Poorton House

£255.00 up to £320.00 per night

This picture-perfect thatched cottage is a unique idyll nestled in the heart of the Dorset countryside, in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It would be perfect for a family holiday with kids or a group of friends wanting to unwind in a cosy haven with beaches only a short drive away.

The living room would be an excellent place to gather with a drink upon arrival. A cosy three-seater sofa and armchair are tucked around a huge original fireplace that has now been converted to a lovely toasty log burner. With the red surrounding bricks still on display and the curved wooden beams above you'll feel like you've stepped into the past. It's everything a cottage should be. There's a TV if you fancy a movie night and the host has provided plenty of books and games to keep you entertained.

The fully renovated kitchen offers a large, modern and well equipped space within which to prepare some delicious meals which you can enjoy in the dining room at a pretty antique table by another wonderful wood-burner. It's an absolute delight. The kitchen also has a small seating area for morning coffees with south facing views of the garden and the walls are adorned with local art.

There are three equally cosy bedrooms, one super-king, one double or twin and the third a double. All of the beds are very comfortable and made up with 600 thread count linens to keep you warm in winter and cool in summer. You'll find each one decorated in its own style with wonderful print fabrics, cushions, rugs and art.

After a good night's rest you can enjoy a soak in the roll-top bath from which you have a pretty view out of the window, or blast yourself awake beneath the large walk-in rain shower and take advantage of the complimentary local toiletries and soaps.

Once you've found the Nespresso machine you might like to take your coffee out to the garden. It's fine if you're still in your Pj's, it's utterly private and secluded and the only eyes on you will be the resident hedgehogs (and the gardener on Friday!). The garden is large with several nice alfresco dining areas, an abundance of figs and raspberries when in season and is a walled sun trap.

You're spoiled with any number of walks from the doorstep, and only a short drive from the Jurassic Coast where you can take in the sea air. Explore nearby Beaminster and Bridport and if you fancy a swim head to Eype Beach, an easy drive away through stunning countryside. For groceries visit Rise Market & Bakery where you can buy some wonderful local goodies and if you want to dine out you might like to try Soulshine cafe for breakfast, Three Horseshoes Inn for fine pub fayre and Rise or Brassica for something a bit more fancy.