85 Seatown Inverness, The Highlands

The other visitor reviews have provided a good summary regarding local amenities that will be interesting for a stay in Cullen. Take note of the comments below that are specific to the property. This is our second time at 85 Seatown. As previously commented by the owner, there have been some improvements made that have added to the character of the property. We found it to be clean on arrival, but unfortunately with no house visiting instructions. Hopefully the comments below will help future visitors. Be aware of the issues surrounding parking. We parked our car on the kerb outside the property. The following day we were offered a parking space at the front of No.146, as parking outside the house made it difficult for passing vehicles. The Seatown streets are narrow, so be mindful if you have a large vehicle. We had a query regarding rubbish bins. We eventually found the bins for the house, but they were already filled by the previous residents. We were offered access to the bins of No.146, but all this confusion wasn’t really needed on holiday. You will find the bins of the property right at the very end down a narrow passage. Bin collection day is on Friday. There is a leaflet on the wall next to the kitchen door about the bins that are available to you and waste collection. The kitchen dishwasher does not appear to work very well. Only half of the items had been cleaned, as the cleaning tablet was not being dissolved during the wash cycle. We ended up washing the plates by hand for most of the week. The owner had upgraded the oven which is really helpful when cooking for everyone. Dripping hot and cold taps in the kitchen -washers need replacing. The toilet upstairs needs a cistern clean or upgrade, as it constantly runs water after a flush. Very noisy and annoying! The bathroom is clean with a good shower. As for cleaning the house throughout the week, there is a broom available, but a wider broom with a soft brush would have been really useful to sweep out the house properly. The same goes for the hoover, which had difficulty sucking anything up. I think having access to the house via two doors is a great idea, especially when cooking in the kitchen or needing a cool breeze to pass through the rooms. Cullen is about getting out and discovering places, but there are days when we just wanted to watch a bit of T.V. I think you will need to rely on your tablets and phones, as the current television struggled with certain channels. I think an upgrade to a smart T.V would be a nice touch, so visitors can sign in to Prime or Netflix. The wifi did its best to cope with all our devices. Don’t expect fast wifi speeds! Have a game of cluedo. Jigsaws available and a small book library. I will briefly touch on a couple of things to consider in Cullen. We were disappointed with the local fish and chip shop. Try the fish and chips in Portknockie. First class. Chinese takeaway in Cullen also really good. The co-op is really handy, with a Tesco available in Buckie for a big shop. To summarise I think you need to accept the ‘ways of the house’. All of my comments are only a slight, with suggestions that could only improve the experience. I think many would agree that 85 Seatown is a lovely little cottage, ideal for a family wanting to get away. I believe that it is good value for the quality of the cottage in the summer period. For this we wish to thank the owners. We will no doubt return to this property if we come back to Cullen.

We appreciate all feedback that has been given for our cottage. There is plenty more on the Sykes website if you want to look. Although the feedback is predominantly positive, we are using this lockdown period to address any issues that have been raised. Below are changes recently made, or being made for the April 2021 reopening: 1) We installed free wifi in the cottage 2) A new range cooker and fridge/freezer is being installed in March 2021 3) The stairs, landing and three bedrooms are all being re-carpeted 4) There is a new matress on the downstairs bed, following reports it was hard There is also a general refurb going on, trying to maintain the 'cozy cottage' feel, while refreshing and upgrading some aspects This was the only way we could find to give you the upgrade information on this site. We look forward to welcoming you soon Stuart & Joy

Very close to the sea and amenities.. Local fish and chip shop very good, didn't try local ice cream, supposed to be very good. Cottage very good but starting to look a bit shabby, carpets on stairs, controls missing on cooker, freezer started playing up and couldn't be used for ice cream.

The cottage was exceedingly well equipped and in a beautiful location.. Directions to it were easy to follow and key collection was very easy. Would definitely book this cottage again

Have stayed at this property 2 or 3 times in the past and once again it has lived up to expectations.. A great base for a family beach holiday. Great access to the beach and plenty of great walks in and around Cullen.

If you want to get away from it all this charming seaside cottage is a must..

