Reviews

We have a 5 star rating on Airbnb, Trip Advisor and HomeAway (vrbo).

Andrew January 2024

Great place to stay, very comfortable, clean & quiet.
I was working in the area so the location was great. Jo was very helpful with various info. Will be staying again.

Sophia January 2024

We really enjoyed our stay – Jo was a fantastic host and very easy to communicate with. The property is comfortable, cosy and set in beautiful surroundings. We really liked the homely touches, such as the eggs, bread and jam and the little Christmas tree.

Rhian November 23

The Old Engineers was a perfect place to retire to after a working day. Jo was extremely helpful with local recommendations and left eggs from her chickens that live at the bottom of the garden. Great spot and would love to visit again.

Nigel October 23

A super clean, fresh and welcoming place, we will be back.

Rachel September 23

Was a wonderful place to stay. Exactly as described and more. Would highly recommend it to anyone.

George September 23

The Old Engineer was the perfect stay and is only a short drive to The Gardens. The guestbook/information booklet provided has absolutely everything!

Catlyn August 23

Jo is a lovely host who is responsive and will answer any questions. The old engineer is a beautiful place to stay with great amenities.

David August 23

Lovely place to stay. Property is finished really nicely and in a quiet, private location. Would definitely stay again.

Carol August 23

Comfortable and clean and lovely setting with lovely orchard outside bedroom window. Would stay again !

Stacey August 23

The place was absolutely stunning. I never met Jo, but that was because I stayed with my daughter the night before my wedding getting there really late & then arrived really late on my wedding night with my husband. We also left really early in the morning to catch our flight for our honeymoon. The place was breath-takingly beautiful. So homely, comfortable & clean. Of very high standards. I would highly recommend to all.
Thank you

Judy August 23

very enjoyable, lovely garden, nice place

Gillian August 23

Lovely place to stay for a couple of days while we went to a wedding. It’s compact but very carefully designed , beautifully decorated and has a large comfortable bed. A much nicer place to stay than a hotel.

Lisa July 23

We had a lovely 2 night stay, beautiful surroundings and very peaceful. The property was of a high standard, very clean and all was catered for. Tiny touches like fresh bread, butter, jams and milk were provided so we didn’t have to run off to the shops. Will book to go back again. Thank you Jo.

Joel July 23

What a beautiful and peaceful stay! Jo really helpful and went above and beyond to make sure everything was in place and my stay was smooth. Would 100% recommend for a peaceful time away from everyday life. Thanks Jo!

Julia June 23

We received a warm welcome when we arrived and enjoyed the peace and quiet of this beautiful place. The cottage was very clean, well equipped and comfortable. We loved it!

Rebecca May 23

The Old Engineer is a lovely place, beautifully furnished and finished. Jo was so helpful with lots of information and very quick responses to any questions. Lovely thoughtful touches in the kitchen and bathroom and fresh flowers from the garden and essentials in the kitchen. A lovely little private garden space (which we didn’t get to use sadly). Heartily recommended if you’re going to a wedding at The Gardens, Benover or for selection of walks (leaflets in the information pack) nearby. Lovely, thank you Jo!

Angela May 23

If you are looking for a very private oasis in the heart of the Kentish country side this place is for you. The views from the windows are of Jo’s beautiful kitchen garden with the added bonus of your own small patio. Inside is stylish, clean and super comfy fitted with everything you will need. I hope to visit again soon.

Ian April 23

We really enjoyed our short stay at the Old Engineer, which is set in a very peaceful location, a short walk from the local pub. The accommodation was extremely well maintained and was very clean and tidy, with a useful welcome pack of essentials provided by Jo. The location makes an ideal base for visiting a number of National Trust properties in the area.

Beverley April 23

A beautiful, peaceful and private spot in the countryside. The accommodation was very luxurious and tastefully decorated to create a homely, welcoming feel. It really did provide us with everything we needed for a very enjoyable stay. We certainly would come back again.

Emma April 23

Had a beautiful stay at the Old Engineer. Was exactly as described and well located for so many things to do. Jo left a folder of lots of local recommendations from takeaways and pubs to days out and walks. A peaceful little spot that we would definetely book again.

