Lobster Lookout | Swanage | Durlston Bay | Dorset And Somerset

4.8★

6 Guests
3 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms
Pets Yes
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Features

Off road parking
Garden / Patio
Pub/shop < 1 mile
Washing machine
Seaside
Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing

Cleanliness

Comfort

Facilities and Maintenance

* Based on a combined average customer score

36 Customer Review(s)

Rachel
August 2024

“Lobster lookout is a fabulous accommodation.”

Inside and out. The layout, the decor is first class. My only criticism and this is only a slight criticism would be the cleanliness of certain areas. Those being bathroom tiles, bathroom sink. Kitchen sink especially the draining board mat. The downstairs toilet flush plate and sink. There were also tea stains on the kitchen worktop and food left in the freezer from previous guests. With a little more attention to detail, these small issues could be rectified quickly to keep the lobster ...

Inside and out. The layout, the decor is first class. My only criticism and this is only a slight criticism would be the cleanliness of certain areas. Those being bathroom tiles, bathroom sink. Kitchen sink especially the draining board mat. The downstairs toilet flush plate and sink. There were also tea stains on the kitchen worktop and food left in the freezer from previous guests. With a little more attention to detail, these small issues could be rectified quickly to keep the lobster lookout in good condition for many years to come. Had a lovely stay and would not hesitate to return in the future. I would highly recommend this property to anyone, and Swanage itself has plenty to offer everyone.

- Rachel, August 2024

Thank you for your informative feedback. I’m so glad you enjoyed Lobster Lookout and Swanage, but the cleanliness issues you list are totally unacceptable. I apologise for this and am looking into why these basic details were not addressed. Warm regards. Property Owner
Jonathan July 2024

“Great house, really well equipped.”

Will book again.

- Jonathan, July 2024
Andrea July 2024

“We really enjoyed our holiday in this beautiful, well equipped house.”

We will definitely be back

- Andrea, July 2024

So glad you enjoyed it! Property Owner
K May 2024

“Place was as great as last year when we stayed.”

Ideal location, lovely property and a friendly neighbourhood. Fantastic and clean holiday home, would highly recommend.

- K, May 2024
Victoria May 2024

“A very modern and comfortable cottage.”

So many items in the cottage to use. Big and spacious. My only criticism was the beds- the mattresses are poorly quality as not supportive when x2 people are sleeping the bed. Apart from that we loved everything about the property. Thank you.

- Victoria, May 2024

The mattresses have now been replaced. Thank you for your feedback. Property Owner
Julie April 2024

“Kitchen utensils well stocked, limited space for food provisions.”

Several bedroom mattresses very lumpy. Clothes storage in bedrooms very limited. Dishwasher not listed in property description. This was a welcome bonus. Overall feedback on the property good, tastefully decorated, especially the provision of rugs for the dogs.

- Julie, April 2024
Heather April 2024

“Our second stay at Lobster Lookout and it was perfect, probably the best dog friendly cottage in Swanage and we have stayed in many.”

Spacious ground floor accommodation and very well equipped. Although sleeps six, I think four adults is maximum for comfort as only one bathroom. We didn’t use the car for first few days as lovely to walk from the cottage, either up the lane at the side to Durlston, we did two different walks around Durlston or down into Swanage, plenty of places for breakfast and coffee at The Cabin on the beach is a must for us. Cake at Love Cake is the best and the steep walk back up the hill burns a few calories gained. We did the history walk from the museum which was very interesting. Always plenty to see and do. We will be back.

- Heather, April 2024
Maxine April 2024

“Had a lovely weeks stay at Lobster Lookout.”

Ideal Location to enjoy Swanage. House was Clean and Comfortable. Lovely sea view from the bedrooms and so nice to have a dressing table to get ready at . Only negatives are the parking, no way could you fit 3 small or 2 large cars on that drive, our one car only just fit on sideways . It also does not have 2 bathrooms , just one small upstairs bathroom and a downstairs toilet. The kitchen while functionable was small and bit cluttered which left little space to work on.

- Maxine, April 2024
Lucy March 2024

“Lovely property, very clean, modern & well equipped.”

Be aware it's advertised as parking for 3 cars, but there's no chance of fitting 3 cars on drive, even small ones, definitely parking for 2 cars only. That said there's easy parking on street so not a major issue. I can see the drop from the turfed area down to the patio could be difficult if you had small kids as some have mentioned, though it wasn't an issue for us. It was very well equipped and very tastefully furnished/decorated and well maintained. Modern and clean. Only 5 mins walk into the town, fairly steep walk back up to the house, a bit of huffing and puffing from some in our group! Swanage is very lovely and so is Lobster Lookout!

