Shepherds Cottage in Church Stretton

"This cottage is in a wonderful location at the end of a narrow bridleway leading directly to the Carding Mill Valley. However, we feel that there should be a warning in the Sykes brochure about having to back up 50 yds or so to past the cattle grid in order to leave the cottage, so you know before committing to booking the property. Having to reverse all that way on a very narrow lane, restricted by the vehicles of the adjoining house, onto the base of a very steep hill and sharp corner, we feel is dangerous. We can see why there is no picture of the bathroom in the brochure. It clearly hasn't been decorated in decades. The wallpaper was peeling off and although it looked like a scrubbable one, over the sink and over the toilet it was filthy with brown and white stains on it. Having said that, the actual bath and sink and toilet were very clean, (and the rest of the house) it was just the wallpaper that was horrendous. The insides of the bath however were peeling and neither of us wanted to use it. The toilet cistern is cheap and plasticy and old and threatened to come off the wall when the flush was pressed. Because of the the cramped & poor layout of the bathroom, anyone larger than a ladies size 14 would find themselves wedged between the wall and the end of the bath when sitting on the toilet. But the worst point was, although we were aware that there wasn't going to be a shower, we did at least expect there would be a shower attachment. There was none, therefore no means of washing hair other than finding a jug from the kitchen and using this to wash hair over the bath. I think there should be a warning in the brochure description that there are no facilities other than this primative method for washing hair as it is a pretty basic requirement. We feel that if the bathroom of the property were updated with a new suite, nice new tiles and the bath removed and a shower put in instead, there would be plenty of room and it would bring the property up to a high standard. (With a bit of money spent improving the kitchen too, the decor of which was very old & tired.) The position of Shepherds cottage is so outstanding, and the views so wonderful, it is a shame that the bathroom lets it down. With the bathroom in it's current state we would not recommend this property to a friend. However, with a new one fitted and a warning given about the reversing procedure of exiting the property we would have no hesitation in recommending it."

Reviewed by _jenjj1 on 09/10/2016

"The magnificent views from the property coupled with the ability to open the garden gate and be able to walk for miles on the Long Mynd make this cottage's location really special."

Reviewed by Mr Melrose on 29/05/2016

"Our third consecutive year holidaying at Shepherds Cottage was as good as ever. Its situation overlooking Cardingmill Valley is superb and Chuch Stretton is delightful. "

Reviewed by Mr Ford on 02/08/2015

"Beautiful setting, very peaceful. Cottage was quaint."

Reviewed by Mrs Burling on 29/06/2015

"Shepherds Cottage is absolutely lovely. It's in a stunning location with great views, the Shropshire Hills are literally on your doorstep. Can't wait to go back again later in the year."

Reviewed by Mr Melling on 10/02/2015

"The position of the cottage couldn't be much better for a base in Shropshire. It was also very cosy."

Reviewed by Mr Gallop on 26/10/2014

"This was our second visit to this wonderful cottage in its great location on the edge of Carding Mill Valley. With so many lovely walks right on the doorstep we didn't repeat any that we did last year. The dog had a great time too!"

Reviewed by Mr Ford on 04/05/2014

"The location is excellent. The cottage was lovely & warm & very dog friendly. I liked being able to compost waste - this has never happened in any cottage I've stayed in before."

Reviewed by Dr Gibbs on 06/01/2014

"Good value accommodation in an area full of excellent attractions. The cottage was in beautiful surroundings with excellent walks from the doorstep. A very relaxing location, with no traffic or any other disturbance."

Reviewed by Mr Dodwell on 09/10/2013

"This excellent cottage is in a superb location on the edge of a most interesting town with great walks just on the doorstep. "

Reviewed by Mr Ford on 08/07/2013

"We enjoyed our stay very much my husband was delighted with the snow!! will definately be coming back"

Reviewed by A FlipKey verified reviewer on 19/03/2013

"We booked a 3 night break in January this year. Well, we arrived at this lovely cottage it was cosy and very welcoming, the instructions were so helpful. The highlight for my husband after all that was the wonderful snow that fell, we had a wonderful time and would definitely recommend."

