Old Higher Lighthouse Stopes Cottage

We had a wonderful holiday at Stopes cottage.

Beautifully decorated and clean. Well equiped and comfortable. The owners live on site and afford a lovely welcome. We were greeted with fresh fruit, muffins and tea, coffee & fresh milk. Nothing too much trouble. The views are spectacular, an iconic location with an interesting history. The lighthouse itself is accessable to residents and has breathtaking views of the island and sea. We enjoyed the private pool which is shared with the other rental property. Lots of seating provided in a sunny position. Cannot praise this cottage & owners enough. We had the most relaxing week & didn't want to leave. We will certainly be returning.

My third visit to the property which, I think, speaks for itself!

Very unique.

Lovely welcome of muffins, and a bowl.

of fruit. The cottage was all we expected and more. Clean and inviting, well equipped. The view from the lighthouse was amazing. Brad and Millie the best of hosts. Will definitely visit again. Brenda, David, and Carol. From Crawley

This is an absolutely unique property, very well appointed and comfortable.

The owners were on site and were proud of their property and keen that we had a good stay there.

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay, the beds were extremely comfortable, the views were amazing and the hosts were lovely.

I would highly recommend a stay here.

We had a lovely 3 night stay at Old Higher Lighthouse.

A gorgeous property in a beautiful setting! Very cosy and well equipped and a super welcome pack provided by the friendly owners. We would love to go again!

We had a great and relaxing stay at the Stopes cottage and we thoroughly enjoyed the visits to the lighthouse.

It gave us great base for long walks around the Isle of Portland and a much needed reset. The shower was amazing and each night we had a wonderful night of sleep. We have already recommended the place to friends looking for a summer getaway. The only thing we would mention was that the radios / stereos didn't seem to work and it would have been great to find out more about the history of the lighthouse! We made the most of being able to pop up there with a morning coffee and enjoy the views.

A comfy and cosy cottage with everything you need for a relaxing stay.

Brad was very welcoming and helpful when we arrived and when we left. We didn’t need to call on him while we were there. Portland Bill is a lovely peaceful area, and we had great views of the sea. We went up the old lighthouse and enjoyed the views. We may well go back.

Absolutely wonderful property, we had a fabulous time, what a unique place and what an awesome find.

Easy to find location we had great communication with Brad and Millie the property owners who were a pleasure to meet, lovely little treats for us cakes and buns, fruit bowl, tea, coffee and sugar and milk in the fridge was a very nice touch. Used the swimming pool a few times which was perfect as the weather was very kind to us, the added bonus was obviously the use of the lighthouse tower with its fantastic views- I could go on and on but I don’t need to- everything was absolutely PERFECT and we most definitely will be returning without hesitation- many thanks

Really enjoyed our 5 night stay.

A clean cosy cottage with every amenity that you could want. The hosts greeted us and very kindly left milk, tea etc, fruit bowl and cakes. Linked to the lighthouse, which we had full access to. Amazing sunset views. Pool looked great, quite a sun-trap out of the wind. South West coastal path right by for great walks. Recommend Lobster Pot cafe by Portland Bill lighthouse & trip up the lighthouse too. A very memorable stay.

Absolutely fabulous.

Really enjoyed our stay. Fantastic cottage. Thank you

Wonderful stay at stopes.

Our two boys loved bird watching from the top. It was magic to watch the sunset and a real experience to be able to go up there. The owners were fantastic and very helpful when one of our children were unwell. The cottage was cosy and clean. The views from the windows were lovely... you could see portland bill too. We loved the area. The boys loved the pool. The lighthouse was the highlight of their summer. They couldn't wait to tell their friends they had stayed in a lighthouse. Lots to do locally. We fished from weymouth, went to brownsea Island to hunt for red squirrels, loved kimmeridge bay and the snorkel trail, fireworks on the beach, hunting for Anthony Gormley sculptures, rnli open days. We loved going over to studland. The boys enjoyed the tank museum.

Stopes Cottage is a very special place and we had a lovely weekend there.

It was a shame that we couldn’t stay the full 3 nights (minimum booking) as work commitments meant that we had to leave early. The cottage itself was spotlessly clean and very well equipped. There were some very thoughtful and welcome touches - like, the milk in the fridge and the lemon and blueberry muffins. Thank you. For the price, we’d have liked the cottage to be a little more upgraded in terms of quality and style of furniture/bedding/bathroom but that is just a personal preference. However, the lighthouse more than made up for any tiny gripes we may have had. It was truly a very special experience and staying there has created some wonderful memories.

The cottage was just perfect for our weekend away.

The accommodation was warm and cosy with everything we needed. The view from the lighthouse is amazing snd we were lucky to have both sunshine and a storm to experience. Communication from the owners was excellent. They were on site if anything was needed but left us alone to enjoy our weekend. The welcome goodies were also really appreciated and we would not hesitate to recommend for a very unique getaway.

We loved our stay over Christmas.

Location was perfect, loved going up the lighthouse, weather was kind, a Smart TV was a welcome surprise and we had a Christmas tree. Kitchen was well equipped but a little dated and it took us a few days to get used to the very soft bed. Overall very happy.

The four of us have been holidaying and having weekends away for 21 years.

This is the first time we’ve felt that we’re ‘home from home’, we stayed in and cooked. Everything was so easy and well managed. Extra bonus, we experience a storm, the wind buffeted around the lighthouse was so noisy. It was amazing. We’ll definitely be going back.

Was a little confused by the initial key requirements but as owner is on site it kinda made sense once we got there.

Owner was friendly but we had plenty of privacy for the rest of the weekend (although the other cottage was empty). House was warm clean and comfortable and we enjoyed a couple of nights watching Storm Bert. Did spend a bit of time trying to find WiFi details in the house notes but finally figured it out by looking at the TV and discovering the wifi bridge behind one of the chairs.

A warm welcome on a very stormy day when we arrived.

Cottage is warm, well equipped, very comfortable and has some interesting local history attached to it. A great place to relax and unwind, but with plenty of things to do on the doorstep and a little further afield.

Fabulous location and brilliant hosts.

We had a slight problem whilst at the Cottage but Brad sorted this out without fuss

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

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.

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. .

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

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.

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.

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.

This was a delightful accommodation.

A unique setting and perfect for a long weekend.

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).

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

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.

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

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!

Excellent spottles accommodation with great owners.

Beautiful place to stay

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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..

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.

1st class service home from home

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!

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.

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!

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.

Thank you

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!

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

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Fantastic location.

..and a great get away cottage...

We had a wonderful time.

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

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.

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.

Very helpful owners in adjacent cottage.

The hosts were amazing.

Very kind and friendly.

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.

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.

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