Minffordd | Bala | Bala/y Bala | Self Catering Holiday Cottage

4.0★

6 Guests
3 Bedrooms
1 Bathroom
Pets Yes
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Features

Open fire
Garden / Patio
Cot available
Highchair available
Pub/shop < 1 mile
Washing machine
Dishwasher
Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing

Cleanliness

Comfort

Facilities and Maintenance

* Based on a combined average customer score

29 Customer Review(s)

Mark
August 2024

“The house was in presentable condition on arrival, the key was left in the table as advised.”

The shower drain was clogged and walls very dirty. The owner was quick to fix the drain, so happy about that. The toilet cisten button popped out every use. On cleaning the floor on leaving I found that under the couch someone had spilt liquid which had been there awhile and quite dirty behind couches, not attended too in awhile. The main bed was ok but the others had springs that pushed into your back, very uncomfortable. Outside could be made to look so nice but a messy area.

The shower drain was clogged and walls very dirty. The owner was quick to fix the drain, so happy about that. The toilet cisten button popped out every use. On cleaning the floor on leaving I found that under the couch someone had spilt liquid which had been there awhile and quite dirty behind couches, not attended too in awhile. The main bed was ok but the others had springs that pushed into your back, very uncomfortable. Outside could be made to look so nice but a messy area.

- Mark, August 2024
Mark May 2024

“The property is lovely.”

Homely and well-equipped to be able to cater your stay. The property was clean, tidy and has an abundance of movies to choose from (which is great for rainy days). It is in a brilliant location for evening drinks, restaurants and local amenities, as well as a great situation for those who are visiting places in wider Wales. We would definitely stay again :) Our only issue was parking as the listing states parking in the pub carpark next door which they refuted, but we did manage to find spaces in residential areas (where we could be considerate) no more than 5-10 mins walk.

- Mark, May 2024
Mandy May 2023

“The property is tired and do not reflect the pictures on the website.”

The windows are filthy, the rug shown in the picture shows white panels but are now brown, the sofas are worn out, the paint work is chipped, there iare no details about what to put in the recycling boxes or collection dates, no wheelie bin for general waste, major building works being carried out in the next door property. Details advise you can park in the car park of the public house the goat but it is now a pub garden on concrete with very loud noise because the weather was sunny. Delivery's being made to the back of premises on the street from 6.30. This property details need to be updated to give people the chance to make an informed decision.

- Mandy, May 2023
Alan May 2023

“The property is in a good location, Bala is very nice lots of shops and the lake is great.”

The property was more than adequate for our needs, allthough not dirty was rather neglected in certain areas, outside toilet and yard could be a lot better.

- Alan, May 2023
Oliver August 2022

“What a perfect place to stay!”

The size, the layout, the the location! We had an amazing time.

- Oliver, August 2022
Spencer July 2022

“I'm surprised the cottage meets your requirements It felt more like an air bnb ...”

I'm surprised the cottage meets your requirements It felt more like an air bnb property and I was expecting more from a Sykes property

- Spencer, July 2022
Janice December 2021

“Lovely property with all amenities available.”

Really enjoyed my stay and staff was very helpful and friendly.

- Janice, December 2021
Vicky October 2021

“We were aware that we couldn’t park at the property, and the owner was helpful with where to park.”

However we were unaware that the cottage was on a busy short cut road where it was extremely difficult to load/unload our car without having to step in and wait for passing vehicles, many of whom glared at us for causing a minor obstruction for 5-10mins max. This really does need to be stated in the description. Also while dog friendly, there was nowhere near the house where my dog could toilet; instead I had to walk up to a small grassed area by the car park. Not ideal in the rain. I do not think dogs should be allowed for this property. It’s too difficult as the rear yard is just concrete and the front is far too busy.

- Vicky, October 2021
Lynne September 2021

“Just that parking was a wee bit of a problem, we thought we could park in the pub car park next door, but I recon that had changed with the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic.”

