Spyglass

4.4★

4 Guests
2 Bedrooms
1 Bathroom
Pets Yes
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Features

Pub/shop < 1 mile
Washing machine
Seaside
Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing

Cleanliness

Comfort

Facilities and Maintenance

* Based on a combined average customer score

28 Customer Review(s)

Andy
October 2024

“Stunning little cottage with incredible views in the heart of Dartmouth.”

We loved our stay and would highly recommend to others. Really well priced and overall well looked after. Our recommendations would be: - you have a log burner but no logs were left. If this is the case, specifying this on the info would ensure people staying have chance to pick them up beforehand - sofas - little tired - main bed - incredibly squeaky - Rules and instructions left in paper were quite passive aggressive regarding rubbish disposals etc (rubbish sack outside was full upon ...

We loved our stay and would highly recommend to others. Really well priced and overall well looked after. Our recommendations would be: - you have a log burner but no logs were left. If this is the case, specifying this on the info would ensure people staying have chance to pick them up beforehand - sofas - little tired - main bed - incredibly squeaky - Rules and instructions left in paper were quite passive aggressive regarding rubbish disposals etc (rubbish sack outside was full upon arriving and was not emptied during stay) Overall we did love out stay though and these recommendation will hopefully support enhancing the beautiful place you have Thanks

- Andy, October 2024

Thank you so much for the feedback and I'm so glad you enjoyed your stay. The log burner supplies issue I have brought up with Coast&Country. I had asked for notes to be added about the need to BYO fire kit and this was recently done. It is surprising that the sofa was described as a little tired, this was new this year and quite a costly item. C&C are checking. C&C will also check out the squeaky bed. Rubbish and recycling pick up has always been a pain in Dartmouth. The rubbish/recycling collector has recently changed and I will make sure the notes are rewritten. Thank you, Martin Property Owner
Lia August 2024

“As our third time staying at spyglass we feel this is testament to how much of a truly spectacular property this is.”

The location, and position and property on a whole proves a magical and unforgettable stay, that enables you to experience the charm of Dartmouth. The views out to the river Dart and the sea beyond are spectacular. We will be sure to return each year, as Spyglass has positioned itself a secure place and truly special place in the heart of our family.

- Lia, August 2024

WOW, thank you so much for your lovely review. We love Spyglass too and are so glad when it is appreciated. Many thanks, Martin and Kerry Property Owner
Francesca July 2024

“We absolutely loved staying here!”

It was wonderful to be so central to Dartmouth and yet feel quite private amongst the rooftops. And of course the views were amazing. Everything in the property was well thought out and the kitchen was equipped appropriately and everything worked well. It is bijou, but perfectly furnished. Though there are steps up to the property, we did not find them troublesome and enjoyed the fact that the property was tucked away. The parking permit was a godsend allowing us to park in the central car park. Parking in Dartmouth is difficult at best and the roads are quite tiny. In peak months you can park for two hours directly outside the property (at the bottom of the steps) which was helpful when dropping off luggage and on the morning of departure. It was a beautifully hot week and the bedrooms were cool with the windows open and upstairs too which created a lovely breeze. I did see another comment about the visibility through the small window in the front door which I initially didn’t think much about, but can now agree that a small curtain there would be ideal. If, as we did, you sleep with the crew bedroom door open to allow the room to stay cool on a hot night, you are in fact potentially on view to those coming down the steps outside. We managed to rig up a towel to create privacy, but a small curtain would be an easy solution. This did not detract from our overall delight in staying here and would fully recommend the property and we definitely hope to return.

- Francesca, July 2024
Carol June 2024

“Lovely apartment.”

. we really enjoyed our stay. The views are wonderful and we will definitely be back!

- Carol, June 2024

Thank you very much for your lovely feedback. You are most welcome and please do come again. Property Owner
Graham November 2023

“We have sent an email with reference to our stay which was sent last Friday and we’re still waiting for your reply.”

Ref COR-352984-CF. This will clarify some of the low ratings !

- Graham, November 2023

Thank you for leaving this review regarding your stay, I am pleased to see we continued the conversation regarding the issues you experienced during your stay and we are pleased to have come to a resolution. We hope you enjoyed Spyglass and hope to welcome you back to the area again soon. The owner experience team on behalf of, Property Owner
Adrian September 2023

“Great views, great location for pubs, restaurants and ferry, nice walk to castle.”

- Adrian, September 2023

Hi Adrian. Thanks so much for the 100% positive feedback score. That makes me very happy! I think you like Spyglass for all the same reasons I do! Please do come again anytime. Many thanks. Martin Property Owner
Claire July 2023

“Very sweet little cottage.”

