The Skilling in Bridport | Must-See Devon Hot Tub Cottage

About The Skilling

The Skilling is a spacious five-bedroom holiday lodge in Dorset, just a short distance from West Bay. This upside-down house puts the living areas upstairs to make the most of those jaw-dropping views. Perfect for big groups who want quality time together without sitting in each other's laps. The layout is genius - bedrooms downstairs, social spaces up top. Like a mullet but for architecture: business on the bottom, party on the top.

Set in large mature gardens with plenty of secluded spots to escape your in-laws when they start talking politics. The outdoor space is a playground for all ages with a games room, conservatory and hidden nooks for peace and quiet. West Bay (yes, the Broadchurch one) is within walking distance. After exploring the Jurassic Coast, you'll appreciate coming back to soak your tired bones in the hot tub with a glass of something cold.

The accommodation sleeps up to 14 people across five bedrooms. Bedroom 1 has a superking bed plus single with steps. Bedroom 2 offers a superking (can split into twins) with two trundle beds and TV. Bedroom 3 features twin beds that join to make a superking. Bedrooms 4 and 5 both have king-size beds. Four en-suites plus a family bathroom mean no morning queues.

Visit West Bay Beach (0.9 miles, 5 minutes), explore historic Bridport (1.5 miles, 7 minutes), hike along the South West Coast Path, or visit Chesil Beach (8 miles, 20 minutes). The Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site offers fossil hunting opportunities just minutes from your doorstep.

The Skilling is perfect for multi-generational family holidays. The kitchen is stocked with everything but the chef - seriously, previous guests rave about how well-equipped it is. Even has a hot tub that's actually maintained properly. What luxury!

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At Sykes Cottages

Need To Know

✓Gas central heating
✓ Double oven and gas hob, microwave, fridge/freezer, washing machine, dishwasher, TV, WiFi and a selection of books
✓ Fuel and power included in rent
✓ Bed linen and towels included in rent
✓ Up to three travel cots, two highchairs and stairgate available
✓ Ample off-road parking
✓ Large matured garden with furniture, barbecue and hot tub
✓ Pets welcome
✓ Sorry, no smoking
✓ Shop 0.4 miles, pub 0.7 miles
✓ Note: No more than 10 adults (bringing four children) are encouraged to stay at the property at one time
✓ Note: There are a couple of stairs down to some areas of the ground floor including bedrooms so the property may not be suitable for those with limited mobility
✓ Please note that due to current government restrictions, all rooms advertised may not be available, however, please contact the office to discuss discounts for smaller parties
✓ Summer House
✓ Second summer house with games and patio area only open in the Summer ( Easter - end of October ) see pictures 56-73

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What Guests Love

Discover why our guests keep coming back to The Skilling

Spotlessly Clean

Guests consistently praise the exceptional cleanliness of The Skilling. Every corner of this property is immaculately maintained.

Fully Equipped Kitchen

The kitchen has everything you could possibly need - from abundant cooking utensils to serving dishes. Perfect for preparing meals for large groups.

Spacious Layout

Even at full capacity with 14 guests, the house provides ample space for everyone. The clever upside-down design maximizes both comfort and views.

Hot Tub

The outdoor hot tub is a highlight for many guests. It's regularly maintained and perfect for relaxing after exploring the Jurassic Coast.

Thoughtful Touches

The welcome hamper with local produce shows the owners' attention to detail. Everything you might need has been thought of in advance.

Perfect for Large Groups

The layout works brilliantly for family gatherings with multiple generations. Ground floor bedrooms help those with mobility issues.

Getting To The Skilling

Find your way to your perfect countryside retreat

By Car

To reach The Skilling by car, follow directions to Bridport and then head towards West Bay. The property is located just outside West Bay with good access from the A35. You'll have ample off-road parking for up to five cars upon arrival.

By Train

For rail travelers, the nearest station is Dorchester South, about 16 miles away. From there, you'll need to take a taxi or bus connection to West Bay. Local taxi services are available for the final leg of your journey.

