Guests say
The Old Smithy is a well-received cottage, praised for its comfort, cleanliness, and ideal location for exploring Dorset. Guests appreciate the well-equipped nature of the property, its cosy atmosphere, and the beautiful views. While some concerns about traffic and maintenance issues are noted, the overall sentiment is positive, with many guests expressing a desire to return.
Most guests found the cottage to be spotlessly clean, contributing to a comfortable and welcoming stay. However, a few guests mentioned issues with cleanliness in the kitchen, which slightly impacts the overall high standard noted.
The cottage's location is frequently described as excellent, convenient for exploring the Jurassic coast and local towns. Some guests expressed concerns about the busy lane outside, but the proximity to footpaths and scenic views are well-regarded.
Guests consistently mention the comfortable beds and cosy atmosphere of the cottage. There are some remarks about the sofa and a double bed being less comfortable, suggesting room for improvement in seating and sleeping arrangements.
The property is considered well-equipped by many, with ample kitchen equipment and entertainment options. However, the absence of a dishwasher and some maintenance issues, such as worn furniture and outdated appliances, have been highlighted.
While the reviews reflect a well-equipped cottage and mention the provision of various items, there is no specific mention of gifts or extra thoughtful touches provided by the hosts. Therefore, a score cannot be given in this category.
About this property
An attractive, semi-detached, former farmer's cottage set in a rural location, close to the tiny West Dorset hamlet of Dottery, in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. With stunning countryside views across the neighbouring fields, The Old Smithy has been renovated and equipped to a good standard, offering warm and welcoming accommodation for small groups seeking the sights of this stunning area. The cottage features a wonderful woodburning stove in the comfy sitting room, together with a galley kitchen, a separate dining room, two good-sized bedrooms and a family bathroom to offer plenty of space for your whole group. Enjoy refreshments outside whilst taking in the charming country views, or take a stroll or cycle along one of the numerous local byways. This pretty cottage provides visitors with a perfect base for exploring West Dorset, with its picture postcard thatched cottage villages and stunning coastal seascapes. A short drive will take you to the bustling market town of Bridport, featured in the River Cottage TV series, and no trip to this area is complete without visiting the scenic harbourside village of West Bay, TVs Broadchurch, a great place to try sea fishing. Alternatively, take a trip to the historic seaside resort of Lyme Regis, or Weymouth, both easily accessible from this wonderful Dottery cottage. An idyllic West Dorset country retreat, perfect all year round.
Dottery, a tiny hamlet nestling on the edge of West Dorset's Marshwood Vale, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Only a short distance from the Jurassic Coast, with its dramatic cliffs, breathtaking views and lovely beaches, there is great walking on offer, with coastal trails and countryside paths to choose from. With plenty to offer visitors, this is a great coastal location, at any time of the year.
Accommodation
Two bedrooms: 1 x king-size double, 1 x twin.
Ground floor bathroom with bath, shower over, basin and WC.
Kitchen.
Dining room.
Sitting room with woodburning stove.
Oil central heating with woodburning stove.
Electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge/freezer, washing machine, TV with Freeview and DVD, CD/radio, WiFi, selection of books and games.
Fuel, power and starter pack for stove included in rent.
Bed linen and towels included in rent.
Off road parking for 2 cars.
Front enclosed garden.
One well-behaved dog welcome.
Sorry, no smoking.
Shop and pub 1.5 miles.
Note: There are four steps up from the sitting room to the kitchen and bathroom.
Please note: The rural road location of The Old Smithy may experience some tractor traffic during busy farming periods.
Please Note: The property is being renovated in 2025, these works may run past September 2025
Reviews (43)
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David
The road outside is narrow, but it's a short way to the main road and entirely manageable. Certainly the dustman seemed to manage OK. There was a bus going along it one day as well, and although it has passing points it seems like a motorway compared to some of the Devon roads we've had to contend with on holiday. Bridport is great - quite alternative, with some lovely cafes and shops, plus two supermarkets, so stocking up is easy. Burton Bradstock (Hive N.T) beach was the highlight for us; miles of coastline and quite sandy, with a coffee shop on site, and toilets. West Bay is smaller and more 'boaty' with a marina and some nice cafes. Big car park as well. Just Park seems to be the local car parking app of choice, so worth getting it set up before you leave, to save standing in the rain trying to get your credit card details accepted with an iffy signal (we've all done it). As for the cottage, it was very clean and had all the usual bits and pieces available. Our dog refused to go upstairs (the first three steps are polished wood, which I think put her off), but was content with her bed in the lounge. It is very dark there, so a night-light was useful just to get everyone safely to the downstairs loo in the middle of the night (and dog relaxed in new surroundings). The only thing I would change is the usual holiday cottage bath/shower combo which they all have, and tend to be as successful as all compromises in life. Personally I would just have a shower, but then I'm not turning up with children who need to be bathed, so compromises are usually necessary in these cases, and we can all cope with them for a week. The toilet is in the bathroom, so mornings might be stressful if two couples were staying there, especially if one likes longer showers! Fine for families though (or quick showerers). Dave, the owner (very nice and most accommodating) said some changes were being planned, and I presume a separate loo and shower are part of that equation. Overall, the cottage has everything you need to have a successful and comfortable stay. The heating system is particularly good (when required), and hot water always available. Small but well stocked kitchen meets all needs. Thoroughly recommended.
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Marian
We found it difficult with the dog as footpath was closed. We kept our dog on lead but were worried about sheep and traffic. Offlead would have been impossible owing to extremely busy road. No peaceful country lane. Non stop cars ,vans Lorries milk tankers tractors with trailers.There were huge trucks with building materials .this went on from 7a.m till on one night midnight. We kept the windows closed because of noise.Frankly this cottage could be difficult for dogs and children. Weather and traffic pollution sent us packing early on Thursday and going home.
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Jean-paul
We loved our stay, so warm and cosy. We came for a relax and a recharge, the stunning countryside, local towns and local community made our break wonderful. A fantastic break, very comfortable stay in this beautiful cottage.