Thatch and Tranquility
6 guests
-
4 bedrooms, 4 beds
2 bathrooms
sq/ft
Tucked away in the Dorset countryside, this thatched cottage couldn’t be more charming if it tried. Inside, a roaring inglenook fireplace, rolltop bath, and cosy library nook tick off all the cottagecore boxes. While outside, there’s a quintessential English garden with an alfresco dining area for long summer nights. While the cottage feels surprisingly roomy with four bedrooms upstairs, a home of this heritage naturally has its quirks. Expect a ladder-type staircase leading up to the old hay-loft double bedroom and low beams dotted about elsewhere. Set in the sleepy village of Winterbourne-Houghton, there’s a local pub within walking distance. But for a little more bustle, the vibrant market town of Blandford Forum is just a five-mile drive.
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Do you have a question about this home or the local area?
What to expect
Highlights
Hop on a boat to Brownsea Island from Poole Quay – just a short drive away
Curl up beside the inglenook fireplace for a game of chess
Fire up the smoker barbecue in the private garden
Lose yourself to a classic in the cosy library nook for two
Like what you see? Explore more of this home
Home truths
Due to this home's rural location, you'll need a car to get the most out of your stay.
There is free parking outside the cottage.
Please be aware that the cottage is traditional in style, with low beams and uneven and small steps.
The old hay-loft bedroom is accessed via the dining room, up an open-tread traditional stairway.
About this stay
Amenities
Outdoor seating
Wi-fi
Parking available
Washing machine
Dryer
Garden
Patio / terrace
Dishwasher
Bedrooms & bathrooms
4 bedrooms, 4 beds
2 bathrooms
Extras
VIP services
Arrange a chef
Tickets and experience booking
Additional fees
Your host can help arrange private chefs, paddleboard hire, Champagne cruises, gin school and more for an additional fee – speak to your host about the full range of experiences and activities they offer.
Additional fees subject to a 3.5% handling charge.
Extras are subject to availability. Please enquire with your host.
Local guide
About Blandford Forum
Sixty-five years after the Great Fire of London wreaked havoc on the capital, the sleepy Dorset town of Blandford Forum was also the victim of a catastrophic inferno that burnt down the vast majority of the wooden, thatched dwellings. From the ashes, local architect brothers John and William Bastard were called upon to draw up a new town plan and using stone quarried from the nearby Isle of Portland, they...
Explore the area
Local restaurants, cafes, museums, sites and activities, recommended by our community of hosts and travel experts
Get the village pub experience at Hambro Arms
Serving up traditional pub fare and a range of coffees during the day, the Hambro Arms is a classic local haunt.
Explore Monkey World - Ape Rescue Centre
Get up close with rescued primates at this natural and well-designed animal park. Watch orangutans play with towels and see chimps use their hands to reach broccoli. A lovely place for a day out with the family.
Explore the Blandford Fashion Museum
Step into the heart of Georgian Blandford Forum and discover a carefully curated collection of fashion from the 18th century to 1990. Immerse yourself in the history behind the garments while enjoying refreshments in the cosy tea room.
Explore Hall and Woodhouse Brewery
Embark on a fascinating brewery tour, led by knowledgeable guides, and learn about the beer-making process. Enjoy beer tastings and indulge in delicious food at the bar/restaurant.
Explore the Blandford Town Museum
Step into the Tardis-like Blandford Town Museum and be amazed by its size and fascinating exhibits. With knowledgeable staff, a dog-friendly environment, activities for children, a beautiful garden, and a lovely gift shop, this free museum is a must-visit.
Discover the Dorset Museum & Art Gallery
Discover exceptional exhibits, from Iron Age artefacts to local fossils and Thomas Hardy's effects. Immerse yourself in the history of Dorset while enjoying the charming café and lovely gift shop.
Get around
Airport
Bournemouth
55 min
Southampton
1 hr 20 min
Bristol
1 hr 53 min
Train station
Moreton
34 min
Bus stop
Winterborne Stickland, Winterborne Stickland: St Mary
20 min
Local shops & services
Convenience store
16 min
Cafe
15 min
Pharmacy
15 min
Points of interest
Beach
Lake Beach
47 min
Booking policies
House Rules
Children welcome (1-12 years)
Not suitable for infants under age 1
No pets
No parties or events
No smoking
Good to know
Arrival from 16:00
Departure before 10:00
Wifi
No air con
Cancellation policy
Up until
30
days
Cancel at least 30 days before your check-in date for a full refund.
Not eligible for a refund once your check-in date is under 30 days away.
Host
This home is managed by Richard
This home is managed directly by a business. A member of their staff will be your point of contact before and during your stay. Richard and his knowledgeable team provide lovely, handpicked homes and excellent service for guests. With a strong focus on quality and friendly customer service, your finest holiday starts with them – and trust us, you'll be in good hands.
This home is nominated for the Plum Guide Award.
- Great hosts, not just great homes – We reject homes managed by hosts who don’t meet our standards of excellence.
The Plum Promise
- Every home scrutinised by experts, they have to meet our standards.
- Hosts we knowHigh-quality hosting, with track records of high-quality hosting.
- Impeccably clean, well maintained homes.
- Peace of mind in the rare event your host cancels.
- Rated ‘Excellent’ on Trustpilot, delivering exceptional service before, during and after your stay.