- Lucy, March 2024
Alison March 2024

“Property was lovely but felt cluttered due to rather alot of lamps (although did love the rainbow in kitchen), ornaments and scatter cushions.”

.. and far too many kitchen bits (no one needs 5 cafetieres) almost every cupboard was full of stuff... so struggled to find gaps for our bits of food etc. More focus on the practical would be a great idea eg proper doormats to get mud off after a wet walk... somewhere to hang coats... maybe a row of hooks on rear of utility door or wall above radiator. Outside lights weren't working at the back at all... and front one wasn't most of time. As for parking... the drive is very shallow and I'm lost as to how you would get 3 cars on it... my husbands estate could parallel park on whole drive or overhang onto the pavement even when front right upto Wall of House! Plus neighbours liked to park right on corner impeding visibility when backing out! On the whole there is room for alot of improvements. That being said location was convenient as we have family in Swanage and property was a short walk to see them albeit up a hill to return.

- Alison, March 2024
Andrew September 2023

“A fantastic long weekend break in this beautiful property.”

Furnishings etc all of a very high standard and it was spotlessly clean…it was a fabulous property in a beautiful area…absolutely loved the sea views from the front bedrooms and the walk into town was only 7 minutes down and about 9 minutes up, what a workout! There were just two niggles, 1) it was listed as having 2 bathrooms which we specifically searched for in our required criteria but we didn’t feel a toilet and a sink within a utility room qualified as a bathroom so this was quite disappointing as it really wasn’t cheap for a 3 night break and 2) the ledge in the garden was so steep and potentially very dangerous. We couldn’t relax and let the dogs free in the garden and felt some form of restraint should be placed there as currently it isn’t overly pet or child friendly. That said, we absolutely loved the rest of the property and the area of Swanage and had a wonderful short break.

- Andrew, September 2023
Helen. September 2023

“Lovely holiday property and well equipped.”

Everything you need for a great stay. We were a party of 4 and a medium dog. Plenty of room. Would thoroughly recommend, Swanage is beautiful. Thank you

- Helen., September 2023
Glenn September 2023

“Perfect location , accommodation spotless, full of quality touches, faultless.”

- Glenn, September 2023
Katrina August 2023

“Lovely stay, cottage had everything we needed and the decor was beautiful”

- Katrina, August 2023
Samantha July 2023

“Lobster lookout (although a little more expensive than some cottages available) is a beautiful cottage.”

It has everything you need. The parking was perfect for 2 cars and the cottage was large enough for our family of 3 , our parents and our dog. I was happy to pay a little more after having stayed at an 'old fashioned cottage with a different company last year - which I felt very uncomfortable in. Lobster Lookout is nice and modern. The washing machine/ tumble dryer are an added bonus - always so useful whilst on holiday. The tea, coffee and biscuits were a welcome extra when we arrived before our shopping delivery arrived. Maybe a little treat / pet blanket if the owners know that they have a dog staying would be a nice little extra - we stayed in a cottage in Northumberland last year and that was such a surprise and very appreciated. We however always take our own dog bed, towel, blanket etc. Whilst there is quite a lot of storage - the cupboards / wardrobes were all very full of extra linen / towels etc. It would be better to have the space to unpack properly. But this is only a minor niggle. The location of the cottage is fabulous - near to Durlston Country Park & Castle (Fabulous for breakfast) - the views on the walk up to the castle are stunning. The walk into Swanage is easy (not so easy back up the hill for the older ones - not a problem for the more able / younger). Overall Swanage itself is beautiful - clean - stunning - scenery amazing. We were so lucky with the weather - it was beautiful all week. If you book Lobster Lookout you will not be disappointed.

- Samantha, July 2023
Jenny June 2023

“The mattress in the main bedroom(top of the stairs turn left) was old and lumpy.”

The front garden was unkempt and for half the week we were unable to open the door going onto the patio table/chairs. I think to say there is parking for three cars is a bit unrealistic. Furnishings and decor excellent

- Jenny, June 2023
Barry June 2023

“Great cottage.”

..High wall is our most concern...dog did escape...great to see you fox in the morning..plus deer..[ in our view wall could do with safety rail plus gate at the bottom of steps]....on the whole fantastic...would like to see prices kept a bit lower....lovely friendly people in local area...great holiday was had...will go back if the price is right...and once the issue with the wall sorted...[ which wouldn't cost the earth to put right ]...enjoy all the same.

