Sturminster Newton

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Netflix

Entertainment

Bathtub

Rain Shower

Hair Dryer

Bathroom

Dishwasher

Pod Coffee Machine

Fridge

Oven

Stove

Kitchen

Coffee Maker

Kitchen Utensils

Cooking Essentials

Kitchen & Dining

Iron

Ironing Board

Cot / Crib

Black-Out Blinds

Hangers

Extra Pillows and Blankets

Bedroom & Laundry

Bicycles

Wellness & Fitness

Wi-fi

Electricity Adaptors

Laptop Friendly Workspace

Internet & Office

Fireplace

Central Heating

Heating & Cooling

Multiple Sets of Keys

Parking Available

Free Parking On Premises

Free Parking On Street

Self Check-in / Check-out

Private Entrance

Parking & Access

Garden

Outdoor Seating

Outdoor

Throws

Nice to haves

Smoke Detector

Carbon Monoxide Detector

First Aid Kit

Fire Extinguisher

Safe

Other

Always fantasized about being Lord or Lady of the Manor? Well, now you can be, sort of. This historic stable building (dating back to 1900) is part of a family estate located in the Dorset village of Hinton St Mary. Along with the estate’s gatehouse (also available on Plum Guide), it's been recently refurbished and is accessible to outsiders for the first time. We loved the balance between period features and brand new additions, like the shiny bathroom and kitchen gadgets. Everything is finished in the best possible taste, with some lovely personal touches. The owners clearly want their new guests to feel at home, as they’re happy to accommodate needs, whims and fancies, from arranging a paid-for chef or babysitter, to offering a choice of seasonal duvets, luggage storage, locally sourced ingredients in the welcome pack and everything you’d need to bring your baby (high chair, cot, dinnerware, pram, potty, etc). The home’s location is another definite selling point. At the end of a small village lane, near a cricket green and traditional pub, it’s picturesque and quaint. The nearest town is Sturminster Newton where there are plenty of shops and cafes, a great deli and butchers. This home makes a great base to explore the famous Dorset coast and countryside or simply settle back and relax by the wood-burning stove and imagine your servants are just out of sight.

The Manor Stables

Library of Books

Board Games

Luxury Toiletries

Microwave

Cafetiere

Washing Machine

Dryer

Hot Tub

Underfloor Heating

Barbeque

Welcome Hamper

Pets Allowed

Pets

Part of a manor that dates back to the sixteenth century, this beautiful listed barn conversion is not your average country cottage. With enough design credentials for a magazine spread, the home mixes old and new with aplomb. Gather in the grand room to see a space with cathedral-like ceilings and antler chandeliers, with pops of bright modernity from the aquamarine walls and huge pieces of artwork hanging on the walls. There are cosier spots too, including bedrooms that have been tucked up in the rafters ensuring a snug night's sleep, as well as a log-burning fire in the second living room. Comprised of two adjoining barns, the home has got enough room to seat the entire party, with two kitchens for whipping up a feast — ask ahead and the owners will provide you with eggs from the grounds' chickens. Outside, there's a private covered hot tub, a barbecue area and pretty walled gardens to explore, but beyond the gates, one of England's most beautiful counties awaits — Cranbourne Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty can be reached in less than fifteen minutes by car, as can the architecturally unique town of Blandford Forum.

Hammoon Manor

Always fantasised about being Lord or Lady of the Manor? Well, now you can be, sort of. This historic gatehouse (built in 1900) is part of a family estate, located in the Dorset village of Hinton St Mary. Recently refurbished by the owners in a modern but classic style (along with the estate’s stables, also available on Plum Guide), it's been opened up to outsiders for the very first time. We loved the balance between period features, such as the original windows, fireplace and kitchen floor, and brand new additions, like the shiny bathroom. Everything is finished in the best possible taste, with some lovely personal touches. The kitchen worktop is made from cedar from the estate, for example. The owners clearly want their new guests to feel at home, as they’re happy to accommodate needs, whims and fancies, from arranging a paid-for chef or babysitter, to offering a choice of seasonal duvets, luggage storage, locally sourced ingredients in the welcome pack and everything you’d need to bring your baby (high chair, cot, dinnerware, pram, potty, etc). The home’s location is another definite selling point. At the end of a small village lane near a cricket green and traditional pub, it’s picturesque and quaint. The nearest town is Sturminster Newton where there are shops and cafes, a great deli and butchers. This home makes a great base to explore the famous Dorset coast and countryside or simply settle back and relax by the wood-burning stove and imagine your servants are just out of sight. 