Reviewed by Mrs Mills on 23/01/2013

"Had a wonderful week at Shepherds Cottage. There were plenty of walks with beautiful scenery from the door. The cottage was cosy with lovely views of the hillside from the windows."

Reviewed by A FlipKey verified reviewer on 06/12/2012

"The property is an ideal place for those who crave privacy and a holiday in a quiet, semi-rural location. The walks are literally on your doorstep and the views are great. If you're quite fit you can walk down to the town and back - Church Stretton is a lovely town with lots of charm, and a handy supermarket !"

Reviewed by Miss Openshaw on 29/11/2012

"Warm, comfortable cottage, very easy to settle in with outstanding views and not far from town."

Reviewed by Mrs Spence on 08/10/2012

"Beautiful scenery with walks from the door."

Reviewed by Mrs Temperton on 18/09/2012

"An excellent location above Carding Mill Valley for local walks, with wonderful views from the cottage."

Reviewed by Ms Hempshall on 09/08/2012

"Lots of lovely circular walks avoiding roads, great to be near the village. Peaceful and with fantastic views."

Reviewed by Ms Williamson on 26/07/2012

"The location and the cottage itself made this a great place to unwind, and there are plenty of good walks from the doorstep. The cottage is very handy to access Church Stretton and the surrounding area, I really liked Carding Mill Valley and the Long Mynd. "

Reviewed by Mr Dixon on 24/07/2012

"An excellent stay again in a lovely location and comfortable cottage. We will be returning."

Reviewed by Mr Cracknell on 24/07/2012

"Peace and quiet, just like home. Ideal bolt hole just 20 miles away."

Reviewed by Mr Foley on 11/02/2012

"Booking smooth, cottage ready for access on the day. Ideal location for direct access to the long Mynd straight from the cottage. Needless to say this is an ideal cottage for walkers. Cosy cottage with all facilities necessary for a comfortable stay. One little issue is that it. Would be useful to have a shower rather than only the bath. Parking fine but only one car as it is down a footpath/bridleway."

Reviewed by A FlipKey verified reviewer on 05/01/2012

"The service was excellent the cottage was cosy and clean but one drawback was the lack of a shower. and the put up bed was not really suitable for an a adult. The location is wonderful with good walks from the cottage into carding mill valley, The national trust shop and cafe are very good. The only way out of the parking area is to reverse which is rather risky."

Reviewed by A FlipKey verified reviewer on 09/12/2011

"The location - you can't get much nearer to the Longmynd. Totally off the beaten track."

Reviewed by Mr Bason on 16/11/2011

"The location and atmosphere which are the main things about this cottage. Its a great place to relax in and watch the weather and scenery. "

Reviewed by Miss Craig on 24/10/2011

"A wonderful location that is ideal for walking and has perfect views. "

Reviewed by Mr Cracknell on 26/09/2011

"The cottage was ideal. The location was perfect and Church Stretton is a lovely village. All local amenities are a 12 minute walk away and a very convient 17 minutes walk back up the hill to the cottage. We enjoyed the beautiful views across the valley and the sheep all around the garden. We will go back."

Reviewed by Mr Pratley on 19/09/2011

"This cottage is located at the lower end of Cardingmill Valley, the principle valley in the Longmynd area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The booking process via the agent, Sykes Cottages, was simple and straightforward. The directions to the cottage were logical, clearly having been written by someone geographically literate [a rarity these days]. On arrival the key collection process was easy and well-thought through. The property was spotlessly clean and decorated in a plain style [no eye-watering wallpaper patterns or busy carpet designs]. The main bedroom is large and airy but still cosy; the second bedroom is small but my wife and I found it perfectly adequate [we let our Dutch relatives have the larger bedroom]. The bathroom, although small and without a shower, was again clean and well-maintained, with lashings of hot water. In the comfortable lounge there was a nice flatscreen TV and an easy to operate DVD player. Outside there was pleasant small garden where we could barbecue and sit in the evenings and take in the stunning views. This cottage is a real credit to the owners and we would definitely recommend it to anyone. Our Dutch relatives thought they were in heaven. They had never even been to - or even heard of - this part of England before and thought that the cottage and the area were just amazing."

