The Old Watchmaker's Shop

64 Customer Reviews

• "Had a lovely week at this quaint cottage, it was very clean and had everything that we needed … it was next door to a pub called The New Inn which served lovely food and was amazingly dog friendly."

  Would definitely go back to this cottage, we thoroughly enjoyed our stay

  Reviewed by Kathleen5.0★Nov 2024

• "Beautiful little cottage, well maintained and equipped with everything necessary for an enjoyable stay."

  We look forward to a return visit in the near future.

  Reviewed by Elaine5.0★Oct 2024

• "Pleasant little cottage perfect for 2 and a dog, the garden was lovely."

  The village was nice and the pub next door was excellent for food,made to feel welcome when you walked in.overall a lovely holiday

  Reviewed by Carol5.0★Sep 2024

• "An absolute gem, beautiful cottage and location, the secure rear garden with the country cottage feel really made it for us and our Labrador Alfie."

  This was the best cottage holiday we have had by a country mile. The village of Cropton with The New Inn right next door is an ideal setting. This was made all the better by our neighbours and their Labrador Bella who arrived and departed within minutes of us, (lovely people). We couldnt believe how quickly the week went there was so much to see and do we want to return as soon as we can

  Reviewed by David5.0★Jun 2024

• "Our second stay in this beautiful cottage, everything was perfect and communication with the owner first class."

  Definitely home from home, bonus being the Pub nearby. We all enjoyed our holiday and the Terriers loved the secure garden, if they are happy we are too. Would love to go back again soon. Thank you.

  Reviewed by Lynn5.0★Jun 2024

• "Lovely cottage in a quiet location with walks from the door and many more near by."

  We enjoyed our stay immensely and would definitely like to return at some point in the future. The enclosed garden was perfect for our doggy. We didn't use the dishwasher and maybe a washing machine would have been beneficial but it didn't take anything away from our wonderful holiday.

  Reviewed by Susan4.7★May 2024

• "A beautiful little cottage."

  ..we did contemplate taking up Squatters Rights it was so lovely.

  Reviewed by Jill5.0★May 2024

• "We had a lovely time at The Old Watchmakers Shop cottage, very clean and comfortable, garden was well maintained!"

  Couldn't fault anything at all, it was perfect. Would have liked a washing machine instead of the dishwasher as we ran every morning and I'm used to washing our sweaty kit every day so had to wash by hand but thankfully it dried quickly outside on the maid provided without being spun! Fantastic running routes around the area and our border collie loved the enclosed garden! Would definitely go to this beautiful cottage again and highly recommend it and the lovely surroundings especially if you run, cycle or have a lively dog that enjoys lots of walking!

  Reviewed by Carol5.0★May 2024

• "Not suitable for the elderly as toilet is down stairs and the stairs are very steep and not easy to climb."

  No washing machine, didn't use the dish washer.

  Reviewed by Kenneth3.8★Mar 2024

• "A great little Cottage just right for 2 and a wee dog."

  Ideally placed in a lovely village and a local community pub just 20 meters away. Dogs are welcome in the pub. The property has a large and private rear garden which is spot on. Off street parking also which is nice. Spotlessly clean and very well equipped , the log burner was fantastic and we enjoyed the ambiance . We loved the cottage and will at some time return.

  Reviewed by Diane5.0★Feb 2024

• "Lovely and cosy cottage with everthing you could possibly need."

  The log burning fire is a great feature especially in Jan when the weather is against you.

  Reviewed by Karen5.0★Jan 2024

• "Clean comfortable cottage in a great location for exploring the outdoors"

  Reviewed by David5.0★Nov 2023

• "Had a lovely weeks holiday at the cottage."

  Very quaint with added charm. Cosy and comfortable.

  Reviewed by Carolyn5.0★Nov 2023

• "Great little cottage in fantastic location"

  Reviewed by Alan5.0★Oct 2023

• "Beautiful cottage in a lovely area."

  Reviewed by Philip5.0★Sep 2023

• "Lovely little Cottage…."

  Pub next door great result..

  Reviewed by Karen4.7★Jun 2023

• "Fantastic small stone cottage with beautiful gardens, everything we needed and more."

