Smugglers Cottage | Beer | Devon | Self Catering Holiday Cottage

4.6★

4 Guests
2 Bedrooms
1 Bathroom
Pets Yes
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Features

Open fire
Garden / Patio
Washing machine
Dishwasher
Seaside
Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing

Cleanliness

Comfort

Facilities and Maintenance

* Based on a combined average customer score

26 Customer Review(s)

Kathryn
May 2025

“Lovely clean cottage, very well equipped, ideal situation and well thought out gardens.”

The wi fi was a bit intermittent but it didn’t matter to us but I would definitely recommend changing the curtains in the bedroom as they let in so much light which is not ideal for sleeping.

The wi fi was a bit intermittent but it didn’t matter to us but I would definitely recommend changing the curtains in the bedroom as they let in so much light which is not ideal for sleeping.

- Kathryn, May 2025

Thank you so much for taking the time to write such a positive and constructive review. We are delighted that you enjoyed your stay in Smugglers Cottage. Likewise, we are particularly pleased that the incredible weather meant that you could enjoy the garden at its best. We appreciate your comments on the wi-fi connection. As a small coastal village, Beer does not yet have a large range of broadband providers but we will follow this up with a broadband speed test when we next visit the cottage. As Smugglers Cottage is south facing, we do get the sun all day through the front windows. The curtains in both bedrooms are double lined as a result, but on our next visit we will review the need for more substantial provision. Thank you once again and we hope that you will return to Smugglers Cottage and the village of Beer. Property Owner
Andy March 2025

“Smugglers Cottage was very comfortable and so well situated for exploring Beer.”

The terraced garden was perfect for enjoying the sun and taking in the lovely views.

- Andy, March 2025

Thank you so much for taking the time to provide such positive feedback. We are delighted that you enjoyed your stay at 'Smugglers Cottage' . Likewise, we are really pleased that the wonderful Spring weather meant that you could enjoy the garden and the views from it. Property Owner
Melissa January 2025

“Lovely cosy cottage in a great position.”

We made full use of the log fire! Comfortable spacious bedrooms with loads of storage, kitchen well equipped, lovely welcome pack, we would have appreciated some salt and pepper and maybe another frying pan but that is literally our only criticism! Would love to return in the summer and make use of the tiered garden. Beer itself has everything you need and great walking on the doorstep. Thank you!

- Melissa, January 2025

Thank you for posting such a positive review. We are so pleased that you enjoyed your time in Smuggler's Cottage. We also appreciate your feedback regarding the condiments and frying pan and will be addressing these on our next visit to the cottage. Beer is a special place whenever you visit it and we would love to welcome you back in the summer. Property Owner
S December 2024

“The cottage was well equipped for the two of us and lovely and warm.”

It has a lovely homely feel and the tree and decorations a special touch. Might be a bit cosy for four adults around the table but would recommend as it suited us. The location is ideal for a stroll back from the bars or restaurant and perfect for those coastal walks. Thank you for sharing it!

- S, December 2024

Thank you for such wonderful feedback and for taking the time to share it. We are so pleased that you enjoyed your stay at Smuggler's Cottage. Property Owner
Rachel December 2024

“Thank you for a fantastic stay in Smugglers Cottage.”

We stayed the first week in December, and finding it decorated for Christmas was a lovely surprise and a great start to our holiday. The welcome package was the best one we have ever had, thank you. The cottage was clean, well equipped, comfortable and always warm. The only negative thing was the cupboard/wardrobe in the double bedroom, smelt damp. It didn't matter to us, as there were only two of us, so we used the wardrobe in the twin room. We would definitely stay again, it's a lovely cottage and Beer is a great place to stay, everyone in the village was very friendly and the local shop was very well stocked with a lot of local produce, we didn't have to go to a supermarket all week.

- Rachel, December 2024

Thank you for taking the time to provide such positive feedback. We are really pleased that you enjoyed your stay at Smugglers Cottage. We appreciate your comment regarding the wardrobe in the main bedroom and will be following this up. Once again we appreciate you choosing to stay at 'Smugglers' and wish you and all of our other guests a very Happy New Year! Property Owner
Emma August 2024

“The cottage was perfectly placed in Beer, and on first impression the cottage was lovely and clean and garden was great.”

