Mrs Daughton
September 2017
We have just booked this cottage for the 2nd time, and hopefuly won't be the last! Whilst I'm a great believer in giving praise where it's due, I do feel a little reluctant to sing the many praises of High Smarber because we would prefer to keep this little gem it to ourselves lol! However, this really would'nt be fair to the owners or indeed, to Helen Hurd, who magnificently takes care of the place, and is just a phone call away further down the Dale, should you need anything. We had initially booked for just the 2 of us, but my son and his wife and baby granddaughter came for an impromptu visit for a couple of days, and Helen couldn't have be more graciously helpful in providing a cot /bedding etc, & can say that Helen and her family are genuinely lovely friendly people, with absolutely nothing being too much trouble.
The cottage itself is outstanding and very spacious, with amazing views from every window. The owner and/orHelen has provided everything one could possibly want or need to ensure a comfortable stay, especially in the kitchen...From experience, I'd brought all sorts of paraphanalia from home, like clingfilm/foil down to proper nonstick pans and other kitchen items, but non of it was needed! The dishwasher was greatly appreciated, as was the washing machine & tumble drier which were housed in a separate utility room, along with with other laundry items. Plenty of hot water to be had at all times...can't say anything about the heating as had no need for it during our stay.
Just outside the front door is a large paved area with bench seating where you can take in the spectacular views from the extremely elevated position, & then steps down to a large low-walled lawned area...be careful here though as it's full of concealed rabbit holes so you'd need to keep a close eye on small children!
Within a large, gated courtyard is a large garage which then leads to the small-gated garden and front door entrance. There is plenty of walking to be had right from the door
The road directly up to the cottage needs a little careful negotiation in places, especially at first, but ok when you know what to expect! The first being a bend so sharp that one is required to reverse a little to be able to make the turn, but not a problem. The other is you will need to carefuly negotiate your wheels on the parallel concrete path leading up to the cottage.
It is pretty remote and high up, so if you plan on not using the car during your stay, you may want make sure you bring all necessities and groceries with you.
This is by far the best cottage we've ever stayed in over 30++ years...a real & genuine, home-from-home that we really didn't want to share, but hey...I can't help it!!! Credit to Helen by the bucket-load....and no, I didn't know Helen until our stay, just mentioning a very deserving lady! Can't wait for our next visit!