10/10 Excellent
Karen M.
28 Jun 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Garden Cottage
Karen M.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
Entire home
Peaceful Garden Cottage Retreat!
Photo gallery for Peaceful Garden Cottage Retreat!
Reviews
10 out of 10
Exceptional
1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 2400 sq ft
Popular amenities
Explore the area
Charleston, SC
- Medical University of South Carolina7 min drive
- College of Charleston8 min drive
- Port of Charleston Cruise Terminal11 min drive
- Charleston, SC (CHS-Charleston Intl.)17 min drive
Rooms & beds
1 bedroom (sleeps 2)
Sleeping area
1 Queen Bed
1 bathroom
Bathroom 1
Soap · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer
Spaces
Deck or patio
Kitchenette
Garden
Dining area
About this property
Peaceful Garden Cottage Retreat!
Welcome to The Backyard Cottage, your serene escape in West Ashley— where Southern hospitality meets modern comfort, just minutes from the heart of Charleston’s historic district.
This beautifully appointed cottage offers an exceptional getaway experience that consistently exceeds expectations. From the seamless booking process and clear, responsive communication to the thoughtfully curated space, every detail has been designed with your comfort in mind.
Start your stay with private parking just steps from the front door. A charming garden path lined with oaks, ferns, hydrangeas, and azaleas sets the tone for a peaceful retreat. Inside, the cottage is bright, airy, and sparkling clean—a perfect sanctuary for couples, solo travelers, or anyone looking to unwind in style.
Guests consistently praise the space as "pristine," "cozy," "modern," "beautiful," and a "true sanctuary." High-quality linens, tasteful décor, and extra touches—like homemade cookies, wine, and chocolates on arrival—create a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Enjoy quiet mornings or relaxing evenings on your private patio oasis, ideal for sipping wine under the stars. When you're ready to explore, you're just minutes from Charleston’s top attractions. Many guests choose to Uber downtown, avoiding the hassle and cost of parking.
The property’s online listing and photos are 100% accurate, ensuring no surprises—just a smooth and delightful experience from start to finish.
Guest Review Highlight:
"On a scale of 0–5, The Backyard Cottage deserves a 6! Beautiful, convenient, and so clean. I can’t wait to come back!"
Whether you're in search of a relaxing retreat or a convenient home base to explore the Lowcountry, The Backyard Cottage promises an unforgettable stay.
Book now and experience Charleston at its finest!
Private, Peaceful, & Immaculately Clean
Queen Bed + Sleep Comfort
• Room-darkening window treatments
• Premium 100% cotton bedding (OEKO-TEX® certified)
• Light, cozy throw & bedspread
• ALL bedding, pillows, and covers are washed between guests
Entertainment & Convenience
• 43” LG Smart TV + Wi-Fi
• USB outlets on both sides of the bed
• Playing cards & puzzle in the dresser
• iPhone charger provided (please return!)
Kitchenette Amenities
• Quartz countertop
• Fridge, dishwasher, microwave, toaster oven
• Dish cloths, soap, coffee, tea, & light snacks
Spa-like Bathroom
• Walk-in rainfall shower
• Cultured marble vanity + full-length mirror
• Washer/dryer
• Turkish towels, CHI blow dryer, mini iron board
• Detergent pods, broom, dustpan, Swiffer w/ wet pads
Private Patio + Garden Access
• Enjoy your own outdoor space
• Quiet backyard gardens—feel free to explore
Host Space
• We have a workshop & screened-in porch nearby
• You may see us gardening or with grandkids
• Your privacy is fully respected—your patio is private, and not visible from our space
Our City of Charleston Certificate of Operation Number is OP2023-01687.
This beautifully appointed cottage offers an exceptional getaway experience that consistently exceeds expectations. From the seamless booking process and clear, responsive communication to the thoughtfully curated space, every detail has been designed with your comfort in mind.