Reviewed by paddleboarder on 19/09/2011

"This cottage is located at the lower end of Cardingmill Valley, the principle valley in the Longmynd Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The booking process via the agent, Sykes Cottages, was simple and straightforward. The directions to the cottage were logical, clearly having been written by someone geographically literate [a rarity these days]. On arrival the key collection process was easy and well-thought through. The property was spotlessly clean and decorated in a plain style [no eye-watering wallpaper patterns or busy carpet designs]. The main bedroom is large and airy but still cosy; the second bedroom is small but my wife and I found it perfectly adequate [we let our Dutch relatives have the larger bedroom]. The bathroom, although small and without a shower, was again clean and well-maintained, with lashings of hot water. In the comfortable lounge there was a nice flatscreen TV and an easy to operate DVD player. Outside there was pleasant small garden where we could barbecue and sit in the evenings and take in the stunning views. This cottage is a real credit to the owners and we would definitely recommend it to anyone. Our Dutch relatives thought they were in heaven. They had never even been to - or even heard of - this part of England before and thought that the cottage and the area were just amazing."

Reviewed by paddleboarder on 19/09/2011

"Shepherds Cottage is in a superb position based moreorless right on the Shropshire Way. Superb views from the lounge window overlooking the Great Mind and in a quiet area. Two minutes are you are on or near the most popular walks in the area. Could really only find one fauly which is that there was only a bath - a shower would have been very handy."

Reviewed by A FlipKey verified reviewer on 18/08/2011

"The cottage is well presented and, although small, was perfectly adequate for our party of four adults. The property is beautifully situated at the foot of the Cardingmill Valley and has good views over the valley and eastwards toward Caer Caradoc. It had a good selection of literature about walks and other things to do in the area, including maps. The DVD and TV were easy to use. The cottage is superbly placed for a range of excellent walks and for the first four days of our holiday we didn't use the car at all. We loved our stay here and our Dutch relatives thought they had gone to heaven! We would strongly recommend this cottage to anyone wishing to explore the Shropshire hills."

Reviewed by Mr Lang on 23/07/2011

"Shepherd's cottage is so perfectly positioned that you almost don't want too many people to know. We had a wonderful time walking Shropshire's 'blue remembered hills' and would like to go back and go back... and the dog loved it too."

Reviewed by A FlipKey verified reviewer on 13/05/2011

"The location of the cottage was wonderful and the cottage was delightful!"

Reviewed by Ms Travers on 29/03/2011

"We had a lovely three night stay in the cottage. Very clean, well equipped kitchen, and comfortable beds with cotton bedding. I have only given the cottage 4 stars for comfort because some customers may want sky TV, fan oven etc. However, if you want somewhere with stupendous views, close to town with walks from the door, this is a great rental. We would certainly return."

Reviewed by someknightjane on 04/12/2010

"It was great to be able to leave the car and walk straight from the cottage. Very quiet and peaceful area. "

Reviewed by Mr Harris on 28/10/2010

"The location of Shepherds Cottage was excellent even allowing for having to back out of the parking lay-bye. The closeness to Church Stretton was appreciated and it was great being so close to the wonderful walks in the Long Mynd. The cottage was comfortable and warm and had all the fittings and appliances that we needed."

Reviewed by Mr Turkington on 07/10/2010

"Parked the car on arrival and did not use it until we drove home.We enjoyed many fantastic walks and the views from the cottage were amazing.We will be back."

