Old Higher Lighthouse Stopes Cottage | Portland Bill | Southwell | Dorset And Somerset

4.8★

4 Guests
2 Bedrooms
1 Bathroom
Pets No
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Features

Swimming pool
Off road parking
Ground floor bedroom
Garden / Patio
Washing machine
Seaside
Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing

Cleanliness

Comfort

Facilities and Maintenance

* Based on a combined average customer score

70 Customer Review(s)

Jill
October 2024

“Absolutely amazing place, gets ranked as one of our favourites, loved every bit of it!”

- Jill, October 2024
Jenifer July 2024

“Myself and my three grandsons really enjoyed our stay.”

The cottage had all the equipment we needed and the ability to use the pool was much appreciated. Spotlessly clean and very comfortable. The lightouse added an extra dimension and it was a really interesting experience to be able to go up to the top.

- Jenifer, July 2024
Derek May 2024

“Found the property to be very clean tidy and the small details such as the fruit bowl, pastries, ground coffee and milk.”

Really cosy and so quite, we loved the lantern where you get great views once you brave the upper steps. Sadly didn't use the pool but would be great when the weather is hotter and would be much appreciated. Brad let us in came back 30mins later to go through things then we saw him again when we came left, nice guy and family man. Bed was good with good size bath sheets every thing you would need to cook which we did, oven easy to use as not use to electric. .

- Derek, May 2024
Lisa May 2024

“Beautiful cottage fantastic facilities family very welcoming, we felt it was a ...”

Beautiful cottage fantastic facilities family very welcoming, we felt it was a perfect spot to explore the area and wished we could of stayed longer

- Lisa, May 2024
Pamela May 2024

“Lovely cottage in a beautiful scenic area.”

Everything you need is there. Nice touch having milk, tea and coffee. Also had a welcome bowl of fruit and some pastries, unfortunately we did not get round to eat.

- Pamela, May 2024
Chris May 2024

“Had a wonderful stay.”

Stopes Cottage is super-comfy and spotlessly clean; it had everything we needed, plus nice extras like tea and cakes for our arrival. We loved watching the sun set from the top of the lighthouse, swimming in the pool and simply relaxing in this very special place. Lots of good walking and birdwatching in the area, too. I’ve no doubt we will return.

- Chris, May 2024
Mark April 2024

“A well-maintained, comfortable and clean cottage on the Southern tip of Portland.”

Excellent views from the lighthouse lantern. Quiet. The owner was helpful and unobtrusive and quickly available if we had any questions. And I haven’t mentioned the history of the cottage! Highly recommended.

- Mark, April 2024
Neal April 2024

“This was a delightful accommodation.”

A unique setting and perfect for a long weekend.

- Neal, April 2024
Ian December 2023

“Only 2 sets of towels when there were 4 of us, also only 3 wine glasses”

- Ian, December 2023
Steven November 2023

“The property description shows 'fridge/freezer' when it should state 'fridge with icebox' (often we buy local goodies to freeze before we arrive).”

Boiler & pump very noisy. (Not a complaint, just for your info). Lovely cottage, spotlessly clean, very comfortable, ideal location & with a very interesting history.

- Steven, November 2023
Bobbie November 2023

“Lovely cottage with everything you need provided.”

Hosts even left us fresh croissants and milk. Very cozy and warm even in the worst storms. Access to the tower is via a hallway from the cottage and up 2 spiral staircases the second one being very steep. Amazing views once you are up there. Owners live next door so are on hand if you have any problems.

- Bobbie, November 2023
Elaine September 2023

“The cottage was perfect for us, we would love to come back.”

- Elaine, September 2023
Sara September 2023

“Wonderful stay.”

Breathtaking property, spectacular views and such history. It was so peaceful (we had glorious weather) although I'm sure watching storms coming into shore would be just as stunning. It was truly magical!

- Sara, September 2023
Jemma August 2023

“Excellent spottles accommodation with great owners.”

Beautiful place to stay

- Jemma, August 2023
Jennifer August 2023

“We had a lovely time it was very cosy and comfortable it felt like home.”

The owner was very pleasant. Swimming pool could have been a little bit warmer. Loved the lighthouse and the accommodation provided plenty of space if you wanted some quiet time by yourself.