But unfortunately the cottage is riddled with damp and there is obviously a leak in the roof affecting the bathroom ceiling. As the week went on we had problems with the hot water and towel rails, which was resolved. The instructions for putting on the hot water and towels rail are not clear at all.

- Emma, August 2024

Thank you for taking the time to provide feedback. We are really pleased that you enjoyed many aspects of your stay and the garden in particular was to your liking. It's regrettable that during your time at 'Smugglers Cottage' that the fuse in the the hot water heating element required changing. However, I am pleased that we were able to rectify this so swiftly. We note your comment regarding the instructions and are addressing this. The key aspect for all guests to remember is that the property has an electric immersion heater that needs to be switched on a daily basis to ensure constant hot water. Unfortunately, during your stay the weather happened to turn particularly inclement with very heavy rain. The leak above the bathroom to which you refer has now been addressed and the damage it caused repaired. Finally, in preparing the cottage for the colder months we have done everything possible to ensure that future guests will enjoy the cosy, warm and welcoming atmosphere that previous visitors have enjoyed. Property Owner
Stewart July 2024

“Unnecessarily complicated hot water system left us without hot water.”

For new occupants please do read the instructions! Toaster not working.

- Stewart, July 2024

Thank you for your feedback and for choosing to stay at Smuggler's Cottage. We are pleased the hot water supply was fully restored following our e-mail exchange. The toaster is now in full working order with a new fuse fitted. We hope that these issues did not detract from the enjoyment of your stay. Property Owner
Ceri-anne July 2024

“Nice cottage, nicely presented, comfortable sofa, nice to have outdoor space, good location with lovely views across the village with distant sea views, lovely summer house and seating on top terrace which is accessed via step steps either 45 or 47 I lost count, so bear that in mind.”

Would I stay again ? yes if a few things were addressed! mattress in the main bedroom was extremely uncomfortable and both myself and my partner had severe back pain as a result, which did spoil the holiday experience, without doubt the worst mattress I have ever slept on!! The plug in the bath is not secure so the water drains out, but something that could be fixed so easily. I would suggest that you check out the fridge before you stock up as it’s only a small under counter one & unfortunately did not have a freezer which would have been really helpful, as only one cupboard to put food in, so we didn’t have enough space, but if your planning on eating out everyday it would be more that sufficient.

- Ceri-anne, July 2024

Thank you for your feedback. We are really pleased that you enjoyed your stay at Smugglers Cottage and there was much that you enjoyed about the facilities on offer. We are sorry that you found the mattress in the main bedroom not to your liking. A number of previous guests have commented on how they valued its firm and supportive quality. However, taking your comments on board we will be purchasing a mattress topper that we will place on the bed for for future guests. We will also be following up on the plug issue when we visit the property this week. As regards the fridge/freezer, this is as you say an 'under the counter' model. It does have a small freezer compartment that we and other guests find provides sufficient capacity for a holiday let. We did consider a installing a larger standalone freezer but given the space available in the kitchen area felt that guests would find the washer/dryer of more use. There are actually two cupboards that are cleared for food and when we are there on Friday we will seek to redistribute the range of kitchen implements to free up additional space if required for provisions. Thank you once again for taking the time for providing helpful feedback and for your stay at Smugglers Cottage. We do hope to see you in the future. Property Owner
Judith June 2024

“Smugglers Cottage is a lovely holiday home.”

The accommodation was perfect for our stay. Very well equipped kitchen and the lounge was comfortable. It’s personal preference but the mattress on the single bed was too soft, but the double bed was perfect. The garden is steep but was landscaped really well, and we enjoyed sitting on the patio(s). Garden not suitable for very young children or less mobile visitors. Parking wasn’t an issue. We always found a space in the main village car park (where we had a free permit) and was able to park closer to cottage for loading and unloading. Would definitely recommend this cottage. Beer village is beautiful and lots to do in the area. Thank you for the lovely welcome pack.

