Anvil Cottage, SAWREY

Rated 3/50 by FionaH2269 on 3rd August 2019

"The house provided a comfortable stay for visiting the lake district and surrounding areas. The interior was a little dated, and the garden wasn't really as advertised. The gardening had not been done for a long while and as such was not very pleasant to sit out there, and it isn't very private as passers by on the street can see into it. House was right in the centre of the village opposite Hill Top and as such a lot of tourists were outside taking pictures of the house and looking through the windows. One tourist actually walked right through the front door and when asked to leave demanded to know 'if this cottage is private then why is it in the national trust brochure?!' Safe to say we kept the front door locked from then on. Parking situation was also a bit tricky, and although the kitchen was mostly acceptable, the fridge had a really strong odour that made it very unpleasant every time you opened it. Other than this the cottage was extremely clean. Overall a nice stay but not as private as we would have liked, and the house could really do with a bit of TLC I think. Also could have done with WiFi as phone signal is non-existent inside the house."

Rated 3/50 by Cybersloth on 2nd September 2017

"Had a lovely week and indeed the cottage and Near Sawrey are a great place to explore The lakes from with Hawkshead in easy reach and a brilliant pub over the road. The cottage itself is spacious with two parking spaces, good heating and hot water (electric shower) and a wood burner. Also a lovely little back garden, two Tvs, DVDs and plenty of books. There is also an excellent service from the local Milkman each morning. We did however have a couple of problems, firstly the overwhelming smell of "dog" on arrival. On contactng the agent they did explain that the owner had recently stayed with their three dogs and then send a cleaner in the following day; eventually the smell did recede or indeed we got used to it. As dog owners ourselves we are used to a little eau du dog but this was somewhat overhwhelming at first. Secondly and far more of a problem was the fridge that no matter how many times we cleaner maintained a constant smell of "damp". Subsequently anything we put in the fridge also smelt hence the kids' lunchboxes and then the rucksack we put them in. Upon opening the fridge the smell would permeate throughout the kitchen. Again, we mentioned this but short of providing a new fridge, not a lot could be done. We did receive a sincere apology and although this didn't really spoil our holiday opening the fridge was not somehting we looked forward to. On the whole a lovely week but a little bit on the smelly side"

Rated 4/50 by Philiplilley on 12th December 2016

"We have stayed many times at Anvil Cottage. and it was so nice to return again this year, the owners have spent some time and money which has added to the warm experience. It is set in the heart of breathtaking village of Near Sawrey and is a must stay. We spent our time visiting all the local towns as this are a short journey from Anvil. It was great to return to a warm house and settle in for the evening after a visit to the Tower Bank or Cuckoo Brow Inn. I have written a review on these must eat and Drink, Tower Bank has lifted its game and this is down to Jimmy (Scottish) he is a warm and friendly Bar Manager,, his service makes you feel at home in the village. So if you would like to be in the heart of the Lakes with walks on your doorstep and Pubs and in Home from Home property this is a great place to stay"

Rated 3/50 by Travelbug177 on 22nd October 2016

"We have just come back from a wonderful week in the Lakes with the in-laws. Anvil Cottage is in a lovely location opposite Hill Top and the Tower Bank Arms, so perfect for Beatrix Potter enthusiasts. It provided us with a good base for exploring the area, with places like Kirkstone, Derwent Water and Ullswater not too far away. The cottage is a good size for four and was comfortable enough, but improvements are needed. It was not particularly clean when we arrived; there were cobwebs around the skirting boards and we found a plaster under one of the beds. We actually gave the place a good hoover before we left and decided it looked better than when we arrived! The furniture is old and tired; one of the wardrobe handles is broken and some cupboard doors do not shut properly. The radio in the dining room doesn't work. We felt that Wi-Fi would have been useful; I understand that people want to get away from it all in such a beautiful location, but in that case some detailed walking guides would have been welcome as we couldn't get on line to check the immediate area. There is not much in the cottage apart from tourist leaflets. Mobile signal is also poor so no 4G. However, you can get Wi-Fi at the Tower Bank. Very little is provided for guests except bed linen and firewood, so you do need to bring essentials such as washing up liquid, loo rolls and towels. Supermarkets are available in Hawkshead and Ambleside. Milk is delivered daily but you are billed at the end of your stay. The cottage seemed expensive but you are paying for the location. With a little extra thought given to guests' comfort it would have been perfect."