Start your stay with private parking just steps from the front door. A charming garden path lined with oaks, ferns, hydrangeas, and azaleas sets the tone for a peaceful retreat. Inside, the cottage is bright, airy, and sparkling clean—a perfect sanctuary for couples, solo travelers, or anyone looking to unwind in style.
Guests consistently praise the space as "pristine," "cozy," "modern," "beautiful," and a "true sanctuary." High-quality linens, tasteful décor, and extra touches—like homemade cookies, wine, and chocolates on arrival—create a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Enjoy quiet mornings or relaxing evenings on your private patio oasis, ideal for sipping wine under the stars. When you're ready to explore, you're just minutes from Charleston’s top attractions. Many guests choose to Uber downtown, avoiding the hassle and cost of parking.
The property’s online listing and photos are 100% accurate, ensuring no surprises—just a smooth and delightful experience from start to finish.
Guest Review Highlight:
"On a scale of 0–5, The Backyard Cottage deserves a 6! Beautiful, convenient, and so clean. I can’t wait to come back!"
Whether you're in search of a relaxing retreat or a convenient home base to explore the Lowcountry, The Backyard Cottage promises an unforgettable stay.
Book now and experience Charleston at its finest!
Private, Peaceful, & Immaculately Clean
Queen Bed + Sleep Comfort
• Room-darkening window treatments
• Premium 100% cotton bedding (OEKO-TEX® certified)
• Light, cozy throw & bedspread
• ALL bedding, pillows, and covers are washed between guests
Entertainment & Convenience
• 43” LG Smart TV + Wi-Fi
• USB outlets on both sides of the bed
• Playing cards & puzzle in the dresser
• iPhone charger provided (please return!)
Kitchenette Amenities
• Quartz countertop
• Fridge, dishwasher, microwave, toaster oven
• Dish cloths, soap, coffee, tea, & light snacks
Spa-like Bathroom
• Walk-in rainfall shower
• Cultured marble vanity + full-length mirror
• Washer/dryer
• Turkish towels, CHI blow dryer, mini iron board
• Detergent pods, broom, dustpan, Swiffer w/ wet pads
Private Patio + Garden Access
• Enjoy your own outdoor space
• Quiet backyard gardens—feel free to explore
Host Space
• We have a workshop & screened-in porch nearby
• You may see us gardening or with grandkids
• Your privacy is fully respected—your patio is private, and not visible from our space
Our City of Charleston Certificate of Operation Number is OP2023-01687.
Property manager
Sidney & Margie Dudley
Premier Host
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Amenities
Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space
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- Air conditioning
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10.0 out of 10, (68 reviews)
House Rules
Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 10:00 AM
Children
Adults only
Events
No events allowed
Pets
No pets allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Check-out instructions
The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load the dishwasher
Gather used towels
Remove personal items and remove leftover food and drinks
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Please DO NOT strip the bed.
Please hang towels on towel bars and bath rug on the rug bar.
Please DO NOT start the dishwasher.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Important information
You need to know
This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
About the area
Charleston
Located on a river, this cottage is in West Ashley, a neighbourhood in Charleston. Charleston City Market and USS Yorktown are notable landmarks, and some of the area's popular attractions include South Carolina Aquarium and Patriots Point. Charleston Museum and Splash Zone Waterpark are also worth visiting. Jet skiing, kayaking and waterskiing offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with cycling nearby.
Charleston, SC
What's nearby
- Medical University of South Carolina - 7 min drive - 6.1 km
- College of Charleston - 8 min drive - 6.7 km
- The Citadel - 9 min drive - 7.4 km
- Charleston City Market - 10 min drive - 8.7 km
- Port of Charleston Cruise Terminal - 11 min drive - 9.0 km
Getting around
Restaurants
- Chick-fil-A on Savannah Highway - 3 min drive
- Starbucks - 12 min walk
- Turbo Cone - 5 min drive
- Bessinger's BBQ - 3 min drive
- Home Team BBQ - 5 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window10/10
Cleanliness
10/10
Check-in
10/10
Communication
10/10
Location
10/10
Listing accuracy
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
Verified traveller
24 Jun 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Peaceful Cottage
Verified traveller
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025
10/10 Excellent
Alexandra E.
