One of the few properties offering private chef services.
Centrally-located
You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
7 bedrooms2+ bathroomsSleeps 14
Popular amenities
Onsite parking available
Dog-friendly
Kitchen
Washing machine
Air-conditioning
Barbecue grill
Explore the area
Tincleton, Dorset
Sculpture by the Lakes
Place, Sculpture by the Lakes
5 min drive
Athelhampton House and Gardens
Place, Athelhampton House and Gardens
7 min drive
Clouds Hill
Place, Clouds Hill
8 min drive
Bournemouth (BOH-Bournemouth Intl.)
Airport, Bournemouth (BOH-Bournemouth Intl.)
56 min drive
Rooms & beds
7 bedrooms (sleeps 14)
Bedroom 1 Blue Room
1 King Bed and 1 Crib
Bedroom 2 Sea Room
1 King Bed and 1 Crib
Bedroom 3 Red Room
1 Queen Bed
Bedroom 4 Green Twin Room
2 Single Beds
Bedroom 5 Rose Room
1 Single Bed
Bedroom 6 Pink Room
1 Queen Bed
Bedroom 7 Purple Room
1 Double Bed and 1 Single Bed
2 bathrooms, 1 half bathroom
Bathroom 1
Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only
Bathroom 2
Bathtub · Bidet · Toilet · Shower only
Toilet 1
Toilet
Spaces
Deck or patio
Kitchen
Separate dining area
Garden
About this property
Luxury Dorset Farmhouse - Large Grounds & Beautiful Countryside Location
Our warm, beautiful Listed Grade 2 traditional Dorset farmhouse, with wood panelled hall and massive newly-restored chimneys, comfortably sleeps 14, and is set in large grounds, part of a 700 acre estate, perfectly secluded and surrounded by rolling countryside. Located in the heart of Hardy Country and 20 minutes from the sea, it's the perfect location for a fabulous family holiday, or groups planning a restful get-together. Dogs are welcome and we are well-equipped for babies and toddlers. England's first natural World Heritage Site; The Jurassic Coast, is only 20 minutes away, Lulworth Cove, Monkey World and the Tank Museum nearby are very popular. Enjoy BBQ and cream-teas in the garden or hire a private chef to cook for you in our large country-style kitchen, complete with Aga. Play croquet, giant pik-a-stix and Twister on the lawn with your family, or enjoy a spot of lawn cricket, or rounders, with the games kit from our large outdoor toy chest. We also have a football goal net - please bring your own favourite ball. With a huge library of reference books and contemporary fiction, wifi, DVD collection, junior snooker table and loads of board games, you'll be spoilt for choice for indoor activities. Choose something from our pile of sheet music and have a go on the piano and recorder! On chilly nights light the wood-burners in the three reception rooms, and snuggle down into our comfy, cosy sofas. We are a short walk from Puddletown Forest, great for mountain biking, hiking and bird watching; see if you can hear the ravens! A network of footpaths lead from the house, one through to the Blue Vinney pub in Puddletown where you can enjoy really great food, and maybe pick up the Sunday papers from our excellent village shop. Our south-facing terrace with climbing wisteria and grape vine is lovely for al fresco meals. The brick-built barbecue can cater easily for 14. There is a library/TV room, elegant sitting room, dining room with wood burner and banqueting table for 14, huge flagged-floor kitchen with walk-in larder, Aga, American fridge freezer with ice cube dispenser, and an additional fridge and freezer in the pantry. 5 large double bedrooms (two of which are Laura Ashley designed), (one with an additional single bed), one large twin, plus one small but sweet single, with amazing views. We use high quality hotel-style large white bath towels & bed linens throughout. Two large bathrooms both with walk-in showers as well as bath, and a downstairs loo. Loads of parking and extensive lawns front and back for outdoor activities, the very private back lawn enclosed for safe play and sunbathing. Restored Shepherds' Hut for children to play or for adults to have a quiet drink.
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Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Outside only please, removing all butts.
Please do not camp/sleep/light fires in the shepherd's hut or grounds. No candles, either, in the house or shepherd's hut, please.
Stag parties and hen parties are not allowed.
Please ensure house is securely locked up whenever you go out.
Please do not use Blu-tac or sellotape on the walls or doors.
Important information
You need to know
Property # 8107964
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
Parties and events (including birthday parties) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 14
Note from host: Birthdays, etc. - residents only please
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
About the area
Dorchester
Located in Dorchester, this holiday home is in a rural area and near theme parks. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Durdle Door and Weymouth Beach. Travelling with kids? Consider Kingston Maurward Park and Gardens, or check out an event or a game at The Avenue Stadium. Scuba diving and sailing offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with horse riding and hiking nearby.