Absolutely perfect for 2. Fantastic view. Steps up are steep and uneven. Patio access is....interesting. And the front door lock from inside is still scary, really didn't think i was going to get out on a couple of occations

- Claire, July 2023

Hi Claire. Thanks so much for your feedback. I’m really glad you enjoyed Spyglass. The steps are not ideal hence the notes about them in the property description. I will ask C&C to get the front door seen to. Thanks Property Owner
Kay June 2023

“A lovely quirky property with fantastic views.”

Brilliant location very close to some lovely walks and town. Very quiet as you are above street level. Enjoyed looking at the many books dotted around and there is a fab nautical theme throughout. Well stocked kitchen and comfortable beds. The furniture is perfect to fit the space available so it doesn't feel cramped. The property works well for us and we have booked again for next year.

- Kay, June 2023

Hi Kay. So glad you enjoyed your stay at Spyglass. It’s always warming when someone books again as then I feel we have got it right. And, I love staying at Spyglass too! Property Owner
Masja June 2023

“Great cottage with wonderful views!”

Even saw a seal from the window. Totally would stay here again if we ever come back to the area.

- Masja, June 2023

I’m so glad you enjoyed your stay at Spyglass. The views really are something aren’t they! Do come again. Property Owner
Brian March 2023

“Rather cold on the ground floor when we arrived - no heating but first floor was warm.”

We had a couple of maintenance issues that were foxed promplrtly Saturday morning. Front door is very sticky and had to juggle the get to get in. If there is the opportunity to recycle we couldn't find it. Feels a bit crampled for 4 people (2 was OK) and uncomfortable sofa. Overall was nice for a few nights - really enjoyed the quietness and the views! Very conveniently situated ofr the town

- Brian, March 2023

I’m sorry about the heating. The ground floor should have been on for your arrival. The hardwood front door does stick a bit -always tricky at the coast. Full recycling is in town. Spyglass is described as cosy for 4 adults……. But the view!!Lovely! Property Owner
Claire December 2022

“Property was nice and just as expected.”

Would have been nice to have had a little Christmas tree as it was an Xmas break. Really disappointed the fire glass was so black we couldn’t even see the fire which was the main reason for our stay. Don’t expect to come on holiday and clean something before you use it but that’s what we were told to do! It needs a proper professional clean though no amount of newspaper is getting that off! Bedrooms were really comfortable. We got told to move our car by an angry neighbour when we were loading up to leave - it took all of 5 mins!

- Claire, December 2022

Wood burners are a bit tricky. The stove should be run nice and hot then the black tar will simply fall off if the fire is run hot enough. I’m glad you found Spyglass comfortable. Neighbours! What can we do! Property Owner
Emma October 2022

“Lovely quirky accommodation, such fantastic views, a great comfortable stay, only one small negative the double bed is sooo uncomfortable!”

Thanks for a great holiday !

- Emma, October 2022

I’m so glad you liked Spyglass. Beds are always a problem as comfort is such a personal thing. A previous guest had described the bed as the most comfortable they had ever slept it! Property Owner
Gonzalo July 2022

“Great stay.”

The window panes could do with a little cleaning so as to enjoy the views even more. Thank you very much

- Gonzalo, July 2022

I’m so glad you enjoyed your stay at Spyglass. We do try and have the windows cleaned as often as possible. Sadly the local seagulls leave their deposits faster than the window cleaners can get around….. Property Owner
Emma June 2022

“Spyglass is a lovely place to stay, quirky but that's part of its charm.”

Its reverse level means the lounge views over the river are stunning and the roof terrace is a definite benefit. The kitchen is well kitted out and the whole place is comfortable. The car park permit was a definite benefit given that parking in the town is tricky. The only thing that's a shame is a lack of recycling provision but I am guessing this can be tricky for this type of business. A couple of things needed fixing but nothing major and this was fed back directly to the office and was recieved positively. I definitely intend to book Spyglass again.

- Emma, June 2022
Alexandra June 2022

“Wir waren zu dritt in Spyglass und haben uns sehr wohl gefühlt.”

Die Aussicht ist fabelhaft und Dartmouth ist eine Reisen wert. Auch mit dem Parken hat es dank Parkerlaubnis für den öffentlichen Parkplatz prima funktioniert.

- Alexandra, June 2022
David April 2022

“We really enjoyed our week's stay at Spyglass.”

This quirky hideaway is a gem. Be prepared for steps and a view to die for.