The Manor Lodge

Streaming Services

Freezer

Patio / Terrace

Child Friendly

Set within an organic dairy farm, this cottage makes the perfect setting for a restorative rural escape. You can enjoy views across the surrounding countryside while soaking in the hot tub. There is also a barbecue and outdoor seating for alfresco dining. Inside, the rooms are simple, fresh and family friendly with all the essentials you could need to settle in and make it your own. Outside, you can meet the resident alpacas and follow nearby hiking trails. It’s also just a short drive into the heart of Sturminster Newton where you’ll find pubs, restaurants and a supermarket. 



Fields of Wonder

Outdoor Fireplace / Firepit

A cosy lodge made from a shipping container, this is the ideal place for a couple's retreat. It's packed with character (including a log burner), and though the owners live next door, privacy shouldn't be an issue. The enclosed patio is an absolute highlight. With a fire pit, pizza oven, and a variety of seating, a great time in the great outdoors is all but guaranteed. We also can't get enough of the countryside views. Scenic walks are right on the doorstep, making it ideal for pets. You're further away from the beach and other conveniences here – Bournemouth is about an hour away – but Shaftesbury is within easy driving distance.

Southwest Serenity

Satellite / Cable TV

Smart TV

Toiletries

Blender

High Chair

Kettle

Toaster

Cleaning Products

Balcony

Get far away from the madding crowd in Thomas Hardy’s Dorset with this beautiful home – it’s the perfect romantic retreat. Surrounded by woodland, relax in the hot tub with a glass of fizz (or whip up a smoothie with the blender in the kitchen), and when the sun sets, cosy up by the fire pit. There’s a hammock to unwind in as well. 

The sylvan setting can be admired through the French doors in the living room, too – keep your eyes peeled for visiting wildlife. At the end of an idyllic day, head up to bed in the treehouse-like bedroom with its honeycomb-shaped, whitewashed wood ceiling before exploring the area the following morning. 

Out and about, the market town of Blandford Forum, with its array of eateries, is a six-minute drive. Alternatively, the National Trust’s Kingston Lacy, a country house and estate near Wimborne Minster, is eight minutes in the car, while Thomas Hardy's Cottage is twenty-three minutes. Further afield, Sandbanks, with its award-winning beach and chic boutiques, is just over a thirty-five-minute ride, so there’s plenty to keep you busy here.

Honey Bee Cottage

Sitting on the edge of Sturminster Newton, this barn provides the ideal spot for a refreshing rural getaway. You can enjoy beautiful countryside views while relaxing on the south facing balcony. There’s also a cosy living room and the bedrooms make it easy to switch off after a day of exploring. Private parking is available and your host is on hand help organise sweet extras like massage treatments for an additional fee. Days here can be spent following hiking trails, visiting scenic towns or exploring the dramatic Dorset coastline – just a short drive away. 


The Nature Retreat

Drying Rack

Single-Level Home

Rabbits, pheasants and foxes, oh my! Welcome to life at this cosy woodland hut, situated on the twenty-three-acre grounds of Downwood Vineyard in the Dorset countryside. 

Surrounded by towering trees and a myriad of wildlife – including an owl and an odd deer or two – this is a spot to switch off, unplug and bask in the quiet surroundings. Wake up to the sound of birdsong and pad out into the private courtyard for a morning coffee in the fresh air. In the evenings, rustle up dinner in the cute kitchen – it's compact but has everything you'll need – before sinking into the hot tub for ultimate relaxation. We could happily spend all our time bubbling away under clear skies filled with stars.