Athelhampton House and Gardens - 7 min drive - 5.1 km
Clouds Hill - 8 min drive - 8.5 km
Monkey World Ape Rescue Center - 13 min drive - 13.6 km
The Tank Museum - 13 min drive - 12.9 km
Getting around
Moreton Station - 9 min drive
Bournemouth (BOH-Bournemouth Intl.) - 58 min drive
Restaurants
Vivo Lounge
Coffee #1 - 9 min drive
Costa Coffee - 9 min drive
wagamama
Kings Arms - 8 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Luxury Dorset Farmhouse - Large Grounds & Beautiful Countryside Location pet-friendly?
Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total). Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.
How much does it cost to stay at Luxury Dorset Farmhouse - Large Grounds & Beautiful Countryside Location?
As of 13 Aug 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Luxury Dorset Farmhouse - Large Grounds & Beautiful Countryside Location on 18 Oct 2026 start from AU$2,644, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at Luxury Dorset Farmhouse - Large Grounds & Beautiful Countryside Location?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Luxury Dorset Farmhouse - Large Grounds & Beautiful Countryside Location?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Luxury Dorset Farmhouse - Large Grounds & Beautiful Countryside Location?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Luxury Dorset Farmhouse - Large Grounds & Beautiful Countryside Location located?
This family-friendly Dorchester holiday home is located in a rural location, within 3 mi (5 km) of Sculpture by the Lakes and Hardy's Cottage. Kingston Maurward Park and Gardens and Borough Gardens are also within 6 miles (10 km).
Reviews
9.6
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Thoroughly enjoyed it and plenty of room for the children to play all their favourite games like football cricket and rounders.Would recommend staying there.
sheila w.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025
Verified review
10/10 Excellent
Vince H.
20 Sept 2018
Fantastic property in a wonderful location.
We had a fantastic weekend break for my Mothers 80th birthday 3 generations enjoyed the stay with plenty to do in the large grounds & surrounding country side.
Vince H.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Mar 2020
Thank you for your lovely review, Vince, it was a pleasure to meet your charming family and I'm so pleased the birthday celebration was a success.
Best wishes from Caroline
Fantastic setting with loads of outdoor space where the kids could play. House was warm and homely with comfy beds! Great location for exploring coast and inland beauty spots closeby.
We were 9 family members plus 4 guests for two days after Christmas. House warm and welcoming and even decorated for us. Kitchen well equipped,beds firm and comfortable. We had a ver happy stay.
Anne S.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2022
Verified review
8/10 Good
Ann Paul
22 Sept 2025
Liked: Location
We wnjoyed our stay but the property was rather more worn out than photographs suggested. I found dirty pans in the oven and had to wash some kitchen items before use.
Family from across the country stayed for the weekend in the lovely rustic house.
Great outdoor space to let kids roam.
Recommended.
Emma W.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Ken G.
13 July 2017
Great place for a family group
Ilsington Farmhouse is a lovely old place, plenty of room and well equipped. We really enjoyed our stay for my wife's birthday, and it was great to have the whole family under one roof. I only found out late on that there are only 2 bathrooms for the 7 bedrooms, but it wasnt a problem for us. A very rural location as you'd expect, but easy to find with the directions supplied.
Ken G.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2017
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Mar 2020
Thank you for your kind review, Ken and we're so glad the birthday celebration went well.
Large and characterful house, very comfortably accommodated our extended family group of 14.
It's not hugely smart but loads of lovely features and interesting old furniture, which we really liked about it. Very comfortable, well equipped. Great big gardens at front and back for games and eating out. We had a fabulous stay. Masses to do in the area. We could have easily filled a couple of weeks!
We had a lovely 3 night family stay in April. There were 13 off us in total, and plenty of room for everyone. It felt really homey, the kitchen was lovely and warm with a large table everyone could eat at. The gardens are big, which was great for the kids to run around and play football/ cricket etc. On a rainy day the kids enjoyed playing hide and seek round the house. The house decor and furnishings are not pristine but we quite liked that, and thought it added to its charm. Thank you for a lovely stay.
Our family of 7 adults and 5 children had a lovely week in this beautiful house. There was plenty of room for all of us, with large rooms and comfortable beds.
The children, aged between 20 months and 10 years, really enjoyed themselves – especially in the garden. The goals and the shepherd’s hut were particularly popular.
The house is in a very quiet area and is very well equipped. It is close to lots of attractions: we visited Corfe Castle, Weymouth, the Swannery at Abbotsbury and the lighthouse area on the Isle of Portland.
This is an excellent house for families and we would recommend it to others.
We pick somewhere different to go every Easter. This was our choice this year. We like lots of outdoor space nice walks plenty of room to spread around in the house. This property gave us all these things. As well as having Alex come and cook our dinner for us which was a nice treat. He did exactly what he said he would do arrived cook the dinner no fuss .Thanks for everything.
