“This review pertains to a reservation made in November 2024.”
The Penthouse in West Bay has always been my wife and my preferred choice for a peaceful week-long getaway in November, consistently delivering first-rate, 5-star luxury—exactly what one should expect for the price paid. Unfortunately, upon our arrival on Friday, November 22nd, we found the building covered in scaffolding. While this was less than ideal and we wished we had been informed when making the booking, we thought we could manage. What we found unacceptable was a group of loud workmen showing up right outside the balcony and terrace of the Penthouse at 8:30 in the morning, working on the wall render just inches from the windows. It quickly became clear that a private and tranquil week away was out of the question. As Lyme Bay Holidays could not provide an alternative property of similar caliber, we made the decision to leave for home immediately.
Additionally, we typically purchase frozen foods for our stay and use the Penthouse freezer. Regrettably, either the previous occupant or an operative from Lyme Bay had turned off the freezer at the mains, and we only discovered this hours later when we found all the food had thawed and was spoiled.
In conclusion, after numerous telephone calls to Lyme Bay Holidays (now operated by Sykes Cottages), we were able to secure a partial refund. However, since we had to cut our trip well short, it was clear we did not enjoy the week we had hoped for. To date, we have yet to receive any apology from either Lyme Bay Holidays or the property owners, which is particularly disappointing considering we are loyal customers and given the significant amount we spent