Off-road parking for five cars

Dorchester South station (16 miles)

Accessible from the A35

Attractions & More Nearby

Everything you need within easy reach

West Bay Beach

Distance: 0.9 miles

DT6 4EN

Bridport Museum

Distance: 1.5 miles

DT6 3NR

Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site

Distance: 0.9 miles

DT6 4EN

South West Coast Path

Distance: 0.9 miles

DT6 4EN

Eype Down

Distance: 2.1 miles

DT6 6AL

Burton Bradstock Cliff Walk

Distance: 3.5 miles

DT6 4RF

Bridport Town Centre

Distance: 1.5 miles

DT6 3LF

Bridport Market (Wed & Sat)

Distance: 1.5 miles

DT6 3LF

Washingpool Farm Shop

Distance: 2.3 miles

DT6 5HP

First Wessex Bus Services

Distance: 0.7 miles

DT6 4EN

Bridport Taxi Services

Distance: 1.5 miles

DT6 3LF

Cycle Hire at West Bay

Distance: 0.9 miles

DT6 4EN

West Bay Beach

Distance: 0.9 miles

DT6 4EN

Bridport Museum

Distance: 1.5 miles

DT6 3NR

Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site

Distance: 0.9 miles

DT6 4EN

South West Coast Path

Distance: 0.9 miles

DT6 4EN

Eype Down

Distance: 2.1 miles

DT6 6AL

Burton Bradstock Cliff Walk

Distance: 3.5 miles

DT6 4RF

Bridport Town Centre

Distance: 1.5 miles

DT6 3LF

Bridport Market (Wed & Sat)

Distance: 1.5 miles

DT6 3LF

Washingpool Farm Shop

Distance: 2.3 miles

DT6 5HP

First Wessex Bus Services

Distance: 0.7 miles

DT6 4EN

Bridport Taxi Services

Distance: 1.5 miles

DT6 3LF

Cycle Hire at West Bay

Distance: 0.9 miles

DT6 4EN

Is The Skilling Right For You?

Discover why this cottage is ideal for different types of visitors

For Families

The Skilling is fantastic for kids with its spacious garden featuring hiding spots and play areas. Inside, there's a games room and plenty of books. The property provides up to three travel cots, two highchairs and stairgates. The beach at West Bay is just 5 minutes away by car. Bedroom layouts work well for families with extra beds and trundles for children.

For Couples

While The Skilling can accommodate couples, it's designed for larger groups and might feel too spacious for just two people. However, couples within a group will appreciate the privacy of en-suite bedrooms. The hot tub offers romantic evening relaxation and the West Bay area provides lovely coastal walks. Perfect for couples who want to holiday with friends or extended family.

Pet Friendly

The Skilling welcomes dogs with its large mature garden providing plenty of space for pets to explore safely. The Jurassic Coast offers fantastic dog-walking opportunities, with West Bay Beach allowing dogs in designated areas year-round. The ground floor bedrooms are practical for pet owners and the local area has many dog-friendly pubs and cafes.

Dining & Cafes

Taste the local flavours during your stay at The Skilling

The Watch House Café

Located 0.9 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: DT6 4EN

The Station Kitchen

Located 0.9 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: DT6 4EW

The Riverside Restaurant

Located 0.9 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: DT6 4EN

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to our most common questions about The Skilling

Does this cottage have a hot tub?

Yes, The Skilling features a well-maintained hot tub in the garden. It's regularly checked during guest stays to ensure it's always in perfect working order.

Is it pet friendly?

Yes, The Skilling welcomes pets so you can bring your dog along to enjoy the Dorset coast. The large mature garden provides plenty of space for them to explore safely.

How many people can The Skilling accommodate?

The property can sleep up to 14 people across 5 bedrooms. The recommendation is for no more than 10 adults plus 4 children for the most comfortable stay.

What's special about the layout of this property?

The Skilling has an "upside-down" layout with bedrooms on the ground floor and living areas upstairs. This design maximizes the views and works well for mixed groups with one bedroom on the upper floor for those with mobility concerns.

Is there parking available?

Yes, The Skilling offers ample off-road parking for up to five cars. This makes it ideal for large family gatherings where multiple vehicles might be needed.

How far is it to the nearest beach?

West Bay Beach is approximately 0.9 miles away, which is about a 5-minute drive or a pleasant 15-20 minute walk. It's featured in the TV show Broadchurch and offers beautiful golden sands.

What kitchen facilities are available?

