So first off, the good bits. In a good location with plenty of parking, the property was clean and well decorated, with pleasant views and outdoor seating area.
Unfortunately, it's the little things that let down this property:
1. There was no welcome on arrival (in fact, although they live on site the owners never once spoke to us) and the 'property guide folder' was sparse and incomplete. For a "romantic retreat' for two, most of the guide leaflets were for kids and families - virtually nothing for couples. Not a major thing but shows a lack of consideration.
2. We arrived at the start of Storm Brian and even the heating wasn't turned on.
3. There was no milk, tea/coffee etc left on arrival (I know they don't have to, but most owners do leave these nowadays).
4. The coat cupboard could not be used because of the very strong stale smell from the wet mop & bucket left in it.
5. There is nowhere to store toiletries in the bathroom - no shelf or cabinet. Not even a soap-holder in the shower, nor a hook for clothing. We had to take toiletries to and from the bedroom every time, pretty much like being in a hostel.
6. There is limited storage in the bedroom; a wardrobe for hanging clothes but no shelves or chest of drawers. We ended up keeping a lot of clothes, hair-dryer, etc in our suitcases. We also bought new pillows as the ones supplied are thin and uncomfortable.
7. There were no instructions on how the oven worked or the heating appliances. Oh, and there is no oven-glove.
I could go on, but you get the idea. Overall, I felt that the owners took us for granted. We had paid £500; I don't think it's unreasonable for more effort to have been made.