Martingale

4.6★

4 Guests
2 Bedrooms
1 Bathroom
Pets No
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Features

Off road parking
Garden / Patio
Pub/shop < 1 mile
Washing machine
Seaside
Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing

Cleanliness

Comfort

Facilities and Maintenance

* Based on a combined average customer score

29 Customer Review(s)

Barbara
March 2024

“Had a lovely weekend in Martingale, decor is beautiful, very pretty cottage, clean & comfortable with everything we needed.”

Off road parking was a bonus. Short walk into Town ( a friendly local showed us a cut through with steps, which made the walk more doable. We were here visiting family & shall definitely return

Off road parking was a bonus. Short walk into Town ( a friendly local showed us a cut through with steps, which made the walk more doable. We were here visiting family & shall definitely return

- Barbara, March 2024

Hi Barbara, Many thanks for your feedback and we are pleased you enjoyed your stay at Martingale. We look forward to welcoming you back again in the future. Best wishes Darryl & Lisa Property Owner
Stephen November 2023

“My wife and I visited for a week in November having never visited the area before.”

The cottage was spotlessly clean, very comfortable for up to four people with plenty of space and seating. It was well-equipped with large smart TV and a well set out kitchen area. Outside is ample, if slightly tight width wise, off road parking, off a very quiet residential road. With the exception of a couple of very minor maintenance issues, which the owners wouldn't have been aware of and which have been quickly rectified, I would find it hard to find any fault with the cottage which was warm and cosy and more than lived up to our expectations. One thing to bear in mind about Torquay is that it is very hilly, that applies to wherever you stay in the town. The previous reviews mention the climb from the harbour area, which though it isn't far in distance, is extremely steep in places, we are both reasonably fit but still found it fairly taxing so worth bearing in mind if mobility is an issue. The advantage of the climb are the lovely views across the bay whilst catching your breath! A fantastic area to explore with stunning coastal walks on the doorstep, a lovely holiday.

- Stephen, November 2023

Hi Stephen, We are really pleased you and your wife enjoyed your stay at Martingale. Thank you for bringing up the small maintenance issues, as you say these have since been rectified. We have also since had the planters removed outside with new landscaping etc so this has now increased car access as we agree it was a little restricted. Thanks again and hope to welcome you back soon. Kind regards Darryl & Lisa Property Owner
James October 2023

“Loved our stay away at Martingale.”

The property size was perfect for our family. Parking is a massive benefit. It can fit a Skoda Superb on the driveway for reference The location is on a hill side so be prepared to walk up some steep slopes and steps.

- James, October 2023

Hi James, We are really pleased you enjoyed your stay at the cottage and thank you for your comments. We hope to welcome you back again in the future. Kind regards Darryl & Lisa Property Owner
Alexandra September 2023

“We had a lovely comfortable stay at Martingale.”

The house is very nicely decorated, comfortable sitting area, clean and fresh. Beds were super comfy & there was an amazing large shower! The blinds in the bedrooms weren't very thick so light came through but didn't really bother us. Nice enclosed front garden with table and chairs, and a lovely peaceful neighborhood. The driveway was a bit narrow & the planters made it difficult to open the car doors, but nice to not have to park on the side of the road. It was good to be able to walk down into Torquay & not have to pay to park, although the walk back up the hill was challenging! Only did it twice! We had a really fantastic holiday, enjoyed our stay very much and if we go back to Torquay, we will definitely be staying at Martingale again! Thank you to Darryl & Lisa

- Alexandra, September 2023

Hi Alexandra, Thank you for your lovely comments and we are pleased you had a nice stay at the cottage. We are doing some maintenance work when we visit in November and part of this work is to have the planters / sleepers removed which should make the parking less restrictive. We are glad you enjoyed your stay and we look forward to welcoming you back in the future. Kind regards Darryl & Lisa Property Owner
Alex September 2023