- Jennifer, August 2023
Marie October 2022

“We had a fabulous holiday.”

Beautiful scenery and views. Comfortable, cosy cottage and very obliging and friendly hosts. Would recommend and we will definitely be returning next year.

- Marie, October 2022
Jill September 2022

“A brilliant stay in a comfortable lighthouse bungalow.”

Lovely location with excellent surroundings ,one of the best properties that we have stayed in over the last 20 years.

- Jill, September 2022
Philip September 2022

“A very pleasant cottage in a beautiful setting.”

- Philip, September 2022
Alexander July 2022

“We stayed 2 nights at Stopes cottage and it was a wonderful little trip with everything meeting or exceeding our expectations.”

Lovely cottage, amazing lighthouse, exceptionally clean and well equipped, friendly hosts, wonderful surroundings and a great pool which the kids loved. We will be returning!

- Alexander, July 2022
Fran July 2022

“What an amazing place….”

Absolutely fabulous…. We can’t wait to go back ! The owners of the properties were brilliant and so helpful… responding super quick to an issue with the cooker … new 1 on the doorstep by the next morning and fitted instantly… Views and sunsets were stunning all round … Thoroughly recommend this property..

- Fran, July 2022
David July 2022

“What an amazing place, it’s not every day you can climb a lighthouse and experience beautiful views including sunsets.”

Property very comfortable and had everything we needed. So much to do and see locally we only left Portland once. Tout Quarry local nature reserve and sculpture park, Little teen colony at Ferry Bridge, boat trip on the Fleet to name a few. Swimming pool was great for a dip after a hot day walking. Hosts were lovely, there if you need them. We will be going back without a doubt.

- David, July 2022
Brian May 2022

“1st class service home from home”

- Brian, May 2022
Josephine May 2022

“WOW! What a wonderful last minute find!”

It is in a superb position being up high to overlook the ocean. The home itself was superbly equipped & spotlessly clean, we thoroughly enjoyed a really chilled, relaxing time. When we arrived it was rather warm so we made use of the lovely swimming pool, so refreshing! The owners were on hand & showed us around, very informative & friendly too, telling us to call them if we needed anything. The climb up to the lighthouse tower gave yet more fantastic 180 degree views & was well worth the climb up to it. Hope to return, even though I am very immobile, it was so comfortable, homely & with a good book I was happy to chill. We hope to return!

- Josephine, May 2022
Terry February 2022

“The property was furnished sympathetically and in keeping with its history and the secondary glazing was a bonus in winter conditions.”

There is only a fridge with a small freezer compartment which was fine for us but may be problematic for a family. The WiFi is not a secure service. The listing says there is bath with shower, but actually there is a very nice large shower room. The venue itself is lovely and the owners are very helpful and friendly. Whole place is extremely clean.

- Terry, February 2022
Kate December 2021

“We loved the property - which was warm and cozy.”

The hosts were very accommodating and helpful. A few more utensils, cutlery, plates etc., in the kitchen would be an excellent addition. Overall, a thoroughly enjoyable break in a tremendous location. We hope to come back soon!

- Kate, December 2021
Chris November 2021

“A lovely place to stay beautiful views from the lighthouse, would recommend to anyone who likes a peaceful few days.”

- Chris, November 2021
Martyn September 2021

“A stunning cottage , with breathtaking views , supported by amazing hosts.”

Thank you

- Martyn, September 2021
Thomas July 2021

“Peaceful cottage with beautiful views!”

Great base to explore all Dorset has to offer! Hosts were extremely welcoming and ensured our stay was without issue. The pool was the cherry ontop, especially on hot days! I would come back in a heartbeat the next time I want to revisit Dorset!

- Thomas, July 2021
Susan July 2021

“Lovely cottage in a fantastic location.”

The hosts were welcoming and friendly. The kitchen could do with updating and maybe a dishwasher, but it wouldn’t put us off going again

- Susan, July 2021

Dishwashers are being added to both of our cottages in January . Many thanks Milly Property Owner
Stephen June 2021

“Had a great holiday, I would recommend this cottage, Really interesting history of the place”

- Stephen, June 2021
Anne May 2021

“We particularly liked the care and thought that had gone into the small detail which makes living comfortable.”

