Stour Valley Cottage holds a marvellous location within the beautiful county of Dorset, an area known for its rolling dales, protected heathlands and breath-taking Jurassic coastline. The house is situated in the charming town of Wimborne Minster, perfect for a quiet break away from busy day to day lives.
Set within the town, The Tivoli Theatre, with its Art Deco interiors, is perfect for evenings of entertainment. It runs a full programme of cinema, theatre and music, with something for everyone. Kids and adults alike love to explore the tiny streets of the small Model Town. A perfect scale replica (1:10) of Wimborne in 1950! The town boasts fifteen pubs and bars, perfect after long country walks or cosy evenings out for dinner.
The house is within reaching distance of fabulous beaches, wonderful countryside, historical attractions and charming market towns. Just twenty minutes away, is the picturesque town of Poole, here you can hop on a ferry and visit neighbouring islands or soak up the sunrays on the near-by golden beaches at Sandbanks and Bournemouth. Other close-by towns which are well worth a visit include the charming county town of Dorchester, Weymouth with its recognisable Georgian seafront and the lively market towns of Bridport and Lyme Regis. The famous Durdle Door, a natural limestone arch, is just a forty five-minute car journey away and is a must-visit while in the area.
The Region
Pack your bags and fasten your seatbelts, as Oliver's Travels is thrilled to present a dazzling array of luxury holiday properties in the enchanting land of Dorset! A captivating county where time seems to stand still, Mother Nature has outdone herself. Dorset, with the rolling hills of the Dorset Downs and the jaw-dropping Jurassic Coast, is a real-life tapestry of postcard-perfect landscapes, historic landmarks and villages oozing charm in lavish abundance.
The Jurassic Coast is not just a coastline, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Dorset's showstopping features. Stretching an impressive 95 miles from Orcombe Point in East Devon to Old Harry Rocks near Swanage, this coastline presents endless coastal wonders. Dramatic cliffs, hidden coves and beaches boasting ancient fossils, Charmouth and Lyme Regis are the treasure chests for fossil hunters and curious minds alike.
Dorset is also a playground for history buffs, with landmarks like Corfe Castle standing tall and proud. Perched on a hill, this fortress offers far-reaching, breathtaking views. The Cerne Abbas Giant is a colossal chalk figure etched into a hillside near the village of Cerne Abbas, Dorset's own friendly giant, captivating visitors for centuries.
Dorchester, the county town, is a delightful mishmash of Georgian architecture and markets that buzz with life. Thomas Hardy's Cottage, near Dorchester, gives you a peek into the life of the literary legend himself. Bridport, with its bohemian vibes and eclectic street markets, is like the cool kid in the market town crew. Meanwhile, Weymouth's golden sandy beach and bustling harbour are perfect for leisurely strolls and exploring historic Nothe Fort. For a touch of seaside nostalgia, Swanage brings the Victorian pier and a heritage steam railway into the mix.
The Isle of Purbeck is a haven of beauty, featuring Lulworth Cove's sheltered bay and crystal-clear waters. Just around the corner, Durdle Door, a natural limestone arch, sets the stage for coastal walks and views so stunning, they might bring a tear to your eye. For the adventurers among us, the Dorset Downs, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, are calling. Hiking trails such as the South West Coast Path and the Wessex Ridgeway offer a rollercoaster ride through diverse scenery, from cliffs to heathlands.
Dorset's culinary scene is a delightful fusion of tradition and modernity. You will savour local produce at farmers' markets, indulge in fresh seafood along the coast and let the county's pubs and tearooms be your warm and welcoming retreat for traditional cream teas or a sip of local ales.
Dorset is an experience that seamlessly blends history, natural beauty and that quintessential British charm. It promises an adventure that captures the very essence of England's southwest.