- Barry, June 2023
Alison June 2023

“Lovely house, we had a great family holiday at the beginning of June!”

It was our first visit to Swanage and Lobster Lookout made it one to remember! Very nicely decorated and accessorised throughout. Good location, close to everything. Be prepared for a short but fairly steep walk from the shops and beach. Would definitely recommend!

- Alison, June 2023
K May 2023

“Could not fault the property, was pleasantly surprised how well looked after, presented and home from home the property was.”

Was perfect for 5 adults and 2 little ones. Only down fall was the ledge in the garden but any parent would be conscious of this and never leave their children unsupervised so wasn’t an issue for us. The location was central, a few steep hills up to the property but again wasn’t an issue for the family, i myself had an accident before the holiday so wasn’t ideal with a wheelchair but was close enough to the town for my husband to go home and pick me up in the car without any issues. Overall a fantastic stay with a lovely clean modern yet homely property: Will surely be returning Thank you

- K, May 2023
Louise April 2023

“We had a lovely week at Lobster Lookout.”

The property was really comfortable and had everything we needed for a home from home holiday. The only thing I would say is that the garden is really not suitable for dogs with there being such steep steps and a very high drop from the grass section. We were so worried that we didn't let our dogs go up there in the end. I certainly wouldn't recommend this property if you have small children. I would also suggest having some toilet roll holders fitted. For such a lovely property that has been recently decorated, we found it strange that in both toilets, there were no holders. All in all though a lovely stay - thanks.

- Louise, April 2023
Heather April 2023

“Fabulous property in our favourite place.”

Great facilities, spacious for 3 of us plus 2 dogs. Very clean and comfortable. Great position in Swanage, lovely walk from the property either into town or up to Durlston Castle for fabulous views while enjoying a coffee or bottle of Prosecco in our case! Think the house would be a bit small for any more than 4 people due to only one bathroom. Pity there was no washing up liquid and only 2 dishwasher tablets, ended up putting everything in the dishwasher when I would have done the pans by hand. Only a small quibble though as everything else perfect

- Heather, April 2023
Doug March 2023

“Beautifully presented and very comfortable accommodation - located at the top of ...”

Beautifully presented and very comfortable accommodation - located at the top of the hill overlooking Swanage Bay with just a 5 minute stroll into town for shops and eateries (slightly longer walk back up the hill

- Doug, March 2023
Jonathan March 2023

“Excellent location, as long as you don't mind the steep hill up from the town centre!”

House is very clean and modern, three decent double bedrooms, although I would stay there is very little storage space in the rooms for clothes etc. We were only using two rooms so used the third to keep cases etc in. In addition, while the bathroom is adequate, there is virtually no space to put toiletries and for tall people getting in and out of the over bath shower could be a bit of a squeeze! The shower is good though, once in. The parking at the front is a little tight as well, we just managed with an Audi Q3 ans SEAT Ateca without obstructing the pavement, but there is plenty of parking on the street. Behind the property are roads leading up to the cliff paths and many excellent walks, if that's your thing. Forte's in town has stunning Gelato ice cream - in itself a good enough reason for staying in Swanage!

- Jonathan, March 2023
Colin March 2023

“Had a wonderful week extremely clean and well maintained.”

Would highly recommend this property.

- Colin, March 2023
Fiona February 2023

“We spent a lovely week away.”

The property was in a good location, at the top of the hill, giving great views down to the sea. Lobster Lookout provided everything we needed for a very comfortable stay; 3 double bedrooms, a well stocked kitchen and spacious sitting area. The property is nicely decorated with lots of little home furnishing touches.

- Fiona, February 2023
Catherine December 2022

“What a wonderful modern, clean, comfortable cosy house.”

We thoroughly enjoyed our family stay over Christmas. Definitely home from home. We loved the Christmas decorations. The kitchen is well equipped with everything. Ideal location and great views of the sea from the two front bedrooms. The three luxurious bedrooms were each of a great size. The bathroom modern and tastefully decorated.

- Catherine, December 2022
Lisa December 2022

“What a lovely property!”

Very comfortable, cosy and clean. Gorgeous decor, great facilities, well equipped. We had such a good holiday at Lobster Lookout.

- Lisa, December 2022
Mark December 2022

“A really lovely modern property, recently built and with very high quality fittings and decor.”

