Guests say
Whatley Lodge receives high praise for its spacious, well-equipped cottage, peaceful setting, and friendly, helpful hosts. Guests particularly enjoy the hot tub, enclosed garden, and proximity to local attractions and beautiful countryside. The property is dog-friendly and offers thoughtful touches, such as welcome gifts, though these are not guaranteed. While the vast majority of reviews are positive, a small number mention minor maintenance and cleanliness issues. Overall, guests find the cottage comfortable, private, and ideal for both relaxation and exploring the surrounding area.
Most guests describe the cottage as very clean and well-maintained, with only one review mentioning issues with the kettle and some outdoor areas. The majority of feedback is positive, indicating a high standard of cleanliness overall.
The location is frequently praised for its peacefulness, proximity to a stream, and convenient access to Somerset, Devon, Dorset, and local towns. Guests appreciate the tranquil setting and ease of exploring the region.
Guests consistently mention the cottage's spaciousness, comfortable beds, and relaxing atmosphere. A minor comment was made about some dining chairs and a sofa being a little uncomfortable, but this did not detract from the overall comfort.
The property is highly rated for its excellent facilities, including a well-equipped kitchen, hot tub, utility room, WiFi, and enclosed garden. One review noted some maintenance issues with flooring and outdoor areas, but these were exceptions.
Many guests mention the warm welcome from the hosts and thoughtful touches such as a homemade cake and milk on arrival. Please note that such gifts are not guaranteed for every stay.
About this property
There’s something for everyone in this idyllic location just a few miles from the Jurassic Coast, seaside resorts and attractions.. 1 step to entrance.
Ground Floor:
Living room: 32" Smart TV, Freesat, CD Player, Woodburner, French Doors Leading To Garden
Kitchen/dining room: Smart TV, Freesat, Woodburner, Electric Oven, Electric Hob, Microwave, Fridge, Freezer, Dishwasher, French Doors Leading To Garden
Utility Room: Washing Machine, Tumble Dryer
Bedroom 1: Kingsize (5ft) Bed, Smart TV, Freesat, Dressing Area
Bathroom: Bath With Shower Over, Heated Towel Rail, Toilet
First Floor:
Bedroom 2: Zip And Link 2 x Single (2ft 6in) Beds, Smart TV, Freesat.
Economy 7 heating (underfloor in bathroom), electricity, bed linen, towels and free Wi-Fi included.Logs, kindling and firelighters can be purchased on site. Highchair. Welcome pack and doggy extras. There are 2 steps leading up to the rear enclosed private garden with patio and wood chip surfaces, garden furniture and barbecue. Hot tub for 5 (private). There is private parking for 2 cars. No smoking. Please note: The property has a natural water supply from a spring. A river runs alongside the garden.. Whatley Lodge is set in an idyllic location at the bottom of a long gravel private driveway, adjacent to a small river where an abundance of wildlife, including deer and kingfishers, can be seen. This secluded location can be found in a small valley off the B3162 a mile outside Winsham village located near Chard in south Somerset, close to the West Dorset and Devon borders.
This detached lodge offers great family accommodation for four. Located within an easy driving distance of many great attractions including Forde Abbey and Gardens which make for an interesting visit, or for great family attractions, the Yeovilton Fleet Air Arm Museum and the Haynes Motor Museum are certainly to be enjoyed by all. Nearby, enjoy a cream tea at Hornsbury Mill or Barleymows Farm Shop, some Somerset Cider at Dowlish Wake, or simply take in some great country or coastal walking, golf at the nearby Cricket St Thomas Golf Club or visit the nature reserve at Chard Reservoir. Venturing further north is Clarks Village, the factory shopping outlet at Street, Glastonbury Tor, and further on to Cheddar Gorge and Caves.
The famous World Heritage Jurassic Coast is within a 30-minute drive with many picturesque towns and villages, taking in the seaside resorts of Lyme Regis, West Bay, Seaton, and Sidmouth. Beach 15 miles. Shop 1 mile, pub 1 mile in the centre of the village and restaurant 3 miles.
Free WiFi
Only dogs allowed at the property.
There is open water in the property grounds.
Suitable for up to 2 pets
Reviews (17)
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Confirmed Guest
The cottage is detached and set in really nice surroundings, and the stream next to the property is a lovely feature — we even saw some fish in it. However, we were disappointed with the overall condition of the cottage and the lack of maintenance.We weren’t expecting the owners’ property to be literally next door, so the description gave us a slightly different impression of the level of privacy.The biggest concern was the flooring. Many of the tiles were broken, with sharp and uneven edges, which felt quite dangerous. We ended up having to wear shoes inside the cottage all the time. If you are travelling with children, please be particularly aware of this as there are quite a few sharp edges. This really needs attention.The beds were also uncomfortable, with what appeared to be old pocket-spring mattresses, and the pillows were flat like pancakes. A good-quality memory foam topper and better pillows would make a significant difference and would be relatively simple improvements.There were also a number of things that either didn’t work properly or were not functioning during our stay, including the towel rail, underfloor heating and the television. The TV in the main room had a blue picture, meaning everything we watched was displayed in blue, which was particularly frustrating.Overall, the location and natural surroundings are lovely, and the stream is a real highlight, but the cottage would benefit considerably from some investment and basic maintenance. With the broken tiles and other issues addressed, it could be a much more enjoyable place to stay.
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Tina Burrows
What a find, if we could leave more than 5* we would.Lovely welcome from owner Luke. The cottage is huge. Large fully equipped kitchen/diner with sofa and TV. Not one thing had been missed in the kitchen. We lodge holiday alot so we have a well stocked bag that we take with anything we might need just incase it's not in a lodge but.......we didn't open it. Gorgeous bathroom next to the double bedroom with a large dressing area and TV.On into the sitting room. We didn't actually use it as we loved the kitchen/diner. Up an open flight of stairs out of the kitchen/diner is a landing and a great second double bedroom which is huge, has real character and a TV.Bookcases of toys, puzzles and games. Play tent in a cupboard.Outside is an enclosed garden with the sound of a running stream. Patio set and very big perfect hot tub. This cottage is well off the road, down a drive, through woodland, alongside more running water. Owner Lisa left a gorgeous Victoria sponge and milk in the fridge. Wayford Woods is 10 mins away. A beautiful privately owned woods for the public was a massive find. Pawsome dog field 10 mins away is perfect for an off lead dog walk, lots of equipment.Cottage isn't far from the coast so just perfect all round.We're hoping for a Winter stay in the new year. Just perfect ❤🐾, thank you Luke & Lisa
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Dan
Spent a week at this beautiful cottage at the end of july and will be returning with out a doubt ! The owners are always on hand to help and advise on the local area not forgetting the lovely welcome gift ! The cottage itself is set in private land with a stream running through with plenty of enclosed areas to let a dog have a run very clean very comfortable and an amazing hot tub.About 25 mins from Lyme Regis and 50 minutes to Weymouth so very well placed