Valerie April 23

A lovely, comfortable place to stay. Very quiet and private. Kitchenette and bathroom were well equipped. Good to have some basics like tea, coffee, milk, bread, butter provided. Lots of places to visit within a short drive. We would stay again.

Fiona March 23

We were visiting the area to attend a family funeral and I was with my 93 year old mother so I wanted a peaceful place to stay & it was perfect! So private, & secure, and waking up to birdsong & fresh air brightened the day. The apartment was in my mother’s words “the best she had ever stayed in” & she left with happy memories of our trip. Jo was a wonderful host- private during our stay but excellent in assisting my queries beforehand & a pleasure to meet and chat to on our departure. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend ! Thank you so much

Brian March 23

We really enjoyed our stay and thought this was a quality property. Jo’s attention to detail and the homely touches made it special. The furnishings, fittings and accessories were all of a high quality. We have no difficulty in recommending this property.

Mark Feb 23

Had a lovely weekend away at Jo’s very clean lovely surroundings a great place for a weekend away highly recommended

Richard Feb 23

A wonderful place. As good and as nice as it looks in the pictures.

Kyle Feb 23

Jo was a great host. Very tidy and well thought out space, welcoming and knowledgeable host and peaceful setting. Thanks!

Jayne Dec 22

We stayed at the Old Engineer whilst visiting family in Paddock Wood and it was absolutely perfect. We were caught up in travel delays and Jo was really kind and considerate. When we arrived there was everything we needed for breakfast the next day! The place was very clean, private and comfortable. Jo even got us a Christmas tree! Such a delight to stay here, we’ll certainly be back. Thanks Jo!

Jessica Nov 22

Wonderful stay! We had the most lovely time in Kent and very much enjoyed our stay. Jo really went out of her way to make our stay super easy, enjoyable and a great experience 🙂 I would definitely come back!

Susan Nov 22

We loved everything about our stay at the Old Engineer. The location was idyllic and convenient. The property itself was beautifully presented and had everything that we needed and more. The host Jo was wonderful to deal with and the extras left for us were much appreciated. We definitely hope to come back!

Tom Nov 22

Fantastic stay. We stayed here for our wedding at The Gardens and it was perfect. Warm, comfortable and even fresh coffee and bread waiting for us. 10/10. Would stay again.

Christopher Oct 22

Very enjoyable stay. The bed was very large and super comfortable. The property is situated in a quiet location surrounded by country side.

Janet Oct 22

Lovely stay , very clean and well equipped cottage very comfortable beds . Beautiful place to stay for a short break away

Vijay Oct 22

Fantastic location, beautiful room. Enjoyed ourselves greatly

Sarah Sept 22

Wow! What an amazing place to stay, we loved it, from the welcome pack in the “hidden” kitchen to the fresh flowers and the well stocked bathroom (just in case you’ve forgotten anything) lots of lovely little touches make this property the perfect place to stay. Jo is a friendly, helpful host with great recommendations for local places to eat and visit. Don’t hesitate, book it you won’t be disappointed.

Peter Sept 22

Lovely, rural, situation, conveniently situated close to number of National Trust properties. The property was very well designed and equipped and the host ensured that we had a wonderful, comfortable, stay.

Sarah Sept 22

What a lovely place. Fantastically designed little bolthole – everything you could possibly need in one space. Off-road parking, a cute little patio area, and beautiful garden view. Jo was really helpful and we really appreciated a little extra time on the Bank Holiday, so we could watch the Queen’s funeral before we headed off. Definitely recommend this one if you are in the area.

Lorna Sept 22

Jo’s place was clean, beautifully decorated and had everything you could possibly need for your stay. The garden with veg patch and chickens was charming. Such a lovely place to stay, I would definitely recommend.

