Cygnus Boathouse | South Walsham | Pilson Green | East Anglia

3.5★

2 Guests
1 Bedroom
1 Bathroom
Pets No
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Features

Off road parking
Pub/shop < 1 mile
Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing

Cleanliness

Comfort

Facilities and Maintenance

* Based on a combined average customer score

40 Customer Review(s)

William
October 2023

“My mum said if you have nothing nice to say, Say nothing, But I say people pay good money to stay in that pit.”

- William, October 2023
Tony September 2023

“Garden flooded .”

Meaning you couldn't fish for parts of the day . When you could there was puddles you had to wade through. Parking was a nightmare getting in and out of drive . I won't take two vehicles again. House rocks a bit when windy. Apart from that it was fine .

- Tony, September 2023
Jackie August 2023

“Sewage pipes under the bathroom leak.”

This relates to the sink in the kitchen and shower. The waste pipes are not connected together properly therefore there is an awful smell when leaving the property and walking past the pipes. When standing in the shower the smell from the drain that comes up is awful (bleach it first - this helps). Wifi did not work despite typing in the code numerous times. The location you could not fault and the wildlife is amazing. We will not be returning.

- Jackie, August 2023
Veronica July 2023

“The view you wake up is absolutely amazing.”

We had a lovely time.Sure we will be back again.

- Veronica, July 2023
Paula July 2023

“Love this little gem of a place, beautiful location and quirky comfortable property with everything you need for a real break from life, perfect for paddle boarding or any water based adventure or for just sitting on the balcony watching the boats and making friends with the swallows and ducks !”

We are already planning when we can come back.

- Paula, July 2023
Brian June 2023

“Had a fantastic stay here, the location and views from the boat house are amazing.”

We had a canoe with us so being able to launch from the garden was a huge bonus and the fishing from the garden is pretty good too. The facilities are basic but this seemed clear from the description and other reviews. The decor and fixture are dated but functional and we felt quite safe and comfortable. The front lawn does get a little damp on higher tides, so be prepared and also take your own garden seats. Foot access to the accommodation was always dry. The only issue we had was with the shower, which gave off an unpleasant smell as soon as you stepped onto the shower tray. Overall we really enjoyed our stay and would be return again as long as the prices don't get too high.

- Brian, June 2023
Kerry May 2023

“The description of this property on the website needs to be more accurate in terms of the amenities provided.”

We left a day early due to this inaccuracy and would like to implore the owner, as many have before us, to give this property the love and attention that it so rightly deserves. A beautiful location let down by miminal care and attention. The whole building felt unsafe, there is significant movement when the other person walks around. Please do right by this building and for future visitors.

- Kerry, May 2023
Laura May 2023

“My second stay which was a delightful as my first a year ago.”

Good to see the Boathouse had been refreshed and upgraded as so important. Comfortable, clean and would suggest that the balcony area been cleaned down regularly between visits as the wildlife are very active. Wonderful views, peaceful, and the Birds are varied species and are confident to be close by- totally delightful.

- Laura, May 2023
Jenny August 2022

“No ventilation in room - fan did not work (had to buy one - due to hot weather)!”

Oven and microwave could do with a clean. Freezer could do with de-frosting. Toilet u-bend held together with tape - leaked a couple of times! Smell comes from shower waste. Stained carpet - waste bin disgusting. Inside could do with a deep clean. Outside floods, so could not sit outside!. Staircase very dangerous, due to woodworm on some treads. Whole place could do with modernisation as it has great views of the Broads.

