Shepherd's Hut in Blandford Forum

"Stayed here a few years ago with my dad and step mother as well as my brother, and I have to say we were all speechless at the view from the big window. It was cozy and had a lovely stay"

Reviewed by bethany2107 on 25/07/2018

"We travelled as a group of 4 adults and 2 young children (plus dog). Shepherds Hut is a beautiful conversion and the pictures dont do it justice. We have stayed at other similar properties in the past and this is definately up there with the best of them. Just looking at the guest book entries over the past 5 years shows 99.9% of guests LOVE it. The property is brilliantly equipped, we didnt find the electric heaters an issue (as implied in an earlier review) and its rural location suited us for the peace and quiet. It was strangley therapeutic watching the sheep from the upstairs feature window and there were plenty of walks around the wider farm grounds for the dog and kids. Yes there was the occasional "fruity" smell outside depending on the direction of the wind and we quickly learnt not to open the kitchen window for flies (who seemed to take shelter in that particular window frame) but it is a working farm!! Wifi and phone reception is very poor but again we took this as the price of having such a beautiful and peaceful location. It was a great base for our day trips. Monkey World, Weymouth, Poole, Swanage and Corfe Castle within an easy 20 minute drive. Before travelling i was slightly nervous that there were no recent reviews, and with a couple of the previous reviews, but i neednt have worried. Would thoroughly recommend."

Reviewed by Carolyn M on 29/10/2016

"There was a wow factor from the moment you walk up the stairs and see what a fantastic view there is of the countryside. We loved the fact that we were in the middle of a busy working farm, and often woke up in the morning with sheep surrounding our garden. We all loved chilling out in the beautiful garden that was very pet friendly and secure. We've already booked to stay there this Christmas. We highly recommend this wonderful cottage."

Reviewed by Mr Alcock on 04/06/2016

"This was a first class holiday cottage in a brilliant location and the accommodation was superb. We couldn't fault it and would like to return. Many thanks."

Reviewed by Ms Kitson on 10/04/2016

"We had a wonderful week in a glorious setting. Very high standard of accommodation with attention to detail exceptional. We would certainly highly recommend this cosy, warm converted barn to anyone and everyone. We have stayed at various cottages in the UK but this is top of the list. We will certainly return. "

Reviewed by Mr Holley on 20/02/2016

"A stunning barn which was extremely clean with a beautiful garden. There were lots of cutlery & kitchen utensils, towels etc. Our dogs loved being able to go for walks straight out the front door & the garden was so well fenced that there was no danger of them getting out. Definitely recommend & will be back again as soon as we can get some more leave."

Reviewed by Mrs Searle on 08/12/2015

"Shepherd's Hut was absolutely fabulous - we had a wonderful time in the most gorgeous setting. The kitchen was exceptionally well equipped, the views spectacular, and the cottage comfortable and accommodating all round. The only thing I would say is that the photos online definitely don't do the cottage justice. A fantastic place, thanks."

Reviewed by Mr Williams on 23/11/2015

"We have stayed in some very nice cottages but this is right at the top of the list."

Reviewed by Mrs Mccanna on 19/11/2015

"The relaxing ambience of the cottage and farm, cleanliness of the cottage was superb. Location of cottage excellent for visiting places."

Reviewed by Mrs Hardy on 31/10/2015

"This is our fifth visit. We still get the wow factor when we walk up the stairs to see the great windows and lovely views from it. It's a great location. Our two dogs love staying here and it's a great place to relax. We came home and booked again for next year as there is still so many places we have not visited. Thank you for another great holiday."

Reviewed by Mr Barnett on 24/10/2015

"Just a fantastic location and the cottage itself was excellent. The gardens were secure for our dogs. Want to book for next year and will recommend, it was just brilliant."

Reviewed by Mrs Wright on 22/08/2015

"Loved watching the birds and animals. It was a lovely cottage in a lovely location, and the manager was most helpful."

Reviewed by Mrs Cobey on 20/06/2015

"This place is okay but I wouldn't say it lives up to the 'luxury' description. The leaking flush water into the en-suite toilet bowl together with the absence of any way of drying towels there was annoying. The cold water supply in this same en-suite was so weak it made life difficult , especially in the shower. There was no tumble dryer and the heating is simply electric wall fires that constantly needed adjusting. We had a lot of trouble trying to dry our clothes during our wet but mild stay in early May. The number of flies was understandable as it is on a farm, but we didn't expect so many large spiders which my daughter struggled with. We didn't manage to get an internet connection at any point during our stay other than a few brief moments in the garden while it was raining. All this might have been acceptable if it wasn't for the information in the cottage that made us more than reluctant to 'trouble' the owners about our concerns. Phrases like, " We are not an internet help desk" and the owner was "A farmers wife and a nurse, so very busy" (or words to that affect), left us in no doubt that any approach we made wouldn't be a comfortable experience. I often rent property in May and I'm sorry to say that this place fell short of comparably priced places I've stayed at."