Gary  July 21 – Aug 22

I have stayed at the at The Old Engineer most weeks over the last year as I work away from home. The accommodation was always immaculately clean, is beautifully decorated and offered me peaceful and restful evenings away from the work environment. The little touches of fresh flowers, milk and bread and a good stock of basics made the Old Engineer my home away from home. You also get you own private garden and Jo has stocked up with toiletries in the drawer in case you have ever forgotten anything. Jo was on hand to answer any questions on the very rare occasions they were needed. It really is a fantastic place to stay and I can’t recommend it enough and I will genuinely miss staying there!

Angie Aug 22

Jo is deserving of all the excellent reviews for The old Engineer. We wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this delightful place. Quite perfect.

Lauren Aug 22

We couldn’t have chosen a better place to stay!! Jo was so friendly and had literally thought of everything possible to make our stay complete. The place was immaculate and the decor was excellent. No corners have been cut at this place! The bed was incredibly comfortable & the surroundings were peaceful/relaxing….we had the perfect weekend! Will definitely be returning!!

Ben Aug 22

We had a lovely couple of nights here, the hosts were really nice and very accommodating. Perfect location and gorgeous place

Chloe Aug 22

Amazing stay for the eve and day of our wedding!! Highly recommend

James Aug 22

Really lovely little place in a great location. Jo was on hand to answer any questions and all the extras were a lovely touch – everything was thought off!

Penny Aug 22

The accommodation was very welcoming. I enjoyed my stay. Very pretty location.

Janice July 22

This is a perfect property for two. The unit is thoughtfully equipped and Jo is a great host – generous with her garden produce and very pleasant. The kitchen area is a perfect solution to the space available although it doesn’t have an oven. But don’t let that put you off at all because there are loads of places to eat in the area if you must have a roast! The area is outstandingly beautiful – the villages are stunning, typical Kent countryside with Oast houses galore. There is plenty of walking to be had so many pubs to visit!

Suzanne July 22

We had a great 4 night stay at Jo’s; such comfortable and well thought out accommodation. Will definately stay again if we’re in the area.

Matt July 22

A heavenly place. Beautiful, modern and clean. Surrounded by stunning countryside. Jo is a warm and friendly host. Highly recommended!

Allan July 22

 A perfect getaway. So peaceful yet so close to many of the popular amenities.

Claudia July 22

Peaceful and charming studio with everything you could need. Incredibly idyllic setting and a great base for attending a wedding at The Gardens – we were very grateful for the super comfy bed after dancing our feet off! The welcome book was also packed with useful pointers and recommendations of things to do during the stay.

Stuart June 22

Delightful studio apartment in a lovely private garden setting. Wonderful weather made our visits to the local gardens all the more enjoyable.

Geoff June 22

Location was lovely- everything about the Old Engineer was pefect. Nice touches with fresh flowers & newly laid eggs and great local pub.

Andrew June 22

Just as described. Small and perfectly formed. Ideal quiet location but not too far from everywhere you need to visit. Friendly local pub.

Gemma June 22

Beautifull and private venue in the Kent countryside. Jo, the host, couldn’t have been more helpful and efficient when answering our questions. The rooms were spotlessly clean and dressed beautifully for guests. Lots of small touches to make you feel special. Thank you so much for a wonderful stay.

Jayne May 22

We had a wonderful few nights. A lovely, peaceful setting. Really nice touches with their own eggs, bread and fresh flowers! It is a beautiful private space, extremely clean, lovely linens and towels, really comfortable bed and sun trap outside area! Would highly recommend! Thank you!

Scott May 22

We stayed here on our wedding night, our wedding was at the Hop Farm which is only a few miles away. Everything was perfect and the little touches like fresh eggs and bread were really were appreciated. The surroundings are beautiful and peaceful. It was the perfect end to our wedding day so thank you Jo!

Neal May 22

Great location! Great comfort! Great host! Great all round. Very peaceful but near everything. Thoroughly recommend.

Katie April 22

We loved our stay at the Old Engineer, it’s such a great use of space that was lovely to come back to after a long couple of days playing golf & exploring the Kent countryside – we actually found ourselves eager to get back and jump into bed which is hands down the comfiest and softest bed we’d slept in. Jo is clearly a pro host, the attention to detail and 5 star reviews are evidence of that. We would definitely be keen to return one day!

