“As mentioned by previous guests, the property does tend to be chilly.”
It was February so I was prepared with throws and a hot water bottle!
Cleanliness however was an issue I hadn't been expecting. The cleaner was still there when I arrived at 3pm, she was just doing 'a bit of dusting' and left a moment or two later. The bathroom and loo were clean, the beds had been changed but the surfaces, kitchen counter, table tops etc, were all either sticky, sandy or both. I don't think it had been vacuumed, or at least not very well, if it had. I found some ...
It was February so I was prepared with throws and a hot water bottle!
Cleanliness however was an issue I hadn't been expecting. The cleaner was still there when I arrived at 3pm, she was just doing 'a bit of dusting' and left a moment or two later. The bathroom and loo were clean, the beds had been changed but the surfaces, kitchen counter, table tops etc, were all either sticky, sandy or both. I don't think it had been vacuumed, or at least not very well, if it had. I found some cleaning materials and set to it before unpacking. I left the cobwebs where they were - I was a bit tired by this time. Not the best start after a long journey.
Both the gardens and garden furniture could use some TLC. There was rubbish in the front garden - presumably blown in by recent storms - but nonetheless it gave the property a feeling of being unloved. Poor thing.
The location is perfect, I am a long term fan of Newton and the surrounding area so knew I would not be disappointed.
I was slightly surprised that the cleaner had known that I was a female lone traveller before I arrived, apparently it had been discussed?? In a sleepy place like Newton I guess this isn't an issue but I was left feeling a little vulnerable and unsettled.
- Bernadette, February 2026
Thank you for taking the time to leave feedback.
Melvin Cottage enjoys a uniquely beautiful coastal location in Newton, which many guests return to year after year, and we are pleased that you appreciated the setting and surrounding area.
We are, however, sorry to read that aspects of the cottage did not meet your expectations. The property is professionally cleaned and checked prior to each arrival. It is unusual for our cleaner to still be on site at check-in time, and we will review this internally to ensure preparation is fully completed before guests arrive. We would always encourage guests to contact us immediately if anything appears to have been overlooked, as we are very happy to return and rectify matters straightaway.
With respect to heating, the cottage uses electric storage heating alongside an open fire, which performs well for many guests. During colder winter stays, some visitors choose to make additional use of the fire, and we also provide a free-standing radiator and extra bedding on request.
With regard to your comment about being a lone traveller, we would like to clarify that guest details are handled solely for operational purposes. Our housekeeping team are provided only with the lead guest name and the number of occupants for preparation purposes. Personal circumstances are not discussed. We take guest privacy very seriously and are sorry if anything caused you to feel unsettled, as that would never be our intention.
Following recent windy weather, we will also ensure the gardens are checked again.
We appreciate all feedback and remain committed to maintaining the standards our guests expect.
Property Owner