The details just need to be updated. We had no problems parking in the High Street till 10am, but then had to make sure we moved the vehicle.

- Lynne, September 2021
Louise August 2021

“Our holiday stay here was brilliant, not far from shops and restaurants so great location.”

However it can be noisy next to a pub, so would not recommend for people looking for a quiet holiday. No parking outside cottage but plenty of free parking nearby. Comfy, cozy cottage, Ideal for visiting nearby attractions and using the lake.

- Louise, August 2021
Alison July 2021

“The cottage advertises off-road parking for one car, when we arrived there is no off-road parking only a space behind the pub beer garden that is next door (this is also not advertised in the listing) most nights the beer garden was busy and noisy until the early hours (so late nights for us as we had to have the windows open because it was so warm, glad we didnt have small children trying to sleep) .”

I read the welcome pack in the cottage which says that the parking available is the pub carpark next door so we left our car there. While we were out in the evening on the second night the landlord of the pub next door (who was very upset) knocked on the door asking why we had parked our car on his carpark??? We were not in at this point and my 15 year old son was the one who answered the door to this upset landlord, we had to go into the pub and explain that we had been told that we could park there. He was really angry because he has not agreed this with the owner of the cottage. The cottage itself has its own problems, the fuse box above the front door it all uncovered and exposed circuit board in the kitchen, the toilet didn't always flush, the attic room had a broken floor board in it (the cleaner did offer to have someone fix it but we didn't really want someone knocking while we were staying there) The outside space is a small yard which had the bin and recycling boxes stored in it (which during this heatwave did not smell the best so we could not sit outside for long) The DVD player does not work also. We left for home two days early, had enough.

- Alison, July 2021
Katee September 2020

“We enjoyed our stay in this lovely house, not suitable for light sleepers wanting a late morning start due to most mornings there being local deliveries to pubs etc as your behind the main high street however this didn’t bother us!”

We loved our regular walks from the house to Bala Lake which looked different every day with the weather changes, very enjoyable stay.

- Katee, September 2020
Erika August 2020

“Lovely cottage and owner!”

Highly recommended!

- Erika, August 2020
Lee July 2020

“Really lovely cottage situated in a lovely village ideal for visiting many places”

- Lee, July 2020
James December 2019

“The property was very comfortable and cosy, and made for a wonderful few days' stay.”

Plenty of facilities for catering, the only thing missing was perhaps a dishcloth. Bathroom sink was slightly blocked but not a major problem. Parking is tricky without blocking neighbours doors etc. Would very much recommend the property though and would stay again.

- James, December 2019
Cerys December 2019

“The cottage was lovely.”

Very clean and very accommodating. It was fully kitted out for everything we needed and was located a 1 minute walk from takeaways and shops if you needed anything. About a 5 minute walk to the lake and was an all round amazing cottage. Would definitely recommend to anyone looking to get away. Also very accommodating for dogs.

- Cerys, December 2019
Peter June 2019

“The cottage was very nice but lacked one vital ingredient, a teapot.”

This was pointed out to the property manager and we were promised that one would be sent round, but even at the end of our break it had not materialised. Despite the above me and my wife and son enjoyed our stay as it is in a strategic place to visit nearby attractions.

- Peter, June 2019
Andrew May 2019

“Lovely house, convenient location.”

Couldn't have found anywhere better.

- Andrew, May 2019
Tina May 2019

“I felt the description seriously over rated the house.”

.. the parking was barely off road and we had to clear broken glass before using it. The place smelled of dogs, the bedding and pillows were old and really needed replacement. There was no hot water until end of Sunday and then no central heating until the day before we left. The owner was very pleasant and helpful when we reported the hot water problem. The house is at the back of a pub so the smell of cooking oil prevented sitting in the garden or opening windows. Next door neighbour parked directly outside across the front gate which restricted access and was aggravating.

