The Old Post Office

Customer rating

4.4★

5 Guests
3 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms
Pets No
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Features

Garden / Patio
Cot available
Highchair available
Washing machine
Dishwasher
Seaside
Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing

Cleanliness

Comfort

Facilities and Maintenance

* Based on a combined average customer score

37 Customer Review(s)

Stuart
May 2026

“Nice cottage clean and everything you need for your holiday, parking a bit tight due to steps.”

Could park on the road as someone already parked there every day. Would be difficult to park if two cars in party. Outside yard could do with work, tidying up etc. We were looked after very well. Would recommend but there is no shop now in the village, it’s seemed to have closed down. We left Friday afternoon because it’s a rush to clean everywhere and still be out for 10 am. I feel it really should be altered to 11am because there’s plenty of time to clean the property and get it ready ...

Could park on the road as someone already parked there every day. Would be difficult to park if two cars in party. Outside yard could do with work, tidying up etc. We were looked after very well. Would recommend but there is no shop now in the village, it’s seemed to have closed down. We left Friday afternoon because it’s a rush to clean everywhere and still be out for 10 am. I feel it really should be altered to 11am because there’s plenty of time to clean the property and get it ready for the next visitors to arrive at 3pm plus.

- Stuart, May 2026
Vanessa April 2026

“This is our 4th stay at Old Post Office.”

Its a wonderful place to stay and we will be back again next year. We had a brilliant week as always.

- Vanessa, April 2026

That is very kind of you to say so and much appreciated Property Owner
John December 2025

“The property was nice and comfortable Gwen who was our contact at the cottage was very helpful and obliging although we didn’t meet her she was always on hand and arranged some Christmas decorations for us.”

We would definitely book this property again.

- John, December 2025
Ruby October 2025

“A lovely stay!”

Great location and such a beautiful, well equipped cottage. Having two younger children with me I was grateful for the milk (and chocolate), with a full cot already set up for use on our arrival.

- Ruby, October 2025
John September 2025

“Amazing value!”

We had a super stay over at The Old Post Office. Above all else the bed was so comfy and I loved the wooden shutters in the bedroom. The upstairs bathroom has a rain fall shower which is fantastic !!! There is a huge garden to the rear which we used most mornings to have breakfast in. I also wanted to say thanks to Gwen who was so attentive and lovely and friendly. There is a parking space right by the cottage which was ideal. I would definitely stay there again as I feel that the cottage was incredible value compare to other places that we have stayed at in Plymouth. Thank you for a very lovely stay.

- John, September 2025
Keith June 2025

“Lovely cottage, perfect for a 'base of operations' for anyone on a walking holiday or just a few minuets drive from beaches and Plymouth centre.”

Ample storage space in the kitchen although this is mostly taken up with the vast range of glasses, crockery and pans that Sykes insist on stocking! lovely long garden to the rear of the property is ideal for those with children to play in, bbq and relaxing. I recommend a slight listing update from fridge / freezer to fridge and freezer so that future bookings are aware that a full size freezer is available.

- Keith, June 2025
Colin May 2025

“My partner and I were using the Old Post Office in order to walk the South West Coast Path between Salcombe and Polperro.”

The cottage wasn't such an ideal base because the public transport in the area was not up to scratch and had to use expensive taxis. The cottage was fairly comfortable in terms of comfortable beds and hot showers, but the kitchen facilities weren't as good as previous cottages we've stayed in. There was no larder to store any foodstuffs and worktops to prepare food was minimal. We could not find any instructions as how to operate anything like the oven and gas fire in lounge. Whilst there was a radiator in the ground floor bathroom, there was no form of heating within the upstairs bathroom or a heated towel rail present. On the last day the caretaker arrived early and sat in her car whilst we packed, stating that she was awaiting a delivery of something. We both felt we were being rushed out, and in so doing left a phone charger in the wall socket. The cottage had all the basics, but we have stayed in better accommodation.

- Colin, May 2025
Vanessa May 2025

“This is our 3rd stay at Old Post Office it's a great place to stay, fab location.”

Great facilities. Home from Home.

- Vanessa, May 2025
Anne April 2025

“The property is comfortable and living room and dining area are good.”

The kitchen has a good range of white goods, but the cupboards are all full with equipment. There is no space to stow away groceries, that do not require refrigeration. There is also an ant problem not helped by having to have rubbish bags on the floor. The parking for the cottage is good right outside the property. We had a good week at the property and the welcome package very much appreciated.

- Anne, April 2025
Gary March 2025

“Shower was broken on arrival and remained broken throughout stay.”