“We stayed at Martingale for 7 days, while the cottage was lovely and did feel like a home away from home there were a few things that weren't the best, first thing is the furniture in the living room, me and my partner aren't the smallest people so when sitting on the sofas/chairs they sounded like there were cracking, every time we sat down I felt like they were going to break as they were only on small wooden legs, they were comfy though, the next thing is the bathroom, again it was nice but needed a deep clean, there was mould in the shower and on the walls and the shower pressure really wasn't good and when the floor of the shower was wet it was so slippery, we both nearly fell multiple times, the blinds in the bedrooms weren't the best either, didn't really keep the light out in the morning and if we wanted the window open during the night we had to put the small towels provided up against the walls/window to stop the blinds from banging against them, other than those it was a lovely little cottage and although yes it was a short 10-15 minute walk TO town, walking back was a no go hah, we tried to walk back on the first night and what should have been 15-20 minutes was about 45 because again we're not exactly thin people and had to keep stopping so we were exhausted by the time we got back, got a taxi every day since then hah, the view from the bedroom windows was amazing though, could see the sea and as you walk out the front gate you can see the sea and that was amazing and I do miss it, I think we would stay there again because we did enjoy it despite the things I've mentioned.”

We did miss out super king size bed though, 2 fairy big people trying to fit on a double bed wasn't the most comfy and was very warm.

- Alex, September 2023

Hi Alex, thanks for your comments. Must admit we have never been told the furniture was about to crack when you sit on it but glad you found it comfy. We are dealing with the mould in the bathroom this is down to airflow so we are having an extractor fan fitted soon to deal with this as not all guests open windows. The blinds in the property are day & night blinds so you need to pre set them on night if you want to keep light out then set to day if you want to let more light in. Walking into town is personal preference personally we find a taxi each way is easier but some people like the exercise. The bed in the main bedroom is a King Size I do not think we would have the room to fit a Super King Size to be honest. Other than that we are pleased you enjoyed your stay and the views. Kind regards Darryl & Lisa Property Owner
Susan August 2023

“Lisa & Darryl, You have a really beautiful house, very nicely decorated and so peaceful and quiet.”

We loved our stay in Torquay and wished we had more time there. Yes the property is central for getting around and once you’ve walked down and back again, it does get easier. Very good exercise, did great on my Fitbit watch. We also visited the Tourist Information ladies, they are great and gave us lots of ideas. We found the bus stops for the number 64 bus, to take us back up the hill. But never actually caught the bus, never seemed to be in the right place. Found it so easy to leave the car at the house and travel on the local buses, we travelled all over the place. Just head to the harbour and you’ll see all the bus stops. Did the Round Robin Trip, a great day out. Also Babbacombe is a lovely place and you can visit Bygones and a Model Village. Both attractions are worth a visit. A very minor criticism for the property, is the driveway. We have a Kia Sportage and If the lovely planters could move a fraction towards the bins, it would make it easier for bigger cars. We would certainly stay at this gorgeous property again.

- Susan, August 2023

Hi Susan, Thank you so much for your lovely comments and we are really pleased you enjoyed your holiday, certainly sounds like you made the most of your week! We take your point about the planters if you happen to have a slightly larger car we are looking into removing them soon and having something a little more practical in their place. We look forward to welcoming you back again in the future! Kind regards Lisa & Darryl Property Owner
Maxine August 2023

“We had a lovely stay at Martingale, very comfortable home from home feel.”

Everything we want and more. Many thanks to Lisa and Darryl.

- Maxine, August 2023

Hi Maxine, We are pleased you had a relaxing stay at Martingale and enjoyed the homely feel of the cottage. Thank you for your lovely comments and we hope to see you again. Kind regards Darryl and Lisa Property Owner
Janet May 2023

“I had a really relaxing week at Martingale.”

A great cottage in a lovely area, so peaceful, but so central for everything. As has been mentioned in other reviews, the walk down to the town is steep, but not excessively so and the No. 64 bus comes quite close to the property to avoid the uphill climb. The Tourist Information office are brilliant with advice about bus routes and timetables. I would echo other people's request for more precise recycling information so as to get it right on the correct day. Torquay itself is very lively and there are so many good places to go - Brixham by No 12 bus or ferry, National Trust Coleton Fishacre and Greenway, Cockington etc. I would love to return in the future.

