At the end of the summer of 2023, we decided it was time for some upgrades.  We found a fabulous kitchen fitter who has refitted both the kitchen and utility with solid oak units, granite worktops and a new induction hob.  We have also installed a new Miele dishwasher and full-size fridge/freezer as the old units were wearing out.   There is also now a Nespresso coffee maker so guests can enjoy a fresh coffee with minimal fuss on their first day at the cottage (we will leave a few pods as part of the welcome pack but guests will have to buy more as needed during their stay).

We also replaced the basin unit in the en-suite with a traditional wash-stand basin to allow more space for storage underneath and to make more sense of that space.   

Future plans include replacing the courtyard render - something we hope to have done over the autumn/winter of 2024.  We can then give all the paving a good clean.  Please bear with us until this work has been done.

Our wonderful gardener is also working on improving the planting as some of the more mature plants come to the end of their life.  He has put in lovely hydrangea in the raised bed on the terrace behind the back bedroom.  We are looking forward to seeing it in full bloom later in the year. 

We got down to the cottage for a short break this month and it was great to see Appledore busy but it was still very relaxing and restorative being here.  Happy moments on the beach and enjoying the sunshine.  A quick plug for the revamped Appledore Gallery.  Pop in and chat to the artists who alternate days in the gallery - really beautiful works on display and Josie made us feel very welcome.

It has been an unusual year.  We are very pleased that we have been able to open for lettings this summer, albeit with a few changes.   We are very grateful to our housekeeping service for carrying out enhanced cleaning routines and also for all our guests for bearing with us as we get to grips with new guidance for holiday lets. 

Since our last post, we have completed the refurbishment of the back bedroom to create a bright single room with an en suite shower room.  Check out the gallery (which is embeded below) for updated photos.  We have also added a new bench seat on the upper terrace - perfect for a morning coffee.  Our gardener has been refreshing the planting in the garden over the past year or so and it is all starting to mature nicely so that there is something of interest in every season.  Our next project will be to replace the garage and improve the parking area at the back of the garden... watch this space.
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We have been wondering for a while how we could better use the third bedroom and create a second bathroom.  We are pleased to say we have now started work on this project and work is well under way.  We hope to be able to show you pictures in a month or so.  The sofabed is now in the sitting room and the back bedroom will be fitted out as a cosy single.  The twin room will remain but with enhanced storage arrangements and there will be a new second shower room.  The aim is to provide more comfortable space better adapted to modern family life - no need to wait long for your shower after a day's surfing, walking or golf!  The terrace outside the back bedroom will have an improved seating area with new planting.