Gas Fire failed to ignite and was quite dirty. General hygiene good although kitchen appliances showing age.

- Gary, March 2025
Martin November 2024

“Lovely property Has everything you need Milk, biscuits and wine a nice ...”

Lovely property Has everything you need Milk, biscuits and wine a nice surprise Just like a home from home Gwen the caretaker is very helpful

- Martin, November 2024
A October 2024

“A lovely comfortable cottage with parking in a very quiet rural location.”

Bedrooms were lovely, loved the shutters on windows. As mentioned in previous reviews kitchen cupboards full so storage for food very limited. My only other niggle was there were not enough towels four four adults.

- A, October 2024
Marilyn September 2024

“A warm and welcoming cottage in a very pleasant location with plenty to do and see within easy reach.”

The cottage and immediate surroundings had been made easier to use since our visit in January. Much appreciated. As mentioned in an earlier review, there is limited food storage/preparation space in the kitchen area, but for two people it was perfectly manageable. We will be back!

- Marilyn, September 2024
Linda September 2024

“Cottage was ok but there was a lack of cupboard space to put food in all cupboards were filled with crockery or pots and pans.”

Kitchen work area was limited. Beds were very comfortable and clean. We would not retuen to this property.

- Linda, September 2024
Ann June 2024

“Thank you for the use of your lovely cottage.”

We found everything that we needed and more. The bed was very comfy and the shower a dream. The sofa a bit uncomfortable, however Gwen says a new one is coming soon. The old barn next door has changed rather!! We were so lucky with the weather and did loads of walking and exploring the area. We didn't want to leave on Saturday. Thanks again. Ann

- Ann, June 2024
Chris May 2024

“We really enjoyed our stay at the Old Post Office.”

It was comfortable, well equipped and cosy. Lovely flowers and wine for us on arrival. It has a great shower which was really welcome after days of walking the coastal path. Gwen, who looks after the cottage was great, keeping us informed of works to the water supply in the village during our stay, so thank you. The cottage is well placed for access to Plymouth and the coast. The village has a great local store which also has a bike shop.

- Chris, May 2024
Vanessa May 2024

“Another fabulous week's stay.”

Weather was on our side too. We visited Screech Owl Sanctuary and Bodmin Goal, Buckfastleigh Steam Train, Buckfast Abbey, Otter Sanctuary along with Cinema and 10 pin bowling at Barbican. Walk along Bovisands too. Great week.

- Vanessa, May 2024

Dear Vanessa Very glad that you enjoyed your stay John Pursley Property Owner
Robert March 2024

“A comfortable, reasonably priced cottage, in attractive surroundings, well-situated for coastal walking and access to Plymouth.”

The help and support of the caretaker was greatly appreciated.

- Robert, March 2024
Nigel February 2024

“A very good cottage of character with a wide range of appropriate facilities for a family or two adults holiday.”

Very convenient for the nearby village facilities, Inn and shop. The Devon/Cornwall coast/Moors, as well as Plymouth are within easy travelling distance although the latter's main roads are of course busy.

- Nigel, February 2024
Marilyn January 2024

“We have been staying at the Old Post Office since 2002 and had a wonderful, relaxing week.”

The scaffolding across the front of the property made access challenging (we were warned about this by Gwen), but it was difficult to access the keypad especially in the dark. The third step up from the parking space is damaged and needs attention. As always, we brought our own hair dryer and sharp cooking knives. The casserole dish in the cottage does not have a lid - but we got round that one. There are other properties in the area with a higher star rating, but each time we stay some adjustments have been made and it suits us well. The cottage was warm and cosy, and we were made to feel welcome (conversations with Gwen, caretaker). We will return for another holiday.

- Marilyn, January 2024

Dear Marilyn Thank you very much for your feedback. We arranged for the exterior to be decorated in the autumn and the work was carried out then but unfortunately the scaffolder appointed by the decorating contractor let everyone down by constantly failing to remove the scaffolding after the work was finished in October. Happily, after many calls and texts from myself and the contractor, he has eventually removed it. I was aware of the step and had instructed a contractor to repair and reconfigure the steps last autumn. He hasn't got around to this job yet but assures me that it will be undertaken as soon as he is free to do it. I have arranged to replace the casserole dish that was missing a lid and to install some new knives and a portable hair dryer. With kind regards John (Owner) Property Owner
Vanessa September 2023

“The Old Post Office was lovely, would highly recommend staying it had everything we needed and more.”

Great location, village shop and The Mussel pub in easy walking distance. We will definitely be back great base to explore lovely part of country

- Vanessa, September 2023
Lynda August 2023

“Needs a little work where the paint is peeling.”