Reviewed by Jeanette Wiseman on 14/09/2010

"Location and cosiness of cottage."

Reviewed by Mr Smith on 19/08/2010

"This was our 5th visit and good as always. Walked straight from door of the cottage and did not move the car all week. There are still more walks to discover next year|"

Reviewed by Mr Bell on 10/08/2010

"We were able to book Shepherds Cottage, Church Stretton just a few days before Christmas! The cottage was compact but very well equipped and we had a lovely cosy Christmas, the owners having added some festive touches all at very short notice* Stunning 'wintery' scenery around the cottage, although the road onto the Long Mynd was closed due to the ice, but there were opportunities to walk if you so wished. *The short notice was even shorter due to the fact that Sykes had not notified the owner of our booking so when I rang to arrange key collection 48 hours in advance, that was the first they knew about it and I believe they had to drive some way to get the cottage set up for us, and this was during the pre Christmas snow! Luckily it did not spoil our holiday, but that along with some problems about the booking and confirmation would make me a little wary of using Sykes in the future."

Reviewed by A FlipKey verified reviewer on 03/02/2010

"The location was absolutely fabulous! We arrived in the dark & when we looked out in the morning we were bowled over! The cottage was quite tiny but cosy, spotlessly clean & brilliantly equipped. Another highlight was the open fire! Great eating places a short walk away in the pretty village of Church Stretton & the walking straight from your door on the Long Mynd was fantastic - all of which made this a place we will definitely return to! We've recommended it to friends. The booking team were super efficient & the owner was a delight to speak to on the phone."

Reviewed by A FlipKey verified reviewer on 06/12/2009

"Cosy, welcoming cottage in supreme location with spectacular views over the Long Mynd. The cottage baosts all the facilities required for a comfortable stay and is highly recomended for a unique break. In addition to unspoilt rural views the cottage is within easy walking distance of the centre of Church Stretton, which it's good range of shops and restaurants."

Reviewed by A FlipKey verified reviewer on 02/12/2009

"Very pretty place to stay, wonderful walking area. Lovely cottage, very quiet with stunning views as it is high up on side of hill on The Long Mynd. All of the walks we did could be done from the door."

Reviewed by Mrs Sharman on 21/10/2009

"Very well organized. Excellent location."

Reviewed by Mrs Walley on 06/10/2009

"One of the best cottages we've stayed in, great location for walks from the front door. Lots of local information in the cottage which we found useful."

Reviewed by Mr Harris on 19/09/2009

"The maps and booklets on local walks were very helpful and added to our enjoyment of the area."

Reviewed by Mr Bell on 04/08/2009

"Location of the property is fabulous for walkers, children and dogs, we love it!"

Reviewed by Mrs Thomas on 20/07/2009

"The wonderful position given access and views of the Long Mynd, whilst still allowing an easy walk to Church Stretton."

Reviewed by Mr Melrose on 11/06/2009

"Your own hill to look out on to. Wonderful location and a perfect base for walkers. Only 300 yards from National Tourist coffee shop! Always quiet and relaxing."

Reviewed by Miss Craig on 20/05/2009

"Location, location, location! Superb with a wonderful view. Parked the car on Saturday never to be used all week. Glorious weather in a very special part of England!!!"

Reviewed by Mr Vigars on 29/04/2009

"The location was perfect for walking up in the hills. No car needed once there. You also could easily walk into town for shopping and eating. Very peaceful with lovely views."

Reviewed by Mr Gardiner on 31/03/2009

"This is an exceptionally peaceful cottage in a magnificant location. I have stayed at Shepherds Cottage three times over the past decade with family members in high summer, but the area is just as beautiful in winter. I spent most of the daylight hours wandering around the many local hills (you can be on them in just a few paces from the cottage), then wrote music in the evenings at the dining table. I hope to be able to return next autumn or winter."