When you're not at home, the countryside is perfect for a wander and you're only a ten-minute drive from historic National Trust properties and five from the pubs and eateries in Blandford Forum. And if you fancy venturing a little further, the Jurassic Coast and the New Forest are also less than an hour away by car, perfect for day trips.

Meet Me in the Woods

Foosball / Table Football

Games Console

Games Room

Ping Pong Table

Pool / Snooker Table

Baby Bath

Changing Table

Espresso Machine

Wine Cooler

Vacuum Cleaner

Swimming Pool

Temperature Control

Balcony / Patio

Sun Loungers / Beach Chairs

Out in the unspoiled countryside of Cranborne Chase AONB, this Victorian house sits in red-brick splendour. It’s a five-minute drive into the centre of Blandford Forum, a charming town to stock up on groceries and perhaps pause for a cup of coffee. Though there’s plenty to keep you busy on the estate as well – wander between the grapevines of the small vineyard, or head to the private tennis court. There’s over 30 acres of woodland walks to explore too. Within an acre of private garden, this home has its own heated swimming pool, hot tub for six, gas barbecue and croquet lawn. But, if the weather isn’t on your side, you can always while away the days in the games room. Two living rooms and a conservatory offer the group plenty of space to spread out, and you’ll have the choice between a cosy crackling wood-burner or streaming sunshine from glass walls. You can still picture scullery maids bustling around in the country-chic kitchen. In keeping with the Victorian grandeur of the home, bedrooms are a plush medley of chandeliers, silk curtains and four-poster beds and the master comes with a beautiful claw-foot tub. 

Downwood

Desk / Workplace

Spend your mornings watching the wildlife such as pheasants and rabbits in the garden of this home with its peaceful location. After a stroll in 24 acres of woodland and rolling hills, relax in your private hot tub with a glass of wine – we’d be on cloud nine. Later cosy up inside with the faux fur throws and then cook a meal in the modern kitchen or order a takeaway. If you prefer to eat out, the market town of Blandford Forum, with its array of eateries is a five-minute drive. In the daytime, you can walk there too through a path of beautiful meadows and woods. Or play a round at the local golf club, a fifteen-minute saunter away. For those who prefer to unwind on the beach, Durdle Door, with its natural limestone arch, is just over a thirty-five minute drive.

Wood Anemone

Sound System

Whether you’re in search of a slow-paced, restorative retreat or an action-packed countryside adventure, this eco-friendly home welcomes you to enjoy it all with a wonderful sense of ease and comfort. 

Sitting peacefully in the Dorset hills with the market town of Gillingham just a short drive away, days can be spent embracing fresh country air, following nearby hiking trails and admiring the beautiful views. And with large glass windows, this home makes the perfect spot to cuddle up on the sofa and watch the sky transform. There’s also underfloor heating – ensuring warmth through the winter season, while sunny days will draw you outside to bask in this glorious setting from the terrace. 

Back inside, the office meets playroom serves as a wonderful games room or alternatively as a calm, meditation space, while the kitchen has everything you could need to prepare delicious home-cooked meals (Waitrose is just a three-minute drive away).  

Peace in the Moment 

Parking On Premises

Tucked in the charming village of Shroton, this converted barn is ideal for a relaxing Dorset getaway. It’s suitable for a couple or a small family with up to two children over the age of six, as the second bedroom is on a mezzanine level accessed via spiral stairs. Still, with everything needed for a comfortable stay and the village offering fresh local produce, this is a home where you can truly switch off. With countryside walks on your doorstep, yet just a forty-five-minute drive to the Jurassic Coast, you’ll never be lost for things to do. 

