Johnbraycornishholidays.co.uk Reviews

Based on checking the website, Johnbraycornishholidays.co.uk appears to be a legitimate and well-established provider of self-catering holiday cottages in North Cornwall, UK.

They showcase a wide array of properties, from luxurious seaside apartments to dog-friendly cottages, catering to various needs and preferences.

The site emphasizes over 50 years of experience, secure payment options, and 24/7 “On Holiday” support, suggesting a strong commitment to customer service and peace of mind for travelers.

While the concept of leisure travel itself is permissible, ensure that the activities engaged in during the holiday align with Islamic principles, focusing on beneficial and family-friendly pursuits rather than anything that might lead to heedlessness or extravagance.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Johnbraycornishholidays.co.uk Review & First Look

Upon a thorough initial review, Johnbraycornishholidays.co.uk presents itself as a dedicated platform for booking holiday accommodations in the picturesque North Cornwall region.

The website’s design is clean and user-friendly, prioritizing ease of navigation and clear presentation of their offerings.

They highlight a significant legacy in the industry, citing “over 50 years of experience,” which immediately instills a sense of reliability and trust.

Their focus is exclusively on self-catering cottages, which is a popular choice for families and groups seeking independence and a home-away-from-home experience.

What is Johnbraycornishholidays.co.uk?

Johnbraycornishholidays.co.uk is an online portal for booking self-catering holiday cottages primarily located in North Cornwall, UK.

They specialize in offering a diverse portfolio of properties, ranging from cozy, romantic getaways to large, family-friendly homes.

The company emphasizes its deep local knowledge and long-standing presence in the Cornish holiday market.

Initial Impressions of the Website

The website provides a professional and inviting first impression.

• Navigation: Menus are clearly labeled, allowing users to easily browse by property type e.g., sea view, dog-friendly, hot tub or popular destinations like Padstow, Polzeath, and Port Isaac.
• Information Clarity: Key information such as special offers, booking terms, and support options are readily accessible.
• Security: The mention of “Secure & Secure Payments” and “Flexible payment options for your peace of mind” aims to reassure potential customers about transaction safety.

Company Background and Reputation

With “over 50 years of experience,” John Bray Cornish Holidays positions itself as a seasoned expert in the North Cornwall self-catering market.

This longevity suggests a strong track record and deep understanding of customer needs in the holiday sector. Tomedes.com Reviews

While direct customer reviews aren’t front and center on the homepage, the emphasis on local offices and 24/7 support implies a robust operational infrastructure designed to handle guest inquiries and emergencies effectively.

Their focus on specific, popular locations like Rock, Daymer Bay, Polzeath, and Port Isaac indicates a specialized market approach rather than a broad, generic offering.

Johnbraycornishholidays.co.uk Features

Johnbraycornishholidays.co.uk offers a range of features designed to enhance the holiday booking experience and cater to diverse traveler needs.

Their platform is built around providing flexible options and comprehensive support, making the process of finding and securing a Cornish getaway straightforward and appealing.

Diverse Property Portfolio

The website boasts a wide selection of self-catering properties, totaling “over 350 self-catering cottages” across various North Cornwall locations.

This extensive portfolio allows them to cater to different group sizes, budgets, and preferences.

• Types of Properties:
  • Sea View Cottages: For those desiring mesmerizing coastal vistas.
  • Dog-Friendly Cottages: Catering to travelers who wish to bring their pets, highlighting the abundance of dog-friendly beaches and walking routes.
  • Luxury Holiday Homes: High-end options for a premium experience.
  • Family Holiday Cottages: Suited for larger groups and children.
  • Hot Tub Holiday Cottages: Adding an element of relaxation and luxury.
  • Large Group Holiday Cottages: Specifically designed for bigger gatherings.
  • Romantic Holiday Cottages: Smaller, more intimate settings for couples.
• Location Focus: Properties are concentrated in prime North Cornwall destinations such as Rock, Daymer Bay, Polzeath, Port Isaac, and Padstow, known for their unique charm and attractions.

User-Friendly Search and Filtering

The website incorporates advanced search preferences to help users quickly pinpoint their ideal holiday home.

• Saved Search Profiles: A notable feature is the ability to “Create multiple search profiles for different parties and occasions.” This means users can save their preferred filters e.g., number of bedrooms, specific amenities like WiFi or a log burner, or even pet-friendliness for future searches, streamlining the booking process for repeat visitors or those planning multiple trips.
• Comprehensive Filters: Users can filter by:
  • Number of guests
  • Arrival and departure dates
  • Specific locations
  • Property features e.g., hot tub, swimming pool, log burner, WiFi
  • Special offers.