Reviewed by Mr Ratcliffe on 03/03/2009

"Beautiful location and helpful owner."

Reviewed by Mr Sawyer on 09/02/2009

"The cottage's location is superb. It's an excellent jumping-off point for walks into Long Mynd and around Church Stretton. The views from the cottage are lovely, especially when the trees are covered in hoarfrost as was the case when we were there. "

Reviewed by Mr Pooley on 07/01/2009

"Surrounding area and location of cottage. We have stayed at this particular cottage several times now and can not fault it. It is a home from home and very cosy."

Reviewed by Mrs Thomas on 16/12/2008

"Location, location, location! Very well-equipped and absolutely immaculate! I've already recommended it to several people. We definitely hope to go again and would also use Sykes again. Very efficient! Thank you!"

Reviewed by Mr Hall on 01/12/2008

"Lovely cottage with wonderful views. Lots of good walks. The garden is fenced in so safe for children and dogs. "

Reviewed by Mr Gordon on 01/12/2008

"Very warm, comfortable and tastefully decorated. Stunning setting and views. "

Reviewed by Mrs Harris on 25/10/2008

"Location and beautiful views."

Reviewed by Mr King on 20/10/2008

"This was our 3rd stay and we will be returning. There is nowhere better for walking. There were big improvements made to the garden since our last holiday."

Reviewed by Mr Bell on 02/10/2008

"Good location, very peaceful."

Reviewed by Ms Carson on 24/06/2008

"Quiet location. Location central to area we wanted to explore. Cottage had everything we needed."

Reviewed by Mr Adamson on 24/06/2008

"The setting of the cottage is magical and the views are wonderful."

Reviewed by Mrs Wherry on 02/06/2008

"Beautiful location. A relaxing place to stay."

Reviewed by Mr South on 02/06/2008

"The location was excellent."

Reviewed by Mr & Mrs Tyrells on 05/05/2008

"The cottage is in a perfect location with access both to the nearby town and the surrounding hills. Very comfortable and warm with fantastic views! Would definitely like to stay at Shepherd's Cottage again."

Reviewed by Mrs Goff on 14/04/2008

"Cottage is really sweet with an open fireplace and always cosy and warm. We invited a few friends round to join us on a hill walk followed by drinks at the cottage.Problem:They all want to rent it leaving less opportunities for us. Never again! In future we are keeping it a secret."

Reviewed by Ms Garfield on 04/01/2008

"We could not have chosen a better base. Both the town of Church Stretton and Shepherds Cottage were perfect for a week walking in the Shropshire hills."

Reviewed by Mr Hambly on 25/10/2007

"Lovely cottage in an incredible location, beautiful walks from the garden gate, very peaceful, perfect place to enjoy a totally relaxing break."

Reviewed by Ms Harratt on 22/10/2007

"A lovely area with wonderful views and many very interesting and challenging walks. "

Reviewed by Mrs Thurston on 11/09/2007

"The location of the cottage was excellent for walking and the views from the cottage were lovely. It was a characterful cottage which added to the holiday."

Reviewed by Mr Hudson on 06/09/2007

"Once again, an ideal location. Out third Sykes Cottage and we have not been let down. I would like to live in Church Stretton, as the south-east of England is just too busy and hectic. Beautiful scenery, walks, relaxed and friendly people, and local produce at its best."

Reviewed by Mr Hesketh on 07/02/2007

"Unspoilt area. Shropshire must be Britain's best kept secret. Quintessentially English towns and villages. Excellent walking. The cottage was extremely comfortable, and well presented. Beautifully situated overlooking Carding Mill Valley. We can't wait to come back."

Reviewed by Mr Dyer on 14/01/2007

"The cottage was close to the town and had on-the-door-step access to the hills for walking. Very nice towns and villages around the welsh borders. The cottage was nice and warm inside. Recommended particularly for walkers, and the artistic who can admire the lovely views of the hills from the cottage windows."

