White Duck Cottage

4.9★

4 Guests
2 Bedrooms
1 Bathroom
Pets No
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Features

Open fire
Garden / Patio
Cot available
Pub/shop < 1 mile
Washing machine
Dishwasher
Seaside
Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing

Cleanliness

Comfort

Facilities and Maintenance

* Based on a combined average customer score

32 Customer Review(s)

Celia
October 2023

“White Duck Cottage was very comfortable and the location was good for exploring the north coast of Cornwall.”

The outside hose for rinsing wetsuits was very handy! It was disappointing not to find recommendations (beyond a folder full of marketing leaflets) for more local amenities especially walks, how to access the beaches (nearest of which is via a building site) and eating places, including opening hours, nearby. For example, we visited in October and found a very nice tapas bar, only open Thur-Sat. The cottage itself had everything we needed, a couple of things worth mentioning: the oven needs ...

The outside hose for rinsing wetsuits was very handy! It was disappointing not to find recommendations (beyond a folder full of marketing leaflets) for more local amenities especially walks, how to access the beaches (nearest of which is via a building site) and eating places, including opening hours, nearby. For example, we visited in October and found a very nice tapas bar, only open Thur-Sat. The cottage itself had everything we needed, a couple of things worth mentioning: the oven needs cleaning, we used the it only once - cooking smells lingered for 24 hours! The bedding (bottom sheet and mattress protector) were very worn and looked grey after just a couple of sleeps such that we washed everything mid week. We were also dismayed at not being able to recycle ANY of our rubbish! We worked out this is because holiday rental waste is handled separately (this was not explained in the cottage handbook) and so we took our recycling to the centre in St Erth, a short drive away. Overall, sadly we are not likely to recommend or return to White Duck Cottage.

- Celia, October 2023

We like to ensure that our guests have the best possible holiday. This part of Cornwall has a lot to offer. Our ratings from those who have left reviews so far this year average 4.9 out of 5. The road to the local beach does indeed pass beside Hayle’s exciting new North Quay development, which is partly in occupation, and you can walk along the reconstructed historic quayside with its waterside footpath, and views across the estuary. This is a regeneration project made possible by extensive EU funding. There is in fact specific information at the cottage about the best beaches for different weather and surf conditions. The cottage also has a huge OS map on the wall showing all the beaches and beach car parks, from Lands End right up to and beyond St Agnes and Falmouth. Public footpaths are also marked. Two walks are mentioned in the house literature. We don’t give restaurant recommendations for several reasons: guests’ tastes vary, pockets vary, some will drive for a night out, while others will walk. There are very many cafés and restaurants in our area, and so much information about them on the internet. The internet also has the advantage of being up to date: for example you can see on the internet the opening times of the local tapas bar. For general information about things to do and places to visit we recommend in our guidance that guests consider looking at the excellent Visit Cornwall Website. Recycling arrangements are fully described in the house handbook, all taken care of by our Contractors. Last week we used the oven with no problem: we do give clear instructions how to run the kitchen extract fan, which discharges very efficiently from over the cooker directly to the outside. Nonetheless, an additional oven clean has been ordered following the comment. And the question over the sheets is being looked into. As always we are grateful for the feedback. We do email our guests before they arrive and ask them to let us know without delay if they find anything which is not quite right. Then it can be dealt with immediately, and thus not spoil their holiday. We are on hand to attend to even the smallest thing with the minimum of fuss. Property Owner
Hannah September 2023

“We were very happy with the house and the location, the cottage was clean upon arrival and description was very accurate.”

Lovely little cottage and had a great stay. Just some minor feedback ,the mattress in the master bedroom was a little uncomfortable as unsure if it’s memory foam and has a slant in from people sleeping on. Lovely little welcome basket on arrival with local snacks was a lovely gesture and overall loved the cottage for our first family of 3 holiday in Cornwall! We had a warm week weather wise so the cottage was warm but I imagine it’s very cosy in the winter wirh the log burner

- Hannah, September 2023

We're glad you enjoyed the cottage and had good weather. And thanks for posting such nice feedback about the cottage. It’s good to know we get most things right. You are correct that the mattress is memory foam, an Emma Original recommended by Which? If it is not recovering quickly enough we will have to change it. Thank you for letting us know. Property Owner
Susan August 2023

“What a beautiful cottage and positioned perfectly to enjoy all of what Cornwall had to offer.”