Things like enough soap/ shower gel holders in the amply proportioned shower. This isn’t the most trendy decor but it was very comfortable and everything worked. The owners were available but unobtrusive, friendly. We would recommend.

- Anne, May 2021
Hugh September 2020

“Stopes Cottage is actually nicer than it appears in the listing.”

It was clean with a good shower and a comfortable bed. The views particularly from the lighthouse are spectacular. The WiFi works and there is parking by the front gate.

- Hugh, September 2020
Claire August 2020

“We had a wonderful time at Stopes Cottage.”

The owners were helpful and friendly; the cottage is extremely comfortable and very homely; and the lighthouse is beyond fantastic. In these challenging times it was a total joy to find a location that was so peaceful and so beautiful. Thank you!

- Claire, August 2020
Teresa July 2019

“Owners were very accomidating and nothing to much trouble.”

The peace and quiet and stunning views and walks are breathtaking. We had the addled bonus of the swimming pool which was brilliant to chill out. All in all a fantastic place to stay. Highly recommended.

- Teresa, July 2019
Beryl May 2019

“Have been before 4 years ago.”

Have had a new bathroom with shower which was good. No dishwasher stove very basic and not much crocery etc..Rather expensive for what was on offer.

- Beryl, May 2019
Elisabeth February 2019

“I didn't book through sykes - I booked through booking.”

Com then got hounded for loads of personal details - unimpressed with that. Cottage was lovely and the owners were the perfect hosts.

- Elisabeth, February 2019
Patrick October 2018

“Very nice place the lighthouse is out of this world for views out to sea, ships can be seen and the lady told us all about the place well worth a vist.”

- Patrick, October 2018
Annie September 2018

“Spent a wonderful week at Stopes Cottage.”

Amazing position with exceptional walks literally on the door step. Fascinating history to the cottage, we enjoyed watching the sun set from the light house in the evening with glass in hand, remarkable views. Despite rather chilly weather we swam in the pool most days. All in all a lovely place to stay.

- Annie, September 2018
Deborah September 2018

“Whilst the cottage did look as stated on the Website, in reality it was lacking in comfort.”

The towels were small, thin and in short supply. The bedding was very old and faded and thin and the quilt was as flat as a pancake. The pillows were like blocks and not comfy. The mattress on the bed was firm but we still managed to roll together in the middle! The kitchen was (just about) adequately supplied for four people but the brand new unwashed tea towels were not suitable for drying pots. Being an old cottage it did have a slightly damp feel about it. The cost of the holiday here was not reflected in the quality of the accommodation.

- Deborah, September 2018
June May 2018

“On a bumpy road which was half a mile from main road.”

Getting to property was difficult due the potholes on the road. The owners were very nice. The home was very clean and tidy.

- June, May 2018
Richard October 2017

“Fantastic location.”

..and a great get away cottage...

- Richard, October 2017
BRUCE September 2017

“We had a wonderful time.”

A very friendly greeting, superb location and an excellent cottage would gladly recommend to anyone.

- BRUCE, September 2017
Alison July 2017

“Lovely friendly owners fran and les made us feel very welcome and were always on hand but not intrusive.”

The lighthouse was a real experience and very special.

- Alison, July 2017
Frances Irene June 2017

“Shower system a bit awkward to use but it is described as 'hand held'.”

Owners very nice and helpful and we enjoyed our stay in the cottage exploring the area around the Jurassic Coast.

- Frances Irene, June 2017
Mike April 2017

“Very helpful owners in adjacent cottage.”

- Mike, April 2017
Claire November 2016

“The hosts were amazing.”

Very kind and friendly.

- Claire, November 2016
Debbie October 2016

“Very comfortable and Portland has a lot to offer, castle, lighthouse, castle and church ruins, Weymouth, Chesil Beach , amazing cafes, Jailhouse cafe, iron age fort.”

Cottage is single storey and warm and comfy. A small point, bring your own towels as those provided are a hand towel and bath towel is more of a small shawl than a bath towel.

- Debbie, October 2016
B October 2016

“As a disabled person I found it difficult using a shower in a bath but the solitude was wonderful when you live on busy road.”

- B, October 2016
Elizabeth August 2016

“Set in an unforgetable location we had the best ever week of holiday.”

