Following the recent assessment, on the 14th December 2000, under the self-catering Quality Assurance Scheme,  we are pleased to confirm that the Classification and Grading for Huddlestone Cottage and The Hayloft remains at

4 Star 

The Quality Assurance Assessment Report has been compiled following a recent assessment.  We invite you read the independent assessment for yourself!

LOCATION AND EXTERIOR     Two very well maintained and presented properties, being adjacent to the owners property and ‘situated in a rural hamlet in the heart of the north Cumbria Fells. Good access from major routes and to tourist area are enjoyed, as are excellent views over open countryside. The properties benefit from very good car parking provision and exterior lighting. Gardens are very well tended. Mrs Neale has planted an organic vegetable garden and guests, and produce is offered to guests. Seating areas with garden furniture are offered. Guests share the gardens with the owners.

MANAGEMENT EFFICIENCY      All booking and advertising procedures are handled by the owners. The brochure is colourful and well produced. It noted that a new brochure is planned with some alternations to complete. Noted the alterations to the directions following the removal of the BT telephone box previously used as a landmark. Very good presentation of tourist, guest and emergency information in each property. A very good personal welcome is offered to all guests, with tea trays are included. It is noted that the previously offered ‘welcome baskets’ will not be included. Both properties are most spacious and accommodate the stated number of guests in comfort. Very good personal touches and extra accessories offered.

HOUSEKEEPING AND CLEANLINESS     These aspects are of the utmost importance and as mentioned on the day it is obvious that underlying housekeeping standards are excellent. Mrs Neale and her daughter service the properties themselves and take pride in the care and attention given to detail. Bathrooms are pristine, kitchens too show great care and attention. The exposed beams can conceal the odd cobweb and thorough attention is given to the higher reaches.

LIVING AND DINING AREAS - CORRIDORS AND STAIRS      Both cottages offer very good decorative standards throughout. Painted walls, left plain to allow ease of maintenance are very well finished and clean. Exposed beams and stone features enhance greatly adding character. as does the provision of personal touches. Stripped wooden flooring in Hayloft has mellows and a warm effect results. Noted the plans to sand and re-treat the wooden floors in Huddlestone Cottage with wear just becoming noticeable on the heavy traffic areas. Furniture of a very good standard, chosen to be in keeping with the style of the properties. As discussed on the day, the suite in Huddlestone Cottage looks a little dusty and faded on the seat cushions. Plans are to have the suite professionally cleaned in the New Year. Very good provision for heating, central heating is oil fired and all radiators are fitted with thermostatic controls. Lighting is well placed. The cottage offers an open fire adding to both heat and ambience.

BEDROOMS      Bedrooms are of a good size throughout, allow for the placement of freestanding furniture and access to the offered facilities. Very good quality older pine pieces presenting very well indeed. As mention the dressing table in the double room in Huddlestone Cottage has been marked by guests, plans to sand and re-treat will restore to the original condition. The provision of a glass top would prevent any further damage. Very good decorative standard, similar in style to the living areas, with the addition of stencilling adding further colour. Noted the use of matching coathangers and linings to drawers. Very good quality beds are well dressed, fabrics are co-ordinated, curtains are lined with good drape. Very good quality bed linen in place.

BATHROOMS      The bathroom in Hayloft offers an excellent impression. Freshly decorated with very well finished, high quality tiling. A bathroom and separate shower room are offered in Huddlestone Cottage, and although the overall presentation is high, signs of discolouration noted to the shower tray and the bath seal. It is noted that a long let has very recently departed and plans are in hand to redress. Bathrooms are all of a good size and very well finished. Very good quality fixtures and fittings throughout. Cork tiled flooring in a good condition gives a warm and easily maintained finish. Very good provision for lighting, heating and ventilation throughout. Freshly laundered towels are included in the letting price.

KITCHENS      Kitchens in both properties are open plan to lounge/dining areas. Dining facilities are very good. Kitchens are well fitted, fitted units of a very good standard offering more than ample work and storage space. Lighting and ventilation is well provided. Flooring is as living areas, being wood. Equipment and appliances are very well maintained, a washing machine is included in each property and the tumble dryer is available in Mrs. Neale’s utility room. A freezer is also available if needed. Very good quality, colourful crockery and ample glassware offered. Kitchenware and utensils are very well supplied, the well organised kitchen cupboards allowing ease of use. All items are of a very good standard.

REPORT SUMMARY      A very good location is enjoyed by these two very well appointed and equipped properties. A very good standard of most comfortable holiday accommodation is offered. On going attention to maintenance and high standards of cleanliness ensure consistency in the standards offered.

Other Inspection Reports

June 2006    Mar 2004    May 2003    March 2002    November 1999