The kitchen is exceptionally well-equipped with a double oven, gas hob, microwave, fridge/freezer, washing machine, dishwasher and all cooking utensils. Many guests comment on how comprehensive the kitchen provisions are.

Is the property suitable for children?

The Skilling is very family-friendly with up to three travel cots available, two highchairs and a stairgate. The garden offers plenty of space for children to play and there's a selection of books and games available.

The Skilling Reviews

Christine

The Skilling is a lovely house with spectacular views of the sea and countryside and a well maintained interesting garden It was so well equipped with supplies in the kitchen and every bathroom . Parking for 4 cars was easy. The welcome hamper was amazing filled with lots of local produce. Definitely a good find for a family holiday.

The Skilling was perfect for our family get together. It was exactly as advertised all the accommodation worked well for us. It was very well equipped with ample good quality crockery etc. the outside space is amazing and the children loved it. It would be helpful if there was some solar lighting on the path down to the bbq

We stayed here for 3 nights, the property is outstanding especially the garden and the stunning views of Westbay. The photos do not do the view justice. The facilities at the property were excellent, a selection of books, games for the house and garden provided. The hot tub was amazing, all set up and ready to go. The welcome hamper was a really nice touch including local produce cake, biscuits and cider milk, tea and coffee were also provided. I had taken a range of day to day items for the kitchen ie kitchen roll, dishcloths, dishwasher tablets, clingfilm etc these were also provided. Apart from food you need not bring anything for your stay here. I would highly recommend The Skilling, the location was excellent, plenty of parking, amazing location, spotlessly clean and great communication with the host. We had an amazing few days!

Fabulous location. Exceptionally well equipped and so comfortable. The gardens are delightful and the hot tub was a big hit! Thank you for loaning your lovely house to us we really loved our stay there.

Josephine

A stunning property in a fabulous location. We were a party of 9 adults and all agreed that the property was one of the best we had ever stayed in. It was spotlessly clean, extremely well equipped, warm, homely and spacious, and we loved the hot tub. We had great communication from the Housekeeper who was extremely welcoming and friendly. She answering all our questions, and arranged the bedrooms perfectly to suit our party. I would love to return to the Skilling one day.

Natasha

We had a great stay at the skilling. The house had everything and more that we could of needed even down to the little things such as utensils, pots and pans to a washing machine and tumble. We were at full capacity with 14 of us and a baby and can honestly say we had ample space and room. Would definately like to book up again for next year. For a large family its the best house we have stayed in so far.

My family 9 of us, mixed ages stayed here for Christmas. The house was perfect, and the owners have been very thoughtful about everything provided to make your stay a home away from home. All the extra items we brought with us that are usually missing, we didnt need to use as they are all here for you. It was great to have a kitchen with an abundance of cooking and serving utensils. The layout makes the most of the amazing views bedrooms on the ground floor, main areas on the first floor, and the one bedroom located on the same level as the kitchenlounge etc was perfect for my Mum who has mobility issues. The information pack provided has all information relating to the operation of all appliances within the property and also about the locality and places to visit West Bay is a must for all Broadchurch fans and is walkable from the property Louisa who manages the property was so helpful with all our questions, and we got to meet her when she came to check the hot tub during our stay. We highly recommend this property, and would absolutely love to stay here again.

We had a lovely weekend. The property was very well equipped and generally worked really well for a large family group. I would certainly consider renting it again.

Amazing holiday house and location, very comfortable and clean with everything you could need for a great family holiday.

Amazing house, with great views. It has everything you need for a large part of people. Kitchen is full equipped, loads of room for dining and lounging.

What a perfect place for a large family holiday, the large kitchen is full of everything you need and the welcome basket was a lovely touch. Some beautiful views from the long kitchen and dining room balcony of the sea and West Bay but only on a clear day. Louis is a lovely helpful person and calls by a couple of days without disturbing you to maintain the hot tub. One review mentioned a problem with the hot water running out which it never did and as the 2 floors have separate hot water supplies it's easy to share bed 5 shower which is on the first floor kitchen level, and the flooring on the first floor will only make a noise for the ground floor bedrooms if people wear shoes to walk around. We had a family group of 12 mixed ages and came to Bridport to visit our daughter, the size of the house made it possible for her family of 6 to come and gather with us during the day to catch up, all in all it was the perfect place and will certainly be back.

