Rating: 2/5
My recent stay at keepers stable was a mixed bag of pros and cons. While there were some enjoyable aspects, there were also several issues that detracted from the overall experience.
On the plus side, the hot tub was a highlight. It offered a fantastic view of the woods, especially when it was dark, creating a relaxing and serene atmosphere.
However, there were several negatives that need to be addressed. The presence of a double garage right outside the front door was off-putting, making it feel like we were staying in someone's backyard rather than a secluded cabin. The ring camera on the garage, coupled with a bright security light that activated every five minutes through the night, was intrusive and disrupted the tranquility of the surroundings, even shining into the bedrooms despite the curtains being drawn.
The condition of the cutlery was also disappointing. The knives in the knife block were rusty, blunt, and two of them had their points snapped off. This lack of attention to detail was concerning.
The kitchen area was quite small, and the induction hob limited what we could cook. This might not be an issue for everyone, but for those who enjoy cooking during their stay, it could be a drawback.
We also had an issue with the water and heating system, which was set to auto without our knowledge. This resulted in us having to wait for hot water on a cold winter evening, which was inconvenient, both front and back door were really really STIFF to open. This needs addressing urgently.
Privacy was another concern. Being in someone's garden, it felt like we were constantly being observed by the main house. This detracted from the sense of seclusion and relaxation that one would expect from a cabin getaway. The owners could put a eco friendly tree wall (like centre parcs) from where they’ve parked their jet ski to wrap around to the hot tub
Lastly, there was an unpleasant smell of sewage near the hot tub. While it didn't affect the cabin itself, it was a noticeable and off-putting odor.
In conclusion, while we had some positive aspects, there were several issues that need to be addressed. Improvements in privacy, cutlery quality, kitchen space, and communication regarding the water and heating system would greatly enhance the overall experience for future guests and lastly get rid of the “thank you card” you have or at least the picture. You’ve pictured the main house and the swimming pool ( that we don’t have access to) it’s like here is what you could of had.
For such a large house / estate, you just expect the standards to be much higher rather than feeling like we were just peasants.