Shandrum Brook, Shandrum, Charleville, Mallow, Cork,

This is the second time we have stayed here mostly for the location as it's near family. There is no freezer at all so not great for families as you would need to go to town for frozen items every day (as is not affordable / realistic to eat out every night as a family of 6) A few of the cups and other kitchen items were dirty and I had to wash them before use. The plug in the downstairs bathroom doesn't work and sink had a scary brown stain down side. The shower curtain rail is a bit dodgy & doesnt look to secure. The paddock area is unusable as it's overgrown and the constant barking from the dogs next door is a nightmare (which I acknowledge is beyond the owners control). Its a shame as it's a lovely cottage otherwise with fantastic views.

This cottage is advertised as suitable for 6. The fridge wouldn't be suitable for 2...and I'm not joking. The dishwasher is similar in size and has to be put on after each meal.

The house and rooms are comfortable and well presented. Shortage of towels though, but fortunately we could dry them on the balcony...which brings me neatly onto the reason for the title of the review. Its basically a square of rough concrete. There are 3 rotten pallets as a table and a 'bench' made of similar. That's it. I get the whole reusing thing....but it was totally unsuitable for anything other than drying the towels.

On plus sides...the beds were comfortable. The wet room was a winner with the 2 boys and the upstairs shower and toilet very good. The house is well laid out and equipped.

The gardens are overgrown. Not a problem for us...but looks well scruffy. I appreciate the owners suggested pulling the weeds ourselves in the intro book...but I don't go on holidays to pull the weeds. The external loo is a spider nest of epic proportion. This is really only suitable for emergency use. The laundry room / boiler room is great. A fantastic washing and drying machine. The off road parking is overgrown with nettles. The house generally is a bit musty, possibly as it's not been used In a while.

That's about it really. It served our purpose of getting away for a week. It has real potential to be a totally charming and cute cottage but is let down by the points mentioned. As it stands I wouldn't return, if the issues were adequately addressed I might consider it.

The neighbours have a pack of dogs who do like to sound off at any and all times of the day and night. That's not in the owners ability to do anything about and would not influence my opinion of the property.