Reviewed by theartist2015 on 11/05/2015

"Quite simply the best holiday cottage we have ever stayed in! It was just so peaceful and relaxing and the wood burner was wonderful on chilly evenings. Everything we could need was provided."

Reviewed by Mrs Clark on 06/04/2015

"Everything was perfect."

Reviewed by Miss Disbury on 10/03/2015

"This was the most beautiful property we have ever booked, and we book a lot of different properties. It was really clean & fresh despite dogs being allowed to stay and the view out of the giant window was gorgeous! We have already booked again for next year!"

Reviewed by Mrs Wheeler on 28/02/2015

"The week we had at Shepherd's Hut was the best holiday we have had in this country in a holiday let. The building was spotlessly clean, everything you needed was there, the views from the aspect window were great and there were good dog walks around the farm."

Reviewed by Mr Clark on 16/02/2015

"A very peaceful getaway. Loved being able to walk from Shepherd's Hut around farm land (very muddy still this time of year but worth it)."

Reviewed by Miss Brigstock on 03/01/2015

"Had an excellent holiday, it was a really nice property."

Reviewed by Miss Darlington on 23/12/2014

"Great location, Shepherd's Hut is absolutely fantastic. We will be back without a doubt."

Reviewed by Mr Mandelstam on 06/12/2014

"Our second visit and just as good as the first last year. Absolutely fantastic and excellent if you have a dog."

Reviewed by Mrs Lawrence on 29/11/2014

"The setting (views, tranquillity, nearby walks, milking demonstration) as well as the property itself, were brilliant."

Reviewed by Mr Fleurie on 17/11/2014

"Location and property are both stunning. By choosing a property within 30 minutes of home, I was able to have it all for my 40th. Weekend/afternoon gathering with family and close friends, kids had post half-term holiday to enjoy (plenty of DVDs and board games to keep them occupied - fair selection of books but we recommend bringing children's books) and my wife and I managed to have few days to ourselves (still took children to school!). The beauty of this property is that the location is good enough to have a wonderful week with or without using your car. Without car 1) lounge next to the wood burning stove whilst eating cheese/wine and either reading a good book or looking out of the panoramic windows at sheep/rainbows/moonlit sky) 2) kitchen and bathroom well equipped for cooking and/or relaxation, we even managed some more cheese and wine in the garden on one sunny afternoon 3) Lots of grounds to explore - Peppa Pig lovers will adore the gigantic muddy puddles (rain permitting) and nice walks around farm (map provided and we saw deer on two of our walks). 4) There are pubs within walking distance - we didn't go to the local but instead did a medium hike (3-4 miles each way) to Hambro Arms in Milton Abbas - highly recommended food (many others mentioned in guest book and cottage info). Although we used our OS Map, once you find national trailway sign (200m west on main road), it's due North all the way so no need for detailed map. With car - I won't go through all that can be done in this wonderful area (loads of info at cottage) but although I've lived nearby for 30 years I still managed to find some great new places to eat (like Greyhound in Winterborne Stickland and Langton Arms in Tarrant Monkton). Bottom line is, I would be very surprised if you did not love a stay at the Shepherd's Hut (hard pushed to find anything to the contrary in guest book). P.S: Reason I have not recommended this property to older travellers is that, being an upside down property, they may find it a nuisance that the toilets are both on the ground floor whilst the open plan living area is on the first floor."

Reviewed by Ruth F on 17/11/2014

"Our 2nd visit this year & still the best rental we have used. Wonderful views, a warm comfortable cottage & the staff are unobtrusive yet friendly. Will no doubt book again soon."

Reviewed by Mr Wheeler on 09/11/2014

"Shepherds' Cottage is a fantastic cottage in an amazing location, the second visit was better than the first!"

Reviewed by Mrs Ford on 04/11/2014

"Very well presented converted barn on a working farm. Lovely and clean and everything you need. Great base for exploring Dorset and the surrounding areas. Very dog friendly with lots of nice farmland walks. Property has the living section upstairs and bedrooms / bathroom on ground level. Wood burning stove in the lounge and great views over the fields. Lots of space in this property with big kitchen area and 2 Sofa's in the lounge. Lots of wildlife seen and you can watch the cows being milked if you want. Great holiday let. . . we loved it."

