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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.
Whitby, North York Moors National Park Show on map
4.4
Sykes rating
5 Guests
2 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms
Pets: Yes
Features
Off road parking
Open fire
Garden / Patio
Cot available
Dishwasher
Broadband / WiFi
Reviews & Ratings
Accuracy of the listing
Cleanliness
Comfort
Facilities and Maintenance
All reviews
cottage (50)
lovely (30)
location (25)
our (24)
garden (19)
holly (16)
57 Customer Reviews
"Lovely cottage, as described in the write up."
Plenty of coal for the fire, it was needed in February!. All 3 gardens were enclosed, ideal for small pets. Unfortunately due to the weather and mud, our little dog did not have the pleasure of a runaround in them. Plenty of local walks. The cottage was ideally situated for main towns in the area. Kate was friendly and helpful. Thank you
Reviewed by Daryll4.7★Feb 2025
"The main bedroom has no wardrobe although it does have chest of drawers."
The large bed takes up the whole room leaving little room to move to the door. The door opens outwards almost to the top of the stairs, I believe it to be an accident hazard. Although the kitchen has plenty of pottery and implements there is no room left for food. The gardens are neglected and overgrown. The heating system requires a complete overhaul.
Reviewed by Margaret3.4★Oct 2024
"We loved the area and the cottage was well placed to explore."
The flowers, wine and biscuits were a nice touch but we would have preferred soap in the bathrooms and better towels.
The cottage itself is in need of updating with some rotting window frames, areas of damp and an old outdated heating and hot water system. A deep clean would not go amiss with plenty of cobwebs and dust.
The cottage has a lot of potential and could be easily returned to what we assume was its former “luxury” status.
Reviewed by Sue1.9★Sep 2024
"Beautiful cottage set in beautiful quiet surroundings
Everything you need was ..."
Beautiful cottage set in beautiful quiet surroundings
Everything you need was available and our stay was very relaxing, peaceful and comfortable
Reviewed by David5.0★Sep 2024
"Lovely little cottage in a quiet location, could travel into coastal bays or up onto moors in the car
Had everything we needed (but dishwasher instead of washing machine."
. may be a problem if staying with children..was fine for us) A secure garden for the dog who loved exploring it
Owner easy to contact if needed
Reviewed by Elaine3.8★Aug 2024
"Quaint quiet quirky gem of a cottage ,right in the heart of a plethora of fantastic scenery and days out."
Whitby so close with Sandsend a possible walk away, what more could you want.
We spent most evenings recovering from the days out ,relaxing on the porch with a cool chilled wine or beer,with the sounds of the birds,cows,sheep and a donkey laughing in the distance.
Would and will definitely recommend.
Reviewed by David5.0★Jul 2024
"Some of the radiators did not work, though that may have been because we were not sure how to operate them, the garden and paddock need some maintenance."
The cottage and location are very pleasant and peaceful.
Reviewed by Kevin3.8★Jul 2024
"Definitely recommend this cottage it’s really beautiful and the gardens are ..."
Definitely recommend this cottage it’s really beautiful and the gardens are totally enclosed our little dog loved it
The owner was lovely and really helpful
Will definitely go again
Reviewed by Susan5.0★Jun 2024
"Perfectly placed cottage loved everything
But it needs a washing machine
It's ..."
Perfectly placed cottage loved everything
But it needs a washing machine
It's says there's one in the kitchen but there's not
The place is beautiful and fully equipped
Reviewed by Joanne3.8★Jun 2024
"Had a lovely stay in holly cottage very cosy with open fire."
Very clean and very quite
Reviewed by Christine4.1★May 2024
"Super cottage offering everything needed when away from home."
Ideally located for both coast and moors, very quiet with walks from the door and shops/eateries, a short drive away. It is quirky and rustic, with super outside facilities.
It is the place to go if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of every day life.
Reviewed by Bridget5.0★Apr 2024
"This was our second stay at Holly Cottage and we hope to return again."
Such a cosy cottage in a beautiful area.
Reviewed by Zoe5.0★Feb 2024
"Lovely traditional cottage secluded in a peaceful location ."
. all facilities and creature comforts as described and property owner very helpful in discovering local amenities and dining options .. All in all, everything you need for a peaceful break, with no unpleasant surprises .. we would book again without hesitation.