This was a fantastic cottage with plenty of space for the 11 of us. I have never stayed in such a well provisioned cottage absolutely everything you could need from the kitchen equipment, to games, books and a wonderful hot tub. There are plenty of things to do within walking distance and a short drive away. All of us really enjoyed our stay.

Very clean, good welcome basket, plentiful cutlery and plates, shower controls excellent, attractive house in good condition aided by regular use of plastic and laminates, overall a good week for us. Bridport has a lovely town centre with good shops, when you reach it in about twenty minutes walk. Some bedrooms had unstable equipment, more towel rails needed but not many problems.

Frances

We were all absolutely delighted with this property. It was spacious, clean and the garden was a delight with its hot tub, hide, quiet spaces, games room and conservatory. The upstairs balcony provided glorious views towards West Bay. It was close enough to walk to West Bay and the local leisure centre at Bridport was a successful and affordable place for our teenagers on a wet day. The flowers on our arrival plus the welcome pack were much appreciated. The property was very well stocked the kitchen was clean, modern and bright with everything we could possibly need. We really appreciated that the owner had ensured everything for a BBQ was present and it was taken away to be cleaned before we used it. The owner was easy to contact at all times. We had a wonderful time and did not want to come home. This was a brilliant property and our thanks to the owners for making us so welcome.

Natasha

Very spacious house in a great location. Outside area is fantastic especially for the kids. Kitchen is very well equipped for large groups and has kids plastic stuff too. There were lots of games, books and dvds. There was more than enough parking for the 4 cars we had. There was a lovely welcome hamper with local goods. The water pressure in the showers in the downstairs bathrooms wasn't very good and also the hot water is on a timer which meant with there being 12 of us the hot water often ran out and people had to have cold showers. There was shower gel and shampoo provided in all the bathroom and there was plenty of cleaning products

Nichole

Beds really comfy. House is wonderfully equipped, from the kitchen to all the little spaces dotted around the property to sit, read, play table tennis, etc. Rented with a group of friends & we had a brilliant time.

Suzanne

We had the most fantastic holiday in Bridport. The cottage was ideal for our large grown up family. The location was perfect for the days we didnt want to use the cars, and for those that enjoyed walks to the coast. We visited the brewery, a local petting farm, went on a rib, played foot golf, had picnics on the local beach, enjoyed perusing the local shops. I particularly enjoyed the opportunity to buy a local artists work on display in the house what a great idea! The welcome hamper was full of delicious treats and the house was comfortable with everything we needed for a great holiday. Thank you so much!

A great property for large group of mixed ages. Extremely well equipped Beautiful location Garden is spectacular as was the hot tub We had an issue with the oven which Louisa was extremely quick to act upon and got sorted out.

Russell

Only comment is that the wood flooring upstairs made it very noisy for those with bedrooms on the ground floor in the family rooms trying to get children to sleep. Overall though it was beautiful spot for a holiday and loved every minute of it.

A lovely 'upside down' house designed to enjoy the view of the sea from it's elevated position. Well equipped with a large hot tub which is in a secluded part of an interesting garden. Plenty of areas for children to play and for adults to relax. Louisa was very helpful and friendly.

Graham

A fantastic holiday home, equipped with all comforts, tremendous space in a very functional layout, with superb privacy and yet walking distance to both the town of Bridport and the lovely beach at West Bay. Louisa made it very clear we could contact her at all times, while remaining discreet, affording us the quiet retreat we craved and true to her word, when we could readily locate a gadget, she replied immediately. The smiling emoji's above are well earned. We are a three generation holiday family with a wide range of both needs and wishes and all were met. I cannot praise the accommodation and no doubt the effort from Louisa in providing such excellent facilities and comfort.

Christine

We were a family party of six adults, five teenagers ,13 to 17 years old and one dog. We have had family get togethers in some lovely cottages but the Skilling has to be the best by far. It is exceptionally well equipped with everything you could possibly need, both indoors and out with the hot tub and so many garden games. It has beautiful views and the generous welcome hamper with local produce and the fresh flowers were greatly appreciated. A special thank you to Louisa for her thoughtfulness we would definitely love to return.

