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"The cottage is in a lovely location and very pretty to look at especially the gardens."
The parking is easy and the property is well situated for exploring Hawkshead. The view from the lounge is beautiful. It is a perfect size for a small family or three adults.
The downsides are the terrible damp smell in the ground floor bedrooms. We left a night early to avoid another sleep in the house. The twin room smells especially damp. The upstairs smelt very strongly of wet dog. The signage all over the property is excessive and the sign explaining that everything has been photographed for evidence of damage makes you feel uncomfortable and takes the shine off the holiday as you dare not use the property through fear of rule breaking.
Thank you for your response.
This is a popular Cottage and it’s in a great location. It offers easy access to Hawkshead and the numerous activities in the area and is accessible to Grizedale forest to take full advantage of all that is offered there. We would agree with Guests that it offers great views from the upstairs living room.
All notices in the cottage we believe are necessary and are displayed very discreetly to assist all Guests during their stay. This covers information on waste collection, housekeeping arrangements, use of Broadband, electrical appliances and information on the heating system etc.
As regards to the comments made in the feedback from the Guests that ‘everything has been photographed for evidence of damage’. This statement is factually incorrect. The extract from the notice being commented upon is provided by the Cleaning Company and reads as follows:
‘Please Note – All our housekeepers take comprehensive photographs of the property after each clean, prior to our guests’ arrival. Photographs are held on file in order to protect the integrity of company employees and allay Guests’ concerns’.
Photographs are taken by the Housekeepers for the Cleaning Company’s benefit, so that there is a visual record that the cottage has been cleaned & presented properly in readiness for each visiting Guest. This is self explanatory and does not need further comment.
As regard extraneous damp smells. The owners were staying at the property the week before the Guests arrival, to undertake maintenance work. During the owners visit a full ‘deep clean’ was carried out and there were no obvious signs of odours ‘of damp or wet dog’ as described in these comments. We are at a loss as to where the damp smell has come from, 24 hours of vacating the property, particularly during a period of warm / dry weather.
Guests are encouraged to make contact with housekeeping if there are any concerns during their stay. There was no contact with Housekeeping during the Guests stay regarding any of the above concerns.
As Owners we take a lot of effort to maintain the standards of housekeeping & presentation of this Cottage, which we know Guest's expect to see on their arrival.
We wish all visiting Guest's a safe & relaxing stay
Property Owner
Reviewed by Jennifer3.4★Jul 2024
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"This property is in a great location, being a short walk into Hawkshead - a lovely village with a few excellent pubs, a great chip shop and a small supermarket."
It’s great base to explore the area. The property opens onto a busy main road. It was smaller than expected, 4 people in the upstairs area in an evening is a squeeze. It was clean. It’s simply decorated but has everything that we needed. The bedrooms are small, one of the two so small that the door doesn’t fully open past the bed. In the small upstairs area I counted nine laminated messages from the owner. I personally find this very unwelcoming, especially here given the tome of the messaging one of which states that the cottage the condition of the property has been photographed prior to your arrival. Welcome! We had a nice stay but the experience was soured when monies were deducted for damage that we knew nothing at all about. It seems a mirror had fallen from a wall and damaged a plug socket. It didn’t happen while we were there, but we were charged for it anyway, There was no engagement on it when I asked for better information about which room etc this had happened in. The reality was that we were charged for something that was nothing to do with us. Most likely the mirror fell because it was poorly hung, or perhaps one of the many heavy vehicles that use the small road outside the house caused a vibration leading to it falling. I’ve no idea, but it didnt happen when we there. My advice if you book here is to take a leaf out of the owners book and photograph the place - you might need it to defend yourself later.
This is a popular Cottage. Its location offers a short walk into Hawkshead and easy access to the numerous activities offered in the nearby area and in Grizedale forest.
All notices in the cottage are displayed discreetly to assist Guests on arrival & offer any support if required during their stay, and help them settle in. The photographs are taken by Cleaners to help alleviate any possible issues raised by Guests on arrival. Also, Guests are encouraged to make contact with housekeeping to highlight any concerns during their stay.
Concerns were raised by Housekeeping on change-over, after the Guests had left. Damage had occurred to a mirror and electric sockets in the double bedroom. The Mirror had fallen off the wall from its secured mountings. The wall plaster was intact and the screws supporting the mirror were not loose, and the fittings within the Mirror to support it were not damaged.
The mirror concerned, was firmly attached to the wall by screws and would have required a lifting action to dislodge from the wall. The suggestion that the mirror dropped off the wall as a result of local traffic passing is not physically possible.
The costs of the rectification from damages have mainly been absorbed by the Owners and a modest charge has been passed onto the Guest, from their stay. We believe this is fair as the damage occurred during the Guests stay.
As Owners we take a lot of effort to maintain the standards of housekeeping & presentation of this Cottage, which we know Guest's expect to see on their arrival.
We wish all visiting Guest's a safe & relaxing stay.
Property Owner
Reviewed by Ben3.1★May 2024
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"This is a lovely cottage in an excellent location."