Close to the train station which made days out stress free as you didn't need to use the car, I would recommend a family ticket when travelling as this was very reasonably priced. The cottage offered all those home comforts and more which allowed us all to relax very quickly into a wonderful weeks holiday. Both the owner and housekeeper contacted us before our stay which made our arrival very smooth and organised. We will definitely be returning to the gorgeous cottage....thank you Martine, Judy the owners and Emily the housekeeper you made our stay perfect.

- Susan, August 2023
Jennifer August 2023

“We loved our week at White Duck Cottage.”

It had everything we needed and we felt very at home. The location is fantastic and our children loved being opposite the duck pond, where along with the ducks, they also discovered turtles, fish and a beautiful Heron. The only slight issue we had was there’s no stand up shower. There is a really good tap mixer though and once we got used to that, we were fine. We quite enjoyed having lots of relaxing baths too and the water was always piping hot. We’re quite sure the owner would have put a stand up shower in if they could but the ceiling is apexed, so there isn’t an option to add one. After staying in the cottage, this wouldn’t put us off from staying again as there are so many positives about it. The bathroom is very roomy, as are all the rooms in the cottage. Emily, the housekeeper is lovely and so helpful. She made herself available should we need any support, which was so reassuring, however, we didn’t need her because everything at the cottage was straight forward. We were also impressed with Hayle as a location, as it has plenty to do, many amenities, the beach is stunning and great for young kids, plus it’s easy to get to other locations such as, Penzance, St Ives, St Michael’s Mount, Mousehole, Lands End, plus more. Hayle is definitely a great base and White Duck Cottage is a great choice of accommodation.

- Jennifer, August 2023
Joanne May 2023

“Lovely, well equipped cottage with everything that you could need.”

Very clean and comfortable. Nice location and a great base for exploring the surrounding area.

- Joanne, May 2023
Stephen May 2023

“Lovely little cottage in a nice area.”

- Stephen, May 2023
Deborah April 2023

“Our second trip to White Duck Cottage, this time only for one week and it was just as cosy and welcoming as we remembered it.”

. This time we left the car in London and headed down by train - a very easy and comfortable journey. The cottage is only 5 mins walk from Hayle railway station from where trains run regularly and frequently all over the county, and there are local buses to most destinations, so a car is definitely not necessary. We came down to walk and take advantage of the stunning scenery - which we did, amply fuelled by Cornish pasties of which Hayle boasts 3 manufacturers! Our hosts were so helpful and friendly, and helped make our stay stress free and relaxing. We would highly recommend White Duck Cottage.

- Deborah, April 2023
Victoria August 2022

“The property was exactly as pictured, and in such a perfect location.”

My son and I had the best week ☀️

- Victoria, August 2022
Deborah April 2022

“We spent 4 weeks at Duck Cottage so were delighted to find it just as described.”

It is situated in a quiet road with a lovely duck pond opposite. The patio area at the back is secluded and we spent many hours eating or reading there. The kitchen is very well-equipped and the other rooms comfy - and very clean. Parking was available on street, even when busy, and the neighbours friendly and helpful. There is a large Asda a few minutes walk away and an M&S, Next and large Boots a short drive away (although we walked it). Hayle Beach is spectacular. Highly recommended.

- Deborah, April 2022
Ken August 2021

“We are regular visitors to White Duck Cottage and it really is a cosy home from home in Cornwall.”

The cottage is bright and well-furnished and is always spotlessly clean on arrival. It's also well-situated for visits across West Cornwall so it's highly recommended,

- Ken, August 2021
Jo August 2021

“Lovely quaint cottage, felt very homely.”

Great spot by the duck pond, my son loved feeding the ducks, swans and cygnets every day! We had no trouble parking outside the property. Great location for exploring the local area, we walked to the beach and coastal paths. Flowers, biscuits and local apple juice was a lovely touch and much appreciated after a long drive! We have already booked another holiday through Sykes cottages for half term!

- Jo, August 2021
Denise July 2021

“Nice cottage in a lovely location, it could do with a dressing table for us ladies to sit and do our hair .”

Wooden floors throughout that are tired looking downstairs, you can hear the traffic a lot in the bedroom so had to keep the window closed otherwise everything was fine .

