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The Historic Selwood Cottage

Lakefront cottage with kitchen and patio

Photo gallery for The Historic Selwood Cottage

The Historic Selwood Cottage
The Historic Selwood Cottage at night
First view
Walking through front door
Living room

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms1+ bathroomSleeps 569.7 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Outdoor space
  • Free WiFi

Explore the area

View map
Columbia, SC
  • Place, Dreher Shoals Dam
    ‪2 min drive‬
  • Place, University of South Carolina
    ‪19 min drive‬
  • Place, Fort Jackson
    ‪28 min drive‬
  • Airport, Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan)
    ‪20 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 5)

Bedroom 3

1 Single Bed

Master Bedroom

1 King Bed

Upstairs loft

2 Single Beds

1 bathroom, 1 half bathroom

Downstairs bathroom

Shower only

Upstairs bathroom

Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Garden

About this property

The Historic Selwood Cottage

Private, historic cottage with boat parking and screened in porch. Sleeps 5 in 2 bedrooms with full, furnished kitchen. Property owners on shared property available to help with any needs. Enjoy over an acre of private land in the heart of the city. Cottage within walking distance to beautiful Lake Murray as well as Harbison shopping area 5 miles away and downtown Columbia 15 miles away.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space
Parking available

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 12:00 PM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
Does have stairs and an open 2nd story loft.
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: limit 2 total
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Strip any used beds, gather used towels and store extra beds
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
*Strip all used beds and put dirty linens in hamper *Place all used towels in hamper *Wash all used dishes and place in drying rack *Gather all trash and place in shed outside of back door *Lock door
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Important information

You need to know

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 is a carbon monoxide detector 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

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Columbia

Located in Columbia, this cottage is on a river. Imara Woman and Governor's Mansion are local landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Lake Murray and Dreher Shoals Dam. Riverbanks Zoo and Garden and Saluda Shoals Park are also worth visiting. Jet skiing, kayaking and power boating offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with cycling nearby.
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Map
Columbia, SC

What's nearby

  • Dreher Shoals Dam - 2 min drive - 2.4 km
  • Riverbanks Zoo and Garden - 14 min drive - 18.7 km
  • University of South Carolina - 19 min drive - 23.6 km
  • Colonial Life Arena - 19 min drive - 23.9 km
  • Fort Jackson - 28 min drive - 43.9 km

Getting around

  • Columbia Station - 19 min drive
  • Columbia, SC (CAE-Columbia Metropolitan) - 23 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Starbucks - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Circle K - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Kwik Way - ‬8 min walk
  • ‪Schooners Bar & Grill - ‬6 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is The Historic Selwood Cottage pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows pets (limit 2 total). Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.

How much does it cost to stay at The Historic Selwood Cottage?

As of 15 Nov 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Historic Selwood Cottage on 14 Dec 2025 start from AU$305.47, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at The Historic Selwood Cottage?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at The Historic Selwood Cottage?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at The Historic Selwood Cottage?

Checkout is at 12:00 PM.

Where is The Historic Selwood Cottage located?

Situated on a river, this cottage is 0.7 mi (1.1 km) from Lake Murray and within 3 miles (5 km) of Dreher Shoals Dam and Saluda Shoals Park. Lake Murray Public Park is 2.4 mi (3.8 km) away.

Reviews

10

Exceptional

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy
Rating 10 - Excellent. 171 out of 179 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 7 out of 179 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 179 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 179 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 179 reviews

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Diane S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Check in was easy and the cottage was well appointed. We would definitely stay here again!
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kim R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The cottage is amazing!! The owners did a fantastic job restoring it, and we really enjoyed our week there. Our favorite part was the screened in porch and the openess of the living and kitchen. They have everything you need for it being a historical site. We would definitely recommend staying here, and would stay again if we are in the area.
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

William B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful cottage

The stay was so beautiful I couldn’t recommend it more. Excellent area to stay in and super easy check in process.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

8/10 Good

Carmen D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Nice place to stay when visiting Columbia

Great place to stay
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Canie B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great hospitality

My family and I really enjoyed staying there this Wednesday and Thursday for my daughters basic training graduation, it really made my time spent a success and I’ll recommend anyone to stay there as their home away from home.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jason G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cottage

Wonderful stay at this private cottage.
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Rodney R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quaint

This is a place we would come to stay again!It was clean and cozy and we felt comfortable right away. Thank you for being excellent hosts!
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Carl F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Trip to the Masters

We only stayed one night. We loved the cottage and had a very comfortable stay. The host was wonderful and gave us numerous suggestions for dinner. We will stay again if we are the area.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

GINA C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cozy Getaway

Beautiful area. Very, very clean! Plenty of clean white towels! Would definitely recommend it and would return!
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Colby T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great weekend stay

