Old Higher Lighthouse Branscombe Lodge, Portland Bill

Firstly I have to say that the location of Branscombe cottage is absolutely brilliant with views from the first floor sitting room area down to the current lighthouse,the old lower lighthouse ,out across the bay and down to chesil beach.We found the cottage to be clean and comfortable if a little tired and dated especially in the bedrooms. We visited the old lighthouse tower on the second day of our visit and found the views to be impressive when the weather permits,we would have liked to visit it again on our last day as the weather was clear but were unable to access the tower as it was being painted inside and ladders etc blocked the way.I would also like to mention that the cottage is entirely electric with storage heaters in use as you might expect but I did not expect to be feeding pound coins into two electricity meters all week to ensure we had power,this is an archaic and uneconomic way to access electricity ,we fed approx 30 pounds into these meters in a week - it would much better if the owners incorporated this cost in the weekly rental or at least have proper meters fitted and take before and after readings and charge at the end of the week as is common in Scotland.I am sure that people who rent this property in August at over 1200 pounds a week will be just as thrilled as we were with the current arrangement.Overall we loved the location of this place we just feel that some of the income from this cottage should be used to update and freshen up the bedrooms in particular and if access to the lighthouse is restricted then maybe don't rent the properties until the decorating is finished.

It was beautiful, breathtaking and the hosts were wonderful. Will be going back.

Unbeatable views and wonderful location, as well as comfortable accommodation.

The views were brilliant from the cottage. Best holiday we have ever had and would recommend it, if you love walking even a bit of cliff climbing can be done.

Particularity liked the solitude at a time to reflect and reboot. The sunset out of the lounge window was amazing. Settling back and sitting on the sofa watching the calm sea as the sun went down was amazing.

An amazing setting with views you could take in forever, it is an extremely relaxing place to go.

A very nice cottage with wonderful views, a lovely week enjoyed by all.

Liked the location & situation of the cottage and the views from the upstairs sitting room. Access to the cliff paths and bird watching, would recommend this cottage to people with this interest.

It was an absolutely stunning property and the views were spectacular. The owners had a pair of binoculars in the property and lots of info' about the flora and fauna, so that all you wanted to do was watch what was going on outside when you were at the property. As the sitting room is upstairs with windows on all sides there was plenty to look at. It was so relaxing a holiday as all you can hear is the occasional boat and the birds. The fact that you step a few feet out of the property and you are on to the coastal path was brilliant, ideal for walkers. The owners made you feel very welcome.

Good having access to the lighthouse building. We spent many happy hours up there admiring the view, reading and watching the sunset. The owners were very friendly and helpful. The location was amazing - remote but with very easy access to the Purbeck coast, Weymouth and lots of National Trust properties and other attractions.

The accommodation was brilliant, clean and functional. The ambience of the location and building, and the enthusiasm and friendliness of the hosts and their neighbours made this place exceptional. Fabulous base for so many activities or just sitting and enjoying the sun and sea. Looking forward to a return trip.

Wonderful situation for we 'townies' who live far from the sea. Very good cottage although second bedroom a little limited in size if four big people are staying. Lovely, helpful hosts. Very well equipped house and the upside-down aspect very attractive. Watching the sun go down was magical. It was very windy when we were there in June, so we didn't use the swimming pool but it must have been great in the lovely sunny weather. We enjoyed walks along the cliff path and looking over Weymouth Bay and Chesil Beach. We visited Poole, Weymouth, Abbotsbury Gardens and Swannery (masses of babies at that time). Excellent cafe close by - the crab sandwiches are to die for but it closes in the evening. We found one hotel with a good restaurant but generally eating facilities were not good, which is a pity. The local pub should look to its laurels as I am sure it could be a great asset so close to the sea and the lighthouse. we would certainly have used it had it been better. There is a Tesco supermarket on the island, which was very good. We loved going up into the lighthouse - take a glass of wine up there in the evening and just enjoy the lovely view - bliss! Go for a long weekend, take your own food and enjoy that wonderful sea! Sadly no pets allowed and we have just got another dog so will not return. We have already recommended it to friends and family.

We loved it all. It was a great bonus to be able to go into the lighthouse as the views were wonderful.

The wonderful views.

Everything, its unique setting with the views from the living room, landing, kitchen, bedroom 1 and bedroom 2. The Lighthouse, having sea views makes this a fantastic place to stay.

Cant't fault fault anything. Excellent accomodation, super hosts. We had a wonderful stay and it wasn't long enough. Highly Recommended

Fantastic views from the first floor sitting room. Use of the old lighthouse was an unexpected bonus. A very special location. Helpful owners.

Our welcome was lovely - warm, friendly and very informative. The location of the property is stunning and the views just incredible - with the added bonus of being allowed access to their lighthouse. We had a wonderful holiday.

Location and the hosts were fantastic.

We enjoyed everything - Portland Bill, the accommodation and our hosts. A super holiday.