Felicity April 22

Such a beautiful stay in a peaceful location. Loved waking up to countryside views and fresh eggs for breakfast. The bed was really comfortable and the room spacious. Jo was a fantastic host and had really thought of everything! 5+ stars!

Patrycja April 22

Wonderful stay! Little extra things were super thoughtful and very straightforward check-in 🙂 Would definitely recommend!

Elyse April 22

Lovely stay – Jo had clearly given a lot of thought to all the little extra things guests would need while there. Would definitely stay again.

James April 22

Our stay at The Old Engineer was lovely. The accommodation was spotless and welcoming. The extra touches of fresh flowers and some staples in the kitchen were really thoughtful (especially the lovely fresh eggs). We would definitely stay again if we come back to the area. Ideal for local attractions and the welcome pack had some great suggestions of places to visit in the local area. Thank you for a lovely stay!

Lydia March 22

I stayed at Jo’s for a nearby wedding, and it was lovely – so clean, and quiet and very private, Jo gives you full autonomy. The bed was super comfy with the highest quality linen. Breakfast was left in the kitchen with lovely fresh eggs from Jo’s chickens, and all amenities you could need were there.

Victoria March 22

Enjoyed a fantastic stay at Jo’s accommodation in Kent countryside. Well equipped, lovely furnishing and thoughtful touches including breakfast. Highly recommend!

Ray February 22

We have just come back from a fabulous stay at the old Engineer. It had everything we needed for a quiet restful break. Everything in the accommodation was of the highest stand from the sheets to the crockery. Jo was a fabulous host. We would highly recommend this retreat.

Shandri February 22

The Old Engineer is perfect if your looking for a peaceful escape. The space is very well appointed and the bed cosy.

Olivia December 21

I had a superb 2-night stay at The Old Engineer! The space was extremely clean, beautifully decorated, peaceful, private and stocked up with everything you could possibly need. The bed was one of the most comfortable beds I’ve slept in (it took a few “forceful” attempts to get my partner out of my bed in the morning!) and there were some really nice touches: loaf of bread, selection of teas, freshly ground coffee, games, our own private garden and toiletries in the drawer in case you’ve forgotten anything. Great location – we did a few walks and visited the local pub down the road which was so warm (literally – there was a lovely fire going) and friendly. Jo was on hand to answer any questions if needed, but happily left us to it and so it really felt like home away from home. A tranquil escape from the city life – we will definitely be back soon. Thanks Jo!

Joshelyn December 21

Great cosy place to stay, extremely peaceful and quiet. Everything is within reach it is like en-suite all the amenities this place has are soo well thought of and made me feel so welcome! The book that has all the information for the b&b and the area was so helpful. Highly recommend it.

Matt November 21

Jo is a friendly lady, and will welcome you warmly. My stay was perfect, the area is beautiful, bed was super comfy and you are provided with all the essentials you need. Really enjoyed my stay.

Christel October 21

Our stay at the old engineer was the best air B and B stay we ever had. Super clean, excellent communication and food recommendation. Jo has clearly thought of everything for the guests comfort and well being. It’s private, spacious and beautifully appointed. It’s a peaceful haven that we intend to go back regularly to.

Susie October 21

I had a lovely relaxing stay. The space is absolutely perfect with everything you need. I would highly recommend staying here if you want some quiet time in the countryside with easy access to local amenities.

Pru September 21

The style of The Old Engineer much appreciated (crockery, furnishings etc), and excellent condition of accommodation and facilities. Bed supremely comfortable, good sized bathroom. Attention to detail from Jo excellent. Thankyou.

Sian September 21

Lovely place to stay— perfect accommodation, beautiful garden—much care taken in every aspect. Great recommendations on eateries & gardens to visit. Very enjoyable weekend!

Alistair and Christine September 21

Decorated to a high standard with quality fixtures and fittings, very well equipped and a good use of space. A lovely location and good base for exploring the area. Would certainly recommend.