Dorset Soul

Who doesn’t love a hideaway amidst the grapevines? This cosy little lodge sits in the grounds of a vineyard, so you can spend evenings sampling the local sparkling wine in the bubbling warmth of the hot tub outside. There’s also a bistro set for two out here, should you wish to take your dinner in the open air. Inside, your hideaway has a tufted velvet sofa for a spot of luxury, and a kitchen equipped with everything you need for self-catering. Big windows show off a view of rural Dorset at its best, surrounded by greenery. You’re on the edge of the Cranborne Chase AONB, a five-minute drive from the charming town of Blandford Forum where a handful of shops, cafés and restaurants await. Golfers will love the proximity to Ashley Wood golf course and if you’re packing the bike, you can hit the North Dorset Trailway. 

Two Turtle Doves

Playground

Baby Changing Mat

Heated Towel Rail

Children's Dinnerware

Laundry Supplies

Luxury Bedding

Heated Pool

Outdoor Pool

Shared Pool

Private Parking

Early / Late Check-Out Available

Fenced Garden

Garden Games

Hammock

Herb Garden

Sun Umbrellas

Stair Gates

For those craving a countryside retreat, this charming Dorset cottage presents the ideal place to escape to. Enlivened with rustic charm and kitted out with all the amenities you could wish for, from the moment you walk through the front door, you’ll feel your shoulders drop and your stresses melt away. It’s time to unwind in style.

With its white–washed facade, slate roof and mint–green picture windows, from the outset, this place looks utterly blissful – and as we make our way through the front door, we can’t help but feel instantly at home. 

From the dark, wooden floorboards to the pendant lights of the stylish shaker kitchen, this cottage is packed with homey appeal. We particularly love the blue velvet sofa in the living area. As dusk settles, make a beeline for its snuggly depths and while the evening away over a large mug of cocoa as you contemplate the roaring fire. 

Inside you’ll also find a beautiful dining area made for sociable feasts with family and friends, three dreamy bedrooms and a bathtub – ideal for moments when a touch of ‘me time’ is needed. Simply pour yourself a large glass of red and recline into your bubbly bliss and indulge in some well–deserved R&R.

There’s a heck of a lot to love about this place, but the real piece de resistance has got to be the heated outdoor pool. Perfect for daytime and evenings alike, plunge into its crystalline waters for an invigorating dip before showering off & refuelling with a tasty treat from the kitchen. Just note that it's shared with other cottages.


Fire & Water

Sat snug in delightful Dorset, this cosy cottage is here to give you a taster of that famous British country lifestyle – and from the moment you lay eyes on the place, we promise you’ll fall instantly in love.

Neighbouring a row of other cottages, this home boasts a white–washed facade with pretty mint–green picture windows, drawing inspiration from its idyllic surroundings, and as we wander inside, the home’s endearing appeal continues to grow. From the wood burning stove with its picturesque, open–brickwork surround to the rustic–style shaker kitchen, this place feels like the dwellings of a gentleman farmer. Natural oak furnishings, doors and floors instantly warm the place up, meanwhile the soothing colour scheme of earthy neutrals and occasional blues creates a sense of calm.

We could spend hours just cosied up by the fire with a pot of tea and a huge slice of cake, but the azure depths of the heated, shared outdoor pool are enough to tempt even the most indoorsy types to venture into the garden. Enwreathed by a backdrop of succulent green saplings, when the sun is shining, you couldn’t wish for a more beautiful spot to soak up the rays. 

Outside, you’ll also find a neatly–manicured garden with perfectly–pruned shrubs and blooms, and a wonderful children’s play area – ideal for those with excitable little ones joining them on their stay. 

Peeling yourself away from your snuggly setup won’t be easy, but if you can muster the motivation to explore a little, be sure to venture into Dorset's county town. Landmarks such as the Roman Town House and Amphitheatre are well worth seeing, and of course, there are plenty of bars, restaurants and cafes to keep you suitably fuelled for your adventures.