- Tina, May 2019

Many thanks for your feedback, we have fed your comments back to the owner in order to maintain our property standards. Your views are as valued as your initial booking so that we can keep providing the best UK holiday experience. Your points will also be reviewed to ensure that our property descriptions are accurate and not misleading. If you feel that you'd like to discuss your points further, please don't hesitate to call on the details below. 01244 345 700 Our lines are open 7 days a week from 9am until 7pm. Property Owner
Linda Wyn March 2019

“April 2019 - family of 5 adults, 2 year old toddler and 1 well behaved dog.”

Miffordd was ideally located just off Bala high street (very busy road though), parking was not an issue (most days we parked one car in the allocated space and one in The Goat pub car park and when busy we could fit both cars in the allocated space. The property was very clean and suited our needs perfectly during our stay. Bedrooms - beds were comfortable and plenty of space for our clothes except in the attic room (however, difficult to get suitable furniture up there). There was a cot bed for our toddler but no mattress only the base (however, we improvised and used a duvet off the bed not being used in the attic room - perfect). Bathroom - spacious with a fantastic power shower and plenty of towels for all. Lounge Diner - plenty of comfy seating in the lounge for our needs and the beanbag came in handy too. Plenty of seats around the dining table. Wooden baby gate at bottom of the stairs. Kitchen - at times (party of 6) we could have done with a bigger fridge but we managed as we ate out most of the time. All essential utensils available, plenty of crockery, glasses and cutlery. We used the oven one evening - suggest you read the instructions if it's different to the one you have at home. Dishwasher (take own tablets) microwave and washing machine (take own tablets) available too. Understairs Storage - in here you will find the freezer, vacuum cleaner, clothes airer, iron and ironing board, brush, mop and bucket including a spare baby gate. Back yard - Safe and secure - perfect for our toddler and dog. Would be a suntrap in the summer. Patio table, bench and chairs available. Highly recommend Y Cyfnod Bistro in Bala High Street for a meal and the White Lion Hotel for a drink. Y Padell Aur is a great Chip Shop and Bala Spice do a very good Indian (take your own alcohol if you are sitting in). Our days out were too - Barmouth, Porthmadog, Llangollen and Chester Zoo.

- Linda Wyn, March 2019
Elaine December 2018

“Standard of equipment in Kitchen very poor cooker and pans dirty, frying pan unusable, Cooker not big enough if catering for six.”

Lack of small sauce pans , no dessert dishes,no small glasses no cleaning equipment and spare bags for bins poor selection of cutlery.Outside light in yard did not work, also you could not use outside toilet because it was full of patio equipment. Also it did not mention in the write up about the steep twisty stairs. nothing in bedroom to put your cloths on . could do with a light over the mirror on wash basin.also the people next door parking across gateway. also nothing in lounge to put a drink on when sat watching the television......If we had not been meeting up with family members who had come from various parts of the UK we would have come home

- Elaine, December 2018
Julia July 2018

“Friendly and helpful staff.”

House lovely.

- Julia, July 2018
Linda June 2018

“We were under the impression from Christine at the cottage that we had allocated parking at the pub next door to the cottage,this infact was not the case and we only managed to park 2 days out of 7.”

When we parked legally on the road we had rude notices put on our car as we had obviously taken a local residents spot.This did mar our stay as on day trips we were always trying to get back before the car park filled up. The cottage was comfortable but lacked various kitchen items but we managed,the windows were very dirty and needed a good clean and the garden needed weeding badly infact the occupants who had stayed prior to us had spent some of their time weeding,not what you expect to do on your holidays.The cottage is a great spot near to shops and various eateries surrounded by lovely walks etc. Linda Thorpe

- Linda, June 2018
Catherine June 2018

“The holiday cottage itself is very presentable, well looked after, clean and tidy.”