- Janet, May 2023

Hi Janet, Thank you for your lovely feedback and glad you had a relaxing stay at the cottage. Pleased you obtained info from the Tourist Information Office, we agree they are so helpful with bus routes and timetables etc as well as lots of other useful information locally so it’s well worth taking the time to pay them a visit. I have emailed Torbay Council for some stickers to display on each recycling bin to make it easier to understand. We look forward to welcoming you back to Martingale again soon. Kind regards Darryl & Lisa Property Owner
Petitjean May 2023

“Advert should warn people about the location being at the top of a steep hill as it is unsuitable for people who have difficulty in walking, it is not a few minutes walk on return from town they will need to stop and rest also.”

The property and garden are in need of some TLC. We suffered from ants all over the kitchen area, needs repairs to freezer outer freezer door, double glazed units and wardroe sliding doors unable to use. Need local contact for any issues as this detail had been deleted from given information. Its not on a bus route which is relevant if people are walking.

- Petitjean, May 2023

Hi, Thanks for your feedback. The steep hill is a matter of personal opinion, some people enjoy the stroll into town, others prefer the 5 min drive as there is plenty of parking available locally. Alternatively a taxi is £5 each way or there are bus routes that drop off very close to the property. Not sure what you refer to ref local contact as our mobile numbers are clearly displayed in the welcome pack? Kind regards Property Owner
Angela April 2023

“We really enjoyed our stay as a family over the Easter holidays.”

The cottage has a great location within walking distance of several good restaurants in Torquay (Ephesus restaurant was excellent) and the town centre and promenade. We also found the cottage to be very clean and well equipped, with the large Smart tv most appreciated and plentiful seating in the lounge. Off road parking space also really handy. Just a couple of points which I hope is regarded constructively, the master bedroom mattress is really sagging per previous guest comments and needs replacing. The planters in the front garden/courtyard also do make parking difficult and obstructs opening doors for larger vehicles (we had a Kia Sportage). The shower pressure in the bathroom is not great. These are minor points however and wouldn’t put us off returning to this lovely good value property. Our boys aged 7 and 5 had a fabulous week here.

- Angela, April 2023

Hi Angela, We are glad you had a great Easter break with the family and enjoyed the cottage and everything Torquay has to offer. We are planning to replace the king size mattress in the main bedroom on our next owner booking in May. We look forward to welcoming you back again in the future! Kind regards Darryl & Lisa Property Owner
Lionel March 2023

“The overall position and comfort of the cottage was good.”

The mattress on the double bed is too soft and sags in the middle which made it difficult for a good nights sleep.

- Lionel, March 2023

Hi Lionel, Thank you for your constructive comments and glad you enjoyed your stay at Martingale. We are planning on replacing the mattress on our next owner booking in May. Kind regards Darryl & Lisa Property Owner
Gordon March 2023

“Lovely cottage, kitchen floor could do with a clean and wardrobe doors need fixing , they were just propped up.”

- Gordon, March 2023

Hi Gordon, Glad you enjoyed the cottage. Surprised about the kitchen floor as cleaner normally gives it a good mop prior to changeover but I will pass on the feedback. We are looking into the wardrobe doors. Kind regards Darryl & Lisa Property Owner
Timothy January 2023

“An amazing little find!”

Everything you need in the cottage. You can do self catering or All the shops are so close by you can eat out. The cottage was very clean and facilities were to a high standard. Also, the little welcome hamper was a blessing!!

- Timothy, January 2023

Hi Tim / Yvonne, Many thanks for your lovely comments, we are so glad you found the property welcoming and cosy. We look forward to welcoming you back again soon. Darryl & Lisa Property Owner
Karen November 2022

“We stayed at the martingale for four nights, thoroughly enjoyed our stay, very comfortable, very clean, nicely laid out, loved the finishing touches it made it feel very homely.”

No negatives but only a suggestion as noted on other reviews; mattress in main bedroom, although comfortable you can feel the coils and slightly sank to the middle (not at all a negative as did sleep well) only one more suggestion; the parking is a bonus but the sleeper planters are very restrictive with a large vehicle to open doors, maybe if they were moved to the main wall side would give more clearance! Would love to stay again as we visit Torquay a couple times a year and best place we've stayed! Darren and Karen ☺️ no we don't have a capri

- Karen, November 2022

Hi Darren / Karen, Glad you enjoyed your stay at Martingale and thank you for your kind comments. With regards to the sleeper planters, although not too serious we do understand a large vehicle could prove a little restrictive we are thinking about what to do with them and may move them altogether for the start of next season. We look forward to welcoming you back with your future visits to Torquay! Kind regards Darryl & Lisa Property Owner
Sarah October 2022

“Clean, very comfortable cottage.”

