The Willows Child Okeford

The Willows is a ground floor cottage, one of a few in a little group called Hambledon Cottage Holidays. They were all done up a few years ago. It’s neat and clean, gets a 4 Star rating.

It sleeps four. Two bedrooms, one with a double bed, one with two singles. One bathroom with a bath and a separate shower cubicle. Everything is on one level, which is handy. The main living space is open plan, so it feels light. The kitchen has what you need.

You get your own enclosed garden area out the back, and a parking spot right by the cottage. There’s a shared laundry room with a washing machine if you need it.

The village here, Child Okeford, has what you need. Two pubs, a village shop, a post office, and a farm shop with a café. All within walking distance.

Right on the doorstep, you’ve got Hambledon Hill. It’s an old hill fort, great for a walk. The views are excellent. The Dorset Trailway is close by too, good for a bike ride or a longer walk. It follows the old railway line.

Blandford Forum is the nearest proper town, about ten minutes in the car. They’ve got shops, cafes, and a few things like the Royal Signals Museum if that’s your sort of thing.

For a day out, you’re well placed. The coast, the Jurassic Coast, is about an hour’s drive. Durdle Door, Lulworth Cove, all that. There are a few National Trust places within half an hour, like Kingston Lacy house or the Badbury Rings earthworks. The New Forest is about 40 minutes north if you want to see the ponies.

Things to note: it’s one of several cottages here, so there might be other guests nearby. No pets allowed. All bedding and towels are included.

Useful links: National Trust Dorset, Dorset Trailway, and New Forest National Park Authority.