1 Jun 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Nice stay!
Alexandra E.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
10/10 Excellent
Jack S.
3 Jun 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Awesome spot for our honeymoon.
Jack S.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
10/10 Excellent
Scott C.
2 Jun 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Anniversary in Charleston
Scott C.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2025
10/10 Excellent
Donna H.
22 Apr 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Awesome Stay
Donna H.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025
10/10 Excellent
Thomas G.
13 May 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Charleston
Thomas G.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
10/10 Excellent
Kathleen G.
17 Apr 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Paradise in SC
Kathleen G.
Stayed 6 nights in Apr 2025
10/10 Excellent
April and Russ R.
21 Mar 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cozy Cottage
April and Russ R.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025
10/10 Excellent
Lora S.
2 Apr 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Darling Cottage
Lora S.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025
10/10 Excellent
Jen O.
11 Mar 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The Perfect Getaway
Jen O.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025
10/10 Excellent
Nhu D.
21 Oct 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Exceptionally clean, well designed, peaceful stay
Nhu D.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024
10/10 Excellent
Kelly H.
28 Mar 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Anniversary trip
Kelly H.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025
10/10 Excellent
Ronda P.
15 Dec 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect location with all the extras!
Ronda P.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024
10/10 Excellent
Anita and Bob P.
14 Jun 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Anita and Bob P.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2025
10/10 Excellent
Andrew P.
15 Mar 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great stay!
Andrew P.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023
10/10 Excellent
Courtney S.
4 Jul 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The perfect cottage location
Courtney S.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024
10/10 Excellent
Kristen B.
14 Sept 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Exceeds Expectations
Kristen B.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024
10/10 Excellent
Valerie M.
12 Mar 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful Stay!
Valerie M.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2023
10/10 Excellent
Clark S.
13 Jul 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Long overdue vacation!
Clark S.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025
10/10 Excellent
Verified traveller
10 Dec 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great Place!
Verified traveller
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024
10/10 Excellent
Wendy H.
25 Feb 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Anniversary Get-a-way
Wendy H.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2024
10/10 Excellent
Heath B.
9 May 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Week in Charleston
Heath B.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2023
10/10 Excellent
Meg K.
1 May 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect Cottage
Meg K.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2023
10/10 Excellent
Steven J.
15 May 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect Oasis
Steven J.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024
About the host
Hosted by Sidney & Margie Dudley
We’re both proud to call the Lowcountry home and have been married for 42 wonderful years. In October 2019, we retired our welding and fabrication shop of over 30 years after Sidney experienced a massive stroke and was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. Today, we’re grateful to say he’s doing well and staying active.
After downsizing from the country to the city, we knew the moment we first saw this property that it was meant to be home. When we arrived, the cottage was just a shell and the grounds were wildly overgrown—but after five years of hard work, love, and vision, our dream is finally coming together.
We both enjoy meeting new people and spending time outdoors. Sidney has a deep love for the Lowcountry swamplands and says any day at the hunting club is a good one. Margie finds peace at the beach or working in the yard and also has a passion for real estate—she’s a local realtor who loves all things home and property. We also enjoy biking and are lucky enough to start our rides right from our backyard.
We truly love this place and feel so fortunate to be able to share it with others. Hosting is a joy for us, and we warmly welcome you to The Backyard Cottage. We hope you choose to stay with us—we believe you’ll be glad you did.
After downsizing from the country to the city, we knew the moment we first saw this property that it was meant to be home. When we arrived, the cottage was just a shell and the grounds were wildly overgrown—but after five years of hard work, love, and vision, our dream is finally coming together.