Tea & Cake

If you’ve been dreaming of a classic countryside escape, look no further than this 16th-century, Grade II listed cottage. Set within the Cranbone AONB, you’ll be surrounded by beautiful countryside, while the nearest pub and farm shop in Winterborne Whitechurch are just a short walk away. It’s also a great base for exploring the Dorset coast – Weymouth and Lyme Regis are within easy driving distance. Back at home, there’s a peaceful garden, an outdoor pizza oven, cosy rooms, wood burning stoves and plenty of traditional character. 


A Timeless Place

Part Victorian farmhouse, part modern pad, this rural home is filled with light and character. The recently-renovated manor sits on a verdant plot in the bucolic Somerset countryside, boasting far-reaching views and access to plenty of scenic routes. If you're the kind of walker who enjoys a post-stroll pint, you'll be pleased to hear the village pub is just a fifteen-minute walk away.

This homely property will welcome you with open arms, inviting you to sink into the plush Chesterfield sofas or unwind with a soak in the free-standing bathtub within minutes of arriving. When you're settled, gather the family for a meal on the fairy-lit terrace and take in the natural vista ahead. If it's too cool for alfresco dining, the contemporary kitchen-diner is the next best thing, letting the outside in through expansive sliding glass doors.

There's no shortage of worthwhile sights in your immediate vicinity, from the manicured gardens at The Newt to the Swiss art gallery in the town centre. Thirty minutes down the road, the historic hamlet of Wells is home to an impressive cathedral and a selection of quintessentially English eateries.

Montague Manor

Air Conditioning

EV Charger

Tucked away on a dairy farm in the Somerset countryside, this home is the ideal place to switch off from everyday life. With modern interiors, it’s quite the contrast to the home’s rustic surroundings – although those natural wood touches are blended seamlessly into the home, too. Keen to explore? You’re perfectly placed – you’ll find The Newt and Stourhead within easy reach, and if a beach day is calling your name, it’s just an hour’s drive to the picturesque Jurassic Coast. 

Somerset Soul

This 200-year-old coach house has been lovingly restored into a cosy countryside retreat. Set across two floors, the bedrooms are on the ground floor, while the upper floor sitting room has everything you could need to switch off and unwind – including a wood burning stove. Head outside and you’ll find a private courtyard and a peaceful garden. Private parking is available and there’s lots to explore in this beautiful part of Dorset. Head towards the village of Piddletrenthide or adventure further afield to the Jurassic Coast. 

Rose of the Countryside

Tucked away in a private clearing, with superb views over the local countryside, this home is small but mighty. It's aimed squarely at anyone looking to escape the rat race for a while to just soak up the soothing sights and sounds of the natural world. A converted artist's studio, it's a cosy and well-equipped home for a couple or a solo traveller – there's even room for a baby cot and a dog bed. Step inside and you'll be bowled over by how much the host has cleverly fitted into the space. With plenty of white-painted wood panelling and a romantic feel, it's kitted out with a comfy bed, a pretty shower room, a fully functioning kitchen and a little dining table. Outside, you'll find the secluded hot tub and a terrace with a barbecue and a fire pit – an ideal spot for stargazing. Just a six-minute drive to the town of Blandford Forum, with its famous Georgian architecture, shops and restaurants, you're also around half an hour from the New Forest and from Dorset's famous Jurassic Coast. 

Hop Little Bunny

Desk

Parking On Street

Buzzy Bruton life is on your doorstep at this Grade II listed Georgian townhouse, set right along the well-heeled high street. Mingle with the movers, shakers, and millionaires in its gastropubs, independent shops, and art galleries. Or don your walking boots for bracing country walks – the house has direct access to a quiet lane leading onto the rolling countryside surrounding Bruton.

Back home, there’s room for all ten of you to pile into this magnificent three-storey home. Filled to the rafters with Georgian architectural details, original flagstone floors and exposed brickwork archways strike a note of authenticity, while a contemporary extension housing the open concept living space is firmly in the 21st century. And we love how pared back and gloriously clutter-free everywhere feels, allowing the contemporary artwork and vintage statement furniture to do all the talking.

