 20 minutes.

For a truly unforgettable getaway, choose The Pool House.

Note: This property has a Good Housekeeping bond of £300.

View on map

About the location

WHITWELL, HERTFORDSHIRE

Hitchin 6.5 miles; Luton 8.2 miles; Stevenage 8.2 miles; Hatfield 10.3 miles.

The charming village of Whitwell is situated in the picturesque county of Hertfordshire, a stone's throw away from the attractive market town of Hitchin. Resting on an area of flat elevated land known as a tableland, a spur of the Chilterns, Whitwell towers 122m above sea level. Traditionally decorated in half-timbered and early brick houses dating back to the 18th century, the village plays host to a handful of essential amenities, including a well-stocked convenience store, a quaint tea room and a traditional country pub. A wider variety of amenities can be found in the town of Hitchin, a short distance away, along with a handful of attractions to keep you entertained; make a splash at the outdoor swimming pool, discover the fascinating heritage on display at the museums, or get dressed to the nines and enjoy a vibrant night on the town. Within easy reach is the bustling town of Stevenage, home to an array of attractions including Stevenage Museum and the scenic landscape of Fairlands Valley Park; a lovely spot for a leisurely stroll or a thrilling watersport activity. Whitwell is idylically positioned to discover the delights of Hertfordshire.

Please Note: Pool House is on a rural farm and in winter Wellington
boots are necessary for dog walks.

Please note: The bathroom has had a complete refurbishment, photos are pending

Please note: This property can sleep a maximum of 4 adults only

This property offers the following short breaks:

  • Winter
  • Off-season
  • Last minute
  • Christmas