Reviewed by Paul5.0★Jan 2024
"Excellent cottage, quiet location, within short distance of Sandsend and Whitby."
Reviewed by Judy5.0★Jul 2023
"Wonderful break."
Loved the open fire and enclosed garden. Only slight minuses were that we couldn’t get the kitchen storage heater to work, and Wi-Fi was very patchy, although to be expected in such a rural area.
Overall we all thoroughly enjoyed it and would definitely return.
Reviewed by Richard4.7★Feb 2023
"This was our 2nd stay at Holly Cottage---a lovely--cozy--comfortable cottage."
The cottage is very clean well equipped in general. Love the location. We really enjoyed our holiday and sunny weather every day. We really enjoyed the open fires and there was plenty of coal in the shed. However this time, the television wasn't working!!! a shelf in the fridge broke and shattered!!! lots of lovely pans for cooking but a lack of baking flat trays in the oven, no salt / tablets/ rinse aid for the dishwasher ---fortunately we brought our own.
Reviewed by Helen4.1★Nov 2022
"A lovely little cottage with fully fenced off garden which was ideal for our puppy."
The view was amazing because of it country location.
Fantastic for day trips to Whitby, Scarborough and the dales. I would stay here again and Katie is very helpful if you have any issues.
Reviewed by Sharron4.1★Sep 2022
"Holly cottage
Just perfect!"
If you are looking for a cottage close enough to all the bustle and fantastic sights of the Yorkshire coast and countryside but within a short drive of this quiet hamlet that you feel immediately at home in; then Holly Cottage is for you.
Such a lovely place with all the facilities required for a fabulous time away. A very comfortable lounge with cosy open fire. Enclosed garden and paddock is perfect for your dog to run free and a nice decking to enjoy your breakfast and then later a glass of wine before supper. Highly recommend Holly Cottage.
Reviewed by Gary5.0★Sep 2022
"Good well equipped cottage in a great location"
Reviewed by Brian4.1★Sep 2022
"The cottage itself was lovely, convenient for exploring the surrounding area."
In a nice quiet hamlet, the owner was very pleasant to deal with. But the cottage needs a bit of TLC, also there were no cleaning materials, washing up liquid, bleach, hand wash etc. The patio door frames were in a sad condition. The paddock was overgrown and we could not open the gate, we booked the cottage so our dog could have somewhere to roam, very disappointed. Also the kitchen blind was broken, having said all this, if the cottage was updated a bit we would go again. Thank you, Mr. and Mrs Michael Burks.
Reviewed by Valerie2.5★Sep 2022
"A really nice cottage indeed;however, much more than just some TLC is needed to bring the place up to its possible standard."
Reviewed by Günther3.4★Aug 2022
"Holly Cottage is in a perfect location for visiting the beaches on the North Yorkshire coast as well as the North Yorkshire Moors."
The cottage is very comfortable, well equipped with all we needed, and in a lovely rural spot. The enclosed outdoor space is perfect for dogs and small children. It was good to know in advance that there isn’t a washing machine so that we were prepared with enough changes of clothes for the little ones!
Reviewed by Diana4.7★Aug 2022
"Excellent cottage in a beautiful location, amazing holiday, many thanks John"
Reviewed by Judy5.0★Jul 2022
"My 5 stars go to the owner such a sweet lady to talk to."
5 stars for the location, so peaceful no noise, traffic, only the birds to listen to. The cottage is lovely but disappointing with no complimentary of anything! Make sure you take everything with you it’s very basic plus the double bed was very uncomfortable. Overall it just needs some TLC. We had a lovely time though.
Reviewed by Caroline3.1★Jul 2022
"This was our second visit to Holy cottage but we will not be making a third."
The windows were in need of a good clean, dirty glass and cobwebs in the corners. There were crumbs on the floor in the kitchen by the table, when you went out on to the patio the first length of wood was loose. The whole place outside needs fixing one way or another. I know the lack of normal TV could not be helped, but if I had not phoned for the key code we would not have known about it. I think we should have been informed of the problem sooner.
Reviewed by Jennifer2.8★Jun 2022
"What a lovely cottage and location we loved every minuet of our holiday"
Reviewed by Gerald4.7★Jun 2022
"Lovely quiet hamlet location only 4 miles from Sandsend beach, gorgeous little cottage, tiny bedrooms but fine for couple with 2 small children."
