Guests say
Old Smiddy Cottage is highly praised for its peaceful location, cleanliness, and homely feel. Guests appreciate the well-equipped kitchen, cosy log burners, and secure garden, ideal for children and pets. The cottage's charm and proximity to local attractions make it a favoured retreat for those seeking tranquillity and countryside beauty.
Guests consistently mention the cottage's cleanliness, describing it as very clean and well-maintained. The provision of clean bedding and towels is frequently noted, contributing to the high score.
The cottage's location is celebrated for its seclusion, quietness, and scenic views. Its proximity to local towns, beaches, and Edinburgh is appreciated, although it is noted to be slightly challenging to find.
Comfort is highlighted with mentions of a homely atmosphere, comfortable beds, and a cosy lounge. Some guests found the pillows too soft and the cottage cool until the log burners were effective, slightly affecting the score.
Facilities are generally well-regarded, with a well-equipped kitchen and secure garden. However, some guests mention issues with the bathroom, difficulty opening windows, and a need for garden maintenance, indicating room for improvement.
Many guests express gratitude for thoughtful touches like welcome biscuits, milk, and flowers. While these gestures are warmly received, it is important to note that such gifts, though delightful, are not guaranteed with every stay.
About this property
This lovely red sandstone cottage is 7 miles from the county town of Haddington and 8 miles from the coastal town of Dunbar in South East Scotland. Hidden along a winding lane and surrounded by idyllic countryside, this cottage feels remote despite being only 45 minutes from the centre of Edinburgh, making it perfect for anyone looking to escape from everyday life and enjoy exploring this beautiful part of Scotland. Make your way into the spacious open plan kitchen/diner, equipped with everything you could need to rustle up a hearty feast and including a dining table for everyone to gather round. Look forward to unwinding in the sitting room with a large wood burning stove to keep you all toasty on chillier evenings, where there are two plush sofas waiting for you to sink into them. Going back past the kitchen, there is a hallway which leads into the bedrooms, including a double and zip/link twin for flexible sleeping arrangements, followed by a family bathroom with bath and shower over. Outside there is a large enclosed garden, which is completely lawned, offering plenty of space to play and ideal for those with children and pets. From the doorstep, there are a number of walks which cut through the delicate countryside and into the Lammermuirs - perfect for a morning stroll or a sunset walk. A short drive away is the village of East Linton with an independent bakery, a great butcher, post office and pubs - also close to historic Preston Mill or Concorde at the Museum of Flight. Preston Mill was a filming location for Outlander and there are many other filming locations in the county. Haddington, Dunbar and North Berwick are the three main towns in East Lothian and each have their own historic buildings to explore, all within 25 minutes of Old Smiddy Cottage and each offering a different vibe. The medieval market town of Haddington has a good mix of independent shops including cafes, pubs and restaurants and a farmers market on the last Saturday of the month. Tantallon Castle sits on the edge of cliffs looking out to the Bass Rock while the ruin of Hailes Castle is hidden on the banks of the River Tyne near Haddington. Don’t miss nearby sunny Dunbar on East Lothian’s coast with its stunning beaches, where you can try wakeboarding as well as sinking your teeth into the fascinating history of this charming town. East Lothian with its rolling hills, stunning beaches, world-class golf courses and high quality food and drink scene is a fantastic part of Scotland to explore, as well as offering relaxing spas to really help you unwind. Although easily accessible through good transport links you can quickly escape into the countryside for a taste of rural living. Exploring from your base in East Lothian you can find wonderful woodland walks at Pressmennan Wood, Binning Wood or Byres Hill and nothing beats a breathtaking beach - why not try pony trekking at Seacliff? Or a good walk along Tyninghame, Gullane or Belhaven Bay before heading to North Berwick for a boat visit to the Bass Rock or the Scottish Seabird Centre. For a change of pace, visit Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital city which is full of things to see and do before returning to your peaceful base at Old Smiddy Cottage. EPC Rating: Band G
The town of Haddington rests in the county of East Lothian in South East Scotland. The town offers a mix of independant shops, restaurants, pubs, cafes and a rich history. Twenty miles from Edinburgh, the town is easily accessible to Scotland's capital, as well as the North Sea coastline including the town of Dunbar, which is just 11 miles away.
Accommodation
All ground floor.
Two bedrooms: 1 x double with woodburning stove, 1 x zip/link twin.
Bathroom with bath, shower over, basin and WC.
Kitchen/diner with woodburning stove.
Sitting room with woodburning stove
Electric central heating with woodburning stoves.
Electric range oven and hob, microwave, fridge, washing machine, dishwasher, TV, WiFi.
1 x highchair and 1 x cot provided.
Fuel and power included in rent.
Bed linen and towels included in rent.
Starter pack for fire included in rent.
Roadside parking for two cars (in lay-by).
Enclosed lawned garden.
Two well-behaved dogs welcome.
Sorry, no smoking.
Shop 5.5 miles, pub 3 miles.
Note: No mobile reception and WiFi is basic.
Note: Dogs must be kept away from livestock in surrounding farms
Reviews (28)
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Timothy
The WiFi was slow but we managed. Wood was dearest, suggest ordering in before you go for the fire.
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Valerie
Do follow the owners directions, as it is tucked away. Very quiet, with sheep and cows as your neighbours. Well equipped and lots of space. The garden was lovely, and we enjoyed sitting out with a drink while listening to the wildlife or reading. Within easy reach of beaches (by car) and lots of walking routes. Would definitely recommend
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Philip
The plumbing could do with some maintenance, though