Title: River cottage sits in a pretty rural setting with its own enclosed garden Reviews, Deals & Photos 2025 - Expedia.co.uk [See all properties](http://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?regionId=&adults=2&children=&sort=RECOMMENDED&useRewards=false&semdtl=&userIntent=&vip=false) Entire home # River cottage sits in a pretty rural setting with its own enclosed garden ![Property grounds](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/60000000/59950000/59947200/59947102/477d74c5.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=598&ra=fit) ![Outdoor dining](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/60000000/59950000/59947200/59947102/bee98f05.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) ![Exterior](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/60000000/59950000/59947200/59947102/0c9587a1.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) ![3 bedrooms, Internet, bed sheets](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/60000000/59950000/59947200/59947102/e962b3d0.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) ![Fridge, microwave, oven, dishwasher](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/60000000/59950000/59947200/59947102/e233cb1f.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) - Overview - Amenities - Policies - Location River Cottage, nestled within the beautiful grounds of Athelhampton House, offers a peaceful retreat with its own enclosed garden and comfortable sitting room. With three spacious bedrooms, all with en-suite bathrooms, this cottage is perfect for a relaxing family break in a special property. 9.4 Exceptional ### Entire home 3 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 611 sq ft ## Popular amenities - Dryer - Parking available - Pet-friendly - Washer - Kitchen - Outdoor space ## Add dates for prices Check-in Check-out Travellers ## About this property ### Entire place You'll have the entire cottage to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party. ### River cottage sits in a pretty rural setting with its own enclosed garden River Cottage stands within the beautiful grounds of Athelhampton House and is accessed via the estate car park and a bridge over the River Piddle. The cottage sits in a pretty, rural setting with its own enclosed garden, and provides generous accommodation with three spacious bedrooms, all with en-suite bathrooms. There is a comfortable sitting room with french doors to the terrace with its garden furniture and views of the surrounding countryside, and there is a dual aspect kitchen with dining area. The cottage is perfect for a relaxing family break in a very special property. Guests staying at River Cottage have the privilege of being able to view the house and gardens during their stay, and the cottage is well located for trips to the Jurassic Coast including iconic Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove. Just a few minutes by car is the village of Puddletown with a well-stocked shop and pub. The historic county town of Dorchester is just a short drive away and there are many quaint and pretty villages nearby, providing many opportunities for exploring this wonderful part of Dorset. Additional Information: Travel cot available on request (please bring your own cot linen). Up to two well behaved dogs welcome (small additional charge). The heating and water are heated by ground source, all powered by solar. Please note that Internet access is offered at this property for recreational purposes only and is not meant for business use or streaming. Speed/service may vary depending on the package obtained by the owner which is provided to guests free of charge. Should guests experience difficulties or loss of use, neither the owner nor Dorset Hideaways will be held responsible. ## Property amenities ### Internet - Available in the cottage: Internet access ### Parking and transport - Parking on site ### Kitchen - Dishwasher - Microwave - Oven - Refrigerator ### Bedrooms - 3 bedrooms - Bedsheets provided ### Bathroom - 3 bathrooms - Towels provided ### Entertainment - TV ### Outdoor areas - Garden - Outdoor furniture ### Laundry - Laundry facilities - Washing machine ### Comfort - Heating ### Pets - Pet friendly ### Suitability/Accessibility - Smoke-free property ### Location highlights - In a rural location ### Things to do - Birdwatching nearby - Cycling nearby ### Safety features - Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector) - Smoke detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property) ### General - Garden - Unit size: 11 square feet ## Similar properties ![Cottage | Interior](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/45000000/44460000/44458200/44458189/bd09a6e5.