- Judith, June 2024

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience of your stay at Smugglers Cottage. We are so pleased that you enjoyed your time there and that you would recommend both the cottage and Beer. Your feedback on the bed, garden and welcome pack is helpful and really appreciated. We do hope that one day you will return to enjoy this wonderful little place. Property Owner
Nicolette March 2024

“The cottage was very cosy and quiet, and on the whole we had a really lovely stay.”

It’s personal preference but we found the mattress in the main bedroom to be too hard for us and would recommend a mattress topper at least. Taller guests need to be aware of the beam the front room! The bath plug worked if it was put in upside down. Being out of season there were a few local attractions and facilities that were closed but I think this was reflected in the price and we had everything we needed. The Anchor pub did good food and welcomed us and our dog. The Barrel of Beer was friendly and great for a drink. Lovely fresh fish from the hut on the beach and a well stocked convenience store - all a short walk away. Best of all were the walks with spectacular views, a beautiful place to stay as a couple.

- Nicolette, March 2024

Thank you so much for taking the time to provide feedback. We are really pleased that you enjoyed your stay in Smugglers Cottage. It is heartening that you found the cottage cosy and quiet and Beer had sufficient attractions to meet your needs even in the low season. We value and take on board your comments on the mattress on the king size bed and the bath plug. Being a character property of circa 350 years old there are a number of period features including exposed ceiling beams. We think that these all contribute to the rustic charm of the cottage and hope that guests will appreciate them and not be unduly inconvenienced. Property Owner
Jackie December 2023

“Smugglers cottage was a home from home .”

The cottage was lovely and warm on arrival . The welcome pack was lovely and a nice touch . The beds were comfy an plenty of storage in bedrooms for clothes . We loved the log burner which was one of the reasons we picked the cottage . The village itself was quaint and the Anchor pub was friendly and the food delicious. Thank you for sharing your property.

- Jackie, December 2023

What wonderful feedback! Thank you so much for taking the time to write about your time at ‘Smugglers’. We are so pleased that you enjoyed your stay at the cottage and in the village of Beer. Thank you once again, and we wish you and all our guests past and future, a very happy new year! Property Owner
Shirley December 2023

“We really enjoyed our week at Smugglers Cottage, so comfortable and cosy, and the extras - Christmas tree and goodie bag were a lovely surprise.”

We would highly recommend the cottage and Beer itself, very pretty place, friendly people, and beautiful coastline.

- Shirley, December 2023

Thank you so much for such positive feedback. We are so pleased that you enjoyed your stay and that you appreciated the little additional extras to make your stay even more special. Property Owner
Richard October 2023

“Nice and cosy (but by no means cramped) cottage.”

Log fire a winner. Fully equipped and comfortable beds. Ideal for our family of four and pooch.

- Richard, October 2023

Thank you so much for your feedback. We are so pleased that you enjoyed your stay. Property Owner
Nick September 2023

“Cosy cottage and great location for a relaxing break.”

- Nick, September 2023

Thank you for sharing your feedback. We are so pleased that you enjoyed your stay. Property Owner
Nick September 2023

“A real gem of a cottage.”

The garden was a real treat which you don’t see in the listing pics. That said It’s is steep with easy access steps but worth it for the views and sun trap at the top. We loved it. The dog loved it. We had 2 couples and a small dog within our party and would definitely visit again. Even the neighbours were lovely and friendly. lovely village, lovely people and lovely cottage.

- Nick, September 2023

Thank you for such wonderful comments. We’re so pleased that you enjoyed your stay at Smuggler’s Cottage. Beer is such a lovely place and it’s really heartwarming to receive such positive feedback. Thank you for taking the time and trouble to share your holiday experience. Property Owner
Fiona September 2023

“Fabulous cottage , a very short walk to the beach, shops, bars and restaurants of Beer.”

The cottage had everything you could possibly need and the garden was amazing. Yes it's a bit of a steep climb to the top of the layered garden but my, it was so worth it with the sea view and views of the village. The beds were very comfortable with loads of storage space in both bedrooms, wi-fi excellent, kitchen fully equipped and the cottage was spotless on arrival. You just need to be aware that the 3 short stay spaces in the road are often occupied so be careful when unloading / loading up outside the cottage as there is not much room for vehicles to pass as you do so. However given we were there on the hottest weekend probably this Summer and at the end of the school holidays, this was only to be expected in reality. At peak times, you might also want to book the restaurants in advance and 2 were closed on Sundays which seemed a bit odd. Highly recommend Smugglers Cottage, we loved it !

