Escape to The Downwood, a luxurious retreat nestled in the heart of Dorset's idyllic countryside. This stunning holiday home is perfect for large gatherings, comfortably sleeping up to 16 guests across eight elegantly furnished bedrooms.
Indulge in the ultimate relaxation with a soak in the outdoor hot tub, or take a dip in the heated swimming pool.
The type of accommodation offers a plethora of activities, including a tennis court, badminton, and croquet area, ensuring entertainment for everyone.
Inside, the property boasts a cosy woodburning stove, a games room equipped with snooker table and table football, and a conservatory and orangery for serene garden views. With a well-appointed kitchen and spacious dining area, this cottage is designed for making memories with loved ones.
Whether you're seeking a fun-filled family break or a tranquil escape with friends, this cottage provides an exceptional base for exploring Dorset's picturesque landscapes and attractions.
What do guests love about this accommodation?
Guests have been particularly charmed by the cottage's extensive outdoor amenities, including the hot tub, heated swimming pool, and the variety of sporting activities available such as tennis and badminton. The spacious and well-equipped games room has also been a hit, providing entertainment regardless of the weather. The inclusion of pet-friendly facilities has made it a favourite for dog owners.
Getting there
To get to The Downwood, if you're driving, take the A354 to Blandford Forum, located near major motorways. For rail travellers, the nearest train station is Salisbury, from where you can take a taxi or bus to reach your destination.
Nearby Essentials
During your stay, you'll have convenient access to a selection of nearby amenities, including some of the area's tastiest takeout options. Click any of the postcodes for a map along with handy driving instructions and the fastest route from your accommodation.
| Service |
Distance (miles) |
Postcode |
| Pharmacy (Boots) |
1.5 miles | DT11 7AW |
| Train station (Salisbury) |
16.5 miles | SP2 7RS |
| Pub (The Greyhound) |
0.4 miles | DT11 9AX |
| Dog walk (Blandford Stour Weir) |
1.7 miles | DT11 7AF |
| Supermarket (Tesco Superstore) |
1.5 miles | DT11 7EG |
| Indian takeaway (Chutney Corner) |
1.5 miles | DT11 7EN |
| Chinese takeaway (The Golden Horse) |
1.6 miles | DT11 7EP |
| Italian takeaway (La Lupa) |
1.5 miles | DT11 7DU |
For families with Kids
This destination is fantastic for families, with a heated outdoor pool and ample space for outdoor games like tennis and badminton, children will have plenty to do. The nearby Blandford Forum offers additional family-friendly activities, ensuring a fun-filled holiday for all ages.
Is The Downwood A good location for couples?
For couples, this serene location offers a romantic getaway with private amenities like the hot tub. Nearby, romantic days out await with scenic drives to the coast or vineyard tours, providing the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure for a memorable retreat.
Dining and Cafes
Closest to your stay is The Greyhound (
01258 452658), a cosy pub offering hearty meals. For a delightful café experience, visit The Georgian Tearoom (
01258 450090). For fine dining, The Crown (
01258 456626) serves exquisite dishes in an elegant setting.
Within walking distance of your cottage
A short walk away you'll find local shops, traditional pubs like The Greyhound, and scenic walks through Dorset's countryside.
Quickfire FAQs
Does this cottage have a hot tub?
Yes, the property features an outdoor hot tub, providing a luxurious spot for relaxation and stargazing during your stay.
Is the accommodation pet-friendly?
Yes, the cottage welcomes pets, making it an ideal choice for guests wishing to bring their furry friends along for the holiday.
What type of heating is available at the cottage?
The cottage is equipped with central heating throughout, ensuring a warm and comfortable environment, and includes a woodburning stove for an extra cosy atmosphere.
Are there any on-site activities for guests?
Guests can enjoy a variety of on-site activities including a heated swimming pool, tennis court, badminton, croquet area, and access to the property's vineyard and woodland.
Can I find entertainment options within the cottage?
Absolutely, the cottage boasts a games room with a snooker table, table football, and a selection of games, alongside multiple TVs and WiFi for your entertainment needs.
Is there parking available at the property?
Yes, there is ample off-road parking available for guests, ensuring convenience and security for your vehicles during your stay.
While there'll be plenty to keep you entertained an
The Downwood itself, if you plan to get out and about and see some of what Dorset has to offer, here are some of the nearby attractions you can enjoy during your stay. Please note that some of these activities and days out are paid and it's always a good idea to book in advance to secure your place where applicable.