Whatever the weather there was something to do and we hardly needed the car at all. A really special place.

- Elizabeth, August 2016
Richard June 2016

“A lovely location and a very nice cottage.”

The owners were very friendly and helpful.

- Richard, June 2016
Allison May 2016

“From the friendliness of the hosts on arrival and throughout the holiday, nothing was too much trouble.”

The site of the property was excellent and so special; it been an old lighthouse with access. Our son particularly liked the heated pool and it also had a great private outdoor area with seating and BBQ. We wanted for nothing everything had been thought of.

- Allison, May 2016
Wayne January 2016

“Amazing place to stay in unique location.”

Hard not to fall in love with where you are.

- Wayne, January 2016
Lesley July 2015

“Hosts helpful and friendly.”

Location at top of cliffs amazing, views in all directions plus the lighthouse to sit in; my granddaughter age 16 thought it was amazing to sit up there most of the time we were in! Swimming pool and jacuzzi warm, sheltered with plenty of seating. The whole ambiance of the two cottages was fantastic: peaceful, relaxing with good WiFi for the younger ones and a close drive to excellent supermarkets and local shops. A good variety of places to eat, great for walking and photography. Also not far from Weymouth etc for other pursuits. Excellent and would recommend it to everyone. We hope to return ourselves. We had both cottages as a family group of 6 but would be equally as good for a couple or four friends.

- Lesley, July 2015
Sandra June 2015

“The cottage was lovely and unusual.”

We loved the lighthouse and went up there every night to see the sunset. The owners were very helpful and friendly.

- Sandra, June 2015
Margaret June 2015

“Liked the location, the bungalow and the lovely owners who made us feel welcome.”

A great place for a holiday.

- Margaret, June 2015
Martin April 2015

“A very comfortable cottage with friendly and helpful owners next door.”

Great views from the attached lighthouse and walks from the door. A good base to explore South Dorset. In a peaceful relaxing location with an excellent superstore within a few miles. Perfect for us.

- Martin, April 2015
Richard September 2014

“The location.”

The views. Stunning.

- Richard, September 2014
Lara September 2014

“A superb Cottage in a wonderfully peaceful location, it felt like a real home from home.”

We had many great walks directly from the doorstep. The history surrounding the property is so interesting and the views from the tower are incredible. The holiday was everything we hoped for and more! There's loads to do in this part of Dorset and we hope to return to the Lighthouse in the future.

- Lara, September 2014
Theresa June 2014

“Liked the peace and quiet, and the wonderful coastline.”

The Cottage was so wonderful, I would recommend to all ages.

- Theresa, June 2014
Rebecca May 2014

“The cottage was just perfect, particularly the sea views.”

- Rebecca, May 2014
Andrew January 2014

“The owners have put their heart into this lighthouse conversion - and it shows.”

The most welcoming property we have stayed at. We went seriously out of season when the other cottages weren't booked and so we had the lantern to ourselves. Maybe not glorious sunshine but it was so nice we didn't need to go out. Will be back soon.

- Andrew, January 2014
Gary November 2013

“One of the very best weekends away ever.”

Would come back again. Just fantastic!

- Gary, November 2013
Hazel November 2013

“The holiday was amazing, made even better by the views and the weather.”

Overall a wonderful relaxing experience.

- Hazel, November 2013
Anke September 2013

“The cottage is spacious and at the same time cosy.”

The room in the lighthouse is spectacular. The owners are very friendly and helpful.

- Anke, September 2013
Stephanie June 2012

“Extremely helpful and welcoming owners.”

A great place to stay.

- Stephanie, June 2012
Charlotte June 2012

“Smashing location!”

We hardly left the island all week as we found plenty to do there. A good supply of brochures were available had we wanted to venture further afield. There are local food shops which made things easier too. The owners are a lovely couple who are very welcoming, and having use of the old lighthouse tower was amazing!

- Charlotte, June 2012
Mr Paterson June 2012

“There was a good view from the window, and the peace and quiet was exactly what we wanted.”

- Mr Paterson, June 2012
Belinda May 2012

“Very comfortable, fantastic position surrounded by cliffs and sea, yet only 10 minutes to the nearest shop.”