  First class communication with the owner. Most important is the securely enclosed garden for our dog. We have already booked this perfect holiday retreat for next summer!

  Reviewed by Lynn5.0★Jun 2023

• "Comfortable, clean, well equipped accommodation."

  Ideal for walking / cycling in and around the local countryside. The cottage is well maintained and it provides the base for an enjoyable stay.

  Reviewed by David5.0★Apr 2023

• "Perfect location and met all our needs and expectations."

  Reviewed by David5.0★Apr 2023

• "Very nice and clean a fourth stay at the cottage and we will be back thanks"

  Reviewed by Mark5.0★Feb 2023

• "Our second visit and the cottage looked beautiful inside and outside, everything we required had been taken care of, some scissors for cooking were the only thing we needed but couldn’t find, the gardens are kept pristine and we sat outside for a few minutes most days watching the birds, it wasn’t a problem for us but birds are nesting in the soffits and we’re quite noisy first thing running up and down and flapping in the roof."

  The bed, quilt and pillows were posh hotel standards and we loved getting into bed after our long walks. We are hoping to rebook for next year, little gem with no phone signal, heaven on earth for a week. Well done Mr Morris.

  Reviewed by Gail5.0★Feb 2023

• "Enjoyed the stay."

  Owner was very helpful. Bed comfy cosy little cottage. Think they must have decorated as back door was stuck. Not a problem.as we hadn't taken the dogs. Would recommend.

  Reviewed by Elizabeth5.0★Nov 2022

• "Good base for an action packed week."

  However, we underestimated the issues that were needed each night in negotiating the journey from the upstairs bedroom to the down stairs toilet via 4 doors. The property is far more suited for the younger element who are able to sleep right through without the need etc. In hindsight, we should have booked the cottage next door - but then we would not have needed 2 bedrooms.Nice large back garden for the dog and aexcellent pu next door and everything was just fine.

  Reviewed by Malcolm Paul3.8★Sep 2022

• "Lovely cottage in a beautiful location, perfect base for exploring & relaxing away from our day to day life."

  We hope to be able to book again in the future

  Reviewed by Cathryn5.0★Aug 2022

• "This an ideal location with a pretty garden, local walks and a pub serving meals next door."

  Pickering and Kirkbymoorside are close by and the cottage is equipped with the basics.

  Reviewed by Carolyn3.8★Jul 2022

• "This is a picture postcard cottage set in a lovely village."

  It is so handy for visiting the N Yorks Moors and coast. The kitchen has all you need and we loved the stripey deckchairs and the external space. The front garden is beautiful. It is characterful and has an old worlde feel as expected of a Grade 2 listing which we loved. The bed is super comfy too. We had a lovely stay and would consider using the cottage again if in the area. To improve: The living area is in need of redecorating to cover scuffs and chipped paintwork. The area between the kitchen and bathroom needs thought to make it neater and doors replaced to be more in keeping with the other panelled doors. Shower screen base needs limescale removing . Maybe more flowers in the back garden along the borders would be good.

  Reviewed by Gillian4.1★Jul 2022

• "Nicely appointed cottage ,kept reasonably cool even in the extreme heat which was a bonus."

  Fantastic location. The only reason I wouldn't return is because of the 7/8 hour drive from Dorset!!!

  Reviewed by Nicholas3.8★Jul 2022

• "A very comfortable well equipped cottage in a quiet village setting."

  Well maintained gardens, front and back, good setting to relax. Walks from the cottage front door and others within a short driving distance make it easy to explore the Yorkshire countryside.

  Reviewed by David5.0★Apr 2022

• "Another lovely holiday at this sweet little cottage."

  Reviewed by John4.7★Mar 2022

• "Perfect size for just the two of us, in a fantastic place, right next to a really good pub."

  The garden was a nice outside place even if it was a bit cold to sit out in it, the dog enjoyed playing ball and running around under supervision. The log burner made for very cosy nights and we loved our week away at the cottage.

  Reviewed by Roy5.0★Feb 2022

• "A super-cosy little cottage, perfectly positioned for walkers and dogs at the start of a public footpath into fields and woods."

