Key Features
- Property code: GREAT
- Preferred changeover day: Friday
- Check in: 4pm
- Check out: 10am
- 2 or more bathrooms
- Access statement available
- Central heating
- Parking (see description for details)
- Dishwasher
- Nearby pub or restaurant
- Nearby shop
- Short breaks available
- Village
- Washing machine
- WiFi
Description
Greatfield Cottage is a dog friendly three bedroom hamstone cottage that sits on the edge of the village of Merriott, 10 minutes from the A303 and 35 minutes from the M5. Perfect for short breaks or long stays, with so much to do on the doorstep of South Somerset you will never be bored.
Enjoy the wild and natural beauty of the River Parrett Trail, an idyllic tranquil meandering river. Take your paddle boards and kayaks to Langport and park near The Bakery Bridge Canteen where you can have a spot of lunch before you head down the river, or as a reward on your way back.
Explore Ham Hill Country Park, an Iron Age hill fort offering fantastic walking and spectacular views, you can even enjoy a refreshing drink in the local pub the Prince of Wales or an ice cream. Discover the local market towns and villages such as Crewkerne, Hinton St George and South Petherton which are all nearby.
For those of you who love National Trust days out, you have plenty in this corner of South Somerset, with Montacute House and Barrington Court only a short drive away. Further afield, enjoy a trip to Glastonbury Tor, an iconic landmark that has a magic and mystery all of its own, and on you way back down stop a the Chalice Well. Further afield is Cheddar Gorge, which offers a fun day out for all the family.
The Somerset Levels provide wonderful walks across coastal moors; a great opportunity for nature lovers as parts of the Levels present the largest lowland population of breeding wading birds in southern England.
For those who still want to explore the coast then you can head towards West Bay, 30 minutes away, or Lyme Regis in around 40 minutes, taking in lovely villages on the way.
Key Features
- Property code: GREAT
- Preferred changeover day: Friday
- Check in: 4pm
- Check out: 10am
- 2 or more bathrooms
- Access statement available
- Central heating
- Parking (see description for details)
- Dishwasher
- Nearby pub or restaurant
- Nearby shop
- Short breaks available
- Village
- Washing machine
- WiFi
Description
Greatfield Cottage is a dog friendly three bedroom hamstone cottage that sits on the edge of the village of Merriott, 10 minutes from the A303 and 35 minutes from the M5. Perfect for short breaks or long stays, with so much to do on the doorstep of South Somerset you will never be bored.
Enjoy the wild and natural beauty of the River Parrett Trail, an idyllic tranquil meandering river. Take your paddle boards and kayaks to Langport and park near The Bakery Bridge Canteen where you can have a spot of lunch before you head down the river, or as a reward on your way back.
Explore Ham Hill Country Park, an Iron Age hill fort offering fantastic walking and spectacular views, you can even enjoy a refreshing drink in the local pub the Prince of Wales or an ice cream. Discover the local market towns and villages such as Crewkerne, Hinton St George and South Petherton which are all nearby.
For those of you who love National Trust days out, you have plenty in this corner of South Somerset, with Montacute House and Barrington Court only a short drive away. Further afield, enjoy a trip to Glastonbury Tor, an iconic landmark that has a magic and mystery all of its own, and on you way back down stop a the Chalice Well. Further afield is Cheddar Gorge, which offers a fun day out for all the family.
The Somerset Levels provide wonderful walks across coastal moors; a great opportunity for nature lovers as parts of the Levels present the largest lowland population of breeding wading birds in southern England.
For those who still want to explore the coast then you can head towards West Bay, 30 minutes away, or Lyme Regis in around 40 minutes, taking in lovely villages on the way.
Front door leads
Lounge - Sofas and easy chair, Smart TV, DVD and electric fire for those cooler days.
Dining Room - Dining table with seating for six, country style dresser.
Kitchen - Spacious country style kitchen with table and chairs, electric hob and oven, microwave, larger fridge and separate freezer and dishwasher.