Would be good if twin beds could become double bed to house second couple, or in my case a singleton used to a double bed! Great to have 2 bathrooms. Lots of safe garden to play in, and friendly donkey and horse to visit close by. Very well equipped cottage except for lack of advertised washing machine!! Essential for family with beach loving or muddy walks children.. and it is listed in the info pack but has magically become a dishwasher. . Also a "home from home" should have soap in the basins, washing up brush, scourers, kitchen scissors really...and the "wealth of books" was missing. Communication with owner impossible and inbox full, and information pack in house needs updating. However! Plenty of wood and coal for open fire, and a BBQ hiding in shed, but it would have been helpful to know what not to bring! Two calls to Sykes did not resolve. Would def book again now we know what we're doing.
Reviewed by Philippa3.8★May 2022
"Lovely cottage in a very quiet little countryside location."
The cottage had a homely feeling with everything needed to relax for a week away. The garden was very secure and we had no problems letting our little dog free to wander without fear of her escaping. The paddock at the rear of the property is a real bonus for someone with a large dog who needed lots of excercise.
Reviewed by Susan4.7★May 2022
"We had a nice stay at the cottage, however we had some issues in that no soap, tea bags, oven trays, or milk were provided."
On its own this would not have been an issue but when reading the reviews of other guests we saw that some had Scones, bottles of wine, chocolates etc... It just made us feel a bit dejected. We had to buy these basics which was difficult after a 3 hour drive to a remote location, and added another hour before we were able to relax.
When we messaged the property owner to make them aware for future guests we were offered compensation for the things we had to buy, which we accepted, and we were told this would be posted via the letterbox during our stay. We never received this however.
In future we would recommend the property owner adds to their listing that these things are not provided, or even spend the extra £2-3 to make a guests stay a little nicer.
We would also recommend a more thorough clean before guests arrive, as we had to spend a bit of our first day cleaning cobwebs and clearing out the fireplace.
Reviewed by Daniel3.1★Mar 2022
"Lovely peaceful place."
No road traffic noise at all.
Well equipped (once we'd found microwave and freezer!) We found it plenty warm enough and lit the fire each evening. Very cosy!
Didn't realise we had to provide own soap for bathrooms so had to go and get some and washing up liquid was nearly gone. Just little things though.
Reviewed by Ruth5.0★Mar 2022
"In winter the storage heaters do not provide sufficient heat for any of the room; the lounge being the exception purely because there is the opportunity to have an open fire."
Reviewed by Leslie4.4★Feb 2022
"Holly Cottage is in a lovely peaceful setting, the garden is lovely and great for dogs as it's enclosed."
The central heating is a bit outdated and the bedrooms are compact, but it suited us very well. The weather was lovely and we really enjoyed sitting out in the garden.
Reviewed by Sue3.8★Sep 2021
"This was our second vist to holly cottage ,and will go there again great location central to all atractions would highly recomend."
Reviewed by Michael5.0★Jul 2021
"We had a most enjoyable and relaxing fortnight at Holly Cottage."
Kate was the perfect host, unobtrusive yet readily contactable. The cottage was ample for four adults, with a great open plan kitchen / diner, and was very well equipped - a washing machine rather than a dishwasher would have been our only wish. The three secure gardens and paddock completely surrounding the house gave ample space and shade for dog and human relaxation on hot days, while the sizeable porch made for easy canine comings and goings in wet weather. West Barnby is a lovely calm setting, away from the bustle of the tourist hotspots yet within easy access of coast, moor and forest - next to no passing traffic during the day and only the moos of the cows at night. We found great walks from the door along the permissive paths of the Mulgrave Estate, which we had to ourselves, and Kettleness is only a five minute drive away for stunning walks along the cliff tops or derelict railway track.
Reviewed by David5.0★Jun 2021
"Sorry but can't recommend Sykes, as the holiday we had booked in March, we couldn't go due to lockdown and Sykes's wouldn't,t refund deposit."
when we asked to change dates, we could at a rate for new customers when we have 3 booked this year alone with them, and used them several times before.