On sunny mornings, spill out into the garden room and slide back the French doors onto the suntrap patio – there’s an outdoor dining area complete with a built-in barbecue that’s prime for lazy breakfasts or alfresco evening meals. Winter evenings are all about getting around that Fritz Hansen dining room table with original Eames chairs for slap-up dinners and catch-ups. And you can always keep the night flowing with a game of table tennis in the games room, squirreled away in the ancient stone garage. Or get your game face on for a late-night session around that Edwardian poker table.


A Royal Flush

Transformed from humble farmworkers' cottages into one of a collection of four beautiful self-catering getaways in the picturesque Dorset countryside, this home offers an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. 

Set within extensive grounds, the cottage has a private patio and garden leading to a shared heated pool and a secret gate straight to Narnia, a.k.a. the local pub beer garden. What more could you possibly want on a warm summer's day than a dip in the pool followed by a refreshing cider in the sun?

Having previously been open to the public under the National Garden Scheme, your hosts are striving to return the gardens to their former glory. They also maintain a charming country garden stocked with all manner of seasonal fruit and vegetables – some of which may well find their way into your welcome hamper.

Inside, the cottage retains plenty of period charm, including the original 'Dorset winder' staircase, and adds a contemporary take on farmhouse chic thanks to a beautiful Shaker-style kitchen and matching dining area. Comfy sofas set up facing the wood burner make for cosy nights in with a good book before retiring upstairs to the two captivating bedrooms.

Located in a quintessential Dorset village, the rural setting offers plenty of opportunities to explore the stunning landscapes that form part of an officially designated Area of Natural Beauty (AONB). There's even a public footpath leading directly from the grounds. For a grand day out, the beautiful Jurassic Coast and the likes of the picturesque Lulworth Cove are a little over 20 miles away – well within day-trip distance. Finally, for those who'd rather not shatter their rural idyll by heading out on a supermarket supply run, the village shop is stocked up with essentials, while the local pub is perfect for those evenings when you don't fancy cooking.

Yakety Axe

Exercise Equipment

Sauna

If you’re in search of a countryside escape full of character, this home delivers the perfect solution. Set within 60 acres of peaceful meadows, you’ll be immersed in the natural beauty of Somerset. Enjoy far-reaching views, long walks, wild swimming and magical evenings by the fire pit. There’s also an old stable with a gym and a sauna – covering all your wellness needs. Inside, the rooms are quirky, cosy and well-suited to family gatherings with open fires, snug sitting rooms and a playroom. And for explorations further afield, it’s a short drive to Glastonbury, local pubs, shops and restaurants. 


The Magic of Living

Gated Community

Helipad

Pet Bowls

A historic gatehouse on the grounds of the Shaftesbury Estate in rural Dorset, this petite one-bed lodge has recently undergone a loving refurb by one of the estate owners, Lady Shaftesbury. She obviously has a great eye for design, as her palette of delicious apricot and duck egg blue stylishly updates this vintage cottage into not just a twenty-first-century home, but a home with charm and character. There are plenty of thoughtful touches we found exquisite, from soft dressing gowns to the complementary breakfast hamper – and everything, from Egyptian cotton bedding to the plush sofas, is of boutique hotel quality. The hosts are attentive, meticulously committed to making sure your every whim is met. All in all, this cosy country hideaway is perfect for city escapes, with nearby the great beaches of the Jurassic coast, the New Forest, the National Trust property of Kingston Lacey, cities like Salisbury or Portsmouth and traditional seaside in Bournemouth. And while it feels like one of a kind, a twin lodge and two maisonettes in a neighbouring cottage are also available, so you can bring your friends too (although you might want to keep this little secret to yourself). 