- Jenny, August 2022

Many thanks for your feedback. The fan is for use in warm summer months and will of course be in good operational condition for summer 2023. The toilet has now been checked for any leakage and the tape has been removed and the bathroom has been checked for drainage odour. The carpets are cleaned regularly and will be recleaned again for the start of the 2023 season. We have checked the waste bin. We have also carried out remedial work on fixtures and fittings. The external lawn area can occasionally have some water ingress and we are sorry if this impacted your stay. We have made sure the pathway has extra flooring to absorb any water and we are adding extra top soil to the lawned area. We have checked the microwave and also replaced the oven and there is a new mini oven/grill and hot plate appliance for the 2023 season. We have also had a new staircase fitted in Mar 2023 so guests can be reassured that it will be in excellent operational order moving forward. Property Owner
Gillian August 2022

“It was nice place this is our second time we have been but needs a bit of work ...”

It was nice place this is our second time we have been but needs a bit of work painting new carpets new cooker garden furniture nothing seems to have changed from our first visit we had to buy a new fan as the fan that was there is broken and we left it there because it was very hot but we had a nice week if the owner want to sell let me know we be interested

- Gillian, August 2022

Thank you for your comments. We have recently painted throughout, cleaned the carpets, added a new counter top oven and grill, plus freestanding 2 plate electric hob and provided new china, etc. We will be replacing the garden furniture as well as the fan when the weather warms up. Property Owner
Kerry June 2022

“This was our third visit to Cygnus Boathouse and hopefully not our last, we absolutely love its old charm and uniqueness perfect for us.”

Yes it does need a bit of TLC but who would'nt at that age !!! Our only gripe would be about the bed and bedding , it is very uncomfortable! we had to put the spare blanket and quilt on top of the mattress which helped a little but not ideal. Maybe time for a new one ! Garden furniture would be a lovely addition , we did actually take our own as we knew from previous visits none available. Sykes need to update the description, no pubs or takeaway in the village not a problem for us but could see why it could be an issue for others.

- Kerry, June 2022

We appreciated your feedback and can confirm that a new mattress topper has been added to the bed. We will also be providing new garden furniture on the balcony very shortly. General maintenance and decorating has recently been carried out along with a de-clutter. Finally we have taken away the out of date information regarding pubs etc We hope to welcome you back for a fourth visit. Property Owner
Laura May 2022

“Idyllic rustic Charming comfortable boathouse, wonderful views, great stay for me whom usually visits the broads on the boats, this experience has been a revelation as to enjoy the Broads by land.”

Lovely environment, a known area to me and would love to stay there again. Thank you for sharing this property

- Laura, May 2022

Thank you for your positive feedback. We have recently had a general upgrade and de-clutter of the property to make your next stay more comfortable. There is now a new oven/grill and a 2 plate electric hob, plus the entry stairs have been replaced. We hope to welcome you back again soon. Property Owner
David May 2022

“Lot of clutter in the boathouse with most of the storage space taken up by the owners property locked in cupboards.”

Only 3 draw chest of draws available for 2 guests and a small clothes rack with coat hangers not suitable for trousers. No working WiFi. The view however is spectacular, Kitchen & Bathroom adequate (bring your own soap etc). Despite shortcomings we enjoyed our stay.

- David, May 2022

Pleased to hear you enjoyed your stay and thank you for taking time to comment. We have recently had a de-clutter and removed the 2 locked cupboards, leaving more space for guests. The hanging rail still remains and has hangers suitable for trousers. I am sorry to hear that the WiFi was not working and hope that you contacted either Sykes or the owner at the time to investigate. It certainly has been and is currently working. We have upgraded the kitchen with a new counter top oven/grill and 2 plate hob to offer guests a better choice of food preparation. Property Owner
robin April 2022

“It basically needs knocking down .”

One drop of rain and we would have left there and then but we looked on it as a survival/camping trip.

- robin, April 2022

Thank you for your comments. Part of the property's appeal is that as a boathouse, it overlooks the water. For the 2023 season we have replaced the entrance staircase, we have added extra mulch to the path to absorb excess water, and we are re-levelling the lawn. For 2023 we have also replaced the mattress protector and bedding, changed some of the decor and added a new micro/oven grill and we are replacing some crockery. Property Owner
Rob April 2022

“Perfect location.”