A couple of niggles - it could have done with a few more tumblers in the kitchen cupboard and the parking space, though adequate, was on the narrow side. Also the general cleanliness was spoilt by the small rug in the kitchen which needs a thorough clean or replacing. Having read the reviews we were prepared for the steep hills. If you're out in the dark you may find a torch handy to negotiate some of the steps up/down to town as sections of the route have no street lighting. Also we agree with a previous reviewer that it wasn't obvious which recycling went in which box.

- Sarah, October 2022

Hi Sarah, Many thanks for your feedback and glad you found the cottage comfortable. We have had our cleaning team notify us recently that some of the tumblers had been broken so we intend to replace them when we stay in the cottage in a couple of weeks time. We take on board what you say about the rug and have since replaced it. We are also going to label up the recycling boxes so it’s clear what is to be used in each one. Thank you for bringing to our attention. Kind regards Darryl & Lisa Property Owner
Donna October 2022

“Absolutely lovely holiday, your property felt so warm and cosy.”

The decor and little touches made it feel welcoming. Really enjoyed staying and would recommend to anyone looking to stay. The only suggestion would be to list what recycling goes in which bin/bag as we weren't sure. Definately would stay again Thank you

- Donna, October 2022

Hi Donna, Many thanks for your lovely comments and really pleased you enjoyed your holiday. Glad you found the cottage cosy and welcoming and we hope to welcome you back again in the future. Darryl & Lisa Property Owner
Teresa September 2022

“Very comfortable and well equipped cottage.”

Highly recommended but be aware of just how high up it is for walking from the town.

- Teresa, September 2022

Hi Teresa, Many thanks for your kind feedback. We chose the hilly location for the property as it is so quiet away from the hustle and bustle of the town and great views from the bedrooms. Agree it can be considered steep for some people, others enjoy the stroll. We tend to mix it up a bit and drive into town as parking is so cheap. Kind regards Property Owner
Craig August 2022

“Excellent property for a family of four.”

Comfortable & fully equipped. Would suggest a clear note is added to the listing to acknowledge the severe hills and incline on those hills when walking to & from the property...altitude training wouldn't go a miss!

- Craig, August 2022

Hi Craig, Many thanks for your feedback and glad you had an enjoyable stay at Martingale. We note your comments on the hilly location although this tends to be of personal opinion some people have commented they enjoy walking down into town, others mention the steep hills like yourself. We chose the location due to being very quiet and out the way of the noisy hustle and bustle of town centre but short enough distance to get to either by foot or car if preferred. Best regards Property Owner
Jamie July 2022

“Hi we have just got back off are holiday we loved are stay it was really nice ...”

Hi we have just got back off are holiday we loved are stay it was really nice and cosy the only thing was the mattress in the main bedroom we would end up in a heap in the middle when we woke up other than that amazing

- Jamie, July 2022

Hi Jamie, Thank you so much for your kind comments and we are pleased you enjoyed your stay in our cosy cottage. Mixed reviews on the king size mattress, we actually prefer it to any of ours at home and find we get a really good sleep with it. We hope to see you again! Kind regards Property Owner
Natalie June 2022

“Absolutely loved our stay!”

Had our 2 year old with us for the week and couldn't have been more suitable, would defiantly return and have already been looking at booking up for next year. The only one thing that we would change is the mattress in the main bedroom, other than that it was perfect and would have extended our stay had it have been available!

- Natalie, June 2022

Hello Natalie, We are so pleased you and the family had an enjoyable stay at Martingale. I think the mattress is down to personal preference, we actually prefer it to our mattress at home. Thank you for you kind comments and we look forward to seeing you again next year. Darryl & Lisa Property Owner
Michael June 2022

“Second time we've stayed here.”

Very nice cottage in a nice location. Have no qualms about booking here again in the future.

