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Byre

Byre

4.7
out of 5
Ratings from 7 reviews
86% of guests
recommend
Cleanliness
5.0
Comfort
4.6
Condition
4.9
Location
4.9
Value
4.1
Customer
Service
4.4

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The Byre is a fantastic 5 Star Gold holiday cottage on the edge of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and within a short walk of an excellent country pub. It is one of four super self-catering properties at Beechcroft in Cowbeech, with easy access to lovely walks and bike rides through the countryside and along the coast. The owner specialises in bookings of 3 nights to 12 weeks - a little longer than the usual short break, giving visitors plenty of time to settle in and get to know this lovely part of England which features incredible country houses, gardens and castles, beaches and famous sights. The Byre sleeps four people in two ensuite bedrooms and is ideal for couples and families.

Peaceful location, clean and comfortable but a few downsides

Review submitted on Thu, 07 Aug 2025
3.7
out of 5
Guest doesn't recommend this property
Cleanliness
5.0
Comfort
3.0
Condition
4.0
Location
5.0
Value
2.0
Customer
Service
3.0
The Byre is in a nice peaceful location, and within 30 mins drive of loads of great places to visit. We enjoyed our time here, but a few things disappointed us:

1. No welcome hamper was provided, and no toiletries, dishwasher or laundry detergent. You need to bring everything! There wasn't even tea and coffee :( The owner said people prefer it this way, but it's the only place we ever stayed that didn't provide at least hand soap and a few tea bags. Hardly a luxury cottage....

2. There are no instructions for any of the appliances in the cottage, and we received only brief verbal imstructions on how to work the Sandyford range cooker. Whilst we managed, it became a source of frustration - the oven takes 1hr to get to high enough temperature to cook oven chips! Not great when the family are ravenous after a long day out....

3. The back door of the cottage does not lock. I raised this with the owner and he was dismissive, saying he couldn't help and it's a very safe area so not to worry. It does feel a safe spot, but if security matters to you, don't book here!

Notwithstanding these things, we had a good break and found the cottage clean and comfortable. The little patio garden is also very nice. I would recommend the cottage only if the above issues are rectified....

Where did you hear about us ?
via Beechcroft Cottages website

Guest from Cambridge stayed at Byre for 9 nights in July 2025


Michael Haydon replied 24 days ago
We seldom respond to the UpFront Reviews, which in the main are positive and we are always more than grateful to be in receipt! However, two very recent disappointing Reviews highlighting Customer Service and Value for Money are of concern to us. Both are on the same lines highlighting similar problems and so for simplicity this reply will hopefully be an explanation for the problems that have unfortunately arisen. Following regular discussion with the ‘Visit England Assessment Service’ a joint decision has been taken, if only for the sake of clarity, to provide nothing rather than something by way of ‘Goodies’. Our confirmation letter recommends that a Supermarket delivery be arranged shortly after arrival and highlights the excellent village shop close by - in order that guests may have what they want, rather than that which we might provide. Generally, we have found guests favour this decision although others understandably still relish the original hamper with wine, biscuits and cheese with luxury toiletries etc. provided. Interestingly, other high-grade cottages have taken the same line as us and provide nothing. The Sandyford cookers have always been an ‘acquired flavour’ but they are efficient, once mastered. -That is why time is taken to explain their workings prior to arrival not least to explain the difference between cooking on gas or electricity where there is instant controllability, which understandably can be disconcerting for the uninitiated. For confirmation on the use of the Sandyford to future guests, please open the front left-hand door, turn the top knob to 200 degrees (not below or above) about 15 minutes prior to cooking and use similar to an Aga. It cannot be controlled on the electric button and has an optimum heat of 200 degrees. Turn the temperature to zero when finished and do not touch the bottom button set at 60 degrees for the heating and hot water. All cottages are inspected by the Housekeeper prior to the arrival of guests to check the appliances, but for some reason we have recently experienced problems with the television signal in this particular locality. -It is accepted that the time has come to update. The upstairs window in the Byre is secured by turning the handle down, but the left-hand window has to be locked. The key to the rear patio door appears to have been mislaid, unnoticed by the Housekeeper and it will be replaced. My mistake on the telephone as I thought the reference was to the sliding door – which is without handles on the outside and is secured from the inside. Without making excuses, it is perhaps worthy of mention that our Housekeeper for many years Sarah, went on maternity leave on 17th July and yesterday gave birth to a baby boy. Our new Houskeeper Tracy will take a little time to settle in. The Housekeeper and the Groundsman are usually about and guests should feel free to talk to them about any problems or call me on 07831 443309. We have been in the Holiday cottage business for over 20 plus years and take pride in the 5 Star Gold Award on all four cottages not least welcoming the average markings of 4.9 achieved on the last five Up Front Reviews for the Byre. I did in fact call on several occasions, including telephoning, but unfortunately without success. I appreciate your raising these matters with me as we do try to provide much information in the telephone call prior to the visit, but I am very sorry that your stay did not achieve your expectations.

