Close to Eggardon Hill, north of Bridport, Gray's Farmhouse B&B, the former shooting lodge of Mapperton Manor, is set in a maze of paths through ancient untouched woodland and wildflower meadows rich in wildlife.
The grounds immediately adjoin two wildlife reserves while from the field above Gray's Farm there are glimpses of the sea.
Tiny flower-bordered lanes and a long track bring you into the courtyard of the honey-coloured house, far from passing traffic.
Guests are welcomed on arrival with tea and cake in the garden, weather and time of day permitting: there is a choice of sitting areas on the guest lawns near the house, perfect for unwinding after the journey!
The farmhouse has stripped floors, massive flagstones, old oak beams, and in winter a blazing log fire welcomes you in the lovely dining room, a converted apple store, that looks down to a stream.
Throughout the house the walls, painted in National Trust or hand-blended colours, are hung with Rosie's vibrant paintings, many of which are for sale.
Breakfast, which is sometimes served in the conservatory, includes fresh fruit juices, fruit, fruit compote and yoghourts, home-made bread and preserves, and English Breakfast using produce from the local farm shops.
The light, airy bedrooms are deeply peaceful and have "en suite" bath or shower rooms. There are TV and easy chairs in each room, trays with tea-making things, and water from our own spring.
Magazines, books, maps, fresh flowers and copious information are provided in an informal manner to help guests to feel as relaxed and truly welcomed as if they were visiting old friends.
Bridport, Beaminster, Dorchester and the Jurassic coast are all within easy reach.
Highlights
Characterful and comfortable old farmhouse in lovely grounds adjoining wildlife reserves.
Pictures
The dining room, a converted apple store
The view from the dining room & conservatory
Breakfast is sometimes in the conservatory.
Peaceful bedrooms hung with Rosie's paintings
Facilities
Rooms:
Family Rooms:
1
Single Rooms:
0
Double Rooms:
1
Twin Rooms:
1
Disabled Facilities: There are no disabled facilities.
Pet Facilities: Pets are allowed. Dogs in car or utility room only
Special Diets Provision: Special diets are catered for. Whatever is requested in advance
Smoking Facilities: Smoking is not allowed.
Directions
On A37, from Dorchester, then A356, left at 1st sign for Toller Porcorum. Through village, & up hill 1 mile. At x-roads, right for Powerstock, under disused bridge. Track 0.5 miles on left, opp. white post. At end, on left.
From Bridport, A35 east towards Dorchester. After approx. 3 miles left, signposted Askerswell. Continue on same road over Eggardon Hill until disused bridge, then as above.
£65.00 - £75.00 for 2 people sharing double room, per night, depending on length of stay.
Children sharing room with two adults, half price.
Regret no single night bookings.