August 2023 by Geordie3112
Upon entry to our lodge cleaning issues and maintenance issues were present. Reported to site, no answer via phone call so emailed, I never got a reply, my wife eventually did which had Maintenace attend towards the end of the holiday. The main concern was cleanliness yet no housekeeping were sent to put matters right, leaving it for us to do.. after 8hrs on the road and just wanting to relax which after spending a lot of money on this Deluxe Lodge which was sure to give us that, thanks for that. The vinyl flooring was visually dirty and sticky; heavy dust and old food around sofas which included previous stays dog treats which were also found on sofa by our kids, in each cushion dip; cutlery dirty so had to wash them before use; dishwasher had tea bag, used food, spaghetti covering bottom and blocking the drain; washing machine was full of hair around rim; clothes horse was broken; no dustpan or brush - one hard broom which would not sweep the inside dirt (I had to use my kids drawing paper as a brush for the floor to keep it clean.. hoping this would just be temporary); hoover stunk of wet dog when turned on then lingered afterwards, however despite the smell it was also full so couldn?t actually be used - no suction; a pair of used adult knickers ?found? in the twin room by our 4yr old daughter; sauna slat bench not secure with visible nails sticking out; no lighting at front or back of lodge - both needing to be replaced which maintenance done on day 5 out of 7 of the holiday as well as attending to other maintenance issues that were reported such as our fridge that was so unbalanced it nearly fell forward when our son opened it for the first time, luckily I was next to him and pushed it back quick enough, this did mean kids could not use it until it was fixed. Although we were now in the second half of our holiday we were now hopeful we?d see housekeeping, now we had seen maintenance, unfortunately this was not the case. My kids were soo excited for the outdoor pool, however my son got in and quickly got out refusing to stay in, my daughter dipped her foot in it and refused to go in, this is not like them at all and this was what they really wanted to use, more than the indoor.. it was Baltic (it?s labelled as heated which would also be assumed anyway). We were in and out of the area within a couple mins with both kids extremely disappointed and one saying they now hate outdoor pools. I did ask the LG what was going on as it takes a lot to get to me but this topped everything off as this is now affecting my children's time on holiday, it turns out the boiler is broken! I manage a health club and although the temp was certainly below where?d id have been open.. I?d have ensured signage, verbal comms upon entry, group comms sent to members (people on resort or likely to be during affected stay - ideally before their arrival) update on website etc, there was none of this, no comms, instead they seemed happy to risk people getting hypothermia and finding out by themself, there should have been comms instead of causing inconveniences. Others around were complaining and for any of their kids braving the element at the time they couldn?t have lasted long. We had no choice but to avoid this for rest of the stay where eventually the pool did appear to be closed. I?d say this falls far below the expectations and description for a ?deluxe lodge?. I could mention more but have to stop somewhere. Comms with my wife are seem ignored, the fact my email from day 1 of our holiday and asking to speak to the resort GM was left without a response (nor did I receive a call) has forced this review. I?ll update this accordingly if someone wishes to resolve this matter, now very much reactively.
August 2023 by Alfie-Lee W
First visit on Monday 14th August up until Friday 18th August. Accommodation quite nice although a warn building and could of done with a deep clean and spruce up. Large cracks behind fridge, kitchen cupboards doors all wonky so need re-aligning. Beds very comfy so got plenty of sleep. All the sheets and towels provided were lovely and clean. Lock on front door temperament although the app was to blame as kept needing to be reregistered. Pool area great for the children both inside and out. Restaurant, good menu however we only ate there once simply because of 2 things, we ordered tomatoes sharing starter and we we received were 2 slices of tomatoes with 2 small pieces of mozzarella cheese and this was £8! Surely if a sharing plate we should have received more than 2 slices? Other reason was when we walked into bar area 4 of the products on the bar had run out, San Miguel plus 3 others. I asked if San Miguel was being put back on and I was told Thursday as this is delivery day. I run my own pub and to run out can happen but you go out of your way to get more in and not leave it almost a week. I?ll be back and go out every evening to local restaurants as we did the following 3 nights.