Vaidotas September 21

Great cosy and modern place to rest.. very quiet area.. highly recommended 👌

Siobhan August 21

The word “idyllic” is the only one that fits. A beautifully and intelligently designed rural hideaway with absolutely everything you could need provided. Jo is fantastic to communicate with and has thought of so many lovely little touches. Can’t wait to go back.

Charlie August 21

Great service and amazing accommodation, would definitely recommend!

Anna August 21

We loved our stay at The Old Engineer. The room was beautifully designed, immaculate and comfortable. Friendly hosts and a beautiful, sunny garden area to sit in – who could ask for more?

Helen August 21

Perfect place to stay, exactly as described. Lovely touches such as bread milk and fresh flowers.

Jessica August 21

This is such a lovely place to stay. It’s very clean, modern but also has a cosy feel. Jo has been very thoughtful with supplying toiletries, milk, fresh bread and more which really add to the experience and are lovely touches. I would 100% recommend staying here, it’s truly a gem.

Ashleigh July 21

Jo’s place is very clean and is well stocked with all the things you might need.

Jordan July 21

Very good host and was very nice accommodation

Curtis July 21

Perfect stay this weekend. Couldn’t of asked for anything else. Amazing!

Jacqueline July 21

I have just returned from a two night stay at The Old Engineer. A beautiful idyllic hideaway that is a haven of peace and tranquillity. The accommodation is very well appointed, spotlessly clean and beautifully decorated. A thoughtful host, that left posies of fresh flowers from the garden. Forgotten bathroom essentials left in a draw, and a loaf of bread, with good selection of teas for breakfast. A super host indeed. Highly recommended.

Helen July 21

Great place, immaculate! Jo has really thought of everything, and some lovely extra touches too, like the fresh flowers, and the ‘in case you forget anything’ toiletries. We had a great time, well recommended!

Rachel July 21

The Old Engineer is a beautiful place to stay. Inside looked just as it does in the pictures, the colour scheme and furnishings were very nice. Everything we needed was there. The bed was really comfy, the hideaway kitchen was really clever with everything you need, the breakfast provisions left for us were really welcomed and we had some lovely scrambled egg on toast., the bathroom was well equipped with some super soft towels and a window with a view.Check in was easy, outside the room was a nice seating area looking out onto the veggie patch with chickens at the end! We visited some National Trust gardens whilst we were there and enjoyed the break. We highly recommend The Old Engineer. Thanks Jo!

Jo June 21

Jo’s place was perfect, beautiful garden, immaculate inside and so comfortable. Jo has thought of everything. And it’s very private and jo makes sure she leaves you alone- much to my annoyance as I wanted to grill her about her stunning house and garden! We highly recommend staying here- such a pretty peaceful area.

Felicity June 21

The studio is as beautifully appointed as the photos show. It is a very calm space inside, with a secluded sitting area outside surrounded by greenery and herbs. Jo was so very helpful before and during our trip and she provided some delicious jams, eggs from her chickens, lovely bread, butter as well as freshly ground coffee and a selection of teas. There are several local walk sheets provided which was helpful and a couple of pubs within walking distance. We would thoroughly recommend staying here.

Paul June 21

What wonderful little guest house! We had a great time staying here. Jo is a lovely host who was welcoming and very helpful with any queries we had.

Geoff June 21

Just returned from a lovely stay at The Old Engineer. Cosy, comfortable and clean accommodation in a picturesque location. Perfectly placed for visiting the numerous National Trust properties in the area and exploring the beautiful Kent countryside and coast. Jo is the perfect host, allowing you your own space whilst on hand if needed. Would definitely return.

Alicia June 21

Beautiful location, lovely decor, everything you need and more, peaceful, well equipped, seriously comfy bed and lovely local produce, couldn’t fault it, would definitely stay again!

Sasha May 21

We had a great visit – everything we could want – thoughtfully fitted out. Great host. All very restful, just what we wanted.

