“We did not expect wifi as I emailed in advance about its availability and was told 'no'.”
However, we did expect a G3 signal. Also, the brochure in the actual cottage explained how we could connect to wifi and got our hopes up: but then that information proved to be inaccurate and applicable only to certain cottages on the site (so the brochure should really not be placed in this particular cottage). This was a last-minute booking because the previous booking, made via Tripadvisor (who, by the way, I won't be using again as they provided misleading information) fell through as it transpired we were not allowed to bring our dog. This one was advertised as dog-friendly and that was very good, with many other dog owners and a nearby wood for walking the dog. It would be useful to have an enclosed garden so that the back-door could be kept open for air circulation and so that the dog can run about outside without a leash. I was also a bit worried about the cottage having fitted wall-to-wall carpet as a dog can get muddy. However, the carpet is quite heavy-duty so it was OK but I would prefer a washable floor. The experience was a bit like travelling back in time to the 1970s; the architecture seemed 1970s (possibly 1950s?) with the quaint pound-coin electricity meeting providing extra period flavour. I guess back then it was also considered fine to have one bathroom shared between six people; today's expectations are a bit higher but we knew this when we booked. Due to covid, the games and DVDs were removed (although an email a week before travel told us there would be games and DVDs - it would be a good idea not to include that in the email) and the Village Inn was closed (a pity!).
3G Mobile Signal: We are sorry you had poor phone reception. Unfortunately, we have no control over the positioning of mobile phone masts in Cornwall.
Wifi: Apologies for the lack of Wi-Fi. Yes, there has been an issue on site with Wi-Fi because the site owners are upgrading. However the info in the property did state that Wi-Fi was not guaranteed. We do say ‘No Wifi’ on our property info with Sykes which as you say, you were aware of.
Enclosed gardens: It is an open plan site and as such unfortunately enclosed gardens are not permitted. But as you stated there are lovely rural walks and Rosecraddoc Woods adjacent to the site where dogs can be exercised freely.
Wall to wall carpets: As you stated, the carpet is extremely heavy duty and more than adequate to cope with dirty dog paws In our experience, dog owners are very responsible and wipe any dirt from their dogs before entering the property. We have had no problems with dog owners during our 6 year ownership of the property. You, as a dog owner were also extremely respectful of the property. Thank you for that.
One Bathroom: As you said, you realised the property had only one bathroom before booking as it is clearly stated on the property info with Sykes. In your particular case there were only three people So one bathroom was probably not an issue anyway.
Non-essential items such as cushions, blankets, Games and DVDs were removed as advised by our agent for our guest’s safety due to the possibility of Covid transmission.
Interior architecture: Our property is advertised as a ‘Cosy Cornish Cottage’. All rooms are clearly visible on Sykes Website prior to booking. We are sorry you found it to be old fashioned and not to your liking. I can only suggest you take more time to study the interior décor before booking your next holiday property.
The ‘quaint pound-coin meter’ exists because not all of our guests have electricity included in the price. You were sensible and booked through Sykes Cottages which includes your electricity.
Thank you for holidaying in our property and for rating it 100% for cleanliness. Cleanliness is very important to us, especially at this time. Our main priority is to keep our guests safe.
Best wishes,
Trystan and Julie Phillips (owners)
Property Owner