Crooks Cottage - Charming, characterful, glorious views from the garden

When first entering the cottage we were disappointed with the overall appearance of the lounge. A very uncomfortable leather sofa. We were happy with the kitchen and the bedrooms and bed linen. The bathroom was a problem as the water from the bath was very slo running away, and the plug didn’t fit ! The house keeper came and changed the plug which was a little better but we had to clean away the ‘gunge’ that was stopping the water running away. Also there were two dirty towels left from the previous customer on the back of the bedroom door. Disappointed with a poor welcome basket but I suppose it didn’t advertise there would be one, Because we had beautiful weather for the time of year made our stay of the view from the top patio very good. We have noticed that the property is on the market so maybe the owners are letting it go a little. Sorry about my comments but you have persisted in asking for them.

We loved Dartside cottage. It was so beautiful. The garden was stunning but sadly we didn't have good weather to enjoy it. The interiors were fabulous. It has been decorated and refurbished to a very high standard. All the details were beautiful. We found there were lots of kitchen items provided which the agency were not aware of. We even had logs provided which the agency didn't realise. The standard of cleaning could be improved I felt as it did not match the standard of the property. I found the kitchen shelves dirty and the sofa had hair on and crumbs. We contacted the agency with questions and received vague answers. The instructions folder and area information were all hidden in a cupboard which I found eventually. We had to sleep in separate beds as the kingsize bed wasn't long enough for my partner due to the footboard. It was lovely to be able to park outside. We really enjoyed staying at Dartside but feel some small improvements could be made to the details.

The cottage is in an excellent position and the views from the garden are beautiful if a little marred by the severe overlooking. Most things are provided but some of the furnishings are very tired… The leather sofa is so worn that you almost sit on the floor as the cushions have absolutely no stuffing left. The blind in the main bedroom has become unstrung so that it remains closed the whole time.

This little cottage could be a little gem. But it isn’t. The outdoor area is a real jewel in the crown but unfortunately the area for sitting and lounging was covered in dog hair and could not be used. The whole reason for booking this place. Such a disappointment. The bedrooms and beds and linen were nice and the shower and hot water good. The bedroom needs a privacy blind as the neighbours opposite look right in to the window from their outdoor sitting area. The sitting room - very dark and poor lighting and smelt very odd. We didn’t use it at all and we left a day early. The location a stone’s throw from the river and Anchorstone Café is very special indeed. Crooks Cottage could also be very special but just missed in many ways.

This is our second time staying with dart valley cottages and again absolutely fantastic service. Crooks cottage is very sweet in a perfect location a stones throw from the pub and the cafe and the water . It’s tiny but got everything you need and amazing little garden out the back with view of the water. We loved our stay.