Utility Room
Downstairs Cloakroom - WC, washing machine, iron and ironing board.
First Floor
Bedroom 1: Double bed 4'6" wardrobe and drawers.
Bedroom 2: Double bed 4'6" with wardrobe and storage.
Bedroom 3: Twin Single Beds 3'ft hanging storage.
Family Bathroom: Large spacious family bathroom with walk in shower, bath, WC and basin.
Spacious, fully-enclosed cottage garden with lawn area, patio and seating area.
The grounds of the property are abundant with Dahlias grown by the owners in the summer months.
Private drive to designated parking area next to the cottage suitable for two cars.
Electric Cars: - Please note that this property does not have suitable facilities for charging electric vehicles. https://www.zap-map.com
- Included: Bed linen, towels (please bring our own beach towels), WiFi, electricity, central heating, travel cot (please bring your own cot linen), highchair and stair gate.
- Pets: Strictly one small/medium dog welcome, to be kept downstairs please. Dog must be well behaved and sociable as the owners' two dogs will be seen around the property. Pet Charge: £30.00 per dog per week.
- Short Breaks: Available all year round.
- Children and Infants: Travel Cot, High Chair, Stair Gate provided on request.
- No Smoking/Vaping.
- Telephone: Mobile reception mixed.
- Local Facilities: local Co-op, pharmacy, garage and cafe.
- Arrival time - 4pm and Departure time - 10am.
- Electric Cars: Please note that this property does not have suitable facilities for charging electric vehicles. https://www.zap-map.com.
The Feed Station
(Less than a mile)
(1)
Award winning cyclist’s café in Merriot with Route 30 running immediately past the front door. The perfect spot to stop, refuel and swap information with other cyclists in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Choose from a mouthwatering menu of breakfasts, sandwiches, delicious main meals, homemade cakes and lots more.
The Feed Station, Sandy Hole, Merriot TQ16 5QR (T: 01460 271598)
Quirky and charming café in a beautiful old village school. Very tasty huge sausage rolls and delicious cakes. Friendly and efficient staff. Unspoilt village. Recommended!
May 2023
The Lord Poulett Arms
(2 miles)
Winner of multiple awards and newspaper column inches, The Lord Poulett is a wonderful thatched stone inn with excellent food, a good choice of drinks and a pretty beer garden. Inside the muted colours, open fires and flagstone floors create a thoroughly English atmosphere; a great spot for lunch, dinner or just a few relaxing drinks at the bar.
The Lord Poulett Arms High St, Hinton Saint George TA17 8SE (T: 01460 73149)
Pips Railway Carriage
(3 miles)
As the name suggests this quirky café is indeed housed in a restored 1850’s railway carriage at the disused station at South Petherton. Serves great coffee, teas and delicious cakes crafted on-site and in the full service restaurant expect exciting & innovative flavours for breakfast and lunch.
Pips Railway Carriage, South Petherton TQ13 5JH
The Dinnington Docks
(3 miles)
Much loved among locals and for very good reason, The Dinnington Docks is an unspoiled countryside pub with beautiful views from its large garden, a well stocked bar packed with fine local ales and ciders and a menu boasting excellent locally sourced fare. Well worth a visit.
The Dinnington Docks Fosse Way, Dinnington, TA17 8SX
Frogmary Green Farm
(4 miles)
Stop by at the Farm & Field Café at Frogmary Green Farm for delicious breakfasts, ciabattas, bagels and homemade pastries which on clear days can be enjoyed down by the idyllic lake and arboretum. Keep an eye on the website too for monthly evenings of feasting, cocktails and live music – what’s not to like ?
Frogmary Green Farm, South Petherton TA13 5DJ (T:01460 242775)
Haselbury Mill
(Less than a mile)
A fabulous destination to eat, drink, listen to live music or simply admire the beautiful Somerset stone buildings or wander the 14 acres beautiful grounds. A huge range of choices for food and drink are available along with an interesting calendar of events.