If you stay at this property I think that Sykes should make it clear in the description that the 'Off Road Parking' is actually in the pub carpark that is next to the cottage. Also, suggesting that the nearest pub is a two minute walk away isn't entirely accurate in my opinion when it is next door! We had hoped to take an expensive kayak with us, but when it became apparent that it would have to be left on the car in the pub carpark we decided not to risk it. We also found out from a previous review, after the cottage had been paid for, that there is no direct access into the back garden so no option of storing it somewhere safe.

- Catherine, June 2018
Clyde June 2018

“The cottage was absolutely first class for location, facilities, cleanliness and comfort.”

We didn't want to leave at the end of our stay and will definitely return.

- Clyde, June 2018
Linda May 2018

“The cottage was lovely and in just the right location, we had no problem with parking at the Goat thank you to them.”

If it wasn’t for them there would have been no parking, The cottage could have done with a nest of tables to put your drink on, and a mirror on the wall in the bedrooms to do your hair. Not enough glasses and the cooker was poor. The back where the table and chairs in need of a clean and the yard was in the need of a clean. Noise from the pub at night kept the little one awake. People in the area were lovely, home made ice cream shop was a hit, as was the restaurant Plas-YB-Dre brilliant food, and they are dog friendly. The cottage is within easy reach of many beautiful places, plus there are lots of walks in Bala plus the railway. And of course Snowdon to climb which is amazing. Beautiful Wales

- Linda, May 2018
Ann-marie April 2018

“Convenient location, clean and tidy and handy for amenities.”

The area was good for walking but not as much to do if you had a dog and the weather was not suitable for walking as this is main activity. Plenty of dog friendly places to eat. Royal White Lion pub round the corner was a very good place to eat.

- Ann-marie, April 2018
N March 2018

“The cottage is very well located for Bala high street with everything in walking distance (shops, pubs, restaurants).”

There are walks and bike rides direct from the door. Parking is in the neighbouring pub carpark and this means that sometimes space is lacking - its not really possible to park outside the house due to the width of the road, though you can get away with it for packing. The back garden is accessed through the neighbours garden. We were a family of four, I think the house would feel crowded with 6, especially as there is only one bathroom and the toilet is in the bathroom. There are permanent stair gates on the stairs and the stairs to the loft room are steep with a very low ceiling - anyone with mobility issues would struggle. We thought there was a lack of plugs in the kitchen and lounge and would advise taking a plug board if you use a lot of electrical devices. Mirrors in the bedrooms would be useful. Whilst the listing says there are games and books in the house these were limited and we were glad we took our own games.

- N, March 2018
Julie December 2017

“Beautiful cottage.”

fabulous location to the high street and beyond. Katrina was wonderful !

- Julie, December 2017

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Summary

Over three floors
Three bedrooms: 1 x double, 1 x second floor twin, 1 x twin
Shower room with shower, basin and WC
Outdoor WC
Kitchen
Sitting room with dining area and woodburning stove
Gas central heating with woodburning stove
Electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge/freezer, washing machine, dishwasher, TV with Freeview, DVD, WiFi, selection of books, games and DVDs
Fuel, power and starter pack for woodburning stove inc. in rent
Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
Free parking available in public car park up road
Courtyard to rear with furniture and BBQ
One well-behaved dog welcome
Sorry, no smoking
Pub and shop 2 mins walk.

The property

A magnificent, stone-built end-terrace cottage in the heart of Bala in North Wales.

With open plan living and set in such a bustling, exciting location, this cottage is perfect for small families or groups.

A walk in through the big oak front door welcomes you straight into the contemporary living diner, the perfect family room complete with a TV, comfortable seating and a woodburning stove under a magnificent stone lintel.

The well-equipped kitchen completes the downstairs, it has everything you need along with granite worktops and stylish tiled walls.

The first floor reveals two modern, up-to-date bedrooms decorated with cool greys and whites and plenty of storage in large wooden furnishings.

The family bathroom finishes off the first floor, decorated majestically with an impressive double shower.

Up one more set of stairs greets you with the perfect kids bedroom.

