Oliver C.
The view over Salcombe estuary was fantastic, and we enjoyed some sunny spells and evening meals in the garden. There’s a built-in BBQ, though you’ll need to bring charcoal. The garden isn’t child friendly, and the kitchen, while compact, has enough room for two people and includes a gas hob, oven, microwave, kettle and toaster. It still felt grubby during our stay. We booked seven nights for our first family staycation with our four-month-old, as we’ve visited Salcombe every year since childhood. We ended up leaving early because the cleanliness was poor and the description wasn’t accurate. Getting in was difficult with a baby and bags. The front steps are steep and narrow, while the back way from the parking area has four sets of steps. The town is close, but the route out of the garden is hilly. This place doesn’t suit families with a buggy or anyone who has trouble getting around. It may work for fit adults with children aged five and up. The cleanliness was far below standard. The sofa was stained and felt grimy, as if many dogs had been on it, and reviews seem to have mentioned this since 2019. The owner confirmed most windows hadn’t been cleaned for months, apart from the back doors. There were cobwebs or spiders in about 70% of the corners, stains on the carpets that the owner said were likely dog urine, dog hair across the kitchen floor, a wet dog smell when we arrived, and dog faeces in the garden. When we stripped the beds before leaving, the mattress was stained and had what looked like pubic or animal hair on it. We raised these issues with Sykes Cottages during our stay and then left early. When we complained, the owner was insulting and sarcastic, showed no empathy and wasn’t willing to resolve anything. I wouldn’t recommend this let or stay here again.