- Denise, July 2021

We are pleased to hear you enjoyed your stay at White Duck Cottage. The owners do take your feedback seriously and have spent extra time cleaning the wooden floors following your stay. Light sleepers may well notice the early morning traffic on the B3301 beyond the end of the back garden. However, traffic noise has not been raised as an issue previously at this property. Property Owner
Andrew June 2021

“Lovely cottage, close to pubs/restaurants, easy to park close by, everything we needed”

- Andrew, June 2021
Lyn May 2021

“First break since lockdown restrictions lifted.”

White Duck cottage was as described and more Would recommend without hesitation

- Lyn, May 2021
Linda May 2021

“Very well equipped and comfortable cottage in central but quiet position for shops and cafes.”

Very enjoyable stay.

- Linda, May 2021
Robert May 2021

“Absolutely perfect cottage in a great position and central to all of the places we wanted to visit in West Cornwall.”

Very highly recommended!

- Robert, May 2021
Frances October 2020

“Would have liked a shower instead of a bath, but thats only our preference.”

We thought we have already left Feedback have you checked?

- Frances, October 2020
Graham September 2020

“Great little cottage in a perfect location a real home from home.”

- Graham, September 2020
Glyn August 2020

“Lovely clean cosy and spacious cottage.”

Spectacular beaches. Carbis bay for a family swim and Towans for surf; beach shack good for hire. Duckies cafe for breakfast. Good communication from all connected to the cottage.

- Glyn, August 2020
Carole July 2020

“The cottage was superb and the facilities within it perfect.”

. would have liked egg cups and possibly a sun lounger for the outside but this is being picky the cleanliness and comfort where second to none having 2 teenage boys with us, I was apprehensive but they loved the TV facilities and enjoyed a week off Xbox

- Carole, July 2020
Roger October 2019

“A second key would be helpful.”

Other cottages we have used provided two keys

- Roger, October 2019

Thank you for your feedback we have discussed this with the owner and they have asked us to pass on the following comment. 'Thank you for the suggestion - we have now provided a second key on a hook by the front door which should be more convenient for everyone.' Property Owner
Robert July 2019

“Really enjoyed our stay, no nasty surprises at all and the accommodation was superb.”

- Robert, July 2019
M May 2019

“A lovely cottage in a lovely location.”

The cottage clean and comfortable and well equipped. I would rent the cottage again, and would recommend it to my friends.

- M, May 2019
Richard March 2019

“Loved the cottage.”

Definitely would book again.

- Richard, March 2019
J March 2019

“Cottage was really nice.”

Only think we didn't like was that we couldn't get in until 4pm. We are used to 3pm or earlier when it is low season. I did ask if we could get in a little earlier but was firmly told no which seemed a bit silly as the key was just left in a key box.

- J, March 2019

We are so glad you enjoyed the cottage. New access arrangements are now in place and our housekeeper can send a text if you ask her to when the cottage is ready. Property Owner
Rachel February 2019

“This is our second visit to White Duck cottage.”

It was a perfect week

- Rachel, February 2019
John November 2018

“Had a great holiday in excellent accommodation - thank you.”

- John, November 2018
Ginny October 2018

“White Duck Cottage is a lovely, incredibly comfortable and well-equipped cottage, and really well sited for exploring West Penwith and the Lizard.”

Really enjoyed our stay there, and the lake opposite with the ducks, egrets and other water birds was an added bonus. Being greeted with flowers and all the necessaries for making a cup of tea was also much appreciated. The only suggestion that we would make is on the directions - for those of us coming from "upcountry" it would be useful to make clear that the St Erth roundabout for the turn-off into Hayle is the second one signposted to Hayle - we turned off at the first, and got rather lost until we resorted to our satnav!

- Ginny, October 2018

We are so glad you loved Duck Cottage and found it cosy, well equipped and would stay again. It is always good to get feedback and we have taken up your comment about the fire. We love the fire as it gives an extra-cosy atmosphere when you need it! Our combined noses could not find the smell you refer to, and we can only conclude that it was a transitory matter. Street parking during the daytime sometimes requires a short walk. Fortunately in the evening many spaces become available. Thank you for the 100% rating! Property Owner
Kathleen September 2018

“Cottage was ideally situated for visiting other places of interest.”

Transport links available if you didn't want to drive. Cottage very well equipped and couldn't fault anything.

- Kathleen, September 2018
Felicity September 2018

“Very easy and smooth booking process and jfrnaikn regarding arrival and key collection was timely and clear.”

