Uk cottage- what should I bring?

[pollygolightly]

We've booked a cottage in Dorset for our holidays next week. Aside from the huge amount of stuff needed for 2 preschool DSs, should I bring washing up liquid, clingfilm, loo roll, washing poweder etc, or will these things be there? Previous trips have been on campsites or abroad so a bit clueless!

[DeepRedBetty]

Assume the worst. Very unlikely that 'consumables' will be there. Have they specifically told you bedlinen and towels will be there? If they haven't, then they won't.

Also bring a decent sharp knife, holiday rental cooking equipment tends to look like it's come from a car boot sale. Add washing up kit, like sponge etc to your list too.

Basically, if it's something that can be easily nicked, self-catering rentals either don't supply it or supply the cheapest possible version.

I usually take a bedside light and extension lead too, so that I can read in bed. About half the time there's not been a bedside light.

[ShotgunNotDoingThePans]

Don't know where you've been renting your cottages from Betty but oirs fits none of the above descriptions!
Part of the payment to my cleaner is to cover the 'consumables,' although she doesn't necessarily top up the clingfilm /tinfoil, and I always make sure them and the washing powder are there before I leave.

Our kitchen is fitted out at least as well as my own (better if you consider the fact that the plates all match!).

We spent a fortune because we wanted it to be a treat for us to visit, as as for guests who were doing us the honour of paying to stay there.

I'd assume the stuff will be there but be ready to pay a visit to a local shop if they're not.

[pollygolightly]

Thanks for your replies! Its rented from a company who cater for parents, and they have a list of items provided like highchairs, blackout blinds, a blender and the like, but I suppose the other bits cannot be gauranteed for every stay. Not the end of the world if we have to buy stuff, just potentially a bit annoying!

[Gooseysgirl]

We stayed in holiday rentals twice last year and both times we were left enough of the basics to last a week ie just enough washing up liquid, a few rolls of toilet paper etc. Also received lovely welcome boxes with a few bits from the local area.. jam, butter, bread, milk... but I realise not all rentals do this! I agree a sharp knife is handy and maybe a peeler. I always throw in extra tea towels and cloths. Also if you have a young baby and need a steriliser, double check how big the steriliser they are providing is - we didn't and arrived to discover it was one of those single steriliser gizmos for a microwave and nearly cried (DD was only 2.5 months and on 6 bottles a day!!!)

[noramum]

I normally take a good knife with me and be surprised. We normally always find washing up items and some basic cleaning items in the house.

Whatever is missing I buy.