A Little Peach

Home Cinema Setup

Sonos

Piano

Mini Bar

Private Pool

Buzzer / Wireless Intercom

Breakfast Included

Renovated to the highest standards by the current owners, this gorgeous former rectory is the perfect place for a large family retreat. Dating back to the seventeenth century, the home is built from local honey-coloured stone and faces south across the Somerset countryside. Seven acres of grounds are dotted with chestnut trees and rolling lawns, while there’s also a children’s play area, a heated swimming pool and a croquet lawn, so there's no risk of running out of things to do. During the summer, the terraces are particularly inviting, while the clear skies provide fantastic stargazing opportunities come nighttime. Meanwhile, in winter, the thought of a brisk walk followed by lunch at the local pub is hard to resist — heading straight north from the property will get you to the pretty brooks that run off the River Cary, while the nearby villages of Corton Denham and Babcary are both home to excellent watering holes. The idyllic market town of Castle Cary is a ten-minute drive away, and just beyond that lies Bruton, which has been quietly remaking itself as a haven for artists, foodies and creatives. Located between the two towns, The Newt in Somerset is an extensive country estate, complete with fascinating cider-making and gardening exhibits, a Roman villa museum and plenty of parkland to explore.


Honey Stone

DVD Player

Private Washing Machine

Courtyard

This stunning stone-built cottage in North Cheriton is surrounded by Somerset countryside making it the perfect rustic retreat for a small group of friends or family. Formerly a 17th century barn, this historic home with its typically high wall used in times gone by to play the ball game Fives – one of only six remaining walls of this period in all of Somerset and Dorset – is an absolute gem.

Boasting a recently refurbished kitchen cum dining room complete with fantastic flagstone floors, a cosy sitting room with exposed brick fireplace and wood burning stove and beautifully beamed sloping ceilings in the bedrooms, this truly is the homeliest of homes. You’ll love sunny mornings out in the courtyard, preparing family favourites on the spacious countertops in the kitchen, and gathering around the wooden table for sociable meal times. The table in the sitting room is great for jigsaws, games of cards or planning the day’s activities. At the day’s end, read or recline on the leather sofas or host a movie night in front of the wood burning stove. 

If you fancy getting out and about in the fresh air, head out on circular walks straight from your front door before stopping in one of two dog friendly pubs in the village – a designated conservation area. Alternatively, the market town of Sherbourne with its Abbey and two castles is just six miles away and there are also many National Trust properties to snoop around including Stourhead with its world-famous 18th century garden, Montacute House, Lytes Cary Manor and Barrington Court. Within easy reach by car is the Jurassic Coast, a World Heritage Site famous for its sandy beaches and gorgeous geological features such as Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door. Whatever you do, don’t forget to ask your host to take you to see their chickens, rare breed Zwartbles sheep and Shetland ponies in the fields nearby.


High Fives

Embrace the peace and tranquillity of life in the spectacular Dorset countryside at this charming former farmworker's cottage. As one of a collection of four recently renovated residences, it's perfect for a weekend retreat with immediate family, or it can be booked in combination with adjacent cottages for larger group get-togethers.

Your hosts have considered every detail in transforming the cottages into high-end holiday homes. However, they've been careful to preserve the period features and rustic charm you'd expect of a stay in the English countryside. Beautiful oak doors, an eye-catching brick fireplace and exposed beams in the bedrooms all add to the overall aesthetic. Even the sleek Shaker-style kitchen, equipped with all the mod cons, is in keeping with the style. Elsewhere, make the most of those seemingly endless summer evenings and enjoy the privacy of your own patio, leading to the charming country garden and inviting pool – both shared with other guests. 

Beyond the back garden, a path leads you to the nearby pub garden, where you can sup a cider in the sun after a refreshing dip. Alternatively, follow the public footpath into the rugged wilds of the Dorset countryside. As an official Area of Natural Beauty (AONB), the landscape calls out to be explored and guarantees breathtaking scenery at every turn. 

Further south, the South West Coast Path hugs the awe-inspiring Jurassic Coast and is well worth the approximately 20-mile drive. Return home at the end of an unforgettable day and stock up on essentials at the village shop, while there's always the Gaggle of Geese pub if you don't feel like cooking.