We arrived in Cullen after driving 500 miles through storm Dennis.. Parking at the property was a little tight. It was quiet, but parking may be an issue in the summer months if all the properties are being used. We have been to Cullen on three previous occasions and have always found the village to be very quiet off-season, possibly due to the high number of holiday properties in the area. If you want peace and tranquility, Cullen is the place to come. The property has two points of access; one into the hallway and one to the kitchen. This is really useful when taking out rubbish and needing fresh air when cooking. The kitchen is equipped with all the essentials and the owner provided a few bits and pieces, and left items from previous visitors which was very helpful. The kitchen is very spacious and has a lovely family table to have dinner together. The kitchen and lounge are separated by double doors. Sky-lights throughout the property show that it has been modernised. Also, with the property being close to the beach, having wood laminate floor is a nice idea, so that sand can be brushed away. Central heating is excellent which is controlled by a thermostat in the hallway. All bedrooms were clean, with bedding and sufficient towels provided. The bedrooms have blinds on the windows that block out the light completely! Ideal for a good night’s sleep. A small collection of books are available with a toy box. WiFi works fine. Good 4G signal in the property too. There must have been signal improvement in the area, because we visited Cullen in 2016 and had no signal at all! To summarise we cannot really fault the property. The owner has made efforts to modernise it and provide all the comforts that you need. Ideal for any family that just want peace and quiet. Great opportunity to do some beach walking. Check out the cliff walk to Portknockie, or head the other direction to the pet cemetery. The village is limited for shops with no cash point machine. However, there is a mobile cash machine that pops into the village and you can get cash-back from the village co-op. Great Chinese take-away. Head out to Buckie or Elgin for more shops. Tesco store at Buckie just off the main road. Baxter’s shop and Spey Bay are nice. The bridge giving you access to the beach at Lossiemouth is closed so it’s worth checking this before heading out there. Thank you for a great holiday. Hope to visit again. Highly recommend.

We enjoyed our stay at the the cottage.. It was great for a winter break, was warm and cosy, and the heating very easy to control. The cottage was comfortable, and had everything we needed. Seatown is a quaint little place with very narrow streets and houses packed close together. The cottage doesn't have views, but it's a short walk to the harbour, and a lovely area to explore.

Very pleasant cottage to stay in.. Next door neighbour who was mother in law to owner called in to make sure we were okay and to let her know if we had any problems.Warm and comfortable,warmth was appreciate as we had snow whilst there and also grandchildren who insisted on paddling semi bathing in the sea!!Will come to stay again.

This is very much a family holiday setting.. We knew this because we took our to children to Cullen every year in the 1980's and early 1990's. Our children are raising their own families. We are now in our 70's and came up to refresh our memories of happy days of long ago. Reasonably good weather, Great scenery, beautiful sunsets, and looking at the lit sky in the North at Midsummer midnight. What more could an older couple ask? Yes, a corker of a macaroni and cheese lunch at Christie's Garden Centre, Fochabers. And the local people are friendly and helpful. WiFi fine. Broadband so-so but that would be outwith to owner's control. Being used to gas cookers, we had initial problems acquainting ourselves with the electric oven. We reported this to the owner. We had our car. Necessary because the 35 bus is I think one per hour. There is no baker, butcher, petrol station or bank in Cullen; and no ATM. Buckie is 5 miles away. Drive, or catch a bus, or go on-line (that won't fill your petrol tank). Or walk - if you are fit! To recap, there is plenty for the older client to enjoy e.g. Glenlivet, Portsoy, Baxters on Speyside. But - Cullen is a child's paradise. (We were very impressed with the upstairs accommodation in the cottage, and with the facilities available for the younger holidaymaker.)

This was my second time visiting this lovely cottage it is close to beach and other amineties. Was worried about lack of WiFi but was installed when we got there. Owners must have listened to reviewers as matresses were comfortable than last time I visited. Overall a lovely experience.

Excellent tranquil location for exploring the surrounding countryside

We had a fantastic holiday! The cottage is lovely and cosy perfect for families everything we needed was catered for. The location is perfect less then a minute walk to a beautiful clean beach where we were lucky enough to see a dolphin. We had a wonderful time and shall definitely be back.

The cottage was comfortable and clean.. Mrs. Muir, the owners mother who lives next door, was very helpful. We hope to be returning to the cottage next year

The owners were extremely helpful and very friendly.. A laid back break away made easy by the owners being so laid back too. Just what you need when going away. Home from home experience. Thank you

Parking is an issue in the narrow streets but we were allowed to park in front of the owners mother in laws house.. No heating was on when we arrived but soon sorted it out .But other than that it is a nice cottage to stay in plenty of room ,close to the sea and shops ..

