Old Higher Lighthouse Branscombe Lodge, PORTLAND BILL

Rated 3/50 by Gosfox on 12th March 2017

"Firstly I have to say that the location of Branscombe cottage is absolutely brilliant with views from the first floor sitting room area down to the current lighthouse,the old lower lighthouse ,out across the bay and down to chesil beach.We found the cottage to be clean and comfortable if a little tired and dated especially in the bedrooms. We visited the old lighthouse tower on the second day of our visit and found the views to be impressive when the weather permits,we would have liked to visit it again on our last day as the weather was clear but were unable to access the tower as it was being painted inside and ladders etc blocked the way.I would also like to mention that the cottage is entirely electric with storage heaters in use as you might expect but I did not expect to be feeding pound coins into two electricity meters all week to ensure we had power,this is an archaic and uneconomic way to access electricity ,we fed approx 30 pounds into these meters in a week - it would much better if the owners incorporated this cost in the weekly rental or at least have proper meters fitted and take before and after readings and charge at the end of the week as is common in Scotland.I am sure that people who rent this property in August at over 1200 pounds a week will be just as thrilled as we were with the current arrangement.Overall we loved the location of this place we just feel that some of the income from this cottage should be used to update and freshen up the bedrooms in particular and if access to the lighthouse is restricted then maybe don't rent the properties until the decorating is finished."

Rated 4/50 by A FlipKey Verified Reviewer on 29th August 2013

"Wonderful situation for we 'townies' who live far from the sea. Very good cottage although second bedroom a little limited in size if four big people are staying. Lovely, helpful hosts. Very well equipped house and the upside-down aspect very attractive. Watching the sun go down was magical. It was very windy when we were there in June, so we didn't use the swimming pool but it must have been great in the lovely sunny weather. We enjoyed walks along the cliff path and looking over Weymouth Bay and Chesil Beach. We visited Poole, Weymouth, Abbotsbury Gardens and Swannery (masses of babies at that time). Excellent cafe close by - the crab sandwiches are to die for but it closes in the evening. We found one hotel with a good restaurant but generally eating facilities were not good, which is a pity. The local pub should look to its laurels as I am sure it could be a great asset so close to the sea and the lighthouse. we would certainly have used it had it been better. There is a Tesco supermarket on the island, which was very good. We loved going up into the lighthouse - take a glass of wine up there in the evening and just enjoy the lovely view - bliss! Go for a long weekend, take your own food and enjoy that wonderful sea! Sadly no pets allowed and we have just got another dog so will not return. We have already recommended it to friends and family."

Rated 5/50 by A FlipKey Verified Reviewer on 13th September 2012

"Cant't fault fault anything. Excellent accomodation, super hosts. We had a wonderful stay and it wasn't long enough. Highly Recommended"