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### The Old School House Dorchester - Kitchen - Washer - Pet-friendly - Parking included 10 Exceptional 1 review £532 includes taxes & fees 3 Oct - 4 Oct [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-10-03&endDate=2025-10-04&selected=44458189&PinnedHotelID=44458189&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ## Policies ### Check-in Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM Minimum check-in age - 21 ### Check-out Check-out before 10:00 AM ### Special check-in instructions You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions ### Pets Pets are allowed Service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees ### Children and extra beds Children are welcome ### Events No events allowed ### Smoking Smoking is not permitted ## Important information ### You need to know This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business or profession. Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation If you cancel your booking, you'll be subject to the host's cancellation policy. In accordance with UK consumer law, property booking services are not subject to the right of withdrawal. ### Property is also known as 574264 ## About the area Located in Dorchester, this cottage is in a rural area. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Durdle Door and Durdle Door Beach. Travelling with kids? Consider Kingston Maurward Park and Gardens, or check out an event or a game at The Avenue Stadium. Take the opportunity to explore the area for outdoor excitement like cycling and other activities like birdwatching. [Visit our Dorchester travel guide](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Dorchester.dx182509) [View more Cottages in Dorchester](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Dorchester-Cottages.d182509-aaCottages.Travel-Guide-Accommodation) ![Map](https://maps.googleapis.com/maps/api/staticmap?&size=660x330&map_id=3b266eb50d2997c6&zoom=13&markers=icon:https%3A%2F%2Fa.travel-assets.com%2Ftravel-assets-manager%2Feg-maps%2Fproperty.png%7C50.74780%2C-2.32849&channel=expedia-HotelInformation&maptype=roadmap&scale=1&key=AIzaSyCYjQus5kCufOpSj932jFoR_AJiL9yiwOw&signature=YVpgEU76_WuCgrK73BN1G0l4nNA=) Dorchester, Dorset ### What's nearby - Athelhampton House and Gardens - 2 min walk - 0.1 miles - Sculpture by the Lakes - 6 min drive - 3.4 miles - Monkey World Ape Rescue Center - 12 min drive - 9.1 miles - The Tank Museum - 13 min drive - 8.7 miles - Durdle Door - 30 min drive - 14.7 miles ### Getting around - Dorchester West Station - 17 min drive - Bournemouth (BOH-Bournemouth Intl.) - 47 min drive ### Restaurants - ‪Kings Arms - ‬9 min drive - ‪The Royal Oak - ‬7 min drive - ‪Hurricane Terrace & Bar - ‬13 min drive - ‪Thimble Inn - ‬8 min drive - ‪Trumpet Major - ‬9 min drive ## Frequently asked questions ### Is River cottage sits in a pretty rural setting with its own enclosed garden pet-friendly? > Yes, pets are allowed at this property. ### What time is check-in at River cottage sits in a pretty rural setting with its own enclosed garden? > Check-in begins at 4:00 PM. ### What time is check-out at River cottage sits in a pretty rural setting with its own enclosed garden? > Checkout is at 10:00 AM. ### Where is River cottage sits in a pretty rural setting with its own enclosed garden located? > This family-friendly Dorchester cottage is located in a rural location, within 3 mi (5 km) of Tolpuddle Martyrs Museum, Sculpture by the Lakes and Hardy's Cottage. Kingston Maurward Park and Gardens and Skirmish Dorset are also within 6 miles (10 km). ## Have a question? Beta Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews. Ask a question ## River cottage sits in a pretty rural setting with its own enclosed garden Reviews 9.4 ### Exceptional All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.[More information](https://www.expedia.co.uk/lp/b/content-guidelines) ### 10 Cleanliness ### 10 Location 10 - Excellent 6 8 - Good 3 6 - Okay 0 4 - Poor 0 2 - Terrible 0 This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified. ### 10/10 Excellent 19 Oct 2023 #### Loved it would definitely be coming again Everything was great can’t think of anything, maybe one thing and that was more for my Dad who came with us , because he his 82 he got in and out of the shower/Bath but was frightened of slipping so maybe a bath Matt or even a shower cubicle in the down stairs bedroom, only a thought, but still would give the holiday 10/10 This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified. ### 8/10 Good 11 Dec 2023 #### River cottage Very chocolate box cottage. Everything you need is there. Owen the manager was lovely and arranged a private tour of Athelhampton house for us, provided by Emma who was very knowledgeable. We were lucky as there was a Christmas fair happening that weekend too. The Blue Vinny pub in Puddletown was excellent and very accommodating. Would recommend staying. This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified. ### 8/10 Good #### Robin B. 20 Sept 2023 #### Lovely location We really enjoyed our stay at River Cottage. It was a very peaceful location, despite being near a