The owner of Holly Cottage kindly made a makeshift bed for our 4 year old granddaughter, as the info was incorrect about beds, and offered her apologies for the misleading info on Sykes site. Our granddaughter kept getting stung by nettles in the garden, however we had a lovely stay.
Anne Brooke
Reviewed by Richard3.1★Jun 2021
"It was a lovely cottage with everything we needed and more."
Very tranquil. We booked a dog friendly cottage but actually didn’t take our dog. No worries if you don’t have a dog because the cottage had NO smell of dog in it at all. Because of COVID times we didn’t meet the owner but we spoke on the phone about key pick up and she was very friendly and helpful.
Reviewed by Susan5.0★Jun 2021
"We have been to Holly Cottage a few times before and have always been very comfortable and pleased with our stay; this time was no exception."
Everything was spotless and COVID safe and the cottage was as comfortable as always. We hope to be back again soon.
Reviewed by Mark5.0★May 2021
"Lovely cottage, well equipped and comfortable."
The garden was safe and good for both our toddler and dog to run about in. Would be happy to stay again
Reviewed by Gordon5.0★Apr 2021
"PROBABLY COVID RELATED BUT NO SALT TABLETS RINSE AID FOR DISHWASHWER NOT CLEAR YOU HAD TO BRING YOUR OWN."
NEVER HAD A BAD SYKES HOLIDAY
Reviewed by Helen5.0★Oct 2020
"Very comfortable cottage - and very quiet - if you like hustle and bustle this is not for you!"
We really loved the peace and location - and yet only 10 mins from nearest beach.
Our dog Poppy loved it - there is so much garden for her to explore and very secure. We had a wonderful week there and hope to book again for next year
Reviewed by Barbara4.7★Oct 2020
"Shame no logs for fire provided as it was cool in lounge on some evenings."
Marvellous quiet setting and great dog friendly garden.
Reviewed by Kathleen4.4★Sep 2020
"We have been to Holly Cottage a few times now and have always been comfortable and made to feel welcome there."
The location is peaceful and quiet but only a short drive from the great town on Whitby. Our dog always enjoys her time here with plenty of room to run around.
We hope to be back again this year (all being well on the COVID front!). Definitely recommended.
Reviewed by Mark5.0★Mar 2020
"Beautiful little cottage!"
Had everything we needed for a cosy week away! Lovely extras touches too, bottle of milk, bottle of wine and fresh flowers, aswell as the amazing retro board games too! Amazing little find! Really enjoyed our stay! Thankyou!
Reviewed by Rebecca5.0★Feb 2020
"Lovely comfortable, well equipped cottage and great for our dog."
We enjoyed wandering along the local beaches with our Spaniel and just relaxing in the cottage.
Reviewed by Mark5.0★Jan 2020
"Just one point, we would have preferred to have a washing machine rather than the dishwasher which we did not use."
However a washing machine would have been very useful after a day on the beach.
Reviewed by Murray4.4★Sep 2019
"We had a lovely break and the cottage made it happen as it is in a perfect ..."
We had a lovely break and the cottage made it happen as it is in a perfect location and has everything you need for a home from home experience, we shall return to holly cottage the next time we visit North Yorkshire without a doubt, thankyou Kate
Mark gray
Reviewed by Mark5.0★May 2019
"This cottage is a total gem very well equipped cosy with the open fire."
Enclosed garden is a bonus for your dog, there is a large paddock also for kids to run around in. Great location for visiting Whitby, Sanndsend etc. The host left wine and milk for our arrival superb !
Reviewed by Angela5.0★Apr 2019
"A really beautiful cosy cottage in beautiful location close to Whitby."
We had a great week
Reviewed by Lisa5.0★Mar 2019
"Was a lovely cottage and owner Kate was very nice will definitely go back at sometime"
Reviewed by Lorraine5.0★Mar 2019
"Holly Cottage is in a lovely, peaceful location but only 15/20 minutes to the hustle of Whitby."
The gardens and outside areas are great, especially for dogs. The downstairs lounge is snug and cosy. The kitchen/diner has everything you need (as long as you go searching in all of the cupboards to hunt down the microwave and freezer!). However, the upstairs double bedroom is cramped and the size of the ensuite rather encroaches into that space. Fine for a weekend but not sure about any longer.
Reviewed by Louise3.4★Feb 2019
"Lovely cottage, very peaceful setting just what we needed."
