The Gatehouse

The highlights

• Charming home in Dorset ideal for large groups complete with its own private hot tub.
• Welcome basket full of local goodies including bread, eggs, jams, milk, tea and coffee.
• Fluffy towels and Bramley toiletries are supplied in all bathrooms and there is crisp white linen on all beds.
• Wood burner and heating keep the house cosy and warm in winter.
• Situated a moment's walk from Wimborne.
• The Gatehouse is part of the Dean's Court Estate which has a lovely cafe and shop.
• Anglers can fly-fish the River Stour, which runs through the estate, from May to September.

You should know

• Produce grown on the estate can be purchased but has to be pre-ordered.

The detail

Dramatic coastlines, sandy beaches and the inspiration for writers as diverse as Thomas Hardy, Enid Blyton and Ian McKewan, Dorset makes the ideal destination for visitors wanting to experience pretty landscapes, traditional English market towns and discover more about its literary heritage. Situated in heart of Thomas Hardy country, in the lovely market town of Wimborne - where Hardy lived and wrote A Pair of Blue Eyes, The Gatehouse makes a luxurious spot to gather with friends and family and explore this fascinating part of the UK.

This impressive Georgian townhouse looks deceptively compact from the outside but step through the arched doorway and it soon becomes apparent that this spacious property is a real gem and offers space, light and comfort for all. The traditional farmhouse kitchen has an Aga range cooker set into an inglenook (there is also a modern cooker for convenience), wooden floor boards and a large pine table with plenty of space for everyone to enjoy leisurely breakfasts and wholesome roast dinners. Keen chefs will find the kitchen well-equipped and inspiring, light and bright with plenty of space, it is a wonderful room to prepare special meals for loved ones.

Throughout the house, the interior has been designed with care and appreciation for the period features of the property. Brightly-coloured Kilim rugs provide contrast with the white washed wooden floorboards, grey and blue hued walls are bought to life with patterned French blinds and, for more formal family suppers, there is a theatrically decorated dining room.

High ceilings and the large Georgian windows keep the property light, bright and airy, while cosy nooks and comfy furnishings ensure everyone feels relaxed and at-home. Kids, big and small, will love hanging out in the media and games room, it features a 75 inch screen with state of the art sound, an X-Box and table football.
Spend the evening sinking into the giant beanbags and settling scores on the games console or head onto the private terrace for drinks and a pre-dinner relax in the hot tub. There is also a barbecue and outdoor furniture for making the most of the long summer evenings.

The property sleeps 16 in three doubles, three twins and one family room. Antique furniture, tongue and groove panelling and exposed brick walls create the most wonderful traditional, yet modern, atmosphere in the bedrooms. The Gatehouse is situated near the famous Jurassic Coast, Chesil Beach and Studland Bay. There are 15 pubs and bars in Wimborne and great places to eat out - favourites include Rimjhim, the Minster Arms and Dean's Court Cafe, which is just next door.

Features

Essential