Survived early and after consulting the key holder were kindly allowed access on early arrival (2.30ish). Cottage was lovely, home from home with everything you needed for the week, lovely touch of milk in the fridge, fresh fruit and shortbread and flowers on arrival too. Great cottage and location for hayle facilities and wider area. Will recommend and return for sure! One thing to watch out for if you’re a taller person is the shower is a free head in the bath which unless sitting in the bath to use-watch your head on the eaves, as we found out! Otherwise a perfect stay!

- Felicity, September 2018
Jo May 2018

“Lovely cosy cottage that catered for all our needs as a family of 4.”

Centrally based for plenty to do around the st ives area and beyond.

- Jo, May 2018
Linda December 2017

“It's a lovely cottage.”

Much more spacious than it looks from the outside. The fittings are tasteful. There's room for a family of four plus infant to be quite comfortable.

- Linda, December 2017

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Summary

Over two floors
Two bedrooms
1 x king-size double, 1 x twin
Bathroom with bath hand-held shower, basin and WC
Kitchen
Open plan sitting room with open fire and dining area.
Central heating with open-fire
Electric oven and hob
Microwave, fridge, washing machine, dishwasher, Smart TV with Freeview, DVD, iPod dock, Hi-Fi, WiFi
Fuel and power inc. in rent
Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
Cot available
Stairgate on request
Roadside parking in street
Enclosed patio and terraced garden with furniture
Sorry, no pets and no smoking
Shop/pub 5 mins walk
Beach 15 mins walk.

The property

White ducks, coloured ducks, swans and moorhens, they are all at home on the millpond opposite White Duck Cottage.

It’s hard to believe this quiet backwater is so close to Foundry Square, the centre of historic Hayle and its harbour.

And it is an easy walk to the town’s major facilities: Philps pasty shop, Asda, pubs, ﬁsh and chips, ice cream parlours, a bank and the best toy shop in Cornwall.

Also nearby are tennis courts and a children’s play area. Hayle lies centrally in the huge sweep of coast that is St Ives Bay.

To the west is the well known bird watching estuary.

In the other direction you can walk at low tide all the way to Godrevy with its famous lighthouse [and a rather good café], It is said to be 3 miles of glorious golden sand. With a mainline station in the town you can leave the car at home to explore the cathedral city of Truro to the East, Penzance to the West.

Best of all, St Ives can be reached on the picturesque coastal branch line. The inside of White Duck Cottage is bigger than it looks from outside. Downstairs has an open plan arrangement with a long sitting room and an open modern kitchen. Full central heating and an open ﬁre keep the house warm in any season. The first floor bedrooms are spacious and uncluttered and the bathroom has a crisp seaside feel with contemporary lighting and a low beamed ceiling. Outside, the house is set back from the road with a small garden, and at the back there is a private west-facing patio: excellent for lunch in the sun with steps up to a sloping garden.

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About the location

HAYLE

St Ives 6.3 miles; Penzance 7.4 miles.

Hayle is in the far-flung south western corner of Cornwall and sits on an important RSPB wildlife estuary flowing out to the beautiful St Ives Bay, where visitors can enjoy three miles of golden sandy beaches, walks, history and wildlife. Hayle has plenty of activities out of the water too; Paradise Park is a wildlife park, home to some spectacular parrots, otters and red pandas. Hayle has a range of shops, restaurants and bars scattered around the estuary and harbour area. There are skittles and karting for the family, and for golfers, one of the best links golf courses in Cornwall is at Lelant, a mile out of Hayle. But the jewel of Hayle is the three miles of golden sandy beach, with fantastic surfing at Gwithian where there is a surf shop, lessons and hire of equipment. For the less energetic there are beach cafes where you can take in the views and watch the children play. As Hayle is centrally located you can easily access many other places by either public transport (there is a train station at Hayle) or driving. St. Ives is a short drive away where you can wander through the narrow streets, visit the art galleries or admire the colourful sub tropical gardens. St Ives harbour has its own small fishing fleet and there are plentiful boat trips skippered by locals keen to showcase the best that Cornwall has to offer, whether it be seal watching at Seal Island, a couple of hours' mackerel fishing or a relaxing trip to Godrevy Lighthouse. Within easy reach of Hayle is the Minack Theatre (35 mins), Falmouth Maritime Museum (40 mins), Eden Project (40 mins), St. Michael’s Mount (15 mins) and many other fantastic tourist attractions for dry or wet days.

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