  The contact with the property owner prior to travelling was great. He gave us tips and extra local information, which we found really useful. Thank you

  Reviewed by Margaret5.0★Dec 2021

• "Cosy quaint little cottage, fantastic dog secure garden."

  Perfectly situated next to the pub, which in itself was a nice friendly pub with great range of drinks from their own brewery. Very nice food too.

  Reviewed by Paul5.0★Oct 2021

• "A well stocked and comfortable cottage."

  Ideal for exploring the area with plenty of walks local to Cropton. Safe and securely fenced garden for our dog. Will book this cottage again.

  Reviewed by Stephen5.0★Sep 2021

• "Cottage was clean but had to remove several cobwebs from ceiling above top of bed which were dangling down."

  Don't mind them anywhere else, to be expected in old property. Great garden for dog, he loved it!

  Reviewed by Ann4.7★Aug 2021

• "Great cottage in a perfect location."

  Large private backgarden was perfect to enjoy lunch or dinner in and great for the dog. Easy access private off road parking is always a bonus. Kitchen very well equipped. Highly recommend.

  Reviewed by Jess5.0★Jun 2021

• "Lovely area people friendly and cottage lovely and clean, very cosy."

  Many thanks

  Reviewed by Michael5.0★Oct 2020

• "These are very difficult times for everyone."

  My wife and I, however, enjoyed a very relaxing week in Cropton at the Old Watchmaker's Shop. Very comfortable cottage which more then met all our needs. This is a beautiful area of the country with something for everyone. Highly recommend you giving it a go yourself. We will certainly be coming back.

  Reviewed by David5.0★Oct 2020

• "Beautiful little cottage with a lovely big garden right on the doorstep of the Moors, and right next to a nice pub."

  You couldn't ask for much more if you are after a cosy cottage in a nice location, ideal for couples. The towel situation is odd. We were instructed to call 48 hours before check in to request towels. We then received an email five days before from the host saying they were going away on holiday and the cottage would not have any towels. We were already away in a different cottage and had luckily brought travel towels just in case. I'm not sure why this is difficult for them, but it is, so just bring your own! Other than that it's great!

  Reviewed by Nicholas4.7★Aug 2020

• "The cottage was pleasant but not exceptional."

  Some items were a little "tired" (eg the saucepans). The message saying that you might like to bring your own towels was misleading as none were supplied so really it was essential to bring your own! The lack of mobile signal was a problem because at one point we lost power to all the sockets and the only way of getting hold of the owner to report this was to use the wifi to WhatsApp our daughter back home and get her to make contact. The owner was very obliging, but located a good 200 miles away, so not able to answer questions about the local area, nor on hand to keep an eye on whether the property was being cleaned and maintained adequately. We also felt we weren't contributing to the local economy as much as we would have been had he lived locally himself, which was a shame.

  Sadly, we cannot control the availability of mobile signal in this area - rural bliss does sometimes come with a slight lack of connectivity! Whilst we do not currently live local to the cottage, one of the 2 owners grew up in the local area and we continue to visit regularly and have family and friends in the area - as such, we could certainly have tried to answer any questions about the local area which the guest had (but we were not asked to). We do also have a cleaner, handy man, gardener and electrician who all live within the vicinity of the cottage and are available at very short notice - even if we did live locally, we would still have needed to ask a professional to look at an electrical issue. We pride ourselves on employing local help and contractors wherever possible and we do believe that our business does contribute to the local economy (and we are sure our guests do help support the pub next door!). Property Owner

  Reviewed by David3.8★Jul 2020

• "Watchmakers Cottage is a very pretty with roses round the door."

  It was smaller downstairs than expected, this was not a problem at all, as it is a very comfortable, warm and a very well equipped cottage. It has some lovely features relating to it's age, ie, the thickness of the walls, beams, door latches, and the occasional creaking floorboards. The rear garden is totally enclosed and large, perfect for your four legged friends. It's position is right on the doorstep to public footpaths, convenient for the surroundings areas, and the village pub right next door, and well worth a visit. Great little place and worth a visit.

  Reviewed by Jackie4.4★Mar 2020

• "The cottage was perfect for couples."