Reviewed by Mark R on 18/10/2014

"So comfortable and relaxing with superb views from the enormous windows to surrounding fields and countryside. Everything thoughtfully catered for and a nice welcome pack too."

Reviewed by Mrs Robson on 12/10/2014

"Loved the location, the friendliness of the managers and the peace and quiet."

Reviewed by Mrs Cobey on 13/09/2014

"Shepherd's Hut was lovely and spotlessly clean. Having the lounge upstairs meant we could enjoy the spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. We loved the location and peacefulness, yet plenty of interesting places to visit nearby. "

Reviewed by Miss Page on 02/09/2014

"One of the best holiday cottages we've stayed in. Spotlessly clean, well equipped, dog friendly, we couldn't fault it in any way. Came home and booked for next year!"

Reviewed by A FlipKey verified reviewer on 18/08/2014

"My husband & i stayed at Shepherds hut in February for a week. what can i say apart from excellent. The accomodation is all to a very high spec & very comfortable. We immediately felt at home upon opening the door, it was warm & inviting. We went upstairs where we were greeted with a homemade cake & there was milk,tea, coffee& bread provided. The view from the window was fabulous, we spent many hours with a glass of wine watching the buzzards & the countryside. Our dog also loved watching the dogs from the farmhouse in the distance. With it being winter the cows were all inside so there wasnt any smell or flies. The enclosed garden was a bonus as we just let the dog out at night without having to go out ourselves. The location was fantastic for the gorgeous Dorset attractions, we spent days walking & nights warm & cosy with the woodburner lit & a glass of wine. There are games & jigsaws in the sideboard with lots of books if your intention is to just go & relax. I would have no reservations in recommending this accomodation & it would be my first choice to stay in again if in Dorset. Julie & Dave (Stafford)"

Reviewed by A FlipKey verified reviewer on 08/08/2014

"One of the best cottages we've ever stayed in - cannot fault it in any way. Spotlessly clean, well equipped, spacious garden, dog friendly, wonderful views of the countryside and wildlife and a delicious home made cake waiting for us on arrival!"

Reviewed by Mrs Downs on 28/06/2014

"A lovely place to relax in which was superbly equipped with everything needed for self catering. A good location for exploring Dorset. Particularly 'dog friendly' - the 'upside down' arrangement worked very well and the back garden is safe and totally enclosed. We loved it!"

Reviewed by Mrs Ferguson on 21/06/2014

"I cannot find a fault with this cottage. It was by far the best we have ever stayed in. We hope to return again."

Reviewed by Mrs Hilburn on 06/05/2014

"The Shepherds Hut was amazing, from the time we set eyes on it we knew is was special. Everything was finished to a high standard. The bedrooms were light and airy, mattresses and pillows were firm and everything smelt so lovely and fresh. Upstairs in the lounge and kitchen everything was supplied for us, all cupboards were full of every item you would ever need. The views from every window were to die for, watching and hearing the sheep with their lambs was very special. We would definitely stay here again and will have such fond memories of our Easter 2014 family break. We would give this property 10 stars if we could, what a wonderful find!!"

Reviewed by Mrs Fiddes on 22/04/2014

"We loved watching the lambs in the field opposite through the big picture window and enjoyed walking the dogs around the farm tracks. The beds at the cottage were really comfortable and it was lovely on arrival to find a cake and tea/coffee making items. "

Reviewed by Miss Skipton on 15/04/2014

"We visited here in 2013 and the conversion was simply stunning with the upside down living providing fabulous views across the farmland which the full length window made simply stunning. It was very cosy to sit in the warm when it rained watching the rain patter against the window. The bedrooms were warm and comfy and spotlessly clean. The living quarters had everything you could need and the lemon drizzle cake left for us was a nice touch and quickly consumed. A great base for days out in a beautiful county. Would recommend 100%"

Reviewed by Peter L on 10/04/2014

"The shepherds hut was such a gorgeous place to stay, the property is immaculately looked after and in such a lovely setting. The picture window in the living area gives a lovely view that one could never tire of. Would highly recommend this cottage to stay in."

Reviewed by Mrs Muskett on 04/04/2014

"We have stayed in many cottages, and I would personally say this was the best by far. Comfortable, warm and central location to many local tourist attractions, yet quiet. The property itself was of an extremely high standard, and the view through the large end window were unlikely to be matched anywhere. Wildlife could be seen in abundance from the cottage. We would definitely come back again."

Reviewed by Mrs Miller on 22/11/2013

"The property was a dream. Highly recommended."

Reviewed by Mrs Cobey on 18/10/2013

"What a tranquil place. Could sit looking out window for ages. We had fantastic time, and we will be back. Lovely time, lovely weather and beautiful house."