Fox Earth Cottage

Set against the rolling hills of Blackmoore Vale, this studio barn is perfect for two. While the layout is entirely open-plan, it's packed with character – think A-frame ceilings, wooden beams, and a cosy bed tucked underneath the eaves. You'll share the garden with the friendly owners, but you'll also have access to a private deck. It overlooks the countryside, making it ideal for evening tipples as the sun goes down. Location-wise, Wincanton sits just outside the Cranborne Chase AONB and is only a ten-minute drive from Stourhead. Further afield, you'll find Glastonbury, Stonehenge, and Salisbury – all great options for day trips.

Vale Viewpoint

Effortlessly blending contemporary with traditional, this Grade II listed cottage in the village of Burton Bradstock is perfect for a tranquil stay. We love the exposed beams and cosy fireplace and the enclosed garden is a bonus – ideal for those with a four-legged friend in tow. With a couple of pubs in the village, dining out is always on the menu, or you can take a short walk across the fields to Hive beach. After a stroll on the sand, the cafe is just the spot for a little sustenance. 

Sunlight Cottage

Accessible Parking

Want to recreate a passionate escape à la Bridgerton - just on a much smaller scale? Then we think you'll fall in love with this home in a 400-year-old former gatehouse lodge. Part of the glorious 5,500-acre St Giles House estate, it's been personally and immaculately renovated by the estate's owner (real-life nobility Lady Shaftesbury) to stunning effect. The natural and historical character - original lead windows, log burner and dove grey stone slabs - pack a punch, but it's her Ladyship's keen eye for style that has elevated this home into a truly romantic stay. We're talking about bold splashes of colour (a vibrant coral in the living room and soothing forest green in the bedroom) plus beautiful illustrated artwork and the highest quality Egyptian cotton sheets. This rural location is the perfect place to hide away from the rest of the world, but if you tire of each other's company, the beaches of the Jurassic Coast, the New Forest and the classic British seaside resorts of Poole and Bournemouth are all within a short drive away.

Tangerine Lodge

Staying in this home is like stepping into a scene from an Austen novel – we can just picture Emma Woodhouse wandering the grounds. Corniced ceilings, antique furniture, country views – there's so much character in this Grade II historic building. The home is part of a grand country estate in Wiltshire, but you'll feel as if you have the whole place to yourself in this private south wing. With the living room’s ample seating in front of the fire and the charming wooden breakfast table, you will be equally comfortable drinking tea or wine in elegance. Make sure to stop by a farm shop on the way to cook up a delicious meal in the kitchen or pre-order fresh or frozen meals to make your stay even easier. Take walks in the gorgeous landscaped gardens, stroll over the bridge on the water, and as night falls gather round the fire pit with drinks. You could spend all day at this country estate, but there's plenty to see in the local area too. You're just a six-minute drive from Stonehenge, and it's worth travelling to Salisbury to visit the historic cathedral and wander the cobbled streets. After a busy day, return home to decadent bedrooms and doze off on a beautifully handmade mattress – the very same furnish the Royal Family's residences.

Hartfield

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Access to Beach

Connected to the mainland by a tombolo, the isle of Portland is a pretty spot off the Dorset Coast. This chic house is in the village of Fortuneswell in the north of the island, and it makes the perfect place to begin your adventures. 

The home effortlessly blends contemporary chic with traditional charm, creating a welcoming atmosphere that isn't short on style. Take in the stunning sea views from the top floor master bedroom – binoculars provided, or get cosy around the fireplace in the living room with a glass of wine and a good book; you can take your pick from the squashy sofa and the retro hanging egg chair. There's also a fantastic dining space, complete with an exposed stone wall where you can share a delicious home-cooked feast with your guests. 

This home might not have its own outdoor space, but it is only an three-minute walk away from the eighteen-mile long pebbly Chesil Beach. Paddle in the water, then enjoy a long coastal walk as you breathe in the fresh air. And, if you take a ten-minute drive to the south of the island, you can visit the historic Portland Bill Lighthouse and admire the curious Pulpit Rock too. 

Island Tides

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