Inside and the structure of the boat house needs slot of TLC.

- Rob, April 2022

We ate pleased that you enjoyed the location. We have replaced the staircase and have addressed the pathway/surrounding lawn and changed some decor/ replaced bedding and some kitchen appliances for the 2023 season. Property Owner
Raymond February 2022

“Worst holiday I have ever had only stayed 1 night but I have already told you this .”

I asked you for a refund but you said the owner was not willing to give one only 3 days at some other time . The owner as phoned me and said you did (Sykes ) not ask for a refund so she is going to give me a refund now that she knows I want one . If this is how you treat your costumers it’s a wonder you have any .

- Raymond, February 2022
Dawn January 2022

“The boathouse was very comfortable.”

Everything that I needed was supplied. Beautiful views over the broad. Peaceful and quiet.

- Dawn, January 2022

Thank you for your positive feedback and so pleased to read that you enjoyed your stay at their Boathouse. We have recently made some upgrades to the property and would be very pleased to welcome you back for another peaceful holiday. Property Owner
John October 2021

“Outstanding views, the property need some urgent work, foul smell from shower drain when in the shower, drain pipe under sink is leaking.”

The heater spur socket is broken. The property garden and path floods once a day at high tide, you need to bring boots, it also has some foul water in it next to the path at the back of the property. The local shop as described does not exist and both pubs in South Walsham are closed down. The bed and linen can do with an upgrade. It's a shame because the location and views from the property are Outstanding, for that alone I would return. Access and turning for a large vehicle could be tricky.

- John, October 2021
Veronica October 2021

“It's everything it says.”

The pictures you see is what you get.The view is a amazing.Fishing very good. So peaceful you can't help but chill out.We have been four times now.and will go again..It's a little treasure.

- Veronica, October 2021
Yvonne September 2021

“Have contacted you with a detailed complaint regarding the property and awaiting a resonse”

- Yvonne, September 2021
John June 2021

“Ideally suited to a couple.”

Well worth the views and peace. Would return.

- John, June 2021
Peter June 2021

“The boathouse is a delightful survivor from a bygone age , the position overlooking the Broad is beautiful and very secluded .”

Yes there is a slight smell from the septic tank and the facilities are basic and a little jaded , but this in keeping with the era in which it was conceived and built and provides a very welcome retreat from contemporary ideas of a waterside bolt hole .Perhaps it should occupy a special category of ‘ Heritage’ holiday property that doesn't conform to modern ideas and standards. I hope it remains available and hopefully at the fair rental price that we paid .

- Peter, June 2021
Josien May 2021

“There was a smell of drains in the bathroom.”

Nothing disturbing but other people might make a fuss.

- Josien, May 2021
R August 2020

“Wonderful location”

- R, August 2020
John October 2019

“Stayed here from 19/10/19 lovely quiet location views across the mere wonderful.”

Accommodation bed nice and comfortable, cooking facilities fine for basic dishes. Garden gets water logged on high tide so Fishing was restricted, putting a raised walkway from parking, down side of boathouse and front of garden would be a big improvement. Overall I enjoyed my stay. JohnB

- John, October 2019
Elizabeth October 2019

“The bathroom is bordering on unhygienic due to the smell from the cesspit when the shower is running.”

Your feet also get wet if you stand near the drain in the shower even before it starts running. The stairs up to the boathouse need some attention. The boards at the entrance to the drive are very slippery on walking across them. Having said all that, it is a boathouse but overpriced particularly at this time of year. I imagine in the Summer it can be so much better although reading the comments in the guestbook it would appear that the shower is always the same ???

- Elizabeth, October 2019
John September 2019

“Lovely surroundings and area wildlife and fishing excellent ,boathouse needs refurbishing very tired looking stairs need work /repairs bathroom outdated smell coming up from cess pit in shower pipe in general place needs work done on it .”

