From a partner site
2/10 Terrible
Alix M.
9 Jul 2026
Avoid at all costs. This was the worst holiday accommodation we’ve ever stayed in.
We booked West Kennett House expecting a luxury, well-maintained property based on the listing, professional photographs and Bolthole Retreats’ reputation. Unfortunately, the reality was completely different. This was one of the most disappointing holiday stays we’ve ever experienced.
The property was neglected, dirty and poorly maintained from the moment we arrived. The garden looked unkempt, with long grass, dirty outdoor furniture, a stagnant pond and a broken fountain. To make matters worse, there was a dangerous exposed grate in the garden which my dog’s leg became trapped in, resulting in an emergency trip to a vet in Trowbridge.
Inside, the cleanliness was simply unacceptable. There were flies, spiders, cobwebs and dead insects throughout the property, including on shelves, behind furniture and in the curtains. The pans, plates and coffee machine were dirty, meaning we didn’t feel comfortable using them. The dishwasher had a strong unpleasant smell, the tablecloths were stained, there was hair on the duvets, dirt down the side of the fridge, torn and stained dining chairs, and one bed frame had been repaired with tape that even had hair stuck to it.
The house also felt as though we were staying in someone’s private home rather than a professionally managed holiday let, with personal family photographs displayed throughout. There were paint pots and maintenance items left around the property, a car parked on the driveway, no bath mat, no hand towels in the bathrooms, and the shower pressure was so poor that showering became frustrating.
The listing describes the property as being in a peaceful rural setting, but it is directly beside an extremely busy A-road, with constant traffic noise. The driveway is also exceptionally tight and difficult to access with a larger vehicle.
Overall, we felt the property had not been properly cleaned, inspected or prepared before our arrival. We spent the majority of our stay feeling uncomfortable rather than relaxed, and couldn’t wait to leave.
We raised all of these issues directly with Bolthole Retreats, supplied extensive photographic evidence, and requested compensation. Based on our experience, we cannot recommend this property and would strongly advise others to think carefully before booking.