Found a special day out near your cottage? Please
let us know and we'll add it so that other visitors can enjoy it too!
Monkey World - BH20 6HH
about 11 Miles
Monkey World is not only a local attraction but the work they carry out is amazing. Rescuing and rehabilitating monkeys and assisting governments around the world to stop the smuggling of primates are just some of the purposes of the centre. You get to see the primates themselves many of which have become famous from appearing on the TV show Monkey World - a documentary about this place. Open year round we think this is one of best attractions in
Dorset and you even get the chance to adopt a monkey if you choose.
Loch Lomond Sealife Centre - G83 8QL
about 11 Miles
The perfect place to visit on a rainy day this large Sealife Centre is currently offering 2 tickets for £15.00 when you book online. Top attractions include the amazing shark tunnel, the rock pools and the otter enclosure. This year Loch Lomond Sealife Centre is also home to Cammy - the only Giant Sea Turtle in Scotland! The centre also offers visitors an educational experience with talks and hands on events taking place daily.
Kingston Maurward Gardens and Animal Park - DT2 8PY
about 15 Miles
Kingston Maurward Gardens and Animal Park is a magical place to visit with grand gardens and plenty of animals to meet. From goats and ponies to alpacas and pot bellied pigs this attraction is excellent value for money. You can feel free to explore the grounds too which are especially lovely on sunny days. You will see majestic floral displays, stone terraces, a temple and even a lake.
Dorset Teddy Bear Museum - DT1 1JU
about 16 Miles
This family orientated museum is dedicated to Teddy Bears both old and new Edward Bear and his family of people sized bears are one of the main attractions. You can buy teddy bear gifts from the quaint shop including top notch brands. The Steiff Teddy Bear and Merrythought bears are very popular. Open 7 days a week all year round (except 25th and 26th December) this is a perfect all weather place to visit.
Salisbury and South Wiltshire Museum - SP1 2EN
about 20 Miles
The Salisbury and South Wiltshire Museum is located in the Salisbury area of Wiltshire and will appeal to those looking for an educational and cultural day out. The exhibits are centred around the history of Salisbury and South Wiltshire from prehistoric times to now. There are plenty of activities on for families and children during school holidays so don't forget to check ahead to see the latest events. There are a gift shop and a cafe on site.
Longleat Safari and Adventure Park - BA12 7NW
about 23 Miles
You may have seen this amazing attraction on the BBC1 Animal Park programme. This is actually the first safari park outside of Africa where you can get close to the animals from the comfort of your own car. Some of the highlights include the zebras, the wallabies in wallaby wood and the sea lion escorted cruise to Gorilla Island. And of course the magnificent lions and tigers are a must see. This really is an animal experience with a difference and you can save money by booking your tickets online. This attraction is open until the end of October. Check out their website to see some fantastic video podcasts of the park.
Paultons Family Theme Park - SO51 6AL
about 26 Miles
This is a really fun and memorable attraction which is suitable for day trips or short breaks. You can buy your tickets online which will help you beat the queues especially in school holidays as well as save money. With a whole host of attractions and thrilling rides there might not be enough time in the day! Exciting rides include the Edge and The Cobra. More family friendly rides for younger children include the Magic Carpet Ride and the Flying Frog. We are sure the whole family will have fun at Paultons so check out their website for the latest opening times and admission costs.
Paultons Park - SO51 6AL
about 26 Miles
Paultons Family Theme Park has recently been greatly improved to include many new attractions for younger visitors. The brand new Peppa Pig World features 7 amazing new rides and an Indoor Play Area to keep the little ones amused for hours. Of course those looking for more adrenaline boosting activities will not be disappointed either as there are over 60 rides in total to try out. The mighty Edge ride and the terrifying Cobra rollercoaster are the ones to go for if white knuckle rides are your thing. Live entertainment is also on offer several times throughout the season including some amazing family shows such as "The Light Fantastic" which takes place this October.
Fort Victoria - PO41 0RR
about 28 Miles
Fort Victoria is many attractions in one convenient location. What once was a historically important fort is now home to a Marine Aquarium, a Model Railway, a Sea Bed Archaeology Exhibition and a Planetarium. The Country Park also offers delightful woodland walks. Countryside Rangers are on hand to give guided walks of the seashore and the woodland. Admission to the park is free of charge but each of the attractions incur a small charge.
North of England
Scotland
East of England
Heart of England
South of England
South West of England
Wales