But this was our second visit and we love it. Everything you need and they can't do enough for you. Would highly recommend.

- Lynda, August 2023
B July 2023

“Lovely cottage and location however disappointing standard of facilities.”

The cottage was dusty and looked like it needed a deep clean. One could not fault the availability of the lady who was our contact for the property; she was vey responsive when we reported all the issues mentioned. The dishwasher did not function properly while we were there; fault reported on a Monday after first and only use and still not resolved when we left. We had to hand wash all our dishes - not what a Mum wants on holiday..... All other electrical items we used worked although we did not use the washing machine; TV, microwave, oven, toaster and good WiFi. A coat hook fell off the bedroom wall when a single item of clothing (a fleece; not heavy) was placed on it. The coat hook had not been fixed to the wall properly; no damage done by us, it just fell off two screws used to hold it in place. No hairdryer although not mentioned in property summary; apparently this had been removed by previous occupants and no PAT tested replacement available - why not have two PAT tested appliances so that a back up is available? We paid almost £900 for the week and did not consider this was reflected in the quality of our stay.

- B, July 2023
Jill May 2023

“I really enjoyed my stay - and it was ideally located in South Devon .”

Several beaches within a few minutes drive . Also lovely footpaths that led to the beaches too - which join up with the South West Coastal Path . The cottage was comfy , relaxing and quiet and I'd visit again .

- Jill, May 2023
Angela May 2023

“Had a fantastic stay - everything provided for - lovely area - would highly ...”

Had a fantastic stay - everything provided for - lovely area - would highly recommend and would definitely go back like a lot of people 6/7 times

- Angela, May 2023
Martin November 2022

“Although the property is older it is well maintained and looked after.”

A very comfortable stay with everything you could want.

- Martin, November 2022
Lynda July 2022

“Had an amazing weeks stay.”

The accommodation is better than you think. Think you could do so much more with the garden. I.e, play area for the kids.

- Lynda, July 2022
Marilyn October 2021

“We have stayed at the Old Post Office many times and always find that it suits our needs - being close to family and friends and within easy reach of the places we like to visit.”

We intend to make further visits in the future. The photographs need to be updated as they are at least two years out of date. It would be nice to have fewer but better quality kitchen utensils. The new shower was very welcome. Maybe the settees could be replaced next? (Bit "solid"). Having said that, we found that for four adults and a three year old we had sufficient space, the cottage was warm and cosy, there was plenty of hot water and parking on the road was fine. The caretaker, Gwen, was very helpful (as always). There was plenty of sanitiser and anti-bac in the relevant places. We did enjoy our holiday - thank you for making it possible. So nice to be back after having to forego our planned visit last year.

- Marilyn, October 2021
Ian July 2021

“Fantastic to to using Helpful Holidays again after 18 months in London.”

The Old Post Office was excellent, with a wonderful “secret” lawn, perfect for picnics and evening drinks. The heatwave meant we definitely needed the bedroom ceiling fans!

- Ian, July 2021
Ruth August 2020

“A lovely cosy cottage, in fact we were pleasantly surprised as the cottage appeared to have had a makeover and was much more homely than the website pictures.”

Its a great location with a lovely pub in the village, walkable beaches, lots of lovely footpath routes and attractions nearby.

- Ruth, August 2020
Michael February 2020

“We had another pleasant vacation at the Old Post Office.”

- Michael, February 2020
Alison August 2019

“We really enjoyed our stay in this lovely cottage.”

The countryside location was wonderful. It would have been useful to know that the local pub (Mussel Inn) may need to be booked for evening meals, as there was no table free on the Saturday we arrived, however they suggested we try the Eddystone Inn which we really enjoyed, and revisited later in the week. Gwen the caretaker was very friendly and helpful.

- Alison, August 2019
Susanne August 2019

“The cottage was wonderful and convenient, but the cleanliness was very bad and I would say extremely horrible!”

!! At our arrival day,after a long journey, we had to clean up the cottage for 3 hours and we were very tired and angry about the scenario in the cottage! The yard was full of trash and in the bathroom downstairs, there was plaster, which was falling from the ceiling! The attic was dirty too. Otherwise it was a great holiday for us and we would come back, but not in the old Post office, unless it will be restorated and tidy!!! With kind regards, family Jankowski!!!

- Susanne, August 2019

We are glad that overall your holiday was wonderful. We are very sorry that you had a problem with cleanliness on this occasion. We have spoken with the owner who is liaising with her cleaner to ensure that there are no further issues in this regard. Historically the property has had a very good cleanliness rating so we are sorry that it fell short for you on this occasion.A programme of improvements is underway at the property over winter. Glad that you had a great holiday. Property Owner
Anonymous June 2019

“Everything was very good apart from the weather which you have no control over!”