Click here for further details
UK Llamas
(5 miles)
A unique, relaxing and hugely enjoyable way to enjoy the spectacular Dorset countryside, UK Llamas offer a range of different walks, treks and experiences with their friendly llamas and alpacas, suitable for all ages, abilities and group sizes. Trek along the spectacular Jurassic Coast or opt for a more relaxing ramble around the local lanes, all rounded off with a traditional cream tea.
Click here for further details
Forde Abbey House and Gardens
(7 miles)
(7)
Dating back more than 900 years, Forde Abbey House and Gardens is a family home as well as a working estate that welcomes visitors all year round. In more than 30 acres of grounds including lakes, the age and beauty of the property is something to experience in itself, with features including the famous Mortlake tapestries created from the cartoons Raphael painted for the Sistine Chapel. You can have lunch or tea in the Monastic Undercroft Tearoom, there’s a gift shop and plant centre for gifts to take home. The property also hosts guided tours and activities for families and children, and seasonal events are organized, so do keep an eye on the website before you visit. Prices start at £12.50 for adults while children under 15 go free.
We did a circular walk via here and was expecting to be able to purchase a cup of tea and cake from their cafe but you couldn’t, you had to pay admission! The long driveway in gave us a good view of the abbey…just a shame we couldn’t buy tea!
October 2023
Beautiful gardens and spectacular fountain.
July 2023
We had a wonderful day at Forde Abbey the children really enjoyed the holiday quiz they had put on and the fountain was amazing!
August 2022
The gardens were beautiful and the fountain was breathtaking. The cloistered cafe served good quality food using produce from the garden.
August 2022
Entrance fees over the top.
June 2022
Visited the gardens. Absolutely beautiful.
September 2021
Beautiful to visit!
May 2019
Donkey Walking Adventures
(8 miles)
(1)
If you didn't bring your dog on holiday with you, you can walk a donkey instead! For an unforgettable holiday experience, spend the morning or afternoon with a friendly donkey, getting a hands-on, up-close and personal experience. After choosing your donkey, giving him a brush and learning some safety and handling tips, you'll set off along the pretty lanes and byways surrounding historic Beaminster. Bring a picnic or stop off at a pub for lunch while your donkey waits outside!
Click here for further details
This is an absolute gem! Quite unique. Chris is a great host and the two children in our party loved it. He was really helpful in accommodating us at short notice and when we had to cancel the first booking because of weather.
August 2020
Mapperton House & Gardens
(9 miles)
(3)
Home to the Earl and Countess of Sandwich, Mapperton is a glorious sandstone manor house and romantic garden surrounded by unspoilt Dorset countryside. Check the website below for visiting times which do vary and look out for seasonal events such as Easter garden trails for children and outdoor theatre. The light and airy Sawmill Café serves light meals, coffees and cakes; unfortunately no dogs are allowed in the house or gardens.
Click here for further details
We came here on an overcast day and spent over 3.5 hours just walking about these fabulous gardens. We took our own picnic with us but there is a cafe which was very busy at lunchtime with seating both inside and out in a large patio area. Really appreciated being able to take our dog in with us - we wouldn't have been able to visit otherwise. Thoroughly recommended. Wish I had had time to book it before we came on holiday as we could have used our Tesco Vouchers. Probably worth booking online in advance too.
July 2021
Beautiful gardens and very informative and detailed tour of the house.
August 2019
Spent a most pleasant couple of hours walking the grounds. Be prepared to traverse steps [up & down] but worth it especially if you like topiary which I am not a great advocate of but I found the topiary at Mapperton most interesting.