A twin room with rustic exposed beams, a low vaulted roof and a velux window showing you the beautiful Bala.

Number 24 on Arenig Street has a rear garden, a courtyard with modern furniture, a barbecue and a fully functioning outdoor toilet.

Bala itself is a fascinating town, and this cottage right in the heart of it.

It is a real outdoors town, well-known for its watersports on Bala Lake, mountain biking and walking.

Bala is within the Snowdonia National Park, home to the glorious mountain range visible for miles.

Popular places such as Dolegllau, Llangollen and Betws-y-Coed sit just short drives away.

An impressive cottage in a bustling town in North Wales.

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About the location

BALA

Corwen 11 miles; Dolgellau 18 miles; Llangollen 22 miles; Betws-y-Coed 29 miles.

The bustling market town of Bala lies within the beautiful Snowdonia National Park and is located at the head of Llyn Tegid, Bala’s famous lake, which is the largest natural lake in Wales and home to a unique fish called the Gwyniad, a relic of the Ice Age. Renowned as a centre for great watersports including fishing, sailing, canoeing, windsurfing and whitewater rafting, Bala is also the headquarters of the narrow gauge Bala Lake Railway. The town itself is steeped in history and has a range of interesting shops, inns and restaurants, and an historical Town Walk. Surrounded by the wonderful Berwyn Mountains on one side and the beautiful Snowdonia Mountain Range on the other, this is a mecca for climbing, walking, mountain biking and many other outdoor activities. An ideal location for touring all of North and Mid Wales including the stunning Cambrian Bay Coast with the six-mile long Harlech Beach, overlooked by its majestic medieval castle. A truly wonderful part of Wales catering for all interests.

This property offers the following short breaks:

Winter
Off-season
Last minute
Christmas

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Features

Reviews & Ratings

“The house was in presentable condition on arrival, the key was left in the table as advised.”

“The property is lovely.”

“The property is tired and do not reflect the pictures on the website.”

“The property is in a good location, Bala is very nice lots of shops and the lake is great.”

“What a perfect place to stay!”

“I'm surprised the cottage meets your requirements It felt more like an air bnb ...”

“Lovely property with all amenities available.”

“We were aware that we couldn’t park at the property, and the owner was helpful with where to park.”

“Just that parking was a wee bit of a problem, we thought we could park in the pub car park next door, but I recon that had changed with the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic.”

“Our holiday stay here was brilliant, not far from shops and restaurants so great location.”

“We enjoyed our stay in this lovely house, not suitable for light sleepers wanting a late morning start due to most mornings there being local deliveries to pubs etc as your behind the main high street however this didn’t bother us!”

“Lovely cottage and owner!”

“Really lovely cottage situated in a lovely village ideal for visiting many places”

“The property was very comfortable and cosy, and made for a wonderful few days' stay.”

“The cottage was lovely.”

“The cottage was very nice but lacked one vital ingredient, a teapot.”

“Lovely house, convenient location.”

“I felt the description seriously over rated the house.”

“April 2019 - family of 5 adults, 2 year old toddler and 1 well behaved dog.”

“Standard of equipment in Kitchen very poor cooker and pans dirty, frying pan unusable, Cooker not big enough if catering for six.”

“Friendly and helpful staff.”

“We were under the impression from Christine at the cottage that we had allocated parking at the pub next door to the cottage,this infact was not the case and we only managed to park 2 days out of 7.”

“The holiday cottage itself is very presentable, well looked after, clean and tidy.”

“The cottage was absolutely first class for location, facilities, cleanliness and comfort.”

“The cottage was lovely and in just the right location, we had no problem with parking at the Goat thank you to them.”

“Convenient location, clean and tidy and handy for amenities.”

“The cottage is very well located for Bala high street with everything in walking distance (shops, pubs, restaurants).”

“Beautiful cottage.”

Summary

The property

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About the location

BALA