Reviewed by Teresa5.0★Jul 2018
"We had a lovely break."
Cottage is in a quiet and relaxing location and is homely and comfortable.
Reviewed by Christine3.8★Jun 2018
"Holly Cottage is a lovely well appointed house in a really nice location."
The house was clean and had everything we needed for our stay.
We received a kind welcome gift too
Reviewed by Shaun5.0★Apr 2018
"Holly cottage."
.was so relaxing very clean and comfortable...in alovely location...one of the best cottages we stayed in...thanks Kate...
Reviewed by Angela5.0★Feb 2018
"We love booking with Sykes!"
We find the listings are accurately portrayed. Holly Cottage was in a wonderfully quiet location, yet close to Whitby and all it has to offer. It was such a perfect cottage and we loved the wood burning fire. We had 3 contained garden areas for our little pup to explore, yet stay safe. This is one of our favorites!
Reviewed by Laurie5.0★Jan 2018
"THE OWNER WAS EXTREMELY WELCOMING - THE COTTAGE WAS LOVELY WITH EVERY AMENITY PROVIDED - A MOST ENJOYABLE PLACE TO REST ONES HEAD."
Reviewed by Stewart5.0★Sep 2017
"Really lovely cottage - perfect."
Warm welcome from owner who was extremely helpful. Would recommend this cottage.
Two bedrooms: 1 x double with en-suite shower, basin and WC, 1 x twin bedroom, 1 x sofa bed in the lounge
Family bathroom with bath, basin and WC
Kitchen with dining area
Sitting room with open fire.
Electric storage heaters with open fire
Electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge, freezer, dishwasher, TV with Freeview, WiFi, selection of books, games and DVDs
Fuel, power and fuel for fire inc. in rent
Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
Off road parking for 2 cars
Lawned garden to front, decking to rear with furniture
One well-behaved dog welcome
Sorry, no smoking
Shop and pub 1.5 miles.
The property
Whitby 6 miles.
A cosy detached stone cottage that sits in the hamlet of West Barnby, near Whitby in North York Moors National Park.
The abundance of wooden furniture along with beamed ceilings give this cottage a comforting and homely feel, perfect for a couple's break.
Holly Cottage bares a welcoming open plan kitchen diner, bursting with established equipment.
A walk up the traditionally stairs leads you to the twin room and the double en-suite shower room.
The living area continues the antique feeling with its open fire protected by a metal cage, perfect for resting your feet in front of whilst watching the TV of a night time.
On a warm evening you may want to open the French patio doors and venture onto the decking for a drink whilst watching the sunset.
This cottage also offers around half an acre of land to use at your disposal should you need some thinking time whilst planning the day's activities.
A pub, shop and restaurant are just 1.5 miles away from Holly Cottage, with the beach just a further half mile.
With plenty of fields and walk paths, West Barnby is perfect for walking your dog.
Just six miles away from West Barnby is the seaside town of Whitby, a place which offers a stunning harbour and a whole host of beaches.
A cosy cottage in a tranquil location, suitable for couples any month of the year.
View on map
About the location
WHITBY
Robin Hood's Bay 5.5 miles; Scarborough 19.3 miles; Pickering 23 miles; Guisborough 21.5 miles.
The seaside town and port of Whitby lies at the mouth of the River Esk in the Scarborough district of North Yorkshire. Ideally situated for exploring this beautiful part of Yorkshire, the local area hosts an array of activities so you can be sure to get the best out of both the countryside and the coast. From the nearby North York Moors to its Blue Flag beaches, there's something here for everyone. Amongst its many attractions, Whitby holds a charming atmosphere, home to winding streets and hidden alleys, where you can find a wide selection of eateries and shops scattered amongst them. Take a trip to the picturesque harbour and lighthouse to watch the sun set or get involved in some whale watching or a coastal cruise to watch the creatures up close. Climb the famous 199 steps to the Whitby Abbey to immerse yourself with history, or visit the Captain Cook Memorial Museum presenting historical and ethnographic exhibition about Cook himself. Close to the Robin Hood's Bay, rich in heritage, wonders and scenic spots, and in easy reach of the bustling towns of Scarborough and Middlesbrough, Whitby is a prime location for exploring all of the delights that Yorkshire has to offer.
