Surroundings

Smell in front of the house.

Easy collection of keys from a lockbox. Communication upon my booking was prompt and thorough. Everything was high quality and up to standard, in a very peaceful rural area. It's a granny flat that's part of a house, below ground level. Lack of natural light, so I wanted to open the blinds, but didn't want people looking down into the window - but didn't see a single soul during my weekend stay, as the owner was away. Help was just a WhatsApp message away, and they were very prompt and helpful with a couple of queries I had. Good strong modern shower, well equipped kitchen, tasteful decor, clean bed and bedroom. Selection of books, games and a homely cottage feel. The small space of this property is well organised and arranged, but a view on a natural vista would really complete the experience. I think it's reasonably priced compared to other rural Kent getaways - there's not much going on around except pubs and walks (which is what I wanted.)

The listing says "Garden View" but there is no view from the property, as it is a basement flat looking out onto a brick wall. From the bathroom you can glimpse the steps going up to the decking. You have to walk outside and up the steps to the lake view. I like that the decking area is exclusively for guests, even though it's overlooked by the main house. There's no phone signal, and you have to drive up the hill for it. But WiFi in the flat was consistent and strong. Minor complaint: bit of a musty smell when I entered - the curtains over the front door could be freshened up for best first impressions. And this might be a personal thing - and dependent on your reason for staying - but once inside the place, I felt a lack of focal interest, that even just a log fire, or a TV (even though I don't watch TV) might have assuaged. Unless you've got company with you, then it's not such an issue, but I probably wouldn't want to stay more than a couple nights for leisure reasons alone.

Cute

Long way from anywhere

Nice location and ideal for couple for short break.

1. This wasn’t the property we booked. As it was a last minute booking we didn’t have time to rearrange any alternatives. This isn’t the first time we have experienced last minute changes through booking. Com and one wonders if it’s used to simply fill gaps in calendar. 2. The property had no clear boundary identification making it difficult to locate in the late autumn evening light. Had to contact owner/manager who guided us in. 3. Having a damage deposit taken from account that was greater than the price of the stay and have to wait a week or so for it to be refunded is not acceptable in my view. Booking.com do not make this clear on booking and again last minute to late to do much about. 4. Property good for a couple nights stay. If you enjoy cooking your own evening meals it is very limited cooking facilities. Fine for snacks etc. but not real cooking.