Rated 5/50 by StuartmQ146JG on 29th May 2016

"Some previous reviews left us worried but they should be ignored. We had a great week, grown up family and dogs, lovely walks, great food within walking distance and Anvil Cottage provided a great base. This accommodation is homely, clean and very comfortable, and provides everything that is needed for a relaxing week away including a small private garden."

Rated 5/50 by Ross W on 11th April 2016

"Having read previous reviews I was a little worried but on arrival we were in no dought We had made the right choice the cottage was clean and comfortable with everything we needed it is in a great location with the walks on your doorstep and a great pub oppersite as well as the famous hill top a real Beatrix dream so all In all perfect. it also has a very dog friendly garden and off road parking inc a garage also a added bonus .make use of the farm shop delivery service it's great who needs a shop it works well and with a pub oppersite for meals you won't go hungry I will definitely be coming back to anvil cottage I was v v impressed and enjoyed my stay many thanks Ross / Sophie 2/9 april 2016"

Rated 2/50 by 965paulaw on 10th November 2015

"The cottage is in a fabulous location: Hill Top House (Beatrix Potter's beautifully preserved home) directly opposite, wonderful walks straight from the door and the welcoming Tower Bank Arms over the street. The property is central to the little village and steeped in history. However, the owners seem to rely on their historical connections to fill their property rather than offering it in an acceptable state of cleanliness or adequately stocked for a party of six to cook and serve. Kitchen and bathrooms were filthy. Drawers and cupboards downstairs were full of junk. The smoke alarms were set off the first time we used the cooker as it wa sso full of grease and we had to clean it - not something you expect to do on holiday. The overall presentation is very tired. We have complained to Lakes Cottage Holidays who have informed us that the owners had the cottage spring cleaned in September and would have attempted to putthings right if we had contacted them (as per their terms and conditions). We hope that our complaint ensures that the owners make more efforts to offer a clean property and hope the owners will work to ensure it is more acceptable for future guests. On the plus side, there was plenty of wood and coal for guests to use."

Rated 2/50 by Kathryn L on 11th April 2015

"We absolutely loved the location of Anvil Cottage. Perfect for walking, mountain biking and breathtaking scenery all from the front door. Local pub pretty good for a drink and free wifi. Unfortunately the cottage did not live up to expectations. There were no lids on the saucepans, 2 egg cups (for 4 of us), flies, tatty and worn rugs/sofa. Not to mention the fridge which stank and a fire in the lounge which hasn't been cleaned out. The owners really need to give it a good clean and remove all chinz."

Rated 2/50 by Sally W on 25th August 2014

"We particularly wanted a property close to a village shop so that we would not have to use the car, having travelled a long way. Anvil Cottage seemed ideal as the website information indicated there was a shop 50 yards away. Just to be sure, we telephoned the booking company and were reassured there was a very good shop in the village. On arrival, we discovered there was no shop, and never has been. The milkman delivers various items, and the "shop" one mile away only sells teas and ice cream. We feel that we were grossly misled by the booking company and this rather spoilt the holiday. Our complaint to them met with an inadequate response. Anvil Cottage itself is in a fairly shabby condition needs freshening up."