The location is beyond words, absolutely stunning and definitely worth the 11+ hour drive even with 4 kids in tow.. ..

Absolutely perfect as described in a lovely location in the heart of a small seatown village

A very lovely cottage that with a few tweaks could be 5 star. This cottage has everything you could need and is beautifully decorated, modern and very spacious. The kitchen was well stocked and you could easily cook a meal if you wished to. We were kindly left some delicious shortbread which was much appreciated. The tweaks needed are slightly better cleaning, WI-FI installing, particularly as there is no phone signal and the biggest thing of all is new mattresses on both double beds. The bed in the downstairs bedroom was very, very uncomfortable and as hard as a rock. The mattresses are the only things that would stop me from returning but if these were replaced I would return tomorrow. The location is idyllic and only 2 minutes walk from the beach and harbour. Cullen has everything you need, including a fantastic fish and chip shop, ice cream shop and delightful cafe. The surrounding area is beautiful with plenty to do and see.

On first sight the cottage is very charming and comfortable. It's bright, spacious and am sure would comfortable accommodate four adults and two children. We were only two so were spoilt. A few negatives make this not a five star. As previous reviewers have said, the two doubles are very hard and the one downstairs like a board. We ended up using the duvets as padding and covering with the light patterned quilt. The ventilation in the bathroom is not adequate, the ceiling is covered in black mould and the radiator is rusting. After just one shower the walls and door are streaming. We took to leaving the light and extractor on for a while after finishing in the bathroom and leaving the door open to air the room. The kitchen is large with ample seating, but again a few things need attention, the freezer was unusable as it was choked up with ice the drawers would not open, and the door would not close properly further adding to the ice problem. Quite a few of the down lighters did not work, nor did the standard lamp in the sitting room. Think there perhaps needs to be a check list to go through at change over. We arrived around 3.30 and the cleaner was still there, she allowed us to bring our bags in whilst she finished up but think perhaps that led to a bit of a rush job? One last thing, we all live in era of technology and expect to be able to stay in contact with family and work whilst away. Wi-Fi would be an excellent addition to the cottage as there is no telephone signal in the area. Ended up feeling a bit cut off, maybe the point of a holiday, but still felt a bit anxious that I could not be contacted as I have an elderly mother. I'm sure the costs could be recovered by adding £5 to the rental. All in all these are only minor niggles and did not mar a lovely stay. I would recommend this place but would also recommend the owners do a bit of maintenance.

This is a fabulous holiday cottage. It is in a perfect location for the beach and harbour. We had a wonderful holiday and we will be back!

Overall it was a lovely cottage with many individual and homely touches and felt very welcoming. The children especially loved their bedroom, and the toys and books provided. There was a nice seaside theme to the décor which got us in the holiday mood. It was very well placed for the various beaches, and popping up the brae to the cafes, deli, ice cream shop, a chipper and Indian take away. Would happily use this cottage again.

The cottage was an absolute delight and well above our expectations. We were amazed at the cleanliness of the cottage and the friendliness of the owners. We would definitely recommend this cottage to anyone. It made our holiday perfect.

The cottage was bright, welcoming and warm. The area is full of wonderful and interesting walks. For anyone wishing a quiet, restful break, this area should be high on their list.

The cottage was superb and we particularly liked all the decor. Cullen itself has a wonderful safe beach, golf course, a pleasant harbour to sit at with adequate seating around it. There are several lovely beaches nearby and also walks. We had a great week here and look forward to returning and the ice cream Is every bit as good as we remember it!

The cottage was really cosy and the décor was tasteful, we were so comfortable that we didn't want to leave. It was the first time we have been to Cullen and the surrounding harbours, we loved it. Also all the people were so friendly.

Have been to Cullen every year for the last 5 years, although this was the first time in a cottage. The cottage was absolutely excellent in every respect.

The cottage was all we could ask for and more. The people and surroundings were fantastic, just everything you could wish for including the weather.

Beautiful cottage, excellent location.

Nice cottage, great location, would go back for sure.

A lovely, modern and very clean and homely cottage. The kitchen had everything you would need to comfortably cook for your family (if you felt the need). The cottage sits a little way back from the beautiful beach at Seatown, and its many lovely walks, and close drive to Spey Bay and other lovely costal areas. Don't miss the lovely fish and chip shop in the town!

We enjoyed a lovely week in the cottage, it is very well equipped and the location is very convenient for exploring the local area. We would not hesitate to return in future

Beautiful, well equipped cottage. Home from home!