Owners very friendly and helpful, very welcoming when we arrived. Amazing lighthouse that the owners had totally rebuilt themselves.

- Belinda, May 2012
Alison March 2012

“A unique property, well placed for exploring Chesil beach and the Dorset coast.”

Enjoyed walking around the island.

- Alison, March 2012
Paul February 2012

“Sea views and coastal paths with no light pollution for star gazing!”

A very relaxing break.

- Paul, February 2012

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Summary

All ground floor
Two bedrooms: 1 x double with basin, 1 x twin with basin
Bathroom with bath, hand-held shower, basin and WC
Basin and WC
Kitchen with dining area
Sitting room with electric fire.
Calor gas central heating with electric fire
Electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge/freezer, washing machine, Dishwasher, 2 x TVs with Freeview, DVD, CD/radio, WiFi, selection of books, games, CDs and DVDs
Fuel & power inc. in rent
Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
Ample off road parking for cars and boats
Lawned area and patio with garden furniture and ornamental fish pond
Shared seasonal outdoor heated swimming pool with Jacuzzi (available May - September inclusive)
Shared access to lighthouse observatory via steep steps
Sorry, no pets and no smoking
Shop 2 miles, pub 5 mins walk
Note: No children under 5 years due to ponds and proximity of cliff edge.

The property

Stopes Cottage is a semi detached cottage next to a lighthouse on the tip of Portland Bill near to Weymouth in Dorset.

The cottagesleeps four people in one double bedroom, one twin room and a family bathroom.

Also in the cottage is a fitted kitchen with a dining area and a sitting room.

Outside the cottage is off road parking for two cars, a lawned area and patio with furniture and ornamental fish pond and shared use of a heated outdoor swimming pool and Jacuzzi.

Set in stunning surroundings, Stopes Cottage is a fabulous holiday cottage right on the Dorset cliffs.

Old Higher Lighthouse Cottages

A unique opportunity to stay in two Grade II listed cottages, situated in what must be one of the most peaceful and stunning locations on Dorset’s rugged Jurassic Coast at Portland Bill. Situated right beside the sympathetically restored 18th century Old Higher Lighthouse, once the home of Dr Marie Stopes and visited by George Bernard Shaw, H.G. Wells and Thomas Hardy, these Portland Bill cottages have been comfortably furnished throughout to offer visitors a home-from-home holiday experience. Together, they can accommodate up to eight people in comfort, where you have shared use of the seasonal outdoor heated swimming pool and Jacuzzi. There are superb opportunities for walking and bird watching as well as climbing and diving, or why not just simply relax in the lighthouse and take in the sensational sea views or unwind beside the swimming pool? A short stroll takes you to The Bill itself, craggy rocks jutting out into the sea dominated by the current Trinity House lighthouse. The Bill’s friendly cafe and local pub provide good food and refreshments should you wish to take time out whilst exploring the dramatic coast. The owner of these cottages can offer reflexology, spiritual and crystal healing, plus Emotional Freedom Technique on site by arrangement, making them a holiday experience you’ll never forget!

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About the location

PORTLAND BILL

Easton 3 miles; Fortuneswell 4 miles; Weymouth 9 miles.

Portland Bill is a narrow promontory on the end of the rugged Isle of Portland peninsula which is joined to the mainland via Chesil Beach, a pebble spit, which stretches 18 miles towards West Bay. Situated on Dorset's spectacular Jurassic Coast, now a World Heritage Site, Portland Bill is home to three lighthouses, the most recent built in 1906 being the 35 meter tall, white and red striped Portland Bill Lighthouse. Portland Bill is home to a pub and a restaurant/café as well as the Portland Bird Observatory. Formerly a quarrying area, the stunning coastal scenery and footpaths provide excellent walking and the surrounding countryside is well known as a birdwatcher’s paradise! The local communities of Fortuneswell and Easton boast a good variety of shops, pubs and restaurants. With great climbing opportunities and an array of watersports activities on offer locally, plus the wonderful sandy beaches and the pretty harbour at Weymouth just 9 miles away, this super holiday destination is not to be missed!

This property offers the following short breaks:

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Features

Reviews & Ratings

“Absolutely amazing place, gets ranked as one of our favourites, loved every bit of it!”

