Denbigh Hall

Good but just too far out

Pros: The beds were comfortable although very creaky

Cons: Much too remote

Pros: Denbigh Hall is a beautiful cottage combining period and modern features. The kitchen is very good, quite big and very well equipped. There are downstairs and upstairs bathrooms, and separate dining and sitting rooms. The upstairs bathroom has access from both double bedrooms, as it is between them, so you have to remember to lock both doors when using the bathroom. There is a large garden and access to footpaths through fields, children would like it (though there were no outdoor games/equipment that we found). Despite the remoteness, wifi was great!

Cons: Not problems for us, and the information is clear, but worth noting that the house has narrow wooden staircases which some may find awkward. There are also some low doorways, particularly from the second double bedroom to the bathroom. But the downstairs bathroom provides an alternative. Some might find the cottage's remoteness a drawback. It's in a small hamlet called Stansbatch, at the end of a narrow lane which, while mostly well maintained, has some rough sections. If you don't want to drive on rougher roads, or don't want to reverse to a passing place if you meet an oncoming vehicle, this may not be for you. The lane also has a small stream alongside it near the cottage, and we wondered if this is liable to flood. The house is isolated, about 200 metres beyond the nearest other houses. The written directions to the cottage are clear, though it would be difficult to find in the dark.

Good but small details matter.

Pros: Lovely cottage and position. Unfortunately the hot water had been turned off which we didn’t notice til Saturday. Cold showers until boost button found and timer reset. Extractor fan in downstairs bathroom doesn’t work and very small room with poor lighting and no hook on door. Kitchen drawers could do with a deep clean.