Well equipped kitchen, 3 double beds, all very comfortable. Ideal location with easy access to the town centre, beach and pier. Lovely distant sea views from front bedrooms. As others have said its a steep hill to get back home but kept us fit! Outside space is compact but adequate. High drop off wall in back garden is something to be aware of if you have dogs or children. The huge bi-fold doors on to the patio would be lovely in the summer but obviously we didn't use in winter. Christmas decorations were a lovely finishing touch for our stay. We are already planning our next visit.

- Mark, December 2022
Claire November 2022

“Beautiful house, well designed for socialising.”

The kitchen was well equipped which made cooking so much easier and the location was great - just a short walk to the town. Walking back up that steep hill kept us fit! We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and would definitely return.

- Claire, November 2022
Anton October 2022

“Most relaxing break, as we said throughout our stay, this is luxury living.”

we didn't go out in the evening as we wanted to stay in the house. Thank you and will book again.

- Anton, October 2022

We’re delighted that you enjoyed your stay. Look forward to welcoming you again :) Property Owner
Rob September 2022

“Slightly disappointed that there was no washing up liquid or kitchen roll.”

A spare key would also have been useful

- Rob, September 2022

I’m sorry that there was no washing up liquid on your arrival. I will check on this .. Kitchen towel is generally not provided unfortunately. The keysafe can be used by multiple guests to avoid the confusion of extra keys & key loss. Thank you Property Owner
David August 2022

“Lovely holiday with the all the family.”

Lobster Lookout was everything we were expecting, and more. Great accommodation, close to the town and beach. The Black Swan pub was a good find, with good food, and a excellent choice of ales, within easy walking distance. Would definitely stop here again when next visiting the area.

- David, August 2022
Tina July 2022

“A home from home plus more!”

A beautiful house filled with beautiful decor and absolutely outstanding views from the upstairs windows. Amazing attention to detail for the needs of us. A beautiful setting in a quiet part of the town. A really steep walk back but we got faster by the end of the week! Loved the proximety of the beach and town and the country park. Did not realise it was carnival week when I booked but it made the week. I did not have to drive anywhere Could walk to everything. Would highly recommended this accommodation.

- Tina, July 2022
Christopher June 2022

“Absolutely lovely cottage and really well furnished and equipped.”

Slight downside was outside space and steps up to garden area.

- Christopher, June 2022
Michael June 2022

“Layout and facilities suited our family requirements exactly.”

A lovely place.

- Michael, June 2022
Julie June 2022

“Beautiful and completely refurbished, immaculately decorated cottage with everything provided to start your holiday.”

Lots of attention to detail We arranged a Sainsburys delivery for our self catering needs and made sure we didn’t exhaust existing supplies of basics. We thoroughly recommend Lobster Lookout Thank you for your hospitality

- Julie, June 2022

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Summary

Three bedrooms: 3 x double
Bathroom with bath, shower over, basin, heated towel rail and WC
Cloakroom/utility
Open-plan living space with kitchen,dining and sitting area
Sitting room
Central heating
Oven, hob, microwave, fridge/freezer, dishwasher, washing machine, tumble dryer
TV, WiFi
Fuel and power inc. in rent
Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
Off-road parking for 2 cars
Rear garden with lawn, patio and furniture
Two well-behaved dogs welcome
Sorry, no smoking
Shop 0.5 miles, pub 0.2 miles, beach 0.7 miles
Note: Check-in from 4pm, check-out by 10am

The property

There is a magnificent three-bedroom property in the seaside town of Swanage in Dorset, Lobster Lookout.

Within the Dorset AONB, Lobster Lookout is a wonderful dog-friendly home for a group or family of six to enjoy a relaxing getaway along the coast.

When you arrive, you'll find off-road parking for three small cars, so you can unload your bags with ease.

Step into the light and spacious open-plan living area, where you can prepare wonderful meals for your family to enjoy at the six-person table or alfresco out on your private patio.

Why not unwind on the sun loungers with a good book or a drink of your choice after dinner?

After dinner, kick-back and relax on the plush sofas in the sitting room to enjoy a family movie night over a bowl of popcorn with your loved ones.

Adding to the convenience of the ground floor is a cloakroom/utility area that has a washing machine and tumble dryer.

Climb the stairs up to the first-floor, where you will find three beautifully decorated bedrooms for when sleep calls.

In the morning, prepare for the day ahead in style with a soak in the bath or a refreshing shower before heading out.

Head to Swanage Beach, where you can soak up the rays, cool off in the sea, or learn more about the area at the local maritime history at the Victorian Swanage Pier Trust.

You can also get a bite to eat at the café or book a boat excursion from the pier.

At Gee Whites Seafood Restaurant and Sea Breeze Restaurant, you may savour the best of fresh seafood, while at The White Horse and Red Lion, you can tuck-in to pub favourites.