- David, April 2022

Thank you so much for your feedback...I love Spyglass too! The steps are what they are, all 32 of them, but, it does mean that Spyglass is very quiet, and climbing does mean a great view. Cheers. Property Owner
Janet January 2022

“It's a great dwelling with a wonderful view.”

It took a long time to warm up though. The single beds had rather uncomfortable mattresses. The front door was very hard to close. Overall, we had a great stay!

- Janet, January 2022

Hi. Thanks for your feedback, I do ask for the property to have the heating on before guests arrive so I will remind C&C about this, ditto the front door closing. Beds are tricky things, guests often say how comfy they are. I'm very glad you had a great stay. Property Owner
Deborah November 2021

“We really enjoyed our stay at the Spyglass overlooking the river watching the ferry crossing and the view of Kingswear.”

Lucky enough to catch the steam train to Paignton. Spyglass was a great bolt hole that we would like to try in the summer. Lovely location despite the 32 steps that proved insignificant to the other steps in the town

- Deborah, November 2021

I am really glad you enjoyed your stay. Steps = views! Property Owner
Kevin October 2021

“Front door and lock a bit stiff.”

Great views and location. Pity about the stairs to the property.

- Kevin, October 2021
Angela October 2021

“This is a very sweet little flat, with fabulous views over the Dart estuary and really handy for the very pretty old town and the ferry.”

Beds were really comfy and shower/hot water worked well plus new cooker and fridge. We had a lovely week with lots to explore including 2 fabulous NT properties at Greenway and Coleton Fishacre - and great walks along the coast path, plus plenty of quiet little coves to swim or canoe from. Plus only a short stroll down to the Dartmouth Arms with a great and reasonably priced menu. The only downside from our perspective was the steps to the property which were narrow, steep and uneven, and we couldn't work the outside light out - so had a few hairy descents. So fine for the able-bodied, but I wouldn't recommend for anyone with mobility issues. Plus we never manged to park outside (but that is fairly typical for Dartmouth) - so the weekly pass for the Mayors car park was a godsend. Having said all that I would stay there again, as it was such a good location and you could sit on the outside terrace and watch the world go by for hours.

- Angela, October 2021

Thanks very much for your feedback. The steps are very much brought to attention in the property information. The steps do mean the property is super quiet, and, steps = views!There is no outside light with the property but there is a bright lamp outside that comes on overnight. Property Owner
Sara August 2021

“Compared to previous accommodation booked with other providers this was very basic and incredibly expensive due to our time off coinciding with regatta week.”

The flat was definitely more shabby than chic

- Sara, August 2021

Thank you for taking the time to leave your feedback, we are surprised to hear your comments regarding the interior of the property. It is hard to match all personal tastes, however we do feel that the images show the property as it is. We do hope that despite the mater you raised you had an enjoyable stay in Dartmouth. Property Owner
James July 2021

“The views from the apartment are fantastic - and allow for a very relaxing holiday.”

- James, July 2021

I’m so glad you enjoyed Spyglass so much. I love it too! Property Owner
John July 2021

“A nice small apartment very close to the centre of Dartmouth, my only negative would be the size of the fridge which is very small.”

An additional fridge could easily be added to the appt. which would make the stay easier.

- John, July 2021
Andy June 2021

“We had to cancel our original holiday last year due to covid but Sykes refunded the money within a week so was very keen to book with them again.”

The description of the accommodation was accurate and the position of this accommodation was fantastic being so close to the centre. The view from the windows was fantastic. Parking is an issue as no long term car parking around but street parking up the hill just before Dartmouth castle about a 10 min walk. Had a great holiday.

- Andy, June 2021

I’m so glad you enjoyed your stay at Spyglass. Property Owner
Bruce May 2021

“I think it is very poor that we could not get a parking permit for our stay.”

We could not park in the town centre for more than 4 hours this meant that we could not go on any of the trips on boats and rail. This left us with having to drive out of Dartmouth rather than park and visit the nearby sites.

- Bruce, May 2021

Thank you for taking the time to leave some feedback. The nature of Dartmouth town centre means that houses and shops are tightly packed, leaving limited room for parking. Whilst the town is picturesque, it can be tricky to park, particularly in high season. The town benefits from a park and ride and has several areas of free roadside parking. We are pleased to say that the owner of Spyglass has recently purchased a permit for the town car park. We hope that you still enjoyed your stay in the beautiful South Hams and hope to welcome you back soon! Property Owner
Caro April 2021

“The flat was absolutely delightful.”