Rated 3/50 by Anneliese G on 10th August 2014

"Anvil Cottage is very well situated. Hill Top is just across the road, and Hawkshead, Ambleside, Coniston and Grasmere are a short drive away. The car ferry at Far Sawrey, meanwhile, takes you across Lake Windermere in about 4 minutes which cuts off the long drive around the lake. The Tower Bank Arms is a minute's walk away, serving great food. The cottage itself is full of character and charm. It has a history all of its own which is well documented in the books and photos in the cottage (and which draws tourists who stand outside to take photos). It is dog-friendly with a lovely secure garden. For us, however, there were a few downsides - it is a bit 'tired' and in need of a lick of paint and a good spring clean. The crockery and glasses were smeary when we arrived, but as there is no dishwasher we had to hand-wash everything. Half of the lamps in the bedrooms needed new bulbs. The washing machine didn't work (but this was very quickly fixed for us thankfully as we'd packed with the use of a washing machine in mind), then the Sky TV stopped working. There are two bathrooms (one just off the lounge?!), but no towel rails in either, so our towels were draped over radiators / doors. Small things, perhaps, but things that would have made the difference to us. Perhaps the most noticeable thing for us is that while there are enough beds for seven people (two couples and 3 children), the lounge can really only accommodate 4-5 without bringing in chairs from the dining room, and the small garden table can only reasonably accommodate 2-3, making eating outdoors for 6 people practically impossible, which is a great shame as the garden is lovely. There is plenty of crockery, but there were only 4 water glasses. Again, not a major thing but something we felt should be standard in a 6-berth cottage. I have to say that none of this detracted from our holiday. It is a very beautiful part of the country with plenty to do in all weathers, and we will definitely return, although perhaps not to this property."

Rated 4/50 by A FlipKey Verified Reviewer on 9th December 2013

"Lovely charming cottage in a delightfull Lakeland hamlet. Well equiped and furnished, cosy, and full of character. Ticked all our boxes. Having said that we were a party of four and the cottage is advertised as sleeping seven, which it can do. However I am at a loss to see how seven people could sit comfortably in the sitting room or around the dining table. The sitting room especially would require extra seating and that would be a tight fit to say the least. That said, for four people it is perfect, five would be OK but anymore and the comfort score would drop considerably and you need to be very good friends! No problems with the booking process, efficeint and helpfull. Lovely pub almost across the road and some lovely walks all around. We would definately return and highly recommend but watch your occupancy."

Rated 3/50 by Paul & Jan on 21st June 2013

"The service from the ambleside Office staff was excellent and very helpfu1. We were not allowed into the cottage on the first day due to a problem on the central heating system, which turned out to be air in a radiator! On moving into anvil Cottage we found it generally dirty and told the office. A cleaner was sent next day. Crockery was plentiful but most of it was chipped or cracked. Mugs were left dirty and some were chipped. Only one saucepan lid had a knob on and this dropped off during our stay and couldn't be repaired, so we left it beside the cooker. The fridge/freezer was said to be broken and so another was put in the utility room. This was unnecessary as the original one's drainage hole was blocked. Problem soon sorted. Who checks these things? There is a television in an upstairs bedroom but this is tuned to the one in the living room and can only show the same programme as the one downstairs. If the downstairs TV is switched off then the upstairs one is off too. The washer/dryer advertised in the cottage details is actually only a washing machine. The CD/radio in the dining room did not work at all. Garage door impossible to open. All in all the house is large, a bit shabby but homely and is sadly in need of some attention. Water pours down outside the utility room wall during heavy rainfall, because of broken guttering. It's a shame that this cottage has such an interesting history yet seems to be suffering from a certain amount of neglect. It could be a really stunning property given its position and size. Nice tiny garden but grass needed cutting. We loved the location and did as many walks from the door as weather permitted. Walk to the ferry then across to Bowness for a great day out - really enjoyable. Catch the bus back from the ferry 'cos its mainly uphill on the return! An excellent pub across the road from cottage with good food. Hawkshead, has good shops, pubs and is a great starting place for walks with wonderful views."