main road. Athelhampton House and gardens are beautiful. The cottage was a great base for us to explore Dorset - we can recommend visiting Sherborne, Lulworth, Monkey World, Maiden Castle and the Studland peninsula. The cottage itself was cosy and comfortable and there was a generous welcome basket of goodies for us to enjoy. The garden is secluded and private - we even saw a few frogs! The only issue we had (really minor!) was that some of the kitchen drawers were difficult to close. Also, I wouldn't recommend this property to anyone who was seriously afraid of spiders. ##### Robin B. This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified. ### 10/10 Excellent #### Lucie C. 13 Jun 2021 #### Idyllic cottage in great location The cottage is very comfortable and it was a bonus to have the main bedroom and en-suite downstairs. Two further upstairs bedrooms were also en-suites, which was very useful. The beds were incredibly comfortable and the kitchen had everything that we needed for our stay. The garden was enclosed, so our dogs had a great time, although I'm not sure that they couldn't have cleared the fence if they had seen a deer on the other side! There is a large field next to the property where we were told they could also be exercised. We found the location to be peaceful, yet within a short distance of many places that we wanted to visit, so would definitely return. The staff at Athelhampton could not have been more pleasant, making sure that we had everything we needed, whilst respecting our privacy completely. A fabulous find and we will definitely be back. ##### Lucie C. ### 10/10 Excellent #### Jan W. 20 Aug 2023 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Another world We were enchanted by River Cottage - the cottage itself and its surroundings. Downstairs there was the dining kitchen, lounge, hall and ground floor bedroom with ensuite. Patio doors from the lounge led to the garden with table & chairs. Leading up from the kitchen was one double bedroom & ensuite; and leading up from the hall was another bedroom where we had twin beds & ensuite. True, the kitchen and lounge were a bit on the small side for our family group, and there was only one small cupboard for dry food goods, but we managed. The cottage is situated in the grounds of Athelhampton House, to which we had free entry. Amazing. Much more to see than a National Trust house. My son was also able to charge his electric car at the back of the house. Owen, the Estate Manager, was very helpful and we just loved it there. It was so calming and peaceful. ##### Jan W. Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023 This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified. ### 10/10 Excellent 3 Jul 2023 #### Lovely Property in a Tranquil Setting Tucked away on a private driveway on the Athelhampton estate, pretty River Cottage is a lovely getaway from hustle and bustle yet only a minute's walk to the main house visitor centre (open daily with a cafe and bar) if you need assistance or supplies. There was a thoughtful welcome basket of basics and treats (including delicious bread). We popped across to reception a few times to stock up and everyone was friendly and extremely helpful. A bonus was the free entry into fascinating Athelhampton House and its extensive formal gardens. The fully enclosed cottage back garden was perfect for the dogs. There was even a goal post at one end for a family game of football as well as barbecue equipment. We brought our own lawn games. Southwest-facing patio with table and chairs was a sunny spot for eating outdoors. The three en-suite bedrooms, including one on the ground floor, perfect for the oldest generation, were spacious and comfortable. Well equipped eat-in kitchen and cosy sitting room with French doors onto the garden. Everything just right for our multigenerational group of 6 and 2 dogs. Dorchester is a very short drive away and there's a shop and post office in nearby Puddletown just up the road. We all had a wonderful time. This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified. ### 8/10 Good 2 Feb 2022 #### review A beautiful old cottage, and the staff on the estate were very helpful. Just disappointed to find the stove which was included in the details had been removed and replaced with a television- so against the character of the cottage This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified. ### 10/10 Excellent #### Keith C. 2 Oct 2021 #### Wonderful Beautiful house, extremely clean, comfortable beds. Very private with lovely views of trees. We really enjoyed our stay. Everything you could need, utensils, lots of hot water and heating. Special mention to Owen who helped us out with a minor hitch. Only downside is you can hear the by-pass traffic but it didn’t matter too much. Would definitely stay again. Good access to Dorchester and Weymouth. Highly recommend. ##### Keith C. This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified. ### 