Reviewed by Mr Boniface on 04/09/2013

"We have two young children and were looking for somewhere quiet, which could be a base for us to do days out from. This cottage was just wonderful. The fantastic picture window in the living room was a great feature, we loved watching the 'sheep races' in the evening in the field opposite. The facilities provided are of an excellent standard. We situation of the cottage is perfect for walks out, and trips out in the car to nearby attractions. We would not hesitate to recommend this cottage, we had a lovely holiday here."

Reviewed by A FlipKey verified reviewer on 31/08/2013

"Superb property in a superb location."

Reviewed by Mr Aston on 30/07/2013

"This is our 3rd year, we loved it as much as the 1st year. Brilliant for our 2 dogs. Fantastic location. We hope to book again very soon."

Reviewed by Mr Barnett on 19/07/2013

"The best holiday ever. Shepherds Hut is the perfect retreat. Could not find a higher standard of accommodation and the location is so so beautiful. Thank you."

Reviewed by Mrs Ashcroft on 14/07/2013

"The peace and quiet of being on the farm, watching the sheep in the evening with the lambs racing up and down the field was a hi-light. The huge lounge window was fantastic. There was plenty to keep children occupied in the surrounding area. We would like to come back to this area of the country in the future."

Reviewed by Mr Evans on 08/06/2013

"Lovely dog friendly cottage, in a lovely setting. Good location from touring aspect. Great beaches, resorts and places of interest not far away. "

Reviewed by Mrs Greenwood on 01/05/2013

"A lovely cottage, the nicest we have stayed in, very high standard."

Reviewed by Mrs Hansen on 08/03/2013

"We liked everything and would certainly book again."

Reviewed by Mr Whale on 18/02/2013

"Farm managers allowed us to tour the dairy farm which was a lovely surprise. First impressions of accommodation was WOW! It was a wonderful and highly relaxing holiday."

Reviewed by Miss Arton on 14/01/2013

"Lovely barn conversion with modern quality decor. The upstairs open plan living area was particularly pleasant with a beautiful view."

Reviewed by Mrs Hockey on 07/01/2013

"Fabulous holiday cottage with first floor open plan lounge, kitchen/diner. Well insulated to modern standards but retaining old beams for character. Very well equipped with Bosch appliances and initial supplies of essentials. Electric heaters were more than adequate with wood burner for extra warmth and comfort. Superb position for Dorset attractions such as Swanage railway. Be warned if visiting in Summer that this is on a working farm with cows and flies. Very popular so book early. Thoroughly recommended."

Reviewed by mcquarrievideo on 23/11/2012

"My partner and I have returned home today after a truly memorable week away. We rented "The Shepherds Hut" a real gem of a property just outside of the village of Winterborne Whitechurch nr Blandford Forum in Dorset. Upon our arrival the property was open so no awkwardness being shown around. The ground floor is well proportioned, a lovely large hall way (great for muddy wellie boots) a master with en-suite, a good sized family bathroom with a bath and good sized separate shower. The two twin rooms are a little cosy but still lovely. Upstairs is where it all gets really good though! As you walk up the stairs you are confronted with a stunning floor to ceiling window that reaches right into the eaves. The panoramic view of the rolling hills dotted with sheep is just to die for! As you carry on looking around you notice the beamed and vaulted ceilings, the woodburned and a very well appointed kitchen.. It was so lovely we even invited family for Sunday lunch! everybody was so impressed, even my mother (who is never impressed by anything) was blown away! Everything was perfect! We spent nearly the whole week tucked up in front of the woodburned watching the world slowly go by, our Jack Russell "Woody" loved the walks, the setting is wonderful and such fun to be on a working farm!"

Reviewed by russellbedford1 on 16/11/2012

"Superb barn conversion in an ideal location, the best Sykes holiday to date. The property is stunning in every way."

Reviewed by Mr Watson on 09/11/2012

"This is a lovely cottage, very well appointed and very cosy. Everything one could possibly need was there. I would recommend this cottage, it was a delight."

Reviewed by Mrs Smith on 12/10/2012

"The personal touch of the farm manager's wife leaving us a cake, milk, tea and coffee for our arrival. We felt right at home straight away. The location was wonderful and the accommodation well equipped and nicely furnished and decorated."

Reviewed by Mrs Cleghorn on 07/10/2012

"Great place to relax and the watch the world go by. The cottage was of a fantastic standard and was plenty big enough for a family of two adults and four children. The kids loved the freedom and watching the farm in action. "

Reviewed by Mrs Carroll on 10/06/2012

"The property was stylish and well thought out with a lovely setting and wonderful views. Interesting to see working life of the farm. Very good location for sightseeing."