- Fiona, September 2023

This is such wonderful feedback and we are so grateful to you for taking the time to write. Property Owner
Ian June 2023

“We had a lovely stay in Smugglers Cottage, thank you .”

The cottage was well equipped and in a great position, in spite of restrictive parking to unload. Loading back up was overcome by parking opposite the cottage after 6 pm and leaving by 9 am. There were just a few points that we found in the cottage, which did not spoil our stay, but we felt should be pointed out. A second key would have been very useful, as we could not leave the cottage unless we were together or we had to liase as to the time we got back, or one of us had to stay in! The wardrobe in the main bedroom needs a lower step, as I found it very difficult to get into! The right hand window in the bathroom we could not open and needs to be fixed. As the weather was warm and sometimes humid, the extra opening would have cleared the steam quicker and prevent dampness and ruining the beautiful decorated bathroom. The garden was amazing, but due to the three tiers and no handrails from the second tier upwards, it was difficult to use the garden for our friends who came for lunch. We were ok and used the garden often, but handrails would be alot safer. Again thank you for a wonderful stay in the cottage and we highly recommend it.

- Ian, June 2023

Thank you for your lovely comments and we're glad that you had a lovely holiday. We have asked our maintenance team to look at the bathroom window. We only provide one set of keys for properties that have a keysafe onsite, as we would advise guests to use this during their stay. Alternatively we can provide an additional set of keys upon request. The Lyme Bay Team In addition to the above, we would like to express our appreciation for your really positive and constructive feedback. When we are there next week, we will follow up on your comments. As a period property with a terraced garden there are certain quirks and characteristics of Smugglers Cottage that are part of its charm. Notwithstanding these we will look to do what we can. Property Owner
Emma May 2023

“Just returned from a fabulous few days in Beer.”

Smugglers cottage was lovely, perfect for what we wanted. It is walkable into Beer, near all the restaurants, cafes & beach. There was everything we needed in the cottage & a welcome pack on arrival full of little goodies which was a lovely touch. The place was clean & tidy & well looked after. The view from the top patio was beautiful, we have fabulous weather so we’re able to really appreciate it. Just wished we could have stayed longer. Would definitely come back

- Emma, May 2023

Thank you for your lovely feedback. We are so pleased that you enjoyed your stay so much. Beer is a very special place and we are delighted that you had such a good holiday at Smuggler's Cottage. We really appreciate you taking the time and trouble to write. Property Owner
Simon March 2023

“Have stayed here twice and love this cottage.”

Cosy, love the fire, kitchen well equipped, bedrooms comfortable, bathroom all good and nice outside space. Only (very) minor improvements would be to have two door keys and a cafetière please as you do supply coffee for one in the lovely welcome pack.

- Simon, March 2023

Thank you for your feedback. We are very pleased that you enjoyed your stay at Smuggler's Cottage. There is a cafetiere located in the cupboard above the sink. It is stainless steel and not glass so it may have been mistaken for another utensil. It is the letting agent's policy to only supply one key via the keysafe. A spare set can be provided on request. Thank you once again. Property Owner
John December 2022

“Everything we hoped for- spacious but cosy, excellent heating system, comfortable bed, plenty of drawers and hanging space, well equipped kitchen, etc.”

- John, December 2022

Thank you for your positive feedback. We are so pleased that you enjoyed your stay in Smugglers Cottage. Property Owner
Adrian October 2022

“Spot on. Just what we were looking for.”

- Adrian, October 2022

Thank you so much for your positive feedback. It's much appreciated. Property Owner
Lisa October 2022

“Lovely cosy cottage very comfortable had a relaxing stay in Beer close to high ...”

Lovely cosy cottage very comfortable had a relaxing stay in Beer close to high street and plenty of places to eat close by We were lucky with weather so could make use of sitting at the top of the terraced garden where you can see the sea view Would only say that the garden has alot of steep steps up and may not suit everyone but we enjoyed the outside space we would definitely recommend the cottage for a stay in Beer

- Lisa, October 2022
David September 2022

“We had a most enjoyable stay at Smugglers Cottage with our greyhound helped, no doubt, by wonderful weather.”