Stuart May 21

We really enjoyed our stay at Jo’s airbnb. The accommodation was brilliantly designed, with very thoughtful touches. Jo has thought of everything you could need! It is in a nice quiet location but is also close to lots of places to visit in Tunbridge Wells/Maidstone. We visited Bewl Water and Dunorlan Park which were both lovely. We’d definitely stay again! Thanks again Jo

Kaya June 21

We had a wonderful weekend at Jo’s place. The space was perfect for us and the kitchenette was ideal. Super comfy bed and the small touches of some food and fresh eggs from the chickens in the garden really made it special. The area is beautiful – Jo provided loads of tips and ideas for places to go and nice walks nearby. Highly recommended!

Janet April 2021

“A fantastic welcoming and homely space,and lovely to be able to sit outside in the evening with your favourite tipple.”

Wendy April 2021

I am happily writing a review for the Old Engineer accommodation which I booked as a pre-wedding night stay for my son and then as a Wedding night stay for my son and his new wife.
I cannot speak highly enough of Jo the host,  the accommodation, setting and overall ambiance.
The night before the Wedding my son and his ‘step in’ best man stayed and Jo set it up as twin beds.  On the Wedding day itself, Jo very kindly changed the accommodation to the super king size bed and decorated it with the congratulations bits and pieces I had bought and was willing to do myself, but did not have to as, thankfully, Jo offered and did a fabulous job. That for me was a little bit of going that extra mile and I was very appreciative as my day at my son’s wedding was full enough. 
I would recommend this accommodation without hesitation. Jo is a wonderful, happy, kind and enthusiastic host which shines through in all that is offered.  At a time when things have been very challenging, especially for a once postponed wedding, to have found this little gem in the Kent countryside for my son and his new wife, made me and them very happy at the beginning of their married lives together. 

Vanessa April 2021

A perfect home from home. The plan to spend the day shopping didn’t happen because the peace and quiet and beautiful surroundings made this the perfect hideaway from every day life. If you want disappear from the world you will not be found here. The accommodation was spotless and clean with everything you need and the personal touches in the kitchenette of a welcome package added to a perfect couple of days.

Alan April 2021

A superbly designed space with everything you could wish for!

Victoria Oct 2020

This is a wonderful, high spec, spotless little gem in a wonderful location. There are lots of great things to do nearby (all detailed by the host). The bed is one of the comfiest I have ever stayed in and the decor was great. Lots of wonderful, thoughtful little touches. We will be returning.

Stephen Oct 2020

Wonderfully relaxing and peaceful weekend get away. Lots of little touches added to the wholesome feel of the property. We stayed during a pretty blustery storm which made the place feel even cosier. Although just off the main roads, only a 10min drive to main shops and local bars are close as well. Great weekend all round.

Sarah Oct 2020

Chose this mainly for handy location (close to friends & family) plus it looked stylish & well equipped. What a great place to stay! Jo the host has thought of everything, we arrived to find beautiful garden flowers & fresh eggs. Kitchenette really useful – with milk, bread, butter, jam etc. The guest house is spotless in a lovely quiet location. Will definitely be back!

Amber August 2020

Wonderful place to stay, good location, lovely amenities, perfect host. Couldn’t have been better. Thank you Jo

Sally July 2020

We had a wonderful holiday in Jo’s place which is comfortable, clean, very relaxing, peaceful and private. Great location for exploring this beautiful part of Kent, and Jo’s guide has some excellent suggestions.

Linda February 2020

I loved my four nights in Jo’s clean, contemporary and comfortable space. The thoughtful additions such as good coffee and freshly laid eggs were lovely. Great shower and comfy bed ticked my ‘essential ‘ boxes as well. The patio and garden would be well used in summer I expect.

Rob February 2020

An excellent property with lots of thoughtful little touches 😀. Great hosts with easy communication and lots of information available in the property to make your stay comfortable. We will definitely be returning

Christina December 2019

Beautiful place, will definitely love to stay there again! Every detail was superb. Many thanks

Simon November 2019

Great host, superb amenities, quiet, clean, lovely ambience and easy.

Louise November 2019

Amazing place, amazing quality and stylish. Such a comfortable bed. Your hospitality was 5 Star and we’ll be back! x