Reviewed by Mrs Hickling-jones on 02/04/2012

"A well put together cottage. Felt very welcoming and homely."

Reviewed by Mrs Bradford-Thomson on 12/03/2012

"We loved being on the farm, it was so peaceful and relaxing and somewhere to forget the day to day struggle and leave everything behind! Couldn't of come at a better time! The dogs had a wonderful time, I'm sure they are still dreaming about the amount of fantastic walks they had! "

Reviewed by Mrs Barrett on 09/01/2012

"Shepherds Hut offered everything you could wish for and more. Relaxing atmosphere set in lovely farmland surroundings. The mince pies, milk etc, were most welcome,and the Christmas tree an added bonus. We had a very peaceful and relaxing week in a very beautiful home, and enjoyed watching farm life at work. Highly recommended."

Reviewed by Mrs Harmer on 19/12/2011

"Accommodation was excellent with lots to do in the Dorest area."

Reviewed by Mr Andersson on 10/11/2011

"An excellent setting, surrounded by fields (and cows) Nice, peaceful position and great to wander through the farmland. The Shepherds Hut itself was well specified & comfortable. The upstairs lounge with it's panoramic window impressed everyone. The solar heating for the water was a great touch and supplied all our needs. Upstairs got pretty warm when the sun shone but opening the windows wide risked a visit from the flies, which you'd have to expect on a dairy farm. The position was good too and handy for lots of interesting parts of Dorset including, the Tank Museum, Monkeyworld, Durdle Door, Tyneham etc. Everyone had a great time and it was like escaping the rush of the modern world for a brief week."

Reviewed by A FlipKey verified reviewer on 20/10/2011

"A lovely property with good views."

Reviewed by Mrs Ercer on 11/09/2011

"The setting was excellent and we particularly liked the large window/ wall in the upstairs lounge so that we could watch the cows and wildlife. The property was comfortable and peaceful and within reasonable travelling distance of many great parts of Dorset. "

Reviewed by Mr Carver on 28/08/2011

"This was a peaceful cottage with a huge safe garden for the dog. Everywhere we wanted to visit was a short drive away. The standard of Shepherd's Hut was outstanding and we all thoroughly enjoyed our stay. I would highly recommend staying here!"

Reviewed by Mrs Macdonald on 22/08/2011

"The cottage was in a very quiet location and the children loved the freedom of walking along the pathways on the farm fields."

Reviewed by Miss O'Brien on 19/08/2011

"The position of the cottage was perfect for seeing all the wildlife and the property was lovely - all at a high standard."

Reviewed by Mr Barnett on 04/08/2011

"I liked everything, the Shepherds Hut exceeded our expectations in every way. The accommodation greatly enhanced our holiday. The location is also fabulous, close enough to the coast and convenient to visit the surrounding towns and tourist attractions. Being on a working dairy farm was interesting and fun, which just made the holiday more fun. The owners were also very welcoming and helpful. I will definitely go back to the Shepherd's Hut, without a doubt. "

Reviewed by Miss Smith on 11/07/2011

"Peaceful surroundings in one of the best - if not the best - equipped cottages we have encountered."

Reviewed by Mr Charlton on 21/06/2011

"Beautiful location. Everything so new and clean. Perfect for a family. One of the best places we've stayed in."

Reviewed by Willis on 12/06/2011

"Excellent property. Very well appointed. Quiet, lovely situation surrounded by fields and farm buildings."

Reviewed by Mr Funk on 03/06/2011

"The cottage was spacious and immaculate in every way. Being on a working farm suited the children as they were made welcome by the farm manager and his family. We were there for lambing which was particularly interesting. I would recommend the cottage for a relaxing peaceful break."

Reviewed by Mrs Tharm on 23/05/2011

"Everything was to a high standard and there was the attention to detail - they even provided dish washing liquid."

Reviewed by Mrs Li on 03/05/2011

"The property made our holiday! To be honest, we were a little nervous as there were no pictures on the site as it was a new property and they didn't go on for ages for some strange reason. I never usually book without a look at house first. However, as it was new I did and it was just outstanding inside. It was so new and of such a high standard. The best bit of all was the huge window at the end of the living room. We had an amazing view and as their were over 600 cows on this dairy farm we now know everything about cows! We watched them go to be milked twice a day and we even saw one give birth from our arm chairs. We saw buzzards, chaffinch and rabbits to name a few. We had a fantastic time - thank you."

Reviewed by Mrs Chapman on 19/04/2011