A comfortable and clean holiday cottage in a good location.

Review submitted on Mon, 04 Aug 2025
4.2
out of 5
Guest recommends this property
Cleanliness
5.0
Comfort
5.0
Condition
5.0
Location
4.0
Value
3.0
Customer
Service
3.0
We had a very pleasant stay in The Byre, it was clean and comfortable and well supplied with crockery and cutlery. The location is good for visiting historic houses and gardens. There are a lot of places within an easy drive, for example Batemans, Firle Place and Michelham Priory. The weather was not good enough for walking on the downs.
Although I had been given instructions for operating the range cooker over the phone we were surprised that there weren't any printed instructions for any of the appliances. We found the fridge very small and we were only two people. The TV in the sitting room didn't work. The aerial lead would not stay in the socket and we think the socket did not have a signal. We don't watch a lot of TV so it wasn't a major problem but could be for other people. The TV in the bedroom did work but wasn't set up so we missed the programme we had planned to watch. The sofa and armchair in the sitting room were very comfortable as were the single beds. We chose the upstairs bedroom because there was more space and storage for our clothes than in the downstairs bedroom. Both bedrooms are quite small. The window in the upstairs bedroom didn't have any window stays which was a problem because it tended to blow wide open when it was raining.
The other cottages were empty except for our first and last nights. Although we had our own lawn and outside seating at the back of the cottage the front of The Byre is quite close to The Bull Pen and Cart Lodge (one cottage). All four cottages are quite close to each other.
It would be helpful if there were a sheet in the cottage to report problems. There wasn't even a visitor book.
We are very used to staying in holiday cottages and in many ways The Byre was good. I would recommend it but with the reservations noted above.

Where did you hear about us ?
It is listed with Premier Cottages and it is one of the cottage sites I use when choosing a place to stay.