We both enjoy meeting new people and spending time outdoors. Sidney has a deep love for the Lowcountry swamplands and says any day at the hunting club is a good one. Margie finds peace at the beach or working in the yard and also has a passion for real estate—she’s a local realtor who loves all things home and property. We also enjoy biking and are lucky enough to start our rides right from our backyard.
We truly love this place and feel so fortunate to be able to share it with others. Hosting is a joy for us, and we warmly welcome you to The Backyard Cottage. We hope you choose to stay with us—we believe you’ll be glad you did.
Why they chose this property
Our neighborhood in West Ashley is vibrant and welcoming, with a mix of young families, longtime locals, walkers, cyclists, and parents with strollers enjoying the charm of the area.
Location Highlights
The West Ashley Greenway, a beautiful 10.5-mile trail, is just a five-minute walk from the cottage—perfect for biking, jogging, or a peaceful stroll.
Walkable Favorites Nearby:
• Whole Foods Market
• Starbucks
• The Glass Onion – One of our local favorites for refined Southern soul food
• Swig & Swine – A must for BBQ lovers
A Short Walk or Bike Ride Away – The Avondale Community:
• Pearlz Oyster Bar
• Highfalutin Coffee Roasters
• Verde – Build-your-own salad in a laid-back setting
• Charles Towne Fermentory – A top-rated local brewery
• Triangle Char & Bar – A vibrant spot for burgers, tacos & more
• Avondale Wine & Cheese – Cozy and perfect for date night or a glass of wine with friends
Nearby Shopping & Dining:
• St. Andrews Center – Includes Harris Teeter and more
• South Windermere Center (a favorite bike stop):
Three Little Birds Café – Cozy café with breakfast & lunch. Always a wait—but always worth it!
TCBY – Frozen yogurt spot for a sweet treat
Earth Fare – Local health food grocery
Just Minutes From It All:
• Historic Downtown Charleston
• Charleston’s beautiful beaches
• CHS Airport – About a 16-minute drive from the cottage
Whether you're looking for a cozy retreat, outdoor adventure, or culinary exploration, The Backyard Cottage is the perfect place to experience the best of Charleston—right from your doorstep.
Location Highlights
The West Ashley Greenway, a beautiful 10.5-mile trail, is just a five-minute walk from the cottage—perfect for biking, jogging, or a peaceful stroll.
Walkable Favorites Nearby:
• Whole Foods Market
• Starbucks
• The Glass Onion – One of our local favorites for refined Southern soul food
• Swig & Swine – A must for BBQ lovers
A Short Walk or Bike Ride Away – The Avondale Community:
• Pearlz Oyster Bar
• Highfalutin Coffee Roasters
• Verde – Build-your-own salad in a laid-back setting
• Charles Towne Fermentory – A top-rated local brewery
• Triangle Char & Bar – A vibrant spot for burgers, tacos & more
• Avondale Wine & Cheese – Cozy and perfect for date night or a glass of wine with friends
Nearby Shopping & Dining:
• St. Andrews Center – Includes Harris Teeter and more
• South Windermere Center (a favorite bike stop):
Three Little Birds Café – Cozy café with breakfast & lunch. Always a wait—but always worth it!
TCBY – Frozen yogurt spot for a sweet treat
Earth Fare – Local health food grocery
Just Minutes From It All:
• Historic Downtown Charleston
• Charleston’s beautiful beaches
• CHS Airport – About a 16-minute drive from the cottage
Whether you're looking for a cozy retreat, outdoor adventure, or culinary exploration, The Backyard Cottage is the perfect place to experience the best of Charleston—right from your doorstep.
What makes this property unique
Our cottage offers the best of both worlds—just minutes from the city, yet tucked away in a peaceful neighborhood that invites you to disconnect, unwind, and relax.
Close to the Action, Far Enough to Recharge
Whether you're craving a downtown adventure or a quiet evening on your private patio, you're perfectly positioned to enjoy both.