“Myself and my three grandsons really enjoyed our stay.”

“Found the property to be very clean tidy and the small details such as the fruit bowl, pastries, ground coffee and milk.”

“Beautiful cottage fantastic facilities family very welcoming, we felt it was a ...”

“Lovely cottage in a beautiful scenic area.”

“Had a wonderful stay.”

“A well-maintained, comfortable and clean cottage on the Southern tip of Portland.”

“This was a delightful accommodation.”

“Only 2 sets of towels when there were 4 of us, also only 3 wine glasses”

“The property description shows 'fridge/freezer' when it should state 'fridge with icebox' (often we buy local goodies to freeze before we arrive).”

“Lovely cottage with everything you need provided.”

“The cottage was perfect for us, we would love to come back.”

“Wonderful stay.”

“Excellent spottles accommodation with great owners.”

“We had a lovely time it was very cosy and comfortable it felt like home.”

“We had a fabulous holiday.”

“A brilliant stay in a comfortable lighthouse bungalow.”

“A very pleasant cottage in a beautiful setting.”

“We stayed 2 nights at Stopes cottage and it was a wonderful little trip with everything meeting or exceeding our expectations.”

“What an amazing place….”

“What an amazing place, it’s not every day you can climb a lighthouse and experience beautiful views including sunsets.”

“1st class service home from home”

“WOW! What a wonderful last minute find!”

“The property was furnished sympathetically and in keeping with its history and the secondary glazing was a bonus in winter conditions.”

“We loved the property - which was warm and cozy.”

“A lovely place to stay beautiful views from the lighthouse, would recommend to anyone who likes a peaceful few days.”

“A stunning cottage , with breathtaking views , supported by amazing hosts.”

“Peaceful cottage with beautiful views!”

“Lovely cottage in a fantastic location.”

“Had a great holiday, I would recommend this cottage, Really interesting history of the place”

“We particularly liked the care and thought that had gone into the small detail which makes living comfortable.”

“Stopes Cottage is actually nicer than it appears in the listing.”

“We had a wonderful time at Stopes Cottage.”

“Owners were very accomidating and nothing to much trouble.”

“Have been before 4 years ago.”

“I didn't book through sykes - I booked through booking.”

“Very nice place the lighthouse is out of this world for views out to sea, ships can be seen and the lady told us all about the place well worth a vist.”

“Spent a wonderful week at Stopes Cottage.”

“Whilst the cottage did look as stated on the Website, in reality it was lacking in comfort.”

“On a bumpy road which was half a mile from main road.”

“Fantastic location.”

“We had a wonderful time.”

“Lovely friendly owners fran and les made us feel very welcome and were always on hand but not intrusive.”

“Shower system a bit awkward to use but it is described as 'hand held'.”

“Very helpful owners in adjacent cottage.”

“The hosts were amazing.”

“Very comfortable and Portland has a lot to offer, castle, lighthouse, castle and church ruins, Weymouth, Chesil Beach , amazing cafes, Jailhouse cafe, iron age fort.”

“As a disabled person I found it difficult using a shower in a bath but the solitude was wonderful when you live on busy road.”

“Set in an unforgetable location we had the best ever week of holiday.”

“A lovely location and a very nice cottage.”

“From the friendliness of the hosts on arrival and throughout the holiday, nothing was too much trouble.”

“Amazing place to stay in unique location.”

“Hosts helpful and friendly.”

“The cottage was lovely and unusual.”

“Liked the location, the bungalow and the lovely owners who made us feel welcome.”

“A very comfortable cottage with friendly and helpful owners next door.”

“The location.”

“A superb Cottage in a wonderfully peaceful location, it felt like a real home from home.”

“Liked the peace and quiet, and the wonderful coastline.”

“The cottage was just perfect, particularly the sea views.”

“The owners have put their heart into this lighthouse conversion - and it shows.”

“One of the very best weekends away ever.”

“The holiday was amazing, made even better by the views and the weather.”

“The cottage is spacious and at the same time cosy.”

“Extremely helpful and welcoming owners.”

“Smashing location!”

“There was a good view from the window, and the peace and quiet was exactly what we wanted.”

“Very comfortable, fantastic position surrounded by cliffs and sea, yet only 10 minutes to the nearest shop.”