We found the cottage comfortable and well equipped and we liked the stepped garden with tables and chairs (and a summer house) on two levels. However, our greyhound wasn't quite so enamoured with the garden - hard surfaces and many steps - so he usually sulked in the cottage when we were enjoying a pre-dinner drink. Whilst I was a bit worried about the parking arrangements, it proved simple and it was only a 5 minute walk to the car park.

- David, September 2022

Thank you so much for your positive feedback. We are so pleased that you enjoyed your stay in Smuggler's Cottage. Hopefully, your greyhound enjoyed long walks on the many dog-friendly beaches/open countryside and for him this made up for the garden. Property Owner
Donald August 2022

“A pretty and comfortable cottage with a beautiful garden in a lovely seaside village.”

- Donald, August 2022

Thank you for taking the time to post your comments. We are really pleased that you enjoyed your stay at Smuggler's Cottage and that you love Beer as much as we do. Property Owner
Wendy July 2022

“Lovely cottage only drawback is the tiered garden with all the steps beautiful garden but very steep no lighting would be useful.”

- Wendy, July 2022

Thank you for your comments. We are pleased that you enjoyed your stay at Smuggler's Cottage. The feedback on the outside lighting is valuable and we plan to install this over the Autumn. Property Owner
Gary June 2022

“Excellent terraced garden, comfy front room , lovely fireplace, welcome hamper was a nice touch.”

- Gary, June 2022

Thank you so much for your positive feedback on your stay at Smugglers’ cottage in Beer. We are very pleased you enjoyed your holiday. Property Owner

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Summary

Two bedrooms: 1 x king-size with TV/DVD player, 1 x twin
Bathroom with bath with shower over, basin, heated towel rail and WC
Kitchen/diner
Sitting room with woodburning stove
Electric central heating and woodburning stove
Electric oven, grill and hob, fridge with ice box, washing machine/tumble dryer, dishwasher
Smart TV, TV, DVD player, WiFi
Fuel and power inc. in rent
Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
Public car park a short walk from property, subject to availability and 1 permit supplied for EDDC car park
Terraced garden, summerhouse, patio, furniture
One well-behaved dog welcome
Sorry, no smoking
Shop 0.1 miles, pub 0.2 miles
Note: Due to the tiered nature of the garden younger children need to be supervised at all times
Note: Logs for woodburning stove are not included
Note: Make sure you provide us with your car registration prior to your arrival to ensure your parking permit is activated for your stay
Note: Car parking permit supplied, subject to availability

The property

Dating back to the 18th century Smugglers Cottage is situated in the heart of the Devon village of Beer. Full of period character and charm the property boasts an inglenook fireplace which can be backlit creating a beautiful feature for any cosy nights in. Fully refurbished to a high standard, including the addition of a new kitchen and bathroom, the cottage provides very comfortable holiday accommodation for couples or families. Outside the private, terraced garden is set over three levels and from the top offers a lovely view over the rooftops of the village to the sea. The cottage is ideally located just a short walk from the village centre and its variety of shops, pubs, cafes and restaurants and is a five minute walk to the beach. The natural bay and shingle beach at Beer still hosts a small fleet of working fishing boats and the imposing white chalk cliffs provide a suntrap within a sheltered cove. A welcome pack for your arrival ensures a great start to your holiday and will include milk, tea and a selection of locally sourced produce and treats. The seaside resorts of Lyme Regis and Sidmouth are within 20 minutes by car making the cottage a great base for exploring this recognised Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). Please note: A maximum of one well behaved dog is accepted. Due to the tiered nature of the garden and a drop from the first tier supervision will be required of younger children at all times GROUND FLOOR Entrance porch Lounge with inglenook fireplace & wood-burning stove Kitchen with dining area FIRST FLOOR Bed 1: Kingsize bed, TV and DVD player with a window seat with a view over the village to the sea Bed 2: Twin beds, window seat with a view over the village to the sea Bathroom: Bath, shower over bath, w.c. & basin OUTSIDE Steps lead up to a delightful Mediterranean style terraced garden set over three tiers. There are wonderful views from the top level patio with table and chairs and there is also the benefit of a summerhouse. GENERAL INFORMATION One parking permit provided for EDDC car park around a 5 minute walk down Long Hill (no allocated space) Utilities included Logs for wood-burning stove not supplied but available locally Linen and towels included FACILITIES Smart TV/TV/DVD player Wifi Electric oven, grill & ceramic hob Fridge with icebox Dishwasher Microwave Washer/dryer Smart electric central heating Wood-burning stove