Pauline from Buckhurst Hill stayed at Byre for 7 nights in July 2025


Michael Haydon replied 24 days ago
We seldom respond to the UpFront Reviews, which in the main are positive and we are always more than grateful to be in receipt! However, two very recent disappointing Reviews highlighting Customer Service and Value for Money are of concern to us. Both are on the same lines highlighting similar problems and so for simplicity this reply will hopefully be an explanation for the problems that have unfortunately arisen. Following regular discussion with the ‘Visit England Assessment Service’ a joint decision has been taken, if only for the sake of clarity, to provide nothing rather than something by way of ‘Goodies’. Our confirmation letter recommends that a Supermarket delivery be arranged shortly after arrival and highlights the excellent village shop close by - in order that guests may have what they want, rather than that which we might provide. Generally, we have found guests favour this decision although others understandably still relish the original hamper with wine, biscuits and cheese with luxury toiletries etc. provided. Interestingly, other high-grade cottages have taken the same line as us and provide nothing. The Sandyford cookers have always been an ‘acquired flavour’ but they are efficient, once mastered. -That is why time is taken to explain their workings prior to arrival not least to explain the difference between cooking on gas or electricity where there is instant controllability, which understandably can be disconcerting for the uninitiated. For confirmation on the use of the Sandyford to future guests, please open the front left-hand door, turn the top knob to 200 degrees (not below or above) about 15 minutes prior to cooking and use similar to an Aga. It cannot be controlled on the electric button and has an optimum heat of 200 degrees. Turn the temperature to zero when finished and do not touch the bottom button set at 60 degrees for the heating and hot water. All cottages are inspected by the Housekeeper prior to the arrival of guests to check the appliances, but for some reason we have recently experienced problems with the television signal in this particular locality. -It is accepted that the time has come to update. The upstairs window in the Byre is secured by turning the handle down, but the left-hand window has to be locked. The key to the rear patio door appears to have been mislaid, unnoticed by the Housekeeper and it will be replaced. My mistake on the telephone as I thought the reference was to the sliding door – which is without handles on the outside and is secured from the inside. Without making excuses, it is perhaps worthy of mention that our Housekeeper for many years Sarah, went on maternity leave on 17th July and yesterday gave birth to a baby boy. Our new Houskeeper Tracy will take a little time to settle in. The Housekeeper and the Groundsman are usually about and guests should feel free to talk to them about any problems or call me on 07831 443309. We have been in the Holiday cottage business for over 20 plus years and take pride in the 5 Star Gold Award on all four cottages not least welcoming the average markings of 4.9 achieved on the last five Up Front Reviews for the Byre. I did in fact call on several occasions, including telephoning, but unfortunately without success. I appreciate your raising these matters with me as we do try to provide much information in the telephone call prior to the visit, but I am very sorry that your stay did not achieve your expectations.

Superb Holidays

Review submitted on Mon, 14 Jul 2025
5.0
out of 5
Guest recommends this property
Cleanliness
5.0
Comfort
5.0
Condition
5.0
Location
5.0
Value
5.0
Customer
Service
5.0
Great place to be ans spend your holidays.

Very clean and comfortable with great surroundings

Must recommend!

Where did you hear about us ?
Internet



Manuel from Marbella stayed at Byre for 2 nights in July 2025


Good location

Review submitted on Fri, 13 Jun 2025
4.7
out of 5
Guest recommends this property
Cleanliness
5.0
Comfort
4.0
Condition
5.0
Location
5.0
Value
4.0
Customer
Service
5.0
The Byre is a lovely venue to spend a few days exploring the local area. The property was well presented, clean and tidy, and very comfortable. Communication was good. We were surprised that basic toiletries such as hand soap were not provided. The property information (e.g. wi-fi, how to use the Aga) needs to be provided in written form in the property.

Where did you hear about us ?
Google search



James from Seven Hills stayed at Byre for 3 nights in June 2025


Lovely Cottage

Review submitted on Fri, 25 Apr 2025
5.0
out of 5
Guest recommends this property
Cleanliness
5.0
Comfort
5.0
Condition
5.0
Location
5.0
Value
5.0
Customer
Service
5.0
Stayed for a week at The Byre. Beautiful location & very quiet & peaceful. Our second visit. We will be returning!

Where did you hear about us ?
Website



Guest from Croydon stayed at Byre for 7 nights in April 2025


Holiday at Beechcroft Cottages

Review submitted on Sun, 14 Jul 2024
5.0
out of 5
Guest recommends this property
Cleanliness
5.0
Comfort
5.0
Condition
5.0
Location
5.0
Value
5.0
Customer
Service
5.0
Excellent, enjoyable stay, as always. It is a lovely property in a beautiful part of the country - with so much to see and do!

Where did you hear about us ?
We have stayed here before



Guest from Heswall stayed at Byre for 14 nights in June 2024


An idilic spot for a true holiday .

Review submitted on Mon, 20 Nov 2023
5.0
out of 5
Guest recommends this property
Cleanliness
5.0
Comfort
5.0
Condition
5.0
Location
5.0
Value
5.0
Customer
Service
5.0
We enjoyed very snug & comfortable accommodation , in a beautiful geographical area , removed from the bustle , but close enough to indulge when it suited. Michael was extremely pleasant and very attentive .
A true holiday.
A visit to the Willows Fish & Chips in Herstmonceux is a must - Adolfo fries a mean cod !

Where did you hear about us ?
Searching the web



CLIVE from Jerez de la Frontera stayed at Byre for 5 nights in November 2023