Customer Support and Peace of Mind

A key aspect of their offering is the emphasis on customer support and ensuring a smooth holiday experience.

• 24/7 ‘On Holiday’ Support: This is a significant reassurance for guests, knowing that “Our friendly team in Cornwall are here to help, in case of any emergency,” day or night.
• Local Presence: With “two offices within 5 minutes of every property,” they demonstrate a strong local presence, implying quick response times for any on-site issues.
• Secure & Flexible Payments: The mention of “Flexible payment options for your peace of mind” and “Secure & Secure Payments” aims to build trust and reduce booking friction. They highlight the option to “Secure your holiday for £20,” which can be an attractive low entry point for booking.

Special Offers and Deals

John Bray Cornish Holidays actively promotes various deals and discounts to attract bookings.

• Dedicated “Special Offer Cottages” Section: This allows users to easily browse through “all discounted and special offer properties.”
• Seasonal Promotions: Examples include “May half term from £329” and “Spring short breaks from £395,” encouraging off-peak or shoulder-season travel. These offers often come with specific terms e.g., “Based on a 3-night stay departing between 23rd May – 6th June 2025” for half term.
• Last Minute Holiday Cottages: A quick link for those looking for spontaneous getaways or last-minute deals.

Johnbraycornishholidays.co.uk Pros & Cons

When evaluating Johnbraycornishholidays.co.uk, it’s helpful to weigh the advantages and potential areas for improvement. Roehampton.ac.uk Reviews

Based on the website’s content and industry standards for holiday cottage providers, certain strengths and weaknesses become apparent.

Pros

Johnbraycornishholidays.co.uk offers several compelling advantages for travelers seeking a holiday in North Cornwall.

• Extensive Experience: With “over 50 years of experience,” they possess a deep understanding of the North Cornwall holiday market and likely have well-established relationships with property owners, ensuring a consistent quality of accommodation. This long tenure signifies reliability and trustworthiness in a competitive industry.
• Local Expertise & Support: The presence of “two offices within 5 minutes of every property” and “24/7 ‘On Holiday’ Support” is a significant differentiator. This local, on-the-ground team can provide immediate assistance, handle emergencies, and offer personalized recommendations, vastly improving the guest experience compared to purely online booking platforms.
• Diverse Property Selection: Offering “over 350 self-catering cottages” caters to a broad spectrum of needs, from romantic breaks and dog-friendly stays to large family gatherings and luxury getaways. This variety increases the likelihood of finding an accommodation that perfectly fits a traveler’s specific requirements and budget.
• User-Friendly Website & Search: The website is intuitively designed with clear navigation and robust filtering options. Features like “Search preferences” that allow saving profiles for different occasions greatly enhance the user experience, making it efficient to find and book properties.
• Focus on North Cornwall: Specializing in a specific geographic area North Cornwall allows them to curate a high-quality selection of properties and provide expert local insights, rather than a diluted offering across a wider region. This deep specialization can lead to better property vetting and more accurate listings.
• Flexible Booking & Payment Options: The ability to “Secure your holiday for £20” and the mention of “Flexible payment options” make booking more accessible and less financially daunting, especially when booking well in advance. Secure payment processing is also a crucial trust factor.
• Special Offers and Value: Dedicated sections for “Special Offer Cottages” and seasonal promotions e.g., half term, spring breaks provide opportunities for savings, making holidays more affordable and attractive to a wider audience.

Cons

While the strengths are significant, there are a few areas where the website could potentially improve or where travelers might need to be mindful.

• Lack of Direct Customer Reviews on Site: The homepage doesn’t prominently feature customer testimonials or a direct review system. While they tout their experience, potential customers often rely heavily on peer reviews for booking decisions. Without direct integration, users might need to seek out reviews on third-party platforms e.g., Trustpilot, Google Reviews to gauge overall customer satisfaction and address any common issues.
• Limited Geographical Scope: While a strength in terms of local expertise, their exclusive focus on North Cornwall means travelers looking for holidays in other parts of the UK or Cornwall e.g., South Cornwall will need to look elsewhere.
• Dependency on External Sites for Full Property Details: While the site lists property types and some amenities, the full depth of information, including floor plans, specific room details, or comprehensive amenity lists, might require deeper navigation or potentially lead to external property pages, which isn’t a true “con” but something to be aware of.
• Booking Terms Clarity: While “T&Cs Apply” is mentioned for offers like the £20 deposit, potential customers would benefit from easily accessible, summarized key terms for flexible bookings, cancellations, and payment schedules directly on offer banners to manage expectations from the outset.
• Potential for High Demand: Given North Cornwall’s popularity and the company’s established presence, popular properties, especially during peak seasons or school holidays, are likely to book up very quickly, requiring early planning. The “Limited availability” notice for the £20 deposit offer hints at this.