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About the location

BEER

Seaton 1.5 miles; Lyme Regis 9 miles; Sidmouth 9.5 miles; Exeter 25 miles.

Beer is a small picturesque fishing village on the south Devon coast near Seaton. The shingle beach is very sheltered, backed by limestone cliffs and was once fertile smuggling territory, plus contraband was hidden in nearby caves, which are now a popular tourist attraction. Beer is situated on the stretch of Devon coastline, known as the Jurassic Coast, a designated World Heritage Site, and the village offers sloping streets lined with picturesque stone houses and cottages built on many different levels of the steep valley sides. There are a good range of shops, friendly cafes, restaurants and pubs in Beer, plus just outside the village is the popular Pecorama Gardens, which are perched on the hill overlooking Lyme Bay. Pecorama boasts the Beer Heights Light Railway and indoor model railway exhibition, along with a children's play area. Beer is a unique Devon fishing village and a great place to stay.

Note: Due to the tiered nature of the garden younger children need to be supervised at all times. Note: Logs for woodburning stove are not included. Note: Make sure you provide us with your car registration prior to your arrival to ensure your parking permit is activated for your stay. Note: Car parking permit supplied, subject to availability.

Note: There is a house opposite the cottage that has recently been built, currently only internal works taking place with little or no disruption.

This property offers the following short breaks:

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Features

Reviews & Ratings

“Lovely clean cottage, very well equipped, ideal situation and well thought out gardens.”

“Smugglers Cottage was very comfortable and so well situated for exploring Beer.”

“Lovely cosy cottage in a great position.”

“The cottage was well equipped for the two of us and lovely and warm.”

“Thank you for a fantastic stay in Smugglers Cottage.”

“The cottage was perfectly placed in Beer, and on first impression the cottage was lovely and clean and garden was great.”

“Unnecessarily complicated hot water system left us without hot water.”

“Nice cottage, nicely presented, comfortable sofa, nice to have outdoor space, good location with lovely views across the village with distant sea views, lovely summer house and seating on top terrace which is accessed via step steps either 45 or 47 I lost count, so bear that in mind.”

“Smugglers Cottage is a lovely holiday home.”

“The cottage was very cosy and quiet, and on the whole we had a really lovely stay.”

“Smugglers cottage was a home from home .”

“We really enjoyed our week at Smugglers Cottage, so comfortable and cosy, and the extras - Christmas tree and goodie bag were a lovely surprise.”

“Nice and cosy (but by no means cramped) cottage.”

“Cosy cottage and great location for a relaxing break.”

“A real gem of a cottage.”

“Fabulous cottage , a very short walk to the beach, shops, bars and restaurants of Beer.”

“We had a lovely stay in Smugglers Cottage, thank you .”

“Just returned from a fabulous few days in Beer.”

“Have stayed here twice and love this cottage.”

“Everything we hoped for- spacious but cosy, excellent heating system, comfortable bed, plenty of drawers and hanging space, well equipped kitchen, etc.”

“Spot on. Just what we were looking for.”

“Lovely cosy cottage very comfortable had a relaxing stay in Beer close to high ...”

“We had a most enjoyable stay at Smugglers Cottage with our greyhound helped, no doubt, by wonderful weather.”

“A pretty and comfortable cottage with a beautiful garden in a lovely seaside village.”

“Lovely cottage only drawback is the tiered garden with all the steps beautiful garden but very steep no lighting would be useful.”

“Excellent terraced garden, comfy front room , lovely fireplace, welcome hamper was a nice touch.”

Summary

The property

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About the location

BEER