Shame as a perfect location

- John, September 2019
Vanessa July 2019

“The location is perfect for a peaceful and relaxing break”

- Vanessa, July 2019
Gary July 2019

“The fishing and view were very good.”

As for the accommodation it needs a lot of TLC.

- Gary, July 2019
Jennifer December 2018

“Holiday was very enjoyable and very relaxing”

- Jennifer, December 2018
Shaun October 2018

“Location awesome superb fishing would come again very peaceful break ...”

Location awesome superb fishing would come again very peaceful break unfortunately the bed was appallingly uncomfortable sorting this out would go a long way to improving this place

- Shaun, October 2018
Gregory September 2018

“On the whole,description in brochure was adequate,but the accommodation left a lot to be desired.”

The bed was very uncomfortable,as were the armchairs. The soft furnishings,cushions etc.were worn out & threadbare to the point of having large holes in them. The kitchen area was unsatisfactory as regards work space,& the cooker inappropriately positioned. Carpet had large holes,concealed by rugs. Entrance stairway,whilst no doubt meeting building regs,was rough & ready at best,& gave the impression of being unfinished,with one side open to the water & steep. Very awkward to unlock top door,from the stairs,if holding anything. The outer entrance door is a very poor fit & blows open in wind,& rattles constantly. There is no garden furniture at all,which negates the admittedly lovely view of the broad. Not withstanding the foregoing,the property is in a beautiful position & is capable of being a perfect holiday let,but badly needs renovation,& a lot of TLC. Certainly not a property to which we shall be returning.

- Gregory, September 2018
William August 2018

“Hi was at the boat house last year, Had a wonderful time, So decided that we would have two weeks this year, which we have just returned home from, wonderful again, If you fish do so at night as bream fishing is a dream, Corn, Worm, meat, cage feeder bread crumb, We will be back.”

Thank you. Will.

- William, August 2018
Lynn July 2018

“Cygnus Boathouse is ideally located for exploring the Broads and wider Norfolk area.”

It's position allows glorious views of south walsham broad, however, theses are somewhat obscured by the branches of a large willow tree on the right. Whilst Cygnus was clean, I wouldn't describe it as comfortable, the sofabed is the most uncomfortable thing we have ever slept on. We had to buy airbeds to be able to sleep without feeling every spring in the, very thin, mattress. The furnishings and facilities are tired and shabby, the whole place could do with a complete update and refurbishment, the shower needs some mould treatment to remove the black from round the bottom. The parking area should be for two cars, however, half the area is taken up by a boat, meaning you can't turn your car round. This makes entering and leaving very difficult as there is insufficient space behind the entrance to reverse straight out without encroaching on someone's drive, which there are strict instructions not to do We enjoyed the area but wouldn't return to Cygnus Boathouse as it was not to the standard we expect of a holiday let.

- Lynn, July 2018
C June 2018

“We had 2 weeks of glorious weather in a beautiful area and for that we enjoyed our holiday.”