August 2023 by 763nicki
Had an amazing week stay at Willow Lodge Finlake Eleanor was extremely helpful with any questions I asked , always got back to me. The lodge was wonderful , everything you needed was there , extremely clean and in pristine condition. Fluffy white towels , bedding to match the curtains a en-suite off of double bedroom . Having a hot tub was amazing !! We even received a complementary cream tea in a hamper from the owners which was delicious. Would ? recommend to anyone and would definitely love to return at some point . Thankyou Eleanor & Hubby
August 2023 by Paradise59737062748
Just come back from our 3 night stay at the lodge in Chudleigh and we all had such a fantastic time! Clear and helpful instructions prior to visiting and all questions and requests answered and sorted by Jason/Amanda. The lodge is in a great location as there is so much to do for the kids at Finlake! The hot tub is definitely a highlight too! Tidy rooms, good cooking facilities and lounge/dining area! We had a Sainsbury?s food shop delivered which worked really well but there are a couple of places to eat at Finlake which are very close for meals out or ordering a takeaway from and there is a shop for essentials! We did have one meal out at The Phoenix pub/restaurant which was lovely! All in all, a perfect few days away with family!
August 2023 by Tibbyhatton
Had a lovely holiday for our first visit here. A very clean and well maintained park with plenty to do should you wish. Lots of good dog walking areas, we did both the woodland walk and used the small enclosed field. We were blessed with good weather and enjoyed sitting outside the bar every afternoon. The outdoor swimming pool was busy with people which again was good to see and like being abroad. We had a takeaway delivery one night with 3 different meals and all were very enjoyable and big portions. We ventured out to Sheldon and Teignmouth which were not too far away. The lodge itself was close to all facilities but still quiet and private which we liked. The decking was huge and was great for sitting in the sun. The reason I haven't given 5 stars is due to the lodge itself. We had booked a superior but found it quite dated and tatty in parts. The work surface was covered in a sticky film which did not change no matter how much I cleaned it. Some kitchen utensils were broken and the ensuite bathroom was dark which constantly needed the light on even during the day. We found the hot tub was small and a squash for 3 people. Overall, it was a great holiday and we are looking at dates to return next year. Have also recommended to others.
August 2023 by emmagL1798GH
Love this park and this was the second time visiting. Always clean, tidy and well up together. Lodge was lovely and in a nice area. I do have one complaint which I hate doing because as I say I love this place. When removing bedding (which I have no problem doing) we were greeted by a blood stain on the duvet. Absolutely disgusting, was such a shame after such a great week and was left disappointed. I have got a picture but don?t think people will want to see that.
August 2023 by 66SarahW
Just back from 4 nights at finlake staying on cherry tree rise .. Location couldn't be faulted .. Lodge was clean spacious and hot tub was enjoyed by all. The site is clean and tidy very well maintained. Lots for the children to do we booked swimming in advance so had a slot each day. Horse riding on site was enjoyed by both our children. Plenty of walks to enjoy (we had 2 dogs) The hub was busy with families enjoying food and drinks. We pre arranged a supermarket drop that came to the door. Beaches short drive away .. All in all a fantastic few days.
August 2023 by jamieoP7975MA
A fantastic place with excellent facilities and wonderful staff. Great swimming pool with flumes and lovely walks. Really great onsite shop and immaculate site. We had a lovely time and will certainly return.
August 2023 by SamsHolsUK
We have been to Finlake many times before but this was our first holiday with our puppy. We booked a pet friendly lodge and we were allocated Haytor View. Some lodges are more modern than others but ours was generally very good, with what looked like a brand new hot tub. Everything was very clean, and as always the setting is just stunning. There were lots of safe, well kept paths to walk our dog (and children!) around and when you realise how big the park is, you have a new perspective into how much work goes into maintaining it. The kids loved the swimming pool as always (the booking system is annoying though, it?s through an online portal which doesn?t allow you to cancel or amend your booking, so other people probably lose out on a swimming slot). We had a couple of meals / takeaways from the Hub and found the staff to be very polite, friendly and quick, with very good portion sizes (especially the breakfasts!). Our lodge had a sauna which was amazing and a real treat. A guest book to leave a note or comments for the housekeeping team to pass onto management would be useful. For family day trips we can really recommend Canonteign Falls which is only 10 mins up the road and is a hidden gem. The Cheese Shed at Bovey Tracey is also amazing!
August 2023 by tims913
Really lovely place to stay. accomodation: 3 bed Lodge with Hot tub We went as a family of 5 (3 girls) and 2 dogs. Finlakes is amazing - clean, amazing scenary, great facilities, lodges are 100% and well equipped and the whole estate is so clean and well looked after. The lodge was secure with decking surrounding (and fence) so the dogs could run around outside secure and safe. Lodges are not too close so you don't feel overlooked and the site is so quiet you can be inside with the doors shut and not hear anything. The hot tub was massive and you have full control of heating etc. On site are great facilities- just make sure you book the free swimming early on as they slots go fast - but there is plenty of things to do on site with out ever leaving. The walks (on the estate) are great for dogs. Shop has everything you need for basics (or a Large Tesco is only 10 minutes away) - and they deliver food to the lodges (about £14 per meal - pizza / burgers etc) Surrounding are some lovely places all within 30 minutes drive - Exeter / Torquay / Dawlish / Canonteign Falls. Great family holiday - we will definitely go again.