Very clean and well maintained. Plenty of equipment. Small suggestion that a cleaning cloth and a couple of dishwasher tablets could be available for use. Otherwise we had everything we needed. We picked up a leaflet of circular walks from The Queens Head pub. Might be nice if a few of these were in the cottage as the walks were great. Thank you for a lovely stay.
Many thanks for your lovely comments.
We leave as many leaflets as can without cluttering uo the cottage & guests do like see other Guests recommendations for walks , cycling , fishing & places to eat .
The cottage does have lovely views & guests do appreciate the quick walk into Hawkshead.
Come again soon.
Property Owner
Reviewed by Elizabeth5.0★Jun 2023
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"Hi, this was a lovely property and in a beautiful location."
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and would stay again. However I'm not sure if you already know this as it didn't work from the day we arrived for the entire break but there is no satellite signal at all. We assumed the weather at first but then it became obvious that it was something else like maybe the dish is out of alignment?
Thanks
Reviewed by Rick4.4★Mar 2023
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"Wifi password in folder/visitor book is wrong."
Password on actual router correct.
Very tight in room with double bed. Ok for adult and toddler with bed pushed against one wall.
Bike storage described as lockable but not obvious how to secure bikes anywhere.
Very pleasant stay overall, nice lake walk nearby for evening strolls
Reviewed by Katherine3.8★Jul 2022
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"A charming little cottage in a fantastic position within easy distance of facilities and shops and close to many local attractions."
We thoroughly enjoyed the lovely garden and sat watching the farmer now then bale the grass in the fields opposite!
Reviewed by Jane4.4★Jun 2022
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"Enjoyed our stay."
Beautiful countryside and close enough to town to avoid the car for many events. One of the best ice cream stops we have ever found in walking distance.
Reviewed by Charles5.0★Jun 2022
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"Fabulous cottage in a superb location made for an idyllic base for our short stay ."
Information prior to arrival was concise and easy to follow . Will definitely come again .
Reviewed by Suzanne5.0★Jun 2022
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"My partner and I spent a lovely week at the cottage which is a short walk from Hawkshead and is near several pubs and shops."
It is also ideally located for Esthwaite Water, Windermere and Coniston. I also enjoyed a morning run up Latterbarrow. The cottage has wonderful views and it was great seeing the lambs in the field opposite.
The facilities were spot on for the two of us and the log burner was perfect after a long walk or to shelter from the inevitable lake district rain. We will definitely recommend the cottage to others.
Reviewed by Paul5.0★Mar 2022
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"Lovely cosy cottage situated close to beautiful village of Hawkshead which is just a 5 min walk away."
The cottage itself has everything you need including log burner - great for cold winters evenings. The main bedroom has a lovely comfortable bed although the room itself is quite snug and space is right. The other issue is that the shower isn’t very powerful although it does the job ok. The cottage is well laid out abd the living area is on the first floor enabling great views toward Esthwaite Water. The area itself is brilliant for various walks and great country scenery. The owner was very responsive in sorting out a hearing issue when we arrived. So all in all really enjoyed our stay - great value and we’d definitely stay again.
Reviewed by Anthony4.4★Jan 2022
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"You could get the property very cosy and we appreciated the bike storage and the heated drying rack."
2 people actually stayed which was just as well because I could not have climbed easily in and out of the double bed, Again because there were 2 of us, we didn’t have to use the sofa. Which as other reviewers have said, is too inclined to be comfortable, even with cushions.
It is right on the road but we knew that. You are aware of it but it is made worse because people use the turning immediately opposite, to pull in and check directions. They then usual turn around, as they have missed the junction to Grizedale. This is possibly because the road signs are not very visible and in fact pointing the wrong way. Correcting this would help. The cottage is located in a very good position for exploring on foot and bike.
Reviewed by Diane3.4★Oct 2021
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"The cottage was top notch."
...very comfortable beds, kitchen had everything we needed and bathroom was wonderfully clean. Perhaps the only thing were the sofas, a bit uncomfortable but the rest of the cottage more than made up for it! We loved the fact that it was so close to Hawkshead, a fabulous little village.
Reviewed by Karen5.0★Jun 2021
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"Lovely cottage only a short walk from the town, well equipped with everything we needed."
our main disappointment was the lack of garden furniture to sit out on in the lovely sunshine we had.
We found the property clean but it looks like it needed a good dusting around which had not been done.
We would book again as we really enjoyed our stay.
Reviewed by Elaine4.1★Jun 2021
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"We totally echo the positive and constructive sentiments expressed by Mrs Gaskell , who stayed before us."
In addition , the road is very busy , and directly opposite the cottage, is a road leading to a B&B in daily frequent use and with cars turning around.
As bedrooms are on ground level , light from passing traffic shines through blinds so ,sleep disturbed.
In adjoining property , the sound of drilling and banging to install central heating , disturbed the peace and relaxation.
Not a property we would personally choose again.
Reviewed by David3.1★May 2021
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"Good points kitchen very well stocked with equipment."
Cottage was very warm. Excellent bathroom. Nice garden.
Not so good...kitchen was so well stocked there was only one cupboard for our groceries. Bins in the way of the appliances.