Johnbraycornishholidays.co.uk Alternatives

When planning a holiday in North Cornwall or elsewhere in the UK, it’s wise to consider alternatives to ensure you find the best fit for your needs and budget.

The market for self-catering accommodations is robust, offering a variety of options from large national agencies to smaller, local providers.

When choosing an alternative, consider factors like property range, customer support, booking flexibility, and specific amenities.

Large National Holiday Cottage Agencies

These platforms typically offer a vast inventory across various regions, often with advanced search filters and established booking systems.

• Sykes Cottages: One of the largest independent cottage holiday agencies in the UK, Sykes offers over 20,000 properties across the UK and Ireland, including a significant selection in Cornwall. They are known for their user-friendly website, extensive search options, and often have competitive pricing and frequent deals.
• cottages.com: Another major player, cottages.com part of Awaze boasts a huge portfolio of self-catering holiday homes. They have a strong presence in popular UK holiday destinations, including Cornwall, and offer various themes like luxury, dog-friendly, and last-minute breaks.
• Independent Cottages: This platform aggregates listings from various owners and smaller agencies, providing a broad choice. It acts as a portal rather than a direct booking agency, linking you to the property owner or managing agent. This can sometimes lead to more direct communication and potentially better deals.

Regional and Local Specialists in Cornwall

For those who value deep local knowledge and personalized service, smaller, region-specific agencies can be excellent alternatives.

• Cornwall Hideaways: Focuses exclusively on luxury and unique properties across Cornwall, often with a curated selection. They emphasize high-quality homes and a more boutique experience.
• Aspects Holidays: A well-regarded Cornish agency based in St Ives, offering a wide range of properties primarily in West Cornwall but also extending their reach across other popular areas. They are known for their local teams and personalized service.
• Independent Property Owners: Many individual cottage owners manage their bookings directly, often via their own websites or platforms like Airbnb/Booking.com. While this might offer more unique properties and direct communication, it requires more individual research and vetting.

Alternative Accommodation Types

Beyond traditional cottages, other options might better suit certain travel styles.

• Hotels & Guesthouses: For shorter stays, those preferring daily cleaning, room service, or on-site dining, traditional hotels or charming guesthouses offer a different kind of convenience.
• Camping & Glamping Sites: For nature enthusiasts and budget-conscious travelers, North Cornwall has numerous campsites and increasingly popular glamping options yurts, bell tents, pods, offering a unique outdoor experience.
• Caravan & Holiday Parks: These often provide a range of accommodation caravans, lodges, sometimes touring pitches with on-site facilities like swimming pools, entertainment, and restaurants, ideal for families.

When exploring alternatives, consider: Pcprotect.com Reviews

• Customer Reviews: Check independent review sites like Trustpilot, Google Reviews, or Feefo for genuine feedback on customer service and property quality.
• Cancellation Policies: Especially in uncertain times, understand the flexibility of booking and cancellation terms.
• Pricing Transparency: Compare total costs, including any hidden fees or charges, across different platforms.
• Specific Needs: If you have unique requirements e.g., wheelchair accessibility, very large group, specific amenities, filter thoroughly on each platform.

Ultimately, Johnbraycornishholidays.co.uk is a strong contender for North Cornwall holidays, but a brief comparison with these alternatives can ensure you make the most informed decision for your trip.

Johnbraycornishholidays.co.uk Pricing

Based on the website, Johnbraycornishholidays.co.uk employs a dynamic pricing model, common in the holiday accommodation sector, where prices fluctuate based on demand, seasonality, property size, and specific amenities.

While specific price lists for all properties aren’t static and readily available, the website provides insights into their pricing structure and promotional offers.

General Pricing Structure

The cost of a holiday through John Bray Cornish Holidays largely depends on:

• Property Size and Type: Larger cottages, luxury properties, or those with premium features like hot tubs, sea views, or direct beach access will command higher prices.
• Location: Properties in highly sought-after areas like Padstow, Rock, or those directly on the coast will naturally be more expensive than those slightly inland.
• Seasonality: Peak seasons e.g., summer holidays, Easter, Christmas, half-terms are significantly more expensive due to high demand. Shoulder seasons spring, autumn and off-peak periods winter, excluding festive breaks offer more affordable rates.
• Duration of Stay: While most bookings are weekly, they also promote “short breaks” e.g., 3-night stays, with pricing adjusted accordingly.
• Special Offers: The website actively promotes discounted rates for specific periods or properties.