- Michael, June 2022

Hello Michael, We are pleased that you enjoyed your second stay at Martingale. Glad you enjoyed the cottage and it’s quiet location. We look forward to welcoming you back again Property Owner
Simon October 2021

“Really well-appointed accommodation, with all the things you need for a pleasant stay in Torquay, whatever the weather.”

The welcome pack and info booklet are nice and contain a wealth of useful information about the property and the locality. The property genuinely felt like home, and I settled in very easily. The location is great, some might struggle with the hills and steps around Torquay, but that isn't exclusive to this property. It is very centrally located for lots of the local attractions and shops. Only a 20-minute walk to Babbacombe Downs, less than 10 minutes down to the shops at Torquay and the harbour area. The property has one double bedroom and one twin bedroom, so perfect for a family of four, or for a couple, there is also enough seating in the lounge area for the above too. Would definitely stay again.

- Simon, October 2021

Hi Simon, Many thanks for your comments, we are glad you enjoyed your stay at Martingale and hope to see you again soon. Kind regards Darryl & Lisa Property Owner
Kevin October 2021

“Great location for exploring Torquay and the surrounding area.”

Had no issues finding the place or getting in (key number was fine). Nice to have an off road parking space, enough room for a 4x4. Plenty of space in the house. Nice to have a kitchen with empty cupboards to put things in and a good sized fridge. Also nice to have decent size mugs for a proper cup of tea. Lovely house to to stay in, if I was to suggest one change it would be the double mattress.

- Kevin, October 2021

Hi Kevin, Many thanks for your comments, we are glad you enjoyed your stay at Martingale and hope to see you again soon. Kind regards Darryl & Lisa Property Owner
Alan Vernon September 2021

“The address is in correct the entance to the property is in grafton road not upper braddons hill.”

In correct code for the key safe after finally entering the property only to find bathroom tap not attached leaking and water shut off then a 3 hour wait for a plumber to come to fix a new tap on day two had difficulty getting into the property due to poorly maintained stable-door which which was really hard to open and close also toilet seat does not fit properly very dissapointed with you and owner response to these problems when we communitated wiyh you

- Alan Vernon, September 2021
Karen August 2021

“The house was beautiful and clean, the only minor criticism is that the quilts ...”

The house was beautiful and clean, the only minor criticism is that the quilts on single beds not suitable for adults only reach 1/2 way up The house is in a good position with all the mod cons you need Thank you for letting us share your lovely home

- Karen, August 2021

Hi Karen, Many thanks for your positive feedback during your stay at Martingale in Torquay last year. We hope to see you again soon. Kind regards Darryl & Lisa Property Owner
Jane August 2021

“Amazing place to stay will book again thought of everything only thing missing ...”

Amazing place to stay will book again thought of everything only thing missing is a little map didnt realise everything was so close perfect stay

- Jane, August 2021

Hi Jane, Many thanks for your positive feedback during your stay at Martingale last year. Thank you also for bringing up the map which we have since sorted. We hope to see you again soon. Kind regards, Darryl & Lisa Property Owner
Yvonne July 2021

“The cottage is beautiful, well equipped and comfortable.”

We were given one towel each, we could have done with more. The cottage is 10+ minutes walk to the nearest shop, the description does not state that this is quite steep, therefore this would be unsuitable for less able people.

- Yvonne, July 2021

Hi John, Thank you for your kind comments and feedback with your stay at Martingale in Torquay last year. We take on board what you are saying reference the hand towels and have since increased this. We hope to see you again. Property Owner
Ben June 2021

“Martingale was absolutely beautiful.”

Situated in an extremely quiet street, we never heard a thing outside day or night, yet within easy walking distance of Torquay, albeit with a steep hill involved. The house was immaculate inside and had everything we needed for our stay. Everything was furnished to a very high standard and we absolutely loved staying there.

- Ben, June 2021
Darren April 2021

“The cottage is in a quiet location, hardly any traffic.”

The cottage was very clean and has a welcoming feel as you walked in. All the fittings were way above my expectations, pleasantly surprised. I would recommend this cottage wholeheartedly.

