Your Questions Answered: What to Expect When You Stay With Westminster Residence

Heritage cottage entrance hallway

We get a similar handful of questions from most guests before they arrive, so here’s the honest, practical version of what to expect when you stay with us.

Do I need to bring a key? No. Every property uses a smart lock rather than physical keys. You’ll receive a time-sensitive access code and a short video guide about 48 hours before check-in, so you can let yourself in without waiting around for anyone.

What time is check-in and check-out? Check-in is from 4:00pm, check-out by 10:00am. Early check-in and late check-out are free of charge when the property’s available — just ask us at least 48 hours ahead and we’ll do what we can.

Is there a security deposit? No. We don’t currently require one. All fees and taxes are included in the rate you’re shown from the start — nothing is added later.

How does payment work? Fifty per cent is due on booking confirmation, with the remaining fifty per cent due seven days before you arrive.

What if my first-choice property is already booked? Tell us your dates and group size and we’ll point you to the right alternative, or add you to the waiting list if you’d rather hold out for a specific cottage.

Can I book a private chef? Yes — we’ve partnered with yhangry, so you can arrange anything from a relaxed family dinner to a full multi-course evening cooked and served in your own kitchen, with everything cleared up afterwards.

Do you allow pets, and is there parking? This varies property to property, so check the individual listing or ask us directly — several of our cottages allow pets and offer gated or private parking, but it’s worth confirming for your specific stay.

What’s the island like if the weather turns? More reliable than you’d think. The Manx Museum is free and excellent, several of our properties have original working fireplaces, and a private chef evening in is a genuinely good use of a wet afternoon.

If your question isn’t here, just ask — that’s rather the point of booking with a small, personally run collection rather than a platform. Have a look at availability for your dates and get in touch with anything else: check availability here.