Reviewed by Mr Redding on 17/11/2006

"Well recommended. Beautiful."

Reviewed by Mrs Roach on 06/11/2006

"Cottage location is a perfect base for beginning walk with."

Reviewed by Mr Willbery on 18/10/2006

"Im sure we'll be back to the cottage. The view is fantastic and peaceful location. Plenty of heating."

Reviewed by Mr & Mrs Maynard on 06/07/2006

"We had a Lovely week. Fantastic location. The cottage was very clean and well equiped. Lovely views and lovely garden. We will definitely return to this area in the future."

Reviewed by Mrs Roach on 20/06/2006

"We've been before and enjoyed it again. The kids love the cottage, the setting is amazing."

Reviewed by Mr McGregor on 24/04/2006

"The location was superb and the standard of preparation of the cottage was second to none. A marvellous cottage in an idyllic situation."

Reviewed by Mrs Dudley on 20/02/2006

"The location of the cottage situated on the hillside, great for walks straight out the door. The cottage itself is 'a home from home', heating is excellent and the cottage keeps warm and cosy."

Reviewed by Mrs Thomas on 07/02/2006

"We were very pleased with Shepherds Cottage, we wanted a getaway from it all break and this cottage fulfilled our requirements. It was in a beautiful setting and very cosy. We would certainly recommend to our friends and hope to return in the future. As always we know we can rely on properties booked through Sykes Cottages. Many thanks!"

Reviewed by Mrs Pate on 11/12/2005

"The location of Shepherd's Cottage was ideal, right at the start of many lovely walks on the Long Mynd, or just a few minutes by car. We really appreciated the use of maps and walking books provided by the owners. The cottage and garden was beautiful and very peaceful. Altogether just the break we'd hoped for and more."

Reviewed by Mr Hall on 27/09/2005

"The cottage is in a wonderful position - we could walk from the door and didn't have to use the car at all. Our children loved walking down to Carding Mill valley to play."

Reviewed by Mr McGregor on 15/08/2005

"The property owners were friendly and helpful, the cottage itself was beautiful, set in a wonderful area, and the owners had really taken care to provide everything for visitors to the area"

Reviewed by Mr Jago on 18/07/2005

"Spectacular views and easy access to hill walks, not having to use the car. Main highlight: Walk up Caer Caradoc."

Reviewed by Mrs Wood on 04/05/2005

"Easy access to hill-walking straight from house and spectacular views on better weather days! Plenty to do in the area for all ages, in particular, walking up Caer Carradoc, visiting Castle and Ironbridge Enginuity museum "

Reviewed by Mrs Wood on 06/04/2005

"Beautiful setting of Shepherds Cottage. Fantastic location for walking on the Long Mynd with start of many walks at the front door. Church Stretton has all key amenities."

Reviewed by Dr Cowell on 21/02/2005

"Perfect for walking. Carding Mill Valley is lovely. Church Stretton is alovely little town & worth dawdling in."

Reviewed by Mr Roberts on 16/12/2004

"This cottage has a simply fantastic location for walking in the Long Mynd - it was great to simply walk straight out from the cottage into spectacular scenery - we hardly used the car! "

Reviewed by Dr Merryweather on 16/12/2004

"Very cosy. The log fire was lovely and the setting stunning."

Reviewed by Mrs Mitchell on 16/12/2004

"The cottage met all our expectations, Ideally positioned for walks and visiting historic sites such as Wrexeter and Stokesay Castle (Free for English heritage members). Excellent friendly pub with good beer and food at Green Dragon in Little Stratton."

Reviewed by Mr Kent on 16/12/2004

"The location of the cottage was excellent with views over the Long Mynd."

Reviewed by Mr Hambridge on 16/12/2004

"Walking literally on the doorstep ."

Reviewed by Mrs Jones on 16/12/2004

"The walks and countryside and views were lovely, and so was the village"

Reviewed by Mrs Garratt on 16/12/2004