- Darren, April 2021

Hi Darren, Thank you so much for your kind comments reference your stay at Martingale in Torquay last year. We are pleased you enjoyed your stay and hope to see you again soon. Kind regards Darryl & Lisa Property Owner

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Summary

Two bedrooms: 1 x king-size, 1 x twin
Shower room with double walk-in shower, basin and WC
Open-plan living space with kitchen, dining space and sitting space with electric log effect fire
Gas central heating and electric log effect fire
Electric oven and ceramic hob, fridge, freezer, microwave, washing machine, TV with sound bar, and WiFi
Fuel and power inc. in rent
Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
Off-road parking for two cars
Private patio with seating
Sorry, no pets and no smoking
Shop 0.5 miles, pub 0.4 miles
Note: Short breaks must start on Fridays

The property

Martingale is a terraced cottage resting in Torquay in Devon.

Hosting two bedrooms; a king-size and a twin, along with a shower room, this property can sleep up to four guests.

There is an open-plan living space with a kitchen, dining area and sitting area with an electric log effect fire.

To the outside, there is a private patio with furniture, while off-road parking is available for two cars.

Martingale is a stylish holiday home resting just a stroll away from the hub of Torquay.

Note: This property has a Good Housekeeping bond of £150.

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About the location

TORQUAY

Paignton 3.6 miles; Brixham 8.5 miles; Dartmoor 17 miles.

Famous for its sandy beaches, promenades, palm trees and plentiful attractions, the popular seaside town of Torquay in South Devon has been welcoming visitors for the best part of 200 years. Torquay holds many delights for both families and couples, from an abundance of children’s activities whatever the weather, to coastal walks, restaurants and nightlife. Local attractions await at Cockington village and craft centre, Torre Abbey, Kents Cavern. Enjoy the wealth of sea life on a boat trip across the Bay to Paignton, Brixham or Dartmouth – and even more exotic animals can be found at Paignton Zoo. Torquay is at the heart of the English Riviera, a UNESCO Global Geopark. Take the Dartmouth Steam Railway and enjoy a boat ride up the River Dart. Explore Greenway the home of Torquay’s world famous crime writer - Agatha Christie. A stay in Torquay can be as relaxed or as active as you choose and is certain to inspire you to visit again.

All short breaks must start on a Friday.

This property offers the following short breaks:

Winter
Off-season
Last minute
Christmas

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Features

Reviews & Ratings

“Had a lovely weekend in Martingale, decor is beautiful, very pretty cottage, clean & comfortable with everything we needed.”

“My wife and I visited for a week in November having never visited the area before.”

“Loved our stay away at Martingale.”

“We had a lovely comfortable stay at Martingale.”

“Lisa & Darryl, You have a really beautiful house, very nicely decorated and so peaceful and quiet.”

“We had a lovely stay at Martingale, very comfortable home from home feel.”

“I had a really relaxing week at Martingale.”

“Advert should warn people about the location being at the top of a steep hill as it is unsuitable for people who have difficulty in walking, it is not a few minutes walk on return from town they will need to stop and rest also.”

“We really enjoyed our stay as a family over the Easter holidays.”

“The overall position and comfort of the cottage was good.”

“Lovely cottage, kitchen floor could do with a clean and wardrobe doors need fixing , they were just propped up.”

“An amazing little find!”

“We stayed at the martingale for four nights, thoroughly enjoyed our stay, very comfortable, very clean, nicely laid out, loved the finishing touches it made it feel very homely.”

“Clean, very comfortable cottage.”

“Absolutely lovely holiday, your property felt so warm and cosy.”

“Very comfortable and well equipped cottage.”

“Excellent property for a family of four.”

“Hi we have just got back off are holiday we loved are stay it was really nice ...”

“Absolutely loved our stay!”

“Second time we've stayed here.”

“Really well-appointed accommodation, with all the things you need for a pleasant stay in Torquay, whatever the weather.”

“Great location for exploring Torquay and the surrounding area.”

“The address is in correct the entance to the property is in grafton road not upper braddons hill.”

“The house was beautiful and clean, the only minor criticism is that the quilts ...”

“Amazing place to stay will book again thought of everything only thing missing ...”

“The cottage is beautiful, well equipped and comfortable.”

“Martingale was absolutely beautiful.”

“The cottage is in a quiet location, hardly any traffic.”

Summary

The property

View on map

About the location

TORQUAY