A Few of Our Charleston Favorites:
Coffee & Vibes
• Second State Coffee – 70.5 Beaufain St. | 13 min (4.6 mi)
Minimalist-chic, strong brews, cozy window seating + Wi-Fi.
• The Daily – 652 B King St. | 13 min (4.5 mi)
Hip spot with Stumptown coffee, cold-pressed juice, breakfast sandwiches & more.
Local Flavor
• Bowens Island Restaurant – 1870 Bowens Island Rd. | 22 min (10 mi)
An iconic, no-frills fish shack with unforgettable sunset views. Graffiti walls, fresh seafood, and Lowcountry charm since 1946. First come, first served.
• Early Bird Diner – 1644 Savannah Hwy. | 5 min (1.4 mi)
Funky and full of flavor—comfort food in a cozy, artsy diner.
• Rodney Scott’s BBQ – 1011 King St. | 15 min (5.6 mi)
Legendary whole-hog BBQ from a James Beard Award-winning pitmaster.
Hidden Gems & Local Adventures
• Morris Island Lighthouse – A peaceful walk through nature to a secluded beach with breathtaking views of this historic lighthouse.
• Angel Oak Tree – A must-see Lowcountry wonder. Free to visit and awe-inspiring to experience.
• Charleston Tea Garden – Tour the only tea plantation in North America.
• Hampton Park – Gorgeous gardens and walking paths. Ideal for a relaxing afternoon.
• Botany Bay (aka Edisto’s Best Kept Secret) – A pristine, undeveloped stretch of shoreline. Best visited at low tide and closed on Tuesdays.
• Waterfront Park – Cool off in the splash fountain or simply stroll along the scenic harborfront.
Whether you're a foodie, nature lover, or history enthusiast, Charleston has something for everyone—and The Backyard Cottage places you right in the heart of it all.
Close to the Action, Far Enough to Recharge
Whether you're craving a downtown adventure or a quiet evening on your private patio, you're perfectly positioned to enjoy both.
A Few of Our Charleston Favorites:
Coffee & Vibes
• Second State Coffee – 70.5 Beaufain St. | 13 min (4.6 mi)
Minimalist-chic, strong brews, cozy window seating + Wi-Fi.
• The Daily – 652 B King St. | 13 min (4.5 mi)
Hip spot with Stumptown coffee, cold-pressed juice, breakfast sandwiches & more.
Local Flavor
• Bowens Island Restaurant – 1870 Bowens Island Rd. | 22 min (10 mi)
An iconic, no-frills fish shack with unforgettable sunset views. Graffiti walls, fresh seafood, and Lowcountry charm since 1946. First come, first served.
• Early Bird Diner – 1644 Savannah Hwy. | 5 min (1.4 mi)
Funky and full of flavor—comfort food in a cozy, artsy diner.
• Rodney Scott’s BBQ – 1011 King St. | 15 min (5.6 mi)
Legendary whole-hog BBQ from a James Beard Award-winning pitmaster.
Hidden Gems & Local Adventures
• Morris Island Lighthouse – A peaceful walk through nature to a secluded beach with breathtaking views of this historic lighthouse.
• Angel Oak Tree – A must-see Lowcountry wonder. Free to visit and awe-inspiring to experience.
• Charleston Tea Garden – Tour the only tea plantation in North America.
• Hampton Park – Gorgeous gardens and walking paths. Ideal for a relaxing afternoon.
• Botany Bay (aka Edisto’s Best Kept Secret) – A pristine, undeveloped stretch of shoreline. Best visited at low tide and closed on Tuesdays.
• Waterfront Park – Cool off in the splash fountain or simply stroll along the scenic harborfront.
Whether you're a foodie, nature lover, or history enthusiast, Charleston has something for everyone—and The Backyard Cottage places you right in the heart of it all.
Premier Host
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