We considered a 'Visit England' classification but decided that it appeared to be based on bureaucratic 'box ticking'. Our aim is to provide a great setting for a memorable holiday through a mixture of homely comforts, beautiful surroundings and a friendly welcome. Little stars, even gold or silver ones don't seem to capture that. Instead, here is a selection of comments from the various visitors books in the cottages since we opened in 2009.  

The Mill is gorgeous. The grand piano is a beauty. The river is a magical pleasure. But the best is meeting you both. Thank you for your kindness and making us feel so welcomed. (D & CP Dec 2011) 

Wow! Easily the loveliest cottage have have found which allows dogs to stay too (and we have been to loads over the last 15 years). ....Thank you Nick and James for providing a perfect spot for holidays with dogs. You are brilliant at what you do! (L&J N Sept 2011)

What a wonderful place you have here, thank you so much for letting people share it with you.....we fell in love with the place and will be back next summer with our family and can't wait. (E&T C Sept 2011)

What can I say that hasn't already been said? ....and WOW, what a find! The Miller's House is wonderful. Lots of space and amazingly equipped, even an apron! It has been a delight to wake up each morning, pull up the blind and look at the river. The children have not missed the dreaded X-box and have had quite and adventure on the river in canoes. What has made the visit though has been the friendliness of Nick and James....nothing was too much trouble. Thank you both for a wonderful week. (A&HP August 2011)

What can we say?.......ditto, ditto, ditto, to all the superlatives written before and heartfelt thanks to Nick and James for sharing their piece of paradise so generously - the only downside is that a week at Mendham has been far too short and we will definitely stay for longer next time!! (D&JA July 2011)

Never before have we been on a holiday and been so reluctant to move away from 'The Nest'. Everything we needed for the perfect, relaxing and enjoyable time was here. Thanks to Nick and James for such a friendly welcome. It's entirely their 'fault' that we'll certainly return. (K&MS June 2011)

'Perfect' could sum up this short message - to enlarge - perfect place to relax, perfect surroundings, perfect hosts. Our second visit proves this to be so. Also the local pub [The Sir Alfred Munnings] now refurbished is possibly the best food and service of any pub we have experienced anywhere - and only a short walk! Thank you James & Nick for another wonderful week, it felt like coming home. (P&VS June 2011).

Loved coming back to the Mill which was, once again, wonderful. Gardens and cottages looking beautiful and a warm welcome from Nick and James. We will be back again! (J&J T April 2011)

Every view from every window is inspiring and so restful. The Nest is superbly equipped and the piano - worth coming for that alone! (L&N J April 2011)

Such tranquil perfection. What a shame we have to leave! Our stay has been a memorable one, your company delightful and our surroundings so comfortable with beauty at every turn. You have thought of everything to make your guests feel at home and at ease.....a magical place. (J&H N April 2011)

We will long treasure the serenity and the wonderful memory of staying at Mendham Mill. James and Nick are wonderful hosts. Canoeing and croquet were highlights with our teenage family. Thankyou. We'll return. (C&J B April 2011)

Our second visit, and enjoyed so much, as expected. We look forward to our next visit - already booked. (I&A W October 2010)

The word 'Paradise' appears several times in this book - and with good reason. Besides the lovely accommodation this area is full of charming villages, many with decent pubs and great food. Nick and James have done a great job here. Thankyou. (J+P, T&R July 2010)

What a wonderful, relaxing place. Never been anywhere more beautiful. Accommodation first class. Nick and James are wonderful hosts and could not have been more helpful. (T&P, C&M July 2010)

Back, as promised! Still as fantastic as we remember. Through the gates and instant relaxation. Nick and James, as ever, have gone the extra mile to make our stay so enjoyable..... we'll be back. (M&K W & family July 2010)

We are not telling anyone about this wonderful secret haven because it is a unique, magical place that is a precious commodity! The wildlife is amazing - otters, owls, a full range of birdlife, and the herd of cows opposite the river have been entertaining. As I sit here writing, the tree creepers are hopping up the tree. We hope to return next year. (D & M L June 2010)

Our second holiday in Mill Race Cottage and another 'cracker'! This place is the perfect antidote to the stresses and strains of a frenzied modern-day lifestyle....we have paddled the canoe up and down, enjoyed the beautiful grounds and gardens and taken endless photos. What a delight. We'll be back. (J & M H June 2010)

What a find. Most holiday accommodation is portrayed with great media shots and fantastic promises. Mendham Mill is understated, it truly is a jewel in the crown. The accommodation is great, clean and spotless and very well decorated....without doubt this has been one of the best holidays we have spent in the UK. (R & I B May 2010)

You gave us an unforgetable experience in a magical place. Mendham Mill is like Narnia, simply another world. S & C R (April 2010)

Perfect, just perfect. D & L H (February 2010)

Who can ask for more? Fantastic accommodation, fantastic location and fantastic hosts! Nick and James you really have created a little piece of paradise. We’ll see you again. MW (August 2009)

We have spent two weeks here and have loved every minute of our stay – from the warm welcome from James and Nick to the sheer beauty of the place. Every window you look out from and every corner you turn has something of beauty and difference about it. J H (July 2009)

Enjoy this place – it’s a gem! M H (May 2009)

A beautiful and unique location with exceptional accommodation. James and Nick made us feel very welcome and at home from the moment we arrived with a guided tour of the grounds and advice and suggestions regarding places to eat and visit. A C  (July 2009)

So pleased we booked our second week, otherwise would have been much harder to leave. B V (July 2009)

Beautiful and amazing. A beautiful place and surrounding area. A memorable way to spend our birthdays. P B-P (June 2009)

This is an amazing place to spend a holiday.P H (June 2009)

A great stay in fantastic surroundings with great hosts.D W (July 2009)