An upside-down place with the most gorgeous views of Dartmouth, both out to the castle and the sea and up the river. The views at sunrise and sunset were particularly lovely - I was very lucky with the weather. (Had I not been, the flat would have still been cosy with a wood-burning stove.) The cooking facilities were excellent, the combined oven/microwave was very handy, although being just a short walk away from the town-centre I ate out most lunchtimes at the river-front restaurants or took a picnic down to Bayards quay. I also had a divine brunch one day at the aptly named; Al Fresco's. Handy shopping at Co-op and M&S was also very nearby. The steps up to Spyglass (which the ad for the property mentioned) were a little challenging for some-one like myself with mobility difficulties, but taken slowly were perfectly do-able. I particularly enjoyed the serene Captain's bed-room, all white wood paneling and soft pillows and the big open shower. My only, tiny, criticism was that a small curtain across the porthole window in the front door might be an idea as someone passing up the steps (a public footpath) could see in as one went from bathroom to bedroom. All in all a wonderful place for a spring getaway (a birthday present to myself)!

- Caro, April 2021

I am so glad you had such a lovely time. Property Owner
David October 2020

“A really pleasant stay in a querky harbour cottage.”

We are already planning to return. Which pretty much says everything.

- David, October 2020

Thank you for taking the time to leave feedback. We are very pleased that you enjoyed your stay in this wonderful cottage and look forward to welcoming you back sometime in the future! Property Owner
Megan July 2020

“A wonderful place to stay.”

Nice and easy to get about to local restaurants, shops and pubs. Would definitely recommend this place. Only thing which has nothing to do with the place is that I was not overly happy that when I booked with sykes cottages that they automatically make an online account for you. I didnt use the account at all and all information I needed was sent via email so not sure they needed to make an online account? I would prefer if they didn't do this. Other than that very happy.

- Megan, July 2020

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Summary

Reverse-level accommodation providing roomy accommodation for 2 adults, ideal for a family with two young children or cosy accommodation for 4 adults
Two bedrooms: 1 x ground-floor double, 1 x ground-floor twin
Ground-floor bathroom with shower, basin and WC
First-floor open-plan living/kitchen/dining with wood burning stove.
Heating with wood burning stove and electric heater
Built-in oven, grill and microwave, fridge, washing machine, TV
Fuel and power inc. in rent
Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
Roof terrace with furniture
Pet Friendly - charge of £25 payable per dog
Strictly No Smoking
Shop 0.2 miles, Pub 0.1 miles, Note: Property accessed up 32 steps, which form part of a public footpath
Note: A parking permit for one car is available for the Mayor's Avenue car park (subject to available spaces)
Please note-kindling, fire lighters and logs are not provided for the log burner, these can easily from the supermarkets at the top of town.

The property

Spyglass is a cosy quirky and unusual reverse-level property near the centre of Dartmouth, offering fantastic 180 degree views across the river, down the estuary towards Dartmouth Castle and out to sea.

Spyglass is a former sail loft, and maintains much of its naval character, providing comfortable accommodation for four guests, making it ideal for a small family or couple wanting to explore the South Devon coast.

The property is accessed via 32 external stone steps, enter the property to find the two bedrooms; the 'Captain's Bedroom', a double with feature wooden panelling, a wall-mounted electric heater and nods to the nautical theme of the property, along with the 'Crew's bedroom', a twin room with fitted wardrobe and electric heater,both painted in a fresh and crisp white.

The shower room has a large, slightly elevated electric shower, perfect for starting each day with a refreshing rinse.

Upstairs you will find a fantastic open-plan living area with sloping ceiling and benefitting from four velux roof windows and exposed wooden floorboards.

There is limited head height in parts of the room, but the many windows add light and brightness to the room, with a cosy sitting area with woodburning stove and TV, where you can choose to curl up with one of the provided books or simply admire the views available to you.

Enjoy meals together at the wooden, extendable dining table, prepared in the compact but well-equipped kitchen.

Head out onto the roof terrace for incredible sea and castle views enjoying a morning coffee while soaking up your surroundings.

The popular and bustling town centre of Dartmouth is a short walk away, known for its Royal Regatta and Naval College and steeped in history and unique architecture.

You will find a selection of boutique shops, fantastic restaurants, cafés, art galleries and plenty of local events taking place all year round.

Cyclists and walkers will be spoilt for choice with access to the South West Coast Path and the Dart Valley Trail, as well as enjoying walks along the River Dart, visiting attractions like the Dartmouth Museum and 15th century castle, while Sugary Cove Beach is less than a mile away.