The cottage was homely with everything you could need. Spotlessly clean and well looked after. The tulips in the kitchen window were a nice touch. Loads of toys for any children who visit.

The cottage was extremely well presented and well equipped. We were very impressed and would not hesitate to recommend to others. It was very good value. The location was excellent with plenty of potential activities and places to explore in the area.

We had a wonderful week in this lovely comfortable cottage...Everything you needed including toys for young children, seats for the beach, buckets and spades and even picnic items. The cottage was spotless, lovely comfortable beds with a lovely homely feel.. The beach was within walking distance also a golf club. What made it even better was the very good weather we had.....

This cottage is spacious, comfortable and ideally located for visiting the Moray coast. The rooms have been beautifully decorated and the seaside theme is tasteful.We were particularly impressed with the highly efficient and easy to operate heating system and believe me, you need a warm place to stay at all times of the year in this area! Anyone with mobility issues would find getting upstairs difficult but there is a bedroom downstairs.We would recommend the owners to install a shower curtain rather than the shower screen as putting on the taps to run the bath is not easy unless you have very, very long arms! As another reviewer pointed out the beds are rather on the firm side but we both slept well. All in all, a lovely cottage and one we would hope to return to.

We had a wonderful week in this lovely comfortable cottage...Everything you needed including toys for young children, seats for the beach, buckets and spades and even picnic items. The cottage was spotless, lovely comfortable beds with a lovely homely feel.. The beach was within walking distance also a golf club. What made it even better was the very good weather we had...

Absolutely fantastic cottage. Three roomy and fantastic bedrooms. Large, well equipped kitchen. Cosy, comfortable living room.

Extremely comfortable,very clean,nicely decorated. All mod cons. My wife was born in Cullen.

We loved everything about the cottage! It was so clean and very warm. We will definitely be back.

The cottage was lovely, very relaxing, location ideal with plenty of places to go. The comfort of the cottage and the included amenities. Neighbours nice and helpful. Beautiful country! Would stay again!

Excellent location and nice family house (toys very much appreciated by the kids).

The cottage was amazing and better than described. I didn't expect the additional toilet!

Location of cottage was excellent. Amenities in the town were good and close by. The cottage itself was comfortable and very well equipped. An ideal base for exploring the scenic Moray/Aberdeenshire coastline.

We were blown away by this property. By far the best of the many cottages we have rented over the years.

Spacious cottage, great location and lovely little town. The cottage was well appointed and the kitchen was lovely, large and well equipped. Lovely and warm on cold evenings, comfy beds and nice, simple furniture.

Excellent accommodation in a superb location. We would certainly recommend it to friends and family, we hope to return next year.

An absolutely beautiful cottage and so tastefully decorated and furnished and excellently equipped.

We found the cottage after asking a couple of locals and were impressed by the spaciousness and decor on entering. kitchen, 3 bedrooms and bathroom clean and tidy. beds were a bit on the firm side but otherwise comfortable. If you have a family member who has physical handicaps, there were no support/grab rails at toilet or bath. Owners may want to consider installing these? Kitchen had all essentials and local shops nearby. Cottage 150-200 yards walk from seafront. we visited 2 local "hostelries" and were impressed by the warmth and kindness from the barstaff. If you want a relaxing time,or,a place to stay while touring the north-east/inverness/aberdeen areas,then Cullen is ideally centrally located and the cottage was lovely. Mrs.Mta.

85 Seatown is a deceptively spacious cosy cottage. Very quiet area yet close to the harbour and Cullen's main street. The location was everything here.

Beautifully re-furbished and spacious accommodation, especially the 'show home' standard kitchen! Seatown is a fabulous location in the relaxing haven that is Cullen - fabulous beach and scenery.

The location was excellent, the standard of the cottage overall was excellent and I would highly recommend the cottage to friends and others. I would definitely go back.

The cottage was lovely and cosy and had been modernised very tastefully. The kitchen was particularly good and I would recommend this very highly. The town of Cullen is quiet but has many things in its favour such as local shops within walking distance from the cottage and a fantastic coastline.

We thought this the best cottage we have stayed in; beautifully appointed and in a marvellous location yards from a quiet beach and harbour. If travelling with young children, the small but perfectly formed Macduff Aquarium and Spey Bay Wildlife Centre (both short drives from Cullen) are unmissable.