Example Pricing & Offers

The homepage highlights several indicative prices and special offers:

• “Secure your holiday for £20.” This is an attractive low deposit option to reserve a booking, though “Limited availability, could end at any time. T&Cs Apply” means the full balance will be due later, subject to their terms. This low entry point makes booking more accessible.
• “May half term from £329.” This offer specifies a 3-night stay departing between “23rd May – 6th June 2025.” This demonstrates how prices are tied to specific dates and minimum stay durations.
• “Spring short breaks from £395.” Valid for holidays starting between “3rd May to 4th July 2025.” This illustrates value available during shoulder seasons, making a Cornish break more attainable.
• “Special Offer Cottages” section: This dedicated area implies ongoing discounts on various properties, encouraging users to browse for deals.

Booking & Payment Terms

The website mentions “Flexible payment options for your peace of mind” and “Secure & Secure Payments.” While precise details require navigating to their booking terms or FAQ section, typical payment structures for holiday cottages include:

• Deposit: An initial payment like the advertised £20 or a percentage of the total to secure the booking.
• Balance Payment: The remaining amount is usually due a set number of weeks e.g., 8-12 weeks before the arrival date.
• Payment Methods: Expect standard online payment options like credit/debit cards.

Value for Money

Considering the type of properties offered self-catering, often luxurious or well-appointed, the prime North Cornwall locations, and the extensive local support 24/7 emergency line, local offices, the pricing on Johnbraycornishholidays.co.uk generally reflects good value for the level of service and accommodation provided.

While direct comparisons to competitors would require specific dates and properties, their long-standing presence and focus on quality suggest that their pricing is competitive within the niche of reputable Cornish holiday cottage providers.

Travelers seeking the absolute lowest price might find cheaper options from individual owners, but they might forgo the comprehensive support and established reputation offered by John Bray.

How to Cancel Johnbraycornishholidays.co.uk Subscription

Based on the nature of Johnbraycornishholidays.co.uk, which is a platform for booking holiday cottages, it’s highly unlikely they offer a traditional “subscription” service in the sense of a recurring monthly or annual fee for content or access. Instead, they facilitate one-off holiday bookings. Clarencedentalpractice.co.uk Reviews

Therefore, the concept of “canceling a subscription” doesn’t directly apply.

What you are likely referring to is canceling a holiday booking made through their website. This is a common query for any travel provider, and the terms for doing so are critical.

Cancelling a Holiday Booking with John Bray Cornish Holidays

To cancel a holiday booking made with Johnbraycornishholidays.co.uk, you will need to refer to their specific Terms and Conditions of Booking. These terms will outline the exact procedure, applicable fees, and potential refunds based on how close to your arrival date you cancel.

Here’s a general guide on how cancellation processes typically work for holiday cottage companies and what you should expect from John Bray Cornish Holidays:

1. Locate Your Booking Confirmation: When you booked your holiday, you would have received a confirmation email. This email usually contains a booking reference number and often links to or includes their terms and conditions.

2. Review the Terms and Conditions: This is the most crucial step. Their T&Cs will detail:

   • Cancellation Policy: How far in advance you need to cancel to receive any refund.
   • Refund Structure: Whether you receive a full refund, a partial refund, or if only your damage deposit if applicable is refunded.
   • Cancellation Fees: Many companies charge an administrative fee for cancellations.
   • Non-Refundable Deposits: Often, the initial deposit like the advertised £20 or a percentage is non-refundable, especially if canceling close to the arrival date.
   • Force Majeure Clauses: What happens in unforeseen circumstances e.g., natural disasters, government restrictions – though this is typically less about individual cancellation and more about broader policy changes.

3. Contact John Bray Cornish Holidays Directly: Do not rely on email or automated forms if possible, especially for urgent cancellations.

   • Phone: Their website indicates they have a “friendly team in Cornwall” and “24/7 ‘On Holiday’ Support.” This suggests a strong customer service presence. Calling them directly during business hours for non-emergencies is usually the most effective way to initiate a cancellation and discuss your options.
   • Email: Follow up any phone call with an email to create a written record of your cancellation request.
   • Online Portal: Check if your booking confirmation links to an online portal where you can manage or initiate cancellations.

4. Confirm the Cancellation: Ensure you receive written confirmation of your cancellation from John Bray Cornish Holidays, detailing any refunds or charges.

What to Expect General Industry Practices:

• Early Cancellation e.g., 12+ weeks out: You might lose your initial deposit, but the remaining balance might not yet be due or could be fully refunded.
• Mid-Term Cancellation e.g., 6-12 weeks out: You might lose your deposit and a percentage of the total booking cost.
• Late Cancellation e.g., <6 weeks out: It’s common to lose the entire booking amount if canceling very close to the arrival date, unless they are able to re-let the property. Some companies might offer a partial refund if they successfully re-book the cottage.