Take a trip along the Dartmouth Steam Railway towards Paington, or hop on a ferry and discover the village of Kingswear, where you can visit its castle and the arts & crafts style house Coleton Fishacre House & Gardens, owned by the National Trust, along with the fishing town of Brixham, with its sandy beach and picturesque harbour, plus Berry Head peninsula and national nature reserve, which offers incredible coastal views to visitors.

Venture south from Dartmouth towards the South Devon AONB and along the way, discover the market town of Totnes, with its Norman motte & bailey castle, museum and family-friendly farm of rare breads, while the South West Coast will bring you to a host of glorious sandy beaches and charming hidden coves in Salcombe, Kingsbridge and Bantham, as well as the dramatic cliffs at Bolberry Down.

Spyglass is a wonderful base, well-placed for discovering South Devon and its coastline.

Note: This property has a Good Housekeeping bond of £200.

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About the location

DARTMOUTH

Totnes 12 miles.

Dartmouth lies on the banks of the beautiful River Dart estuary in the popular and picturesque South Hams area of South Devon. Located within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and close to the coast, Dartmouth is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Devon. It offers a stunning waterfront, ancient narrow streets lined with boutique shops, restaurants and art galleries plus many local events such as the annual Dart Music Festival and the Port of Dartmouth Royal Regatta, along with the Dartmouth Food Festival held every October. There are many interesting cycling and walking routes around Dartmouth, including the South West Coast Path, the Dart Valley Trail and plenty of quiet country lanes. A trip on the Dartmouth Steam Railway through picturesque countryside to Paignton is a must, and so is a boat trip across to Kingswear and on to Brixham, a pretty little harbour town. For those seeking some beach activities, there is a wide choice in the South Hams area such as Blue Flag Award winner Blackpool Sands, and Slapton Sands, both extremely popular and just a stone's throw from Dartmouth. A relaxing location in South Devon.

Please note that as the property is accessed up 32 external steps it is not suitable for families with babies or small children or the infirm

Suitable family accommodation as 2 + 2 - cosy for 4 adults

Pet Friendly

NOTE - No parking at the property - seasonal parking nearby, please see below - parking permit supplied (car park is approximately 5-10 minute walk from the apartment). Please note that the Mayors Avenue car park is closed for the Regatta Week.

Between 1st October - 30th April there is unrestricted parking close to the property on Newcomen Rd. This is on a first come first served basis.

Between 1st May - 30th September there is parking close to the property on Newcomen Rd. This is limited to 2 hours and on a first come, first served basis.

Please note-kindling, fire lighters and logs are not provided for the log burner, these can easily be bought from supermarkets at the top of town.

Strictly No Smoking

This property offers the following short breaks:

Winter
Off-season
Last minute
Christmas

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Features

Reviews & Ratings

“Stunning little cottage with incredible views in the heart of Dartmouth.”

“As our third time staying at spyglass we feel this is testament to how much of a truly spectacular property this is.”

“We absolutely loved staying here!”

“Lovely apartment.”

“We have sent an email with reference to our stay which was sent last Friday and we’re still waiting for your reply.”

“Great views, great location for pubs, restaurants and ferry, nice walk to castle.”

“Very sweet little cottage.”

“A lovely quirky property with fantastic views.”

“Great cottage with wonderful views!”

“Rather cold on the ground floor when we arrived - no heating but first floor was warm.”

“Property was nice and just as expected.”

“Lovely quirky accommodation, such fantastic views, a great comfortable stay, only one small negative the double bed is sooo uncomfortable!”

“Great stay.”

“Spyglass is a lovely place to stay, quirky but that's part of its charm.”

“Wir waren zu dritt in Spyglass und haben uns sehr wohl gefühlt.”

“We really enjoyed our week's stay at Spyglass.”

“It's a great dwelling with a wonderful view.”

“We really enjoyed our stay at the Spyglass overlooking the river watching the ferry crossing and the view of Kingswear.”

“Front door and lock a bit stiff.”

“This is a very sweet little flat, with fabulous views over the Dart estuary and really handy for the very pretty old town and the ferry.”

“Compared to previous accommodation booked with other providers this was very basic and incredibly expensive due to our time off coinciding with regatta week.”

“The views from the apartment are fantastic - and allow for a very relaxing holiday.”

“A nice small apartment very close to the centre of Dartmouth, my only negative would be the size of the fridge which is very small.”

“We had to cancel our original holiday last year due to covid but Sykes refunded the money within a week so was very keen to book with them again.”

“I think it is very poor that we could not get a parking permit for our stay.”

“The flat was absolutely delightful.”

“A really pleasant stay in a querky harbour cottage.”

“A wonderful place to stay.”

Summary

The property

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About the location

DARTMOUTH