Be sure to visit in July, when you can attend the town's popular Jazz Festival!

Take a journey on the historic Swanage Railway and experience exceptional views for 6 miles.

Visit the stunning Durlston Country Park and National Nature Reserve, where you'll be able to see the local wildlife and explore the visitor centre and gallery housed in a former Victorian Castle.

Visit the RSPB Arne and Wareham Golf Club for more wildlife-filled hiking and putting.

Continue onto Poole, where you can go for a picnic in Poole Park, see the Poole Museum, take a boat to Brownsea Island, or drive across to Sandbanks Beach for a fun-filled day with views of the English Channel from the renowned Sandbanks Beach.

For your next adventure to Dorset, choose Lobster Lookout.

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About the location

SWANAGE

Wareham 9.7 miles; Poole 20 miles.

The small, family-friendly seaside resort of Swanage is situated at the eastern end of Dorset’s famous Jurassic Coast, on the celebrated Isle of Purbeck and is probably best known for its wonderful, gently shelving golden sands. The little town offers visitors plenty of shops, good pubs and restaurants, some of which specialise in locally caught seafood, and is also well known for its annual jazz festival, which takes place each July. The attractive, Victorian wooden pier offers a great place for a stroll or try fishing, and often used a departure point for divers, it’s a wonderful place to watch the world pass by. The historic Swanage Railway has its terminus in the town and regular nostalgic steam engine trips take tourists for a picturesque 6-mile journey, chugging through lovely countryside to stop just beyond the romantic ruin of Corfe Castle. Nearby Durlston Country Park offers a lovely day out with spectacular coastal walks, dolphin spotting and wildlife watching, together with comfortable viewing points and a well-stocked cafe for a treat after all the fresh air. Take the short drive to Studland, which has one of the finest beaches in the country, surrounded by heathland, together with the regular chain ferry, which crosses the mouth of Poole Harbour to Sandbanks. This truly is a delightful holiday destination at any time of the year.

Please note: In the garden, there is a drop from the lawned area down to the patio, please ensure young children are supervised at all times. There are also steep steps up to the lawn, please take care.

Please note that there is no BBQ at the property

Please note that the log burner is not in use

This property offers the following short breaks:

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Features

Reviews & Ratings

“Lobster lookout is a fabulous accommodation.”

“Great house, really well equipped.”

“We really enjoyed our holiday in this beautiful, well equipped house.”

“Place was as great as last year when we stayed.”

“A very modern and comfortable cottage.”

“Kitchen utensils well stocked, limited space for food provisions.”

“Our second stay at Lobster Lookout and it was perfect, probably the best dog friendly cottage in Swanage and we have stayed in many.”

“Had a lovely weeks stay at Lobster Lookout.”

“Lovely property, very clean, modern & well equipped.”

“Property was lovely but felt cluttered due to rather alot of lamps (although did love the rainbow in kitchen), ornaments and scatter cushions.”

“A fantastic long weekend break in this beautiful property.”

“Lovely holiday property and well equipped.”

“Perfect location , accommodation spotless, full of quality touches, faultless.”

“Lovely stay, cottage had everything we needed and the decor was beautiful”

“Lobster lookout (although a little more expensive than some cottages available) is a beautiful cottage.”

“The mattress in the main bedroom(top of the stairs turn left) was old and lumpy.”

“Great cottage.”

“Lovely house, we had a great family holiday at the beginning of June!”

“Could not fault the property, was pleasantly surprised how well looked after, presented and home from home the property was.”

“We had a lovely week at Lobster Lookout.”

“Fabulous property in our favourite place.”

“Beautifully presented and very comfortable accommodation - located at the top of ...”

“Excellent location, as long as you don't mind the steep hill up from the town centre!”

“Had a wonderful week extremely clean and well maintained.”

“We spent a lovely week away.”

“What a wonderful modern, clean, comfortable cosy house.”

“What a lovely property!”

“A really lovely modern property, recently built and with very high quality fittings and decor.”

“Beautiful house, well designed for socialising.”

“Most relaxing break, as we said throughout our stay, this is luxury living.”

“Slightly disappointed that there was no washing up liquid or kitchen roll.”

“Lovely holiday with the all the family.”

“A home from home plus more!”

“Absolutely lovely cottage and really well furnished and equipped.”

“Layout and facilities suited our family requirements exactly.”

“Beautiful and completely refurbished, immaculately decorated cottage with everything provided to start your holiday.”

Summary

The property

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About the location

SWANAGE