The fishing was brilliant catching bream early morning, roach, rud and perch. ( some outside storage would have been appreciated for fishing gear). Walks and boating excellent. We know the area well and had seen the boathouse from the outside so we did not expect luxury accommodation and was prepared to accept it for what it was --a boathouse with fantastic views from the French window and balcony. There were lots of good reviews in the visitors book and for many people that's their prerogative. .However, for us there were some issues within the boathouse that were not up to a good standard. + Although generally clean including all the bed linen and cutlery -( frying pans needed replacing.) + The carpet was old and well worn . Some of the soft furnishings eg cushions were worn and torn. * The shower unit was in need of retiling. +The sofa bed for us was just ok. The mattress by no means of good quality. + We appreciated and respected the quaintness and age of all the furniture but storage for guests was limited to a rickety clothes rail to hang our clothes and one rickety chest of drawers (all other storage was locked presumably for the personal possessions of the owner) + To use the cooking and catering facilities in the cramped kitchen area needed a bit of planning and initiative!!! To use the table top cooker you could not use both the oven and 2 hobs at the same time. However I did manage( with a bit of juggling) to cook several nice meals. The bottom shelf in the fridge door was broken/missing so unable to store anything other than small bottles without laying them down on shelves. + The balcony was in need of some attention. + There was an unpleasant smell from the cesspit We probably wouldn't have even filled in this review and would have overlooked all the negatives if it wasn't for the following- + We arrived on the sat and noticed the venetian blind did not pull e up properly ( ?cord broken) and by the Mon the blind had broken altogether and wouldn't pull up at all. We reported it to steven. (Sykes agent) who came over the next day at (9.am). Good we thought -- he was unable to fix himself---. Thurs- someone came to repair. Had to get some parts ( new string!!!!!!)-going to do it fri -did not come -- - then Mon --did not come. Eventually Tuesday it was repaired Hooray. We were 8 days unable to pull up the blind and enjoy the views, unable to walk out on to balcony without steadily manoeuvring around the blind and unable to enjoy any breeze that come our way in the heat wave. Steven did bring us a fan on the Sunday morning. We were very patient and tried no to let this spoil our holiday but since coming home I have been reflecting on the 2 week stay and paying over £900 mainly for the position and views to have it spoilt for over half that time .

- C, June 2018
Roger June 2018

“Accommodation 'rustic' and a bit basic, location and views from balcony superb.”

I would book again.

- Roger, June 2018
Jeff May 2018

“Clean comfortable but ever so slightly tired.”

Could do with an update particularly the balcony area. However nothing to stop us booking again.

- Jeff, May 2018
Bonnie April 2018

“Wonderful holiday in a super boathouse on the South Walsham Broad.”

Lovely views. If you like watching wildlife, it is in abundance. Would definitely revisit.

- Bonnie, April 2018
Graham March 2018

“Sofa bed could do with updating”

- Graham, March 2018
Sonu February 2018

“Overall pleasant stay.”

The sofa bed was the tricky bit. We couldn’t fold it throughout our stay. Not very comfortable if you have a bad back.

- Sonu, February 2018

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Summary

All first floor
Open plan studio accommodation with 1 double bed, kitchen and living area
Shower room, shower, basin and WC.
Electric heating
New mini/oven grill and hot plate appliance for 2023 season, microwave and fridge with icebox
TV with Freeview, WiFi
Fuel and power inc. in rent
Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
8-10 Stairs to access entrance
Off road parking for 2 cars
Balcony with furniture
Sorry, no smoking
Shop 6 mins walk
Please note: The access to the Boathouse is up a flight of fairly steep stairs so we would not recommend this property to anyone with any mobility issues or children
While a large part of this property's charm is being so close to the water, please do take care in garden areas as soil levels may differ due to occasional high water levels

The property

This delightfully-presented first floor boathouse offers studio style accommodation and balcony set next to stunning surroundings of The Weirs lake and the South Walsham Broads. All first floor, this charming property provides a fantastic base for a relaxing break. A single door presents a stairway from the ground floor to the first floor with views of the lake below. The stairs continue to an open plan living area. The living area has a double bed, table and two chairs with a fantastic view of the South Walsham Broad through its vast windows and glass doors at the end of the living room. The living area pairs with the kitchen, electric hobs, microwave, toaster, fridge and ice box. The back of the property leads onto the shower room, with shower, heating, basin and WC. Outside guests can experience the peace and tranquillity of the area on their very own balcony furnished with two chairs and table, ideal for meals with glorious views, or simply a place to watch the abundance of wildlife and sail boats go by. The South Walsham Broads are perfect for pike and coarse during the fishing season (16 June through to 15th March). The intimate village of South Walsham is nearby as is Pilson Green which has pubs/eateries.. Also why not spend a day out walking through The Fairhaven Woodland and Water Gardens, set just a mile from the property, along with fine sandy beaches a 20 minute drive away. Whether it's a romantic getaway or simply looking for somewhere new to take the boat fishing, this location is to be enjoyed any time of the year.