  The kitchen was excellent with plenty of cooking utensils, etc. The bedding was crisp and fresh, The rear garden was large and fenced in, perfect for our dog. The log store supplied plenty of fuel and kindling for the log burner in the living room. The location was perfect, alongside a lovely country pub, but we did not experience any noise or disturbance from it at all. We will definitely return to The Old Watchmakers Shop again.

  Reviewed by Janice5.0★Nov 2019

• "Cropton is a lovely village ideally based for walkers or for exploring the area."

  The moors are dramatic but the villages dotted around the moors are gorgeous. The autumn leaves were stunning, I couldn’t get enough! The cottage is ideally placed for the local pub. It says a 2 minute stroll but in fact it’s 47 paces. The selection of beers is really good, the staff very welcoming and the food realistically priced. If you are taking a dog the back garden is completely dog proof. Our first visit to North Yorkshire but have a feeling it won’t be our last.

  Reviewed by Penny5.0★Nov 2019

• "Lovely holiday."

  Beautiful cottage and surroundings. Enjoyed playing childhood favourites of scrabble and card games a few times so very thoughtful to have provided these games and others along with a large collection of books and dvds. Also very helpful maps which enabled us to find local walks. Great that a BBQ was available outside. Lovely hot shower too!

  Reviewed by Brigid4.1★Aug 2019

• "Cosy cottage in lovely surroundings and a fair size garden to sit out in."

  Set within a peaceful village with a decent pub next door that wasn't noisy. Central location for visiting various places of interest within a 20mile radius.

  Reviewed by Tim4.7★Aug 2019

• "This a great little cottage and would highly recommend."

  Reviewed by Jacqueline5.0★May 2019

• "Externally, the cottage is very pretty and the gardens are lovely - very well-tended and full of greedy birds."

  Inside, the cottage is basically in very good order: the kitchen is excellent and well equipped, the bedroom is airy and has a nice feel to it and the bathroom is OK (but see below). Furnishing is generic but comfortable enough, although the living room feels a little drab and unloved. Some things to note: ● WiFi/broadband is hopeless. We wished the cottage listing had been more upfront about this. Normally it wouldn’t bother us in the slightest, but on this occasion and for various reasons we specifically made our booking choice based on the availability of internet access, and finding that access at the cottage pretty much unusable caused us a good deal of grief. ● The TV works, but the aerial doesn’t, so if you are hoping to catch up with the Chelsea Flower Show, you are out of luck! (You won't be able to use iPlayer - see above). ● The shower works, but the temperature control dial is iffy, and if you are not very careful it is easy to scold yourself with very hot water. Be careful if you have a child with you. The shower/bath water does not drain away properly. This is (probably) due to the fact that the plug hole is blocked up with previous guests hair. ● The whole do they/don’t they supply towels thing its a bit weird. The listing says that towels are NOT supplied, the conformation email states that towels ARE provided, and finally there is a last minute phone call 48 hours before the booking to confirm that towels are NOT provided. This is a new one on us, and it all seems a bit unnecessary. Location of the cottage is excellent. Great access to the moors and loads of great walking, the coast, the pretty market towns of Pickering, Malton, Kirbymoorside, etc. are all near at hand. The New Inn next is door is very good, and we also liked the Blacksmiths Arms at Lastingham. Great spot.

  Reviewed by Neil2.8★May 2019

• "Great place for local walks and also further afield and the coast."

  Cottage basic but good kitchen and comfortable bed. Lovely gardens both back and front, unfortunately garden furniture dirty and uncomfortable - owner promised to rectify this. Be aware: no towels and no welcome tray! Make sure you have milk with you!

  Reviewed by Lynda4.1★May 2019

• "Not the weather, pub next door helped ."

  Nice walks dog loved it. Booking for next year

  Reviewed by Mark5.0★May 2019

• "We were not aware that towels were not provided until informed by the owner when we rang to get key details."

  This was a surprise and irritation when he told us we should have rung 48 hours beforehand. Not a great first impression. The cottage is picturesque with a beautiful garden. The kitchen is well equipped and modern. Basic and shabby lounge with a stark dull overhead light and one small table lamp near the tv. Two additional table lamps did not work as one had no bulb and the other was spent. Downstairs draughty and rather cold even with the heating on. Bathroom needs new shower door. No washing machine provided in a popular walking area which is unusual. The cottage was unaired and chilly when we arrived with none of the small details such as minimal welcome pack to soften the arrival. Overall the impression is shabby and dated and in need of decor update. The cottage feels unloved which is a pity as the location is good and it is dog friendly.

