22 guests
-
5 bedrooms, 8 beds
4 bathrooms
+1 extra toilet
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This is the kind of home that history buffs long to stay in. The north wing of a Tudor manor house, this holiday home is filled with charm and history. It was refurbished in the 1920s, with the modern bedrooms renovated again in 2022 to bring them up to date – you’ll have every comfort during your stay. To experience what life in the 1500s was like, ask your host about staying in one of the three historic bedrooms – sleep like a king in a grand four-poster bed. We love the blend of old and new here. While you can admire the wood panelling of the historic rooms and gaze in wonder at the vast original fireplaces, when you want to relax, you can do so easily. The cosy living room has comfortable sofas and a smart TV, and the kitchen has all the amenities you might need for cooking fabulous family feasts. You can luxuriate in claw-foot bathtubs before sinking into oh-so-comfortable king-size beds. The grounds are just as stunning. Wander through stone archways to discover ponds, tree-lined avenues, and a pretty bridge. Though the historic house and gardens are open to the public, in the evenings you’ll be... able to explore them on your own. Fire up the barbecue in the private courtyard for alfresco meals in the summer, and revel in the gorgeous outdoor space. If you can tear yourselves away from this spectacular home, all of Dorset’s delights are right there, waiting to be enjoyed. Athelhampton is an ideal base for West Dorset, with beautiful Durdle Door just a short drive away. Bring your bucket and spade – a day at the seaside should definitely be added to your itinerary.
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Do you have a question about this home or the local area?
What to expect
Highlights
Visit spectacular Durdle Door – it's easily reached by car
Explore the historic main house – your host may be able to arrange a private tour
Enjoy the gardens – after they're closed to the public in the evening, you'll have them all to yourselves
Relax in a bubble bath after a day exploring Dorset's pretty countryside
Sleep in a bed fit for a king
Like what you see? Explore more of this home
Home truths
The historic house and gardens are open to the public, but this wing is private – you’re welcome to explore the gardens in private during the evenings.
This home is spread over several floors – it may not be suitable for those with reduced mobility.
Your host can provide a high chair for little ones, but you'll need to bring your own travel cot.
Bedroom eight is equipped with a sofa bed.
Bedrooms nine, ten and eleven are historic rooms and are only available by special arrangement.
Toiletries aren't provided, so you'll need to bring your own.
You'll likely need some extra towels here.
About this stay
Amenities
Outdoor seating
Laptop friendly workspace
Wi-fi
Parking available
Washing machine
Garden
Courtyard
Patio / terrace
Bedrooms & bathrooms
5 bedrooms, 8 beds
4 bathrooms, 1 additional toilet
Extras
VIP services
Arrange a chef
Laundry and dry cleaning
Luggage storage
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
See the home of a writer at Max Gate
The former home of writer Thomas Hardy, who lived there until his death in 1928, the grounds and interior of Max Gate are now open to visitors.
Explore Athelhampton House & Gardens
Step back in time at this Tudor mansion from 1485, with beautifully landscaped gardens and a charming cafe. Discover the fascinating history of each room and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
0Indulge at The Royal Oak
A charming British pub in Milbourne with a great variety of homemade food. Friendly staff, enormous portions, and reasonable prices make it a delightful dining experience for all.
Enjoy Sculptures by the Lake
A large park with stunning sculptures by Simon Gudgeon, set in beautifully landscaped gardens. Enjoy a leisurely walk around the lakes, take in the amazing artwork, and indulge in delicious food at the cafe. A tranquil and tactile experience.
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.
Discover Hardy's Cottage
Step into the thatched cottage where Thomas Hardy was born and wrote his early novels. Immerse yourself in the simplicity of the interior, bringing added weight to his powerful writing. Advance booking essential.
Dine at The Blue Vinny
A great bar and restaurant offering locally sourced dishes with a Mediterranean spin. Enjoy good food, excellent service, and a lovely atmosphere.
Get around
Airport
Bournemouth
52 min
Southampton
1 hr 16 min
Bristol
1 hr 59 min
Train station
Moreton
19 min
Bus stop
Athelhampton House
3 min
Local shops & services
Supermarket
13 min
Cafe
13 min
Pharmacy
18 min
Points of interest
Beach
Bowleaze Cove
32 min
Booking policies
House Rules
Children welcome (1-12 years)
Infants welcome (under 12 months)
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.
Up until
7
days
Cancel at least 7 days before your check-in date for a 50% refund.
Not eligible for a refund once your check-in date is under 7 days away.
Host
This home is managed by giles
This home is managed directly by its owner who will be your point of contact before and during your stay. Giles and his team work hard to ensure you enjoy every second of your stay.
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.