Rated 5/50 by Romycat_10 on 8th June 2013

"Anvil Cottage is a great place for a holiday. It's clean, everything works and the self contained enclosed garden is a comple delight - especially when you find yourself in the middle of one of the busiest tourist attractions in the Lakes. The garden is also totally dog friendly - we have a border terrier who is keen to get through the smallest of spaces but it was lovely for him to be able to enjoy the garden with us without having to worry about where he was. The kitchen is well equipped with everything you could possibly need and with 5 adults in the house for some of our stay it was good to have enough cutlery and crockery. All the bedrooms are large with the right amount of storage space and very cute window seats It's not the most modern and chic cottage you'll ever stay in but the furnishings work well with the character of the house."

Rated 4/50 by The Allisons on 22nd April 2013

"We booked last minute, and were delighted with the cottage. It is opposite a fab pub and in a quiet but convenient location for visiting Hawkshead, Ambleside etc. We had a problem with the heating, but the owner responded promptly and it was fixed within hours."

Rated 4/50 by A FlipKey Verified Reviewer on 27th March 2013

"Right from the start the Cottage Holiday Group offered one of the best customer service I have ever experienced. Booking was exceptionally easy with very friendly staff. We had an issue on the second day of our holiday with the heating and one call to them and they had organised someone to come and help get it fixed. They also called back to check we were happy. The cottage itself was brilliantly located, Nr Sawrey is a really good base to explore the lakes from. Anvil Cottage is pretty much opposite Hilltop and the local pub just up the road. The cottage is definitely rustic, which to me lends to the experience but has all the facilities needed. The local pub serves excellent food at a very reasonable price. Good walks such as up to Moss Eccles Tarn and beyond. Esthwaite water(just a short walk) offers the opportunity for some trout fishing with very helpful staff to give you tips. Hawkshead has some small shops that you can get supplies from but I would recommend a trip to ambleside and get some local meat from the butchers(always have to get Cumberland Sausages) and some excellent bread from the bakers We have been to the lakes quite a few times now, and this cottage and location is up there with the best. The customer service was far and away the best we have ever experienced with any holiday booking. The best thing about the holiday was the location and the sheer bliss of getting away from the rat race. The worst was the weather but you learn to except that in the Lakes in March. Losing the Central Heating for a day was bad, but this led to the positive of meeting a really nice local property caretaker whose family had lived there for generations and whose family new Beatrix Potter. We got a really good deal on a last minute break, and even at full price this is a good choice for a stay in the Lakes as long as you are not expecting a modern accommodation. But then why would you go to the Lakes for this."

Rated 3/50 by A FlipKey Verified Reviewer on 17th August 2012

"Anvil Cottage was set in the most perfect location, the beautiful village of Near Sawrey - pub within spitting distance, beautiful walks literally on your doorstep - couldn't have been a more perfect setting. The cottage on the outside was ideal, however, internally it is in need of modernising and revamping! Everything was clean and tidy, but the decor and furnishings need reviving. The bedrooms were light and airy, and bathroom was perfectly adequate, however, the main sitting room/dining room and kitchen need a face lift. If the cottage had been better presented internally we would book for our next holiday, as it was, unfortunately we won't be returning."

Rated 3/50 by A FlipKey Verified Reviewer on 22nd July 2012

"My wife contacted you by telephone to tell you some of the things which were wrong with the property i.e. Cd player not working, light bulbs not working, some TV remotes not working, instructions needed for the oven, guttering overflowing onto people below and general state of maintenance. Was warm and comfortable, but we could not recommend it to anyone else because of the above"

Rated 3/50 by A FlipKey Verified Reviewer on 16th June 2012

"Nice location and cottage was nice and clean... But fridge had no shelves in door which meant a massive loss of space for chilled food which is a problem with 6 hungry people in the house. Also lack of storage in kitchen - cupboards could do with a de-clutter to provide guests with more storage space for food. Plenty of coal and logs though which was a bonus as we had some chilly evenings. Generally house could do with a bit of tlc compared to some other cottages we have stayed in recently in this price bracket."