10/10 Excellent #### Barbara H. 2 Oct 2021 #### Week away with friends and dog Great, peaceful location to stay in. Bonus being able to visit the gardens and house. Helpful friendly staff. ##### Barbara H. ## Expedia's Latest Trends ### Hotels > [The Coppid Beech Hotel](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Bracknell-Hotels-The-Coppid-Beech-Hotel.h3809.Hotel-Information) > > [Carden Park](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Chester-Hotels-Carden-Park.h190780.Hotel-Information) > > [Hampton by Hilton London Gatwick Airport](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Gatwick-Hotels-Hampton-By-Hilton-London-Gatwick-Airport.h7234788.Hotel-Information) > > [Hampton by Hilton London Stansted Airport](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Stansted-Hotels-Hampton-By-Hilton-London-Stansted-Airport.h18464320.Hotel-Information) > > [Stratford Manor Hotel](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Stratford-Upon-Avon-Hotels-Stratford-Manor.h27936.Hotel-Information) > > [Ashford International Hotel & Spa](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Ashford-Hotels-Ashford-International-Hotel.h527123.Hotel-Information) > > [Retallack Resort](https://www.expedia.co.uk/St-Columb-Major-Hotels-Retallack-Resort.h4537229.Hotel-Information) > > [Bloc Hotel London Gatwick Airport](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Gatwick-Hotels-Bloc-Hotel-London-Gatwick-Airport.h6594190.Hotel-Information) > > [Sand Bay Holiday Village](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Weston-Super-Mare-Hotels-Sand-Bay-Holiday-Village.h11443695.Hotel-Information) > > [St Michael's Resort](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Falmouth-Hotels-St-Michaels-Resort.h2951426.Hotel-Information) > > [Crowne Plaza Stratford Upon Avon by IHG](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Stratford-Upon-Avon-Hotels-Crowne-Plaza-Stratford-Upon-Avon.h11307.Hotel-Information) > > [Hilton London Gatwick Airport](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Gatwick-Hotels-Hilton-London-Gatwick-Airport.h20753.Hotel-Information) > > [Norbreck Castle Hotel](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Blackpool-Hotels-Norbreck-Castle-Hotel.h6377.Hotel-Information) > > [Eastwell Manor, Champneys Hotel & Spa](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Ashford-Hotels-Eastwell-Manor.h905662.Hotel-Information) > > [Camelot Castle Hotel](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Tintagel-Hotels-Camelot-Castle-Hotel.h8083111.Hotel-Information) > > [Hollins Hall Hotel, Golf & Country Club](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Shipley-Hotels-Hollins-Hall-Hotel.h63744.Hotel-Information) > > [Chesford Grange Hotel](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Kenilworth-Hotels-Chesford-Grange.h920291.Hotel-Information) > > [Grand Burstin Hotel Folkestone](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Folkestone-Hotels-Grand-Burstin-Hotel-Folkestone.h1201483.Hotel-Information) > > [The Mill Hotel & Spa](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Chester-Hotels-The-Mill-Hotel-Spa.h1695656.Hotel-Information) > > [Village Hotel Manchester Ashton](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Ashton-Under-Lyne-Hotels-Village-Hotel-Manchester-Ashton.h1848975.Hotel-Information) > > [The Winchester Hotel & Spa](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Winchester-Hotels-The-Winchester-Hotel-Spa.h26080.Hotel-Information) > > [Hilton at St George's Park, Burton Upon Trent](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Burton-On-Trent-Hotels-Hilton-At-St-Georges-Park.h5094740.Hotel-Information) > > [Radisson Blu Hotel Manchester, Airport](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Manchester-Hotels-Radisson-Blu-Hotel-Manchester.h120016.Hotel-Information) > > [The Spa Hotel](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Royal-Tunbridge-Wells-Hotels-The-Spa-Hotel.h8849.Hotel-Information) > > [Hythe Imperial Hotel Spa & Golf](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hythe-Hotels-Hythe-Imperial-Hotel-Spa-Golf.h9108.Hotel-Information) > > [The Rutland Arms Hotel, Bakewell, Derbyshire](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Bakewell-Hotels-The-Rutland-Arms-Hotel.h792056.Hotel-Information) > > [Harbour Beach Club & Hotel](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Salcombe-Hotels-Harbour-Beach-Club-Hotel-Spa.h2261933.Hotel-Information) > > [Fistral Beach Hotel and Spa - Adults Only](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Newquay-Hotels-Fistral-Beach-Hotel-And-Spa-Adults-Only.h1895493.Hotel-Information) > > [Worcester Whitehouse](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Worcester-Hotels-Worcester-Whitehouse.h18498.Hotel-Information) > > [Cotswolds Hotel & Spa](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Chipping-Norton-Hotels-Cotswolds-Hotel-Spa.h13106835.Hotel-Information)