We stayed for a weekend at this gorgeous house in mid October for a 70th birthday party. The photos simply don't do it justice. It is a stunning home. The rooms are large, comfortable and welcoming. There was plenty of space for our 4 families (spanning over 3 generations) and although the weather was terrible it didn't matter as there was plenty to do in the house. We lit the log fires and snuggled in. Thank you Caroline for a wonderful stay!
Zoe C.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Mar 2020
Thank you Zoe for your lovely review and for the sweet note left by one of the children. I'm glad you had a good stay in spite of the awful weather!
You were lovely guests, always welcome again.
Best wishes, Caroline
This house in Dorset is spacious, impressive and with history. Our group of 12 had plenty of space to relax and distract. Large bedrooms, well working central heating and a large kitchen, was highly appreciated. Although there had been several short falls, like 2 bathrooms which could not be fully used due to failures of faucets and shower head. We tried to remove lime stone from the shower head in order to use it. One faucet didn't turn at all, so only hot water (really hot) was available at the sink. It was pretty anoying for 12 people to use the bathrooms. Internet WLAN was great on the ground floor, but no receiption on 1st and 2nd floor. Ceilings and walls may benefit from some restoration. Overall it feels like there is no attention to details anymore. Like mould around the faucet at the kitchen sink. I recommend to spend some money and more time to do a thorough walk-thru and check. Sorry, but we would not book it again.
A very spacious house and grounds in a quiet location with interesting places to visit. Very suitable for multi-generational groups, with beach towels and equipment, indoor and outdoor games and a huge library.
We had a fantastic time at Ilsington Farm House in October 22. A wonderful old house which provided load of space for 11 of us and in a perfect location for exploring this part of Dorset.
I stayed there with a group of friends for a weekend and it really was the perfect house for us. We were incredibly lucky with the weather so made the most of the beautiful garden and location. The house was comfortable, clean and had everything we needed! Thank you so much
Large rooms with superior beds and bedding. Three generations enjoyed the space and quality. Great secure back garden for youngsters and large outdoor table worked well for family meals. The enormous front garden wasn’t needed but would be great for games with older children and adults. Local shop was well stocked and a few minutes drive away , the local beaches are easily accessible and Weymouth near enough to visit . It felt very relaxed and special . Many thanks for sharing your home. It was easy to imagine, and to dream, of living there . Sue and family
We had a great experience here....lot's of helpful communication in advance, easy arrangements and check in/out and we really enjoyed our stay. The house itself is homely and happy, easy accommodating six couples with plenty of space and options. Shopping deliveries (ahead of the great lockdown of 2020!) were easy, and we were well positioned for lovely trips out to the coast. It was a memorable stay for lots of reasons, and we wouldn't hesitate in recommending this house as a great choice for a group wanting a relaxing stay in the area!
Ian R.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2020
About the host
Hosted by Caroline Peters, Georgia Tolley, Katy Peters
My name is Caroline and I own the Farmhouse along with my two grown-up daughters. I have three grandsons and a new grandaughter. We have lived in the house since 1990 but it has been in my family since 1862. It is part of a small estate, including the farm and woods. I have downsized to a smaller house less than a mile away, and enjoy welcoming guests to the house which still has all our family furniture and portraits and plenty of books, toys and games. I always personally supervise the changeovers and meet the guests if they wish. We love the house to bits and our visitors seem to, as well, especially multi-generational family groups.
Why they chose this property
We inherited this house and realise how lucky we are! In the family since 1862, and mentioned in Thomas Hardy's novels, we did it up in 1990 and have added further improvements as we brought up our daughters here. It's a Grade II listed building, and a specialist stonemason recently finished rebuilding the eight nine-foot high chimneys! These serve the Aga and three wood burners, so with the central heating, it's always warm and cosy. We have invested in pristine white hotel linens and towels, and have a decorating programme to keep the house fresh. The house has a lovely peaceful feel, set apart in rolling countryside, but not isolated. Do look at our reviews to see how comfortable people feel here.
What makes this property unique
Steeped in history with many original features, set in its own grounds, this house has a lovely 'feel' - many of our guests have said what a great atmosphere it has, and how comfortable it is, and we get lots of repeat bookings! Very quietly located, off the road, but with 3 cottages not too far away so one does not feel isolated. Long views in all directions, and a footpath from the front gate into the unspoilt Dorset countryside. We are only about 20 minutes from Ringstead Beach, but in poor weather there is so much else to do within 4 or 5 miles of the house, famously Monkey World, the Tank Museum, Kingston Maurward animal park, Hardy's Cottage, Lawrence of Arabia's house, and several attractions in Dorchester.