Bedrooms too cramped, doors to each bedroom do not open properly due to hitting the beds and I believe in a fire this would be a hazard trying to escape quickly in the dark.I also believe a larger person would struggle to get in the rooms easily.
2 red seats in the lounger are incredibly uncomfortable after a while. They need more comfortable armchairs.
Tv was incredibly difficult to set up. 4 remote controls is ridiculous. Instructions too brief, we wasted an hour trying to get everything to connect.
Cottage description needs a warning if young children are staying about it opening onto a road with fast cars coming down the hill.
Reviewed by Margaret3.8★May 2021
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"The photos of the cottage made it actually look bigger then what it was but that was not an issue just made it a little cosy."
Although not big the cottage could do with some decent comfortable furniture as the furniture that is there is uncomfortable when sat for a longer period. Other then that the cottage had everything we needed and is a good base. Only 5 mins walk to Hawkshead village which has plenty of pubs and food places.
Reviewed by Craig2.8★Oct 2020
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"This was our second stay at this cottage, we had if for a week over new year and loved it so much that we booked two weeks in August."
It is perfectly situated to walk into Hawkshead, and the surrounding parts of the lakes, the views are amazing and this time as the weather was so nice we got to enjoy the lovely garden, which was a real bonus. The cottage is fully equipped with everything you could need, my only gripe is we could not get thee wi-fi to connect, despite using the password given it would just not connect, but apart from that everything was wonderful.
We will certainly be back again!
Reviewed by Emma5.0★Aug 2020
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"Beautiful cottage in marvellous location."
Extremely well equipped, clean and gorgeously presented. Very comfortable and cosy, even during Storm Dennis
Reviewed by Carol5.0★Feb 2020
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"A fabulous little cottage, in a great location."
Everything you could possible need was provided. Would definitely return.
Reviewed by Karen5.0★Oct 2019
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"Cottage was well appointed and of an excellent standard - but the bedrooms were very small - double room bed only accessed from one side - think this should be made clear."
The lounge and kitchen been upstairs was an advantage to see the views -very peaceful - but Hawkshead 10 minute walk - to local facilities.
Reviewed by Trevor3.8★Oct 2019
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"A very well equipped kitchen and cosy living room ensured that my 90 year old mother had a very comfortable happy 4 days away, thankyou!"
Reviewed by Nancy4.7★Sep 2019
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"1-Excellent location."
Close to Gizdale which is filled with activities for the whole family.
Thanks to having a car it was close to all other lakes and hikes around.
Finally being close to (very beautifil) town with friendly people and co op around was great.
2-Fresh Milk every morning was so lovely, Thank you.
Reviewed by Mohamad4.4★Aug 2019
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"This was our second choice due to Sykes informing us approximately 12 weeks prior to the holiday that the owners of the first cottage near to Hilltop - Beatrice Potters home was being withdrawn from letting."
3 Vale view was a good location for visiting the lakes, and had everything we needed to enjoy our holiday.
Reviewed by Dave5.0★Jul 2018
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"3 things would have made our holiday even better
A welcome pack ie milk tea ..."
3 things would have made our holiday even better
A welcome pack ie milk tea biscuits
Better fitting and quality sheets
Better towels
Reviewed by Susan4.4★Jun 2018
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"The cottage is as delightful as it’s advertised All the amenities you need it’s warm cosy lovely comfortable double bed The view from the upstairs lounge is like a moving landscape painting so relaxing."
The cleanliness is a credit to the housekeepers Had an issue with the WiFi but that was our fault a quick tex to the owners a near immediate response so sorted ! The village is literally five minute walk away with lovely pubs coffee shops Co-op for essential groceries and the milkman calls daily What more can you want we WILL be returning for some more Vale View therapy
Reviewed by Royston5.0★Apr 2018
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"Very nice that the internet was so good."
The kitchen was well equipped. Nice view from the living room.
The only thing that was a bit of a disappointment was that there was not enough hot water to fill the bath. The shower was good though, although you have to be careful not to slip in the bath.
Reviewed by Marjon5.0★Apr 2018
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"The cottage was a bit smaller than we thought and suggested by the foto's."
The owner was very friendly on the phone when I called him for some extra information.
The information provided in the cottage was excellent: walkinggides, maps and practical information regarding the use of the cottage.
Reviewed by Jessie4.1★Apr 2018
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"We were unable to access the property due to missing key."
Owner based in Cheltenham so we had to wait for the cleaner to provide access. She arrived 2.5 hours later and discovered that the property had not been cleaned so sent us away whilst she dealt with it. Not a good start. As a result cottage was very cold. This is the second time in succession that we have been delayed access to a Sykes property
Reviewed by Elaine3.8★Jan 2018
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"Location was excellent, cottage had everything"
Reviewed by David4.8★May 2017
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"Nice property had everything we needed"
Reviewed by Christopher4.8★Sep 2016
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"Had a fantastic time."
An ideal base to explore the Lakes and close enough to stroll into Hawkshead for local shops etc.
Reviewed by Deborah5.0★Aug 2016
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