“We holiday almost exclusively in the UK (mostly in South Pembrokeshire) with our aging Boxer dog Niah.”
This is only the second time we have booked through Sykes Cottages and our first stay in a lodge. Our first experience of Sykes Cottages was less than positive but that was the fault of the properties owners / hosts. The rating for Sykes Cottages above is based on a combination that previous experience and our latest booking at Lobster Lodge.
Our stay at Lobster Lodge could not have been more of a contrast to that first booking through Sykes. The lodge is a credit to the owners and worthy of the five star rating we have given. It sits in a small gated community with 12 similar properties. It is immaculately presented, spacious and comfortable with more than a hint of luxury about it.
Our host was incredibly attentive to our needs and generous with her time. The welcome pack was thoughtfully put together and included treats for both us humans and our fury friend. Midweek, we were even gifted a truly delicious home made fruit flan and, she will even supply locally caught, dressed lobster at a very reasonable cost. As a couple we wanted for nothing in terms of accommodation and hospitality.
However, there are a couple of aspects of the Lodge to be aware of if visiting with a dog. The raised deck around the property is a superb, well maintained, outside space for humans, with comfortable furniture. However, if the sun shines, the decking itself becomes very hot. This could be an issue for a dog. We have a raised travel bed which works well. Also the small amount of green space belonging to the lodge, is insecure, so if visiting with a fury companion their needs have to be more closely managed than perhaps would otherwise be the case.
Other things worthy of mention.
In terms of provisioning, consider having a delivery upon arrival. We chose Tesco but we also saw an Asda van on site. The nearest convenience store is a Co Op on the outskirts of Staithes, a 5 - 10 minute drive. Once in Staithes though a visit to the Whitby Crab Company at Unit 2, Whitegates Close, Staithes, TS13 5BB, is an added bonus. Fresh dressed crab, up with the best we have had. Beyond that the nearest supermarkets are on the outskirts of Skelton on the A174, a drive of around half an hour.
Lastly, we are in our mid 60s and like to walk, but for various health related reasons are no longer able to hike / trek. The two routes from Runswick down to the Bay are short but very steep. Much steeper than we anticipated, we found them both prohibitive. One local told me the gradient was 1 in 3 and I believe it, Google Earth does not do them justice! Alternatively, the walk from the Lodge to the Cleveland way is a leisurely 10 minute stroll and if you turn NW towards Stathes it is reasonably gentle with stunning vistas until Port Mulgrave. At that point the less able might turn back as we did.
For a beach walk, Sandsend to Whitby at half tide is well worth the effort, about 6 miles there and back.
Overall, we highly recommend Lobster Lodge if you want a comfortable, relaxing, base to explore the North Yorks coast, whilst being looked after by a warm, friendly, host, who genuinely wants you to have the best experience. We enjoyed our stay very much.
Thank you so much for such a positive review ...it was lovely to meet you both & the beautiful Niah.
We're so happy that you enjoyed your stay in Lobster Lodge and hopefully we can welcome you back in the future.
Kind regards
Louise & Terry
Property Owner
