Escape Cottages Scotland - Guest Terms & Conditions
The Contract
The contract for your holiday home is between Escape Cottages Scotland (referred to as "us", "we", or "our") and the person making the booking on behalf of all guests in the party (referred to as "you" or "your").
Because our self catering cottages are located in beautiful Scotland, our agreement with you is governed by Scottish law. Should any individual clause be found invalid or unenforceable by law, all remaining terms will remain fully valid and in effect.
Deposit & Balance
Deposit: A non-refundable deposit of £60 is required at the time of booking to secure your stay. Your reservation will be confirmed once cleared funds are received.
Remaining Balance: Your final rental balance is due 60 days before your arrival date.
Cancellation Policy
We know plans can change! If you need to cancel, please let us know in writing via email as soon as possible so we can confirm and process your request.
Cancellations up to 60 days before arrival: You will receive a full refund of all lodging fees paid, minus the £60 non-refundable deposit.
Cancellations within 60 days of arrival: Regrettably, no refunds can be issued for cancellations made within 60 days of your stay.
Third-Party Channel Bookings (Airbnb, Vrbo, Booking.com, etc.)
If you have booked your stay through an online platform (such as Airbnb, Vrbo, or Booking.com):
Your payment schedule, cancellation terms, and financial agreement remain bound by the terms and conditions of that booking channel.
Guest Information & PMS Entry: Following your reservation, we will ask for your full name, postal address, phone number, and email address. We enter these details into our property management software so we can stay in touch, send your arrival details, and ensure your stay goes smoothly. We respect your privacy. All personal data is securely handled in line with our full Privacy Policy, which you can read anytime on our website at escapecottagesscotland.com.
Arrival & Departure Times
Check-In: You are welcome to arrive from 4:00 PM on your holiday start date (unless we’ve arranged an alternative time with you in writing).
Check-Out: Please help our housekeeping team prepare for the next guests by vacating the property by 10:00 AM on your departure day.
Guest Registration & Legal Compliance (GDPR & Immigration Law)
To comply with standard UK regulations (The Immigration Order 1972) and data protection laws:
Guests Aged 16+: We ask for the full name and nationality of all guests aged 16 or over prior to or upon arrival.
Non-British, Non-Irish, or Non-Commonwealth Guests: We are legally required to note your passport or registration number upon arrival, and your next destination upon departure.
Your Privacy: We only collect the exact details required by law and never keep copies or scans of your ID. Details are securely retained for 12 months for compliance purposes and permanently deleted afterward.
Occupancy & Age Requirements
To keep all our guests comfortable, the total number of people staying must not exceed the maximum occupancy listed for the property unless pre-agreed with us in writing.
The lead booker must be 18 years or older.
Our holiday homes are designed for relaxation and peaceful getaways, so commercial filming, photography, parties, and events (including stag or hen parties) are not permitted.
Welcoming Dogs
We love dogs and know they make a holiday complete!
Up to 2 dogs are warmly welcomed per cottage (if you have more, please reach out to us beforehand to see if we can accommodate them).
For their safety and well-being, dogs must not be left unattended inside the holiday home at any time.
We kindly ask that you keep your pets under control and clean up after them, both indoors and in the gardens, so the property stays fresh for every guest.
Care of the Property
We take great pride in maintaining our cottages and ask that you treat the home with care during your stay.
Smoking & Vaping: All of our homes are strictly non-smoking and non-vaping inside. An automatic £500 specialist cleaning fee applies if smoking occurs indoors.
Security & Damages: Please ensure the property is locked securely when you are out enjoying Scotland. While normal wear and tear is expected, guests may be held responsible for major accidental damage or breakages.
Hot Tub Safety
Where a hot tub is provided: Guests are welcome to enjoy the hot tub entirely at their own risk.Please ensure all safety guidance provided at the property is followed. We cannot accept liability for any injury, illness, or personal conditions resulting from hot tub use.
Belongings & Liability
We want you to have a safe and relaxing stay. However, we cannot accept liability for loss, injury, or damage to personal belongings, vehicles, or contents during your stay.
Lost Property: If you leave something behind, just let us know! We are happy to post items back to you at cost.
Wi-Fi & Internet
Complimentary Wi-Fi is provided for your convenience. Given our scenic rural locations, broadband speeds can occasionally vary or drop due to weather and local infrastructure, which is beyond our control. A fair usage policy applies.
Property Access & Privacy
We value your privacy during your holiday. We will only enter the cottage if it is an emergency, if you have reported a maintenance issue that needs fixing, or to perform necessary repairs/inspections (for which we will always try to give you plenty of advance notice).
Booking Confirmations & Check-In Details
Your official confirmation documents will be emailed to you immediately after booking. Please take a moment to check that all details are correct.
Your complete check-in guide, access codes, and directions will be emailed to you 7 days before your arrival date.
We thank you for booking to stay at one of our self catering cottages in Scotland, and we hope you have a great holiday.
Julie & Frank Wilson
Escape Cottages Scotland