Gwen left the cottage in good order with a lovely welcome pack. She kept in touch so we felt valued. We would highly recommend this cottage to anyone.

- Anonymous, June 2019
Ian September 2018

“We had a brilliant holiday We Enjoyed it Weather was good and we loved the cottage”

- Ian, September 2018
Jill August 2018

“Lovely cottage, very cosy.”

Ideal for exploring all parts of Devon and Cornwall. We had 5 adults staying and plenty of room for us all.

- Jill, August 2018
Angela June 2018

“We were concerned the vacuum cleaner is kept in a bathroom although we appreciate that it would be difficult to store it elsewhere in the cottage.”

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- Angela, June 2018

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Summary

Three bedrooms: 1 x king size double, 1 x double, 1 x single
Shower room with shower, WC, basin
Ground floor bathroom with short bath, shower over, WC, basin
Open plan living space with seating area with gas fire, dining area and kitchen.
Central heating with gas fire
Microwave, fridge-freezer, washing machine, dishwasher, TV with DVD, WiFi, Fuel and power inc. in rent
Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
Travel cot and highchair available on request
There is a designated parking space for one car, in addition to road side parking
Enclosed garden with barbecue
Sorry, no pets and no smoking.

The property

On the edge of Down Thomas, looking over meadows, a semi-detached, early Victorian cottage, one of five forming a courtyard at the back.

Small front sitting area (table/chairs) and pathway (20 yards) to own lawned garden (barbecue). Inside, light and comfy.

Six steps up to porch and front door.

Living/dining/kitchen (dishwasher, washing machine, microwave, fridge-freezer, electric cooker) with slate floor, central work island/breakfast bar, gas 'living flame' fire, TV/DVD and iPod dock.

White-tiled and chrome bathroom (suite, shower over shorter than average bath).

Upstairs, three bedrooms (shuttered windows, limited clothes hanging/storage space) - a double (5' bed), another double, and a single.

Shower-room (suite).

A good situation for both town and country, with good beaches and scenic Coast Path walks nearby. Down Thomas: tiny village (PO/shop, pub), a mile from a sandy beach and nearby golf course at Bovisand Bay, and 5 miles south of the centre of Plymouth with its theatre, cinemas, shops, Hoe, Barbican and history.

Note: This property has a Good Housekeeping bond of £100.

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About the location

Down Thomas

Surrounded by the rugged beauty of Dartmoor, the glorious countryside of the South Hams and the vibrant scenery of the South Devon coast, Plymouth offers the perfect mixture of maritime heritage and natural beauty in a vibrant city environment.

Please note: The bath is shorter than standard and storage/hanging space for clothing is limited.

Note - Bookings from contractors etc. who are seeking accommodation whilst they are working in the South-West will not be accepted.

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Features

Reviews & Ratings

“Nice cottage clean and everything you need for your holiday, parking a bit tight due to steps.”

“This is our 4th stay at Old Post Office.”

“The property was nice and comfortable Gwen who was our contact at the cottage was very helpful and obliging although we didn’t meet her she was always on hand and arranged some Christmas decorations for us.”

“A lovely stay!”

“Amazing value!”

“Lovely cottage, perfect for a 'base of operations' for anyone on a walking holiday or just a few minuets drive from beaches and Plymouth centre.”

“My partner and I were using the Old Post Office in order to walk the South West Coast Path between Salcombe and Polperro.”

“This is our 3rd stay at Old Post Office it's a great place to stay, fab location.”

“The property is comfortable and living room and dining area are good.”

“Shower was broken on arrival and remained broken throughout stay.”

“Lovely property Has everything you need Milk, biscuits and wine a nice ...”

“A lovely comfortable cottage with parking in a very quiet rural location.”

“A warm and welcoming cottage in a very pleasant location with plenty to do and see within easy reach.”

“Cottage was ok but there was a lack of cupboard space to put food in all cupboards were filled with crockery or pots and pans.”

“Thank you for the use of your lovely cottage.”

“We really enjoyed our stay at the Old Post Office.”

“Another fabulous week's stay.”

“A comfortable, reasonably priced cottage, in attractive surroundings, well-situated for coastal walking and access to Plymouth.”

“A very good cottage of character with a wide range of appropriate facilities for a family or two adults holiday.”

“We have been staying at the Old Post Office since 2002 and had a wonderful, relaxing week.”