July 2023 by 288lizan
Ok so as always I am leaving a genuine and honest review! On initially checking in we were disappointed, the lodge was clean and tidy but a little dated and in need of a refresh. From the photos on Hoseasons website this was no where near the same type of lodge. I went to reception and asked if it was possible to move - we were offered another choice - a 2 storey forest lodge but the access was not suitable for my mum who was with us, so we decided to stay put for 3 days and see if we could move on the next change over day, as advised by reception. We found reception helpful and professional at all times. The park is lovely - so many activities for children, mine are 12 and 14 and have not been bored despite the typical U.K. weather - they have done football, paintball, swimming, aero ball, animal encounter and Segway which was the definite favourite! We still have riding tomorrow. There are lots of walks, park is dog friendly, the hub and restaurant are great for snacks etc, the gym is huge and very modern, kids love the water park and I have spent a lot of time in the spa, lovely friendly staff who take a lot of pride in their work. 3 days into our holiday we were able to change lodges and are now in a beautiful, spacious and modern lodge which has just made the holiday! I would advise being selective in your Lodge choice and if you want a modern m/new one you will need to pay that bit more or speak to the park about the different lodge categories prior to booking. All in all it?s been a great holiday and so much so I?ve put a deposit down to buy our own lodge. Location is fantastic and although I do agree that some of the lodges need urgent upgrading or better still photos/description described by Hoseasons need to actually reflect the age/standard of Lodge you are getting - but that is not the fault nor responsibility of Finlake staff who do their utmost to resolve any problems.
July 2023 by ChippyB3
The park entrance and drive is stunning. The lodges are lovely, plenty of choice in the kind of accommodation. The older lodges are cheaper and it shows but if you're not fussy it doesn't matter as the park is so beautiful. The expensive larger lodges are beautifully fitted out. We had 2 lodges, one old, one pretty new, the new one was very modern and had a hot tub. there is a good little cafe and shop and also a restaurant, as well as indoor pools, gym etc. Lots of woodland for nature lovers to explore. Near to Dartmoor and a couple of beaches. Great beaches will take longer to drive to
July 2023 by 213shirleyd
Beautiful lodge. Very homely. The vendor looked after us very well. Really recommend staying here. A real treat having a hot tub. Spacious outside space. Would definitely return. Great location for swimming and outdoor living.
July 2023 by laurenp0102
Am currently stayin at finlake and well what can u say have had house keeping out to clean and still dirty beds dirty 5-6 lots of clean bedding tired all dirty or stained some ripped bathroom unsafe with tiles missing rang reception to many times to be told sorry and they will send someone out and offered 10% off next stay errr no love we won't be back if u like dirty places to stay then I'm sure u will love this place !! What a waste of money
July 2023 by gadgetgirl79
We often struggle to find a compromise for a holiday that is suitable for both kids and dogs, so Finlake Holiday Resort seemed to tick the most boxes. We booked a Classic Lodge without a hot tub (I'm not a fan of hot tubs, and given the lodges are all quite close together then most are very over-looked!!). We were allocated 11 The Brambles, which was nicely decorated, comfy beds and well equipped. Each lodge has an outdoor veranda which is gated, so dogs can sit outside but not escape. Lodges are owned by different people so the cleaners and décor vary. Some looked very posh! Ours did NOT have any cleaning stuff (dish cloth, tea towel, washing up liquid, dish washer tabs etc...) so bring your own. It also lacked oven gloves! My only gripe was the cleanliness in the bathroom. Both showers really needed some anti mould spray on the tiles and seals which was rather grotty, but the rest was fine! The holiday park is superb. A lovely play park for kids aged 10 and under, free use of the indoor fun pool with 2 flumes and a kids fun play area, a couple of tennis courts you could book, then various other bookable activities. There's a small shop onsite (selling reasonably priced cleaning equipment!) and 2 restaurants, both which were really good. There are loads of walks round the grounds, through the woodland area. But beware the horse poop! We found one path that was quite a challenge to get down due to horse poop! Offsite there are so many attractions within a short drive. We particularly liked the long walk from the car park of Castle Drogo, and Canonteign falls was also fantastic. We will certainly consider staying here again.