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About the location

SOUTH WALSHAM

Norwich 9.5 miles.

The peaceful broadland village of South Walsham boasts some of the finest views in Britain and hosts the well-known local broads. The village consists of beautiful cobblestones and Tudor houses, some now home to independent shops. Country paths lead around boatyards and along the Fleet Dyke bank, offering stunning views over the River Bure and river Thurne. Nearby, Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden comprises 131 acres of beautiful woodland, water gardens in the heart of the Norfolk Broads. Norwich also offers art galleries, museums, theatres and cinemas, as well as beautiful parks and gardens.

Please note: The access to the Boathouse is up a flight of fairly steep stairs so we would not recommend this property to anyone with any mobility issues or with children

This property offers the following short breaks:

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Features

Reviews & Ratings

“My mum said if you have nothing nice to say, Say nothing, But I say people pay good money to stay in that pit.”

“Garden flooded .”

“Sewage pipes under the bathroom leak.”

“The view you wake up is absolutely amazing.”

“Had a fantastic stay here, the location and views from the boat house are amazing.”

“The description of this property on the website needs to be more accurate in terms of the amenities provided.”

“My second stay which was a delightful as my first a year ago.”

“No ventilation in room - fan did not work (had to buy one - due to hot weather)!”

“It was nice place this is our second time we have been but needs a bit of work ...”

“This was our third visit to Cygnus Boathouse and hopefully not our last, we absolutely love its old charm and uniqueness perfect for us.”

“Idyllic rustic Charming comfortable boathouse, wonderful views, great stay for me whom usually visits the broads on the boats, this experience has been a revelation as to enjoy the Broads by land.”

“Lot of clutter in the boathouse with most of the storage space taken up by the owners property locked in cupboards.”

“It basically needs knocking down .”

“Perfect location.”

“Worst holiday I have ever had only stayed 1 night but I have already told you this .”

“The boathouse was very comfortable.”

“Outstanding views, the property need some urgent work, foul smell from shower drain when in the shower, drain pipe under sink is leaking.”

“It's everything it says.”

“Have contacted you with a detailed complaint regarding the property and awaiting a resonse”

“Ideally suited to a couple.”

“The boathouse is a delightful survivor from a bygone age , the position overlooking the Broad is beautiful and very secluded .”

“There was a smell of drains in the bathroom.”

“Wonderful location”

“Stayed here from 19/10/19 lovely quiet location views across the mere wonderful.”

“The bathroom is bordering on unhygienic due to the smell from the cesspit when the shower is running.”

“Lovely surroundings and area wildlife and fishing excellent ,boathouse needs refurbishing very tired looking stairs need work /repairs bathroom outdated smell coming up from cess pit in shower pipe in general place needs work done on it .”

“The location is perfect for a peaceful and relaxing break”

“The fishing and view were very good.”

“Holiday was very enjoyable and very relaxing”

“Location awesome superb fishing would come again very peaceful break ...”

“On the whole,description in brochure was adequate,but the accommodation left a lot to be desired.”

“Hi was at the boat house last year, Had a wonderful time, So decided that we would have two weeks this year, which we have just returned home from, wonderful again, If you fish do so at night as bream fishing is a dream, Corn, Worm, meat, cage feeder bread crumb, We will be back.”

“Cygnus Boathouse is ideally located for exploring the Broads and wider Norfolk area.”

“We had 2 weeks of glorious weather in a beautiful area and for that we enjoyed our holiday.”

“Accommodation 'rustic' and a bit basic, location and views from balcony superb.”

“Clean comfortable but ever so slightly tired.”

“Wonderful holiday in a super boathouse on the South Walsham Broad.”

“Sofa bed could do with updating”

“Overall pleasant stay.”

Summary

The property

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About the location

SOUTH WALSHAM