Rated 3/50 by A FlipKey Verified Reviewer on 6th June 2012

"fabulous location for walks. Good local pub. Nice enclosed garden. Leaky gutterings that were a problem when opening/closing the gates. Bedding very poor ie soiled/stained. Nice open fire with unlimited fuel. Dark decor and low enery light bulbs so couldn't see to read except on window seats."

Rated 5/50 by A FlipKey Verified Reviewer on 25th May 2012

"Anvil Cottage in Sawrey, is a beautiful well equiped cottage, decor is a little dated but very comfortable, with lots of room for a large family. Two bathrooms one upstairs which has a large bath for long soaks and one downstairs with a large shower with pleny of hot water. Outside the front door turn right for a mile walk to Moss Eccles Tarn where Beatrix Potter kept a rowing boat. Turn left to the Tower Bank arms and Hill top. In walking distance to Hakeshead Village which is highly recommended. Short drive to Wray Castle and ambleside or a Ferry to Windermere. Can't rate this cottage high enough. Very clean and cosy, can't wait to go again, perfectly postioned for days out in the car or for long walks, with plenty of logs and coal for an open fire. Anyone staying in this property will have a wonderful time. Close to all the Southern lakes, The Langdales and Tarn Howls, which is a 10 min car ride and and a great find. My family and I visit the lakes fron Kent about 4 times a year and to date this has been our favourite stay."

Rated 4/50 by A FlipKey Verified Reviewer on 23rd May 2012

"Ideal location for all of the Lake District's biggest adverts. Stunning senery, beautiful villages and friendly people (there is a very friendly pub across the road). The cottage is typical of the region, not too modern, very cosy and a great base to explore the surrounding country. The cottage was clean and plenty of coal/wood for the open fire. Dog friendly as was the pub with secure garden. Parking here is a bonus with Beatrix Potter Hill Top home adjacent, therefore garage most welcome."

Rated 4/50 by A FlipKey Verified Reviewer on 10th April 2012

"The holiday was good fun lovely walks dog friendly and a fantastic pub what more could you wish for"

Rated 5/50 by A FlipKey Verified Reviewer on 11th March 2012

"I telephoned Cottage Holiday Group and asked about booking anvil Cottage from the thursday night to tuesday morning, not a problem, unlike some other rental agents, who asked for a full weeks booking starting from the saturday, they were extremly helpfull and most plesant. The cottage is fully equipt, well maintained and well apointed, everything you require is available in the cottage, from a phone charger for a nokia 6510 to any amount off cooking and domestic equipment, local information about walks and places to visit,to the best takeaways and even the delivery drivers name at the local tesco's. The inside is spotlessly clean, had a fire already laid out just ready to throw on a match (supplied in a draw)not that is was cold enough, the cottage is lovely and toasty. The enclosed garden was superb for Jackson our springer, there is ample off road parking with a private drive at the side of the cottage and even a garage.Don't let the cottage photo's influence your choise, you will more than enjoy your stay at anvil Cottage, and don't forget the pub is only 50 yards away. Thank you Cottage Holliday Group."

Rated 5/50 by A FlipKey Verified Reviewer on 7th January 2012

"We had a great time overall. The accommodation is great with an open fire, central heating and two bathrooms - bliss!. The local dairy service is a boon and the pub couldn't be nearer. Lots of walks with the dogs and lovely scenery. We will return."

Rated 5/50 by A FlipKey Verified Reviewer on 17th November 2011

"We have stayed at anvil Cottage before and couldnt wait to retrun. The cottge is in an excellent location for many great walks within the lakes and also great walks from the cottage itself. The cottage is very well equiped with a lovely open fire, it is very comfortble and cosy. Anadded bonus is the location of the pub whihc can be seen from the cottage, very friendly with great real ales and excellent food"