Great place to stay. Came in from Louisiana with some friends for USC \ LSU football game. Easy to get to, quiet neighborhood and very clean. Would highly recommend staying here.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

David W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Night of Rest on a Long Trip

Cozy cabin near the lake. Plenty of room and a comfortable bed. We enjoyed our stay and look forward to coming back soon.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Adam B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Charming Property

Thoughtfully renovated historic farm, beautiful location to connect with both nature and history. A fun layout for families.
Stayed 1 night in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Chris H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quaint and Cozy

The location was perfect for us as we were coming in from out of town for a wedding that was just a 3 minute drive from here. We were very comfortable and enjoyed the character and charm of the cottage.
Stayed 1 night in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Debbie D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful cottage

This is a great place to stay. The cottage is welcoming, comfortable, clean and beautiful. Excellent communication with host. Great location. We enjoyed the side porch in the morning, felt private and was very relaxing.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sarah M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great cottage

Lovely cosy cottage well equipped. Had slight issue with fridge but solution quickly found.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Stormee F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The whole experience was awesome.

Everything was perfect. She thought of everything you could need while on vacation. We would love to rent this property again. The whole stay was amazing.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Mickinzy W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cute and relaxing

I would stay here for a getaway any time. The Lightning bugs in the yard at night were a definite plus. Picturesque
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Janine T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Such A Great Place!

We had a lovely stay at Selwood Cottage and highly recommend it. The space was spotless, well appointed and in such a great neighborhood. We enjoyed the central location in Irmo - the king bed was super comfortable. Just as an FYI (and did not impact our stay whatsoever) the shower is on the small size! If you are a larger person, you’ll struggle to turn around lol.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

philip D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place!

This is a beautiful little home. We used this as a stop on our drive to our place in Marco island. We will be using it many more times. Thank you!
Stayed 1 night in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Esther H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect location and plenty of privacy

We were visiting family for the holidays in the area this sweet little cottage ended up being with 10 minutes of everyone. Though it sits adjacent to the owners' home, it felt private with a nice screened in porch facing the woods. This will be our go to place for visits to family in the future. Great communication with owners when needed.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful home; perfect for family

This home is so much prettier inside than the listing photos show. It is a gorgeous restored home and it’s clear the owners have gone to lengths to decorate it suitably and add thoughtful touches. We only stayed here two nights, but we hope it’s available when we come back to the area next. If you’re staying in the Lexington/ Lake Murray area, it’s only a short drive away and secluded on a beautiful property. Highly recommend.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lisa H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The perfect getaway!

I was looking for a quaint and quiet place to stay with my daughter. The Sellwood Cottage did not disappoint! The location to shopping and downtown Columbia was perfect and the lake is just a stone’s throw from it. The place was so cozy, we enjoyed reading and drinking coffee on the screened porch each morning. Kristen thought of everything! Will definitely return to stay!!
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2023

8/10 Good

karen w.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Overnight

Nice
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Rebecca R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Will be back!

Had a great stay! The house was super clean and has everything I needed. The bed was very comfortable and I took some excellent naps. It was one of the hottest days of the year so far in Columbia, and I was cool the whole time. The neighborhood felt very safe, even staying there by myself. Yet the house was also secluded enough to feel like I had privacy. Overall excellent trip!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Brianna B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

One of our favorites.

This is our second time staying at the Selwood Cottage and it won’t be our last. We travel a lot for work and this is exactly the type of place we wish was in every city we visit! Beautiful safe neighborhood, good location, clean, king bed, easy check-in, plenty of towels and blankets, lights left on for us, dog friendly, enough parking for our truck and trailer, and affordable!! Thank you for having us again! We’ll be back in September.
Stayed 6 nights in Jan 2024

About the host

Hosted by Kristen Oswald

Host profile image
My husband, Philip, and I have been married 21 years and we have 3 kids. We moved here from California for my husband's job as a musician. We have previously lived in Birmingham, AL and absolutely LOVE the south! When we saw this property on Zillow as we were looking for a home we fell in love and never looked back!

Why they chose this property

You are staying in a structure that was initially built circa 1820 and restored in 1990. The cottage was previously attached to the main house which was originally a mule barn and converted into a single family home in 1990 as well by Jerry and Carole Rothstein. If you are interested in touring the main house feel free to contact us and we would be more than happy to it share with you!

What makes this property unique

The cottage was a structure that was initially built circa 1820 and restored in 1990. The cottage was previously attached to the main house which was originally a mule barn and converted into a single family home in 1990 as well by Jerry and Carole Rothstein. If you are interested in touring the main house feel free to contact us and we would be more than happy to it share with you!

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English
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