Important Considerations:

• Travel Insurance: This is paramount. If you have purchased travel insurance, check if your reason for cancellation is covered. You would then typically claim through your insurance provider rather than directly from John Bray Cornish Holidays for a full refund.
• “Free Trial” Concept: There is no indication of a “free trial” for their holiday bookings, as it’s a direct accommodation service.

In summary, to “cancel a subscription” with Johnbraycornishholidays.co.uk, you’ll actually be canceling a specific holiday booking.

Always refer to their detailed terms and conditions and contact their customer service team directly to understand your options and the financial implications. Durato.shop Reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

Johnbraycornishholidays.co.uk is an online platform that offers self-catering holiday cottage rentals in North Cornwall, UK, boasting over 50 years of experience in the industry.

What types of properties does Johnbraycornishholidays.co.uk offer?

They offer a diverse range of over 350 self-catering cottages, including sea view cottages, dog-friendly cottages, luxury homes, properties with hot tubs, large group accommodations, and romantic getaways.

Where are the holiday cottages located?

The cottages are primarily located in popular North Cornwall destinations such as Rock, Daymer Bay, Polzeath, Port Isaac, and Padstow.

Does Johnbraycornishholidays.co.uk have a minimum stay requirement?

Yes, while they offer “short breaks,” typical stays often involve a minimum duration, such as 3-night stays for spring breaks or specific offers. Full weekly bookings are also common.

Can I bring my dog to a John Bray Cornish Holiday cottage?

Yes, they offer a wide selection of dog-friendly cottages and highlight North Cornwall as an excellent destination for pet owners with numerous dog-friendly beaches and walking routes.

How do I secure a holiday booking?

You can often secure a holiday booking with a low deposit, such as £20, with the full balance due at a later date, as specified in their terms and conditions.

Are payments secure on Johnbraycornishholidays.co.uk?

Yes, the website states they offer “Secure & Secure Payments” and “Flexible payment options for your peace of mind.”

What kind of customer support does Johnbraycornishholidays.co.uk provide?

They offer 24/7 “On Holiday” support for emergencies, and have local offices in Cornwall two offices within 5 minutes of every property for assistance.

Are there any special offers or discounts available?

Yes, the website has a dedicated “Special Offer Cottages” section and frequently promotes seasonal deals, such as discounts on May half-term or spring short breaks.

Can I save my search preferences on the website?

Yes, you can create and save multiple search profiles, allowing you to store your favorite features and filters for different parties or occasions, streamlining future searches. Bettyandbertie.com Reviews

How do I find specific amenities like a hot tub or Wi-Fi?

The website features robust search filters that allow you to refine your search by specific amenities such as hot tubs, swimming pools, log burners, and Wi-Fi.

What is the cancellation policy for bookings?

The cancellation policy is outlined in their detailed Terms and Conditions of Booking.

It typically depends on how far in advance you cancel and may involve loss of deposit or a percentage of the total booking cost.

It is advisable to consult their T&Cs or contact their customer service directly.

Do they offer last-minute holiday cottages?

Yes, they have a quick link and selection for “Last Minute Holiday Cottages” for spontaneous getaways.

How much experience does John Bray Cornish Holidays have?

They emphasize having “over 50 years of experience” in providing self-catering holidays in Cornwall.

Is Johnbraycornishholidays.co.uk a reputable company?

With over 50 years in business and a strong local presence with offices and 24/7 support, they appear to be a well-established and reputable company in the Cornish holiday market.

Can I book a holiday for a large group?

Yes, they offer a selection of “Large Group Holiday Cottages” designed to accommodate bigger gatherings.

Do they provide travel insurance?

The website does not explicitly state they provide travel insurance.

It is generally recommended that travelers purchase their own comprehensive travel insurance to cover unforeseen circumstances like cancellations. Tavistock-bathrooms.co.uk Reviews

How far in advance should I book my holiday?

Given the popularity of North Cornwall and the company’s established presence, it is advisable to book well in advance, especially for peak seasons summer, school holidays or popular properties, as availability can be limited.

What forms of payment does Johnbraycornishholidays.co.uk accept?

While not explicitly detailed on the homepage, reputable online booking platforms typically accept major credit and debit cards for payments.

Does Johnbraycornishholidays.co.uk offer a free trial or subscription?

No, Johnbraycornishholidays.co.uk is a holiday booking platform, not a subscription service.

There is no concept of a “free trial” in the context of booking holiday cottages.

Payments are for the specific accommodation rental.