Louise

An amazing property, perfect for the 14 2 dogs of us and we were able to comfortably park 5 large cars. Very well equipped property with everything we could possibly need and a lovely welcome basket of local produce too. Highly recommend

Everything you could think of was provided including washing pods, dishwasher tablets and shower gel and shampooconditioner. The 3 ensuite bedrooms made life easy for three families sharing. The equipment in the kitchen was exceptional from coffee makers to a slow cooker. The welcome hamper and milk were much appreciated.

Williamina

Angela

We loved our stay at the Skilling, really well setup for our family stay, clean and comfortable and well located for both Bridport and the beach. Thank you!

Danielle

An amazing place to stay the views were out of this world. Fantastic accommodation and lovely welcoming property. Really lovely and helpful owners thank you for a wonderful stay

Second wonderful stay and hope to return again!

Caroline

We had five family groups staying comfortably in the property. We couldn't fault the property and its facilities, with the kitchen providing everything that was needed. There was a generous hamper of local produce provided on our arrival, a lovely touch. We have no hesitation in recommending it to others. Bridport itself had some interesting independent shops and of course there was lots of coastal places to visit.

What a beautiful location and the house was so well equipped. Plenty of room for our 60th birthday celebration.The welcome basket was full of lovely goodies and thank you Louisa for letting us arrive early.

Property was very clean and very well equipped. The property works well for a large family, very well thought out, with beautiful views. The hot tub was great and well maintained during our stay. The location is good, easy for beach and shops just a few minutes by car. The welcome gift was a kind thought. Many thanks to Louisa and her team for helping to make our family holiday so enjoyable and memorable.

The property was so versatile. The contact was so helpful and friendly. It was very well equipped and made for a pleasant weekend for 14 of us 8 adults and 6 children.

Great family space and well equipped. Excellent location .

Philip

The Skilling was an ideal property for my family three generations with eight adults and three children under 17 months. It is spacious and very well equipped. The mature garden is on a slope and has levels while not a problem for us, this may be a limitation for slightly older infants. The location, on the outskirts of Bridport was superb the town centre and West Bay are within walking distance. The owner provided a generous welcome basket of local foodstuffs.

Barbara

Lovely house and fascinating garden. Well positioned to Bridport town which is walkable from property. This is an upside down house which allows great views of West Bay and surrounding areas, the only downside was the upstairs laminate floors were quite noisy for anyone trying to sleep downstairs. We really appreciated the many toiletries, toilet rolls, washing up stuff, bin bags etc which are usually meagerly supplied in holiday homes. Highly recommend this house for families and groups.

We were a family of 7 adults, 2 teenagers, 2 toddlers and 1 dog. The property was ideal for us all. It had everything we needed and more! Would highly recommend this property.

Deborah

Amazing property. Would highly recommend. Good location, beautiful views, very clean and extremely well equipped. Thank you we had the most wonderful stay.

Richard

Ideally located property for the surrounding area and walking into Bridport.

A beautiful, wellequipped property thats ideal for family gatherings or groups of friends getting away together

Anne-marie

It was ideal for a large family gathering and everything was provided for the enjoyment of all the guests, ages ranging from 17 months to 70. The garden was great, so beautiful with all the birdsong and plants and many places to sit and contemplate. The hot tub was a big attraction and the garden games provided were excellent. The balconies were amazing and the rooms very comfy. At night we loved playing Trivial Pursuit which was one of the many games provided. There was also a very wide selection of books. You could quite happily just spend the whole time on the premises. However, there was much to explore on the doorstep! We the grandparents did not use our car at all as there were many walks including one to West Bay. The brewery tour was a must for the beer lovers and we loved the culinary delights of Bridport!

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The Skilling, Bridport

About The Skilling

Need To Know

More Cottages With Hot Tubs You May Like

What Guests Love

Spotlessly Clean

Fully Equipped Kitchen

Spacious Layout

Hot Tub

Thoughtful Touches

Perfect for Large Groups

Getting To The Skilling

By Car

By Train

Attractions & More Nearby

Is The Skilling Right For You?

For Families

For Couples

Pet Friendly

Dining & Cafes

The Watch House Café

The Station Kitchen

The Riverside Restaurant

Frequently Asked Questions

Location Name

The Skilling Reviews