  Reviewed by Georgina2.5★Apr 2019

• "We really have had a great time at the old watch makers shop and look forward to returning"

  Reviewed by Paul5.0★Mar 2019

• "It was just perfect"

  Reviewed by Tracy5.0★Dec 2018

• "This cottage is idyllic with a log fire that was prepared for us before we arrived, we had a fabulous time and the bed is so cosy everything you need in a country cottage absolutely perfect, glorious scenic walks with breathtaking views."

  The New Inn Pun is definitely worth a visit. We will be returning here very soon. Nickie & Julian from Hedon

  Reviewed by Nicola5.0★Nov 2018

• "A delightful little cottage, beautifully equipped, cosy and inviting and spotlessly clean."

  Having the pub so close was a bonus, especially with its brewery tours! Our whole week was very relaxing, and coming back to a log fire was lovely. We enjoyed watching the birds ( though the amount of bird feed we got through was incredible) and the other wildlife that visited. Some beautiful walks and drives nearby and we visited Whitby and Scarborough as they are both pretty close. An exceptional little cottage and we would certainly stay here again even though it's not that far from home.

  Reviewed by Cynthia5.0★Sep 2018

• "There was a definite wow factor when we opened the front door of this cottage for the first time."

  The website photographs doesn't reflect the real quality and size of this property. Having a separate kitchen (with a small dining table) from the lounge is a great asset for a one bedroom property. A lot of properties are open plan and tiny. The rear garden was also much bigger than expected. The New Inn next door was also a great place with good beer and pub grub. We found the cottage ideally located for both the North Yorkshire Moors and the seaside and with the overall holiday experience so good, we intend to book again next year

  Reviewed by David5.0★Aug 2018

• "We had a lovely time."

  The cottage was perfect for us and the pub next door was great. In an ideal world I'd have have liked wi-fi, especially as there is limited/no 3G or 4G. That said the pub offered free wi-fi and good beer. The gardens were lovely and the large on site parking space was helpful. More cupboard space in the kitchen would have been useful but we got by - just nitpicking really. Thoroughly recommended cottage.

  Reviewed by Jonathan4.4★Aug 2018

• "I had been told 5' fenced in all round."

  One side of barely 3'. Had to keep dog on lead outside! Otherwise lovely cottage

  Reviewed by Julie4.4★Apr 2018

• "Sykes kept us up to date before the holiday regarding key collection and an upgrade of the facilities."

  This cottage was the best maintained and equipped we have visited. Everything was to a high spec and in superb working order.

  Reviewed by Christine5.0★Mar 2018

• "Lovely house, exactly as described & on the whole met our expectations."

  Just one disappointment - electric shower in the bathroom doesn't get close to warm. Assume this is a recent thing, and maybe the owner was unaware, but combined with low water pressure from the hot tap, meant showering wasn't an option - bit disappointing, but not devastating.

  Reviewed by Philip4.6★Feb 2018

• "Second time at this cottage and were as very satisfied as before"

  Reviewed by Geoff5.0★Nov 2017

• "Great cottage and fab location"

  Reviewed by Alan5.0★Oct 2017

• "Lovely cottage in a great location."

  Good walks available from your front door and dog friendly pub with good food next door. Perfect for a few days away from it all.

  Reviewed by Julie4.8★Jul 2017

• "A very comfortable well equipped cottage with a beautiful cottage garden."

  Good situation with a pub serving excellent food nearby. We would have wished to stay longer.

  Reviewed by Geoff4.8★Jul 2017

• "The Old Watch Makers Shop exceeded our expections, warm, comfortable and extremely well equipped."

  The location is perfect for visiting all parts of the North Yorkshire Moors. The garden is enclose and very dog friendly. An absolutely perfect retreat for anyone wanting to enjoy the beautiful countryside.

  5.0★Oct 2016

• "Great cottage summer or winter pub just a few yards away serving good food and selection of its own beers ."

  Reviewed by Mike4.6★Sep 2016

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