June 2018
Charmouth Beach
(13 miles)
(7)
Perfect for family days out, Charmouth Beach is a mix of sand and pebbles, fossils (for which the area is famous), good swimming and good surf. It is divided into two distinct areas (East and West) by the mouth of the River Char, which often forms a lagoon suitable for boating or watching the ducks swim past. To get to the beach, simply find the centre of the village and follow Lower Sea Lane. There are ample car parks close to the beach as well as another one half way down Lower Sea Lane if those are full. Dogs are allowed on the West beach as long as they are on leads from 1st May and 30th September between the sea defenses and Lyme Regis but not on the area of beach in front of the beach huts and the Heritage Centre. From 1st July to 31st August dogs are not allowed on East Beach between 10:00am and 6:00pm, but are welcome outside these hours. At East Beach there is a beach café and picnic tables close by, and in the summer months there is a bouncy castle. There are also lots of beautiful walks close by to enjoy. West Beach meanwhile is about a mile and a half long and is a haven for fossil hunters and avid rock-poolers.
Charmouth Beach is just wonderful, lovely walks with no cars or road noise. Heaven!
April 2024
Walking this beach from Lyme Regis
October 2023
Great beach, Its busy by the shops but plenty of places to walk to find space away from others. The toilets are bad, so with a few wipes and wash you hands after. Get there early for parking. It is sand, shingle and rock pools, so great for a non commercialised beach day. Follow the tide out if you are fossil hunting but best to have a guided tour first from the museum so you know what you are looking for. One of our favourite sea sides in Britain.
June 2022
This is a beautiful area. Gets very busy and there are about four car parks and on street parking. The museum was very fascinating. Toilet queue was horrendous. This is a great area for inflatables as you can go down the stream if you want instead of the sea. There is also a large grass bank to picnic on instead of the beach cobbles.
August 2021
Great beach if but a bit stony where we went, good facilities for food and drinks and no where near as many seagulls as Lyme Regis.
August 2021
Lovely quaint beach.
May 2019
Lovely spot to sit, relax and look for fossils.
October 2018
Eype Beach
(13 miles)
(2)
A small pebble beach close to the historic market town of Bridport, Eype Beach is a steep shelved beach (Eype means ‘steep place’) with beautiful views of the West Dorset coast. Dogs are permitted all year round and refreshments are available at Lower Eype. The beach is part of one of the most beautiful little villages in the area, where buildings can be traced back to the late 18th century. Consisting of Lower Eype and Higher Eype, it’s the lower part of the village that has access to the beach, which also boasts the magnificent Golden Cap, the highest cliff on the south coast at 191-metres above sea level. The beach is favoured by swimmers and fishing fans as well as avid fossil hunters, and there is parking nearby for a few cars as well as toilets and a pub.
Narrow access. Park at the top for free and walk down to the church and carry on down via a path.
September 2023
Very narrow single track access road with limited passing places. Would not recommend purely due to access difficulties.
June 2017
West Bay Beach, Bridport
(14 miles)
(4)
Under the golden glow of the majestic sandstone cliffs and the Golden Cap, the highest cliff on the south coast, West Bay Beach (made famous by the popular drama series Broadchurch) is in the south of the historic market town of Bridport. At the western end of Chesil Beach, the area forms part of the Dorset Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site within Lyme Bay and is a wonderful location for family holidays. Bridport Town is a short bus ride away or a very pleasant 20-minute walk. The beach itself is shingle, sand and pebbles with steep shelving, a slipway and a harbour. There’s an auxiliary coastguard and lifeguards at your service, toilets, disabled toilets and a beachside refreshment kiosk. Nearby activities include kayaking, snorkeling, fishing, sailing, swimming surfing and jet skiing. There are also car parks close by and while dogs are banned from May to September, they are allowed out of the summer season.
Lovely to stroll along the top of the dune which is compacted, easy to walk on and accessible from either the pier or the road beside the Visitor Centre. Wonderful views.
October 2023
Lovely walk, bit strenuous climbing up Golden Cap, buts it’s worth it ! However there is an easier route too.
September 2018
Lovely place to wonder around. Great relaxing beach to stroll along brilliant view of the cliffs. Easy parking. Fish and chips from the Seasider chippie went there twice in the week. really tasty.
August 2018
we loved West Bay very much did not eat at any of the restuarants there apart from the George Hotel (one night) as Gluten Free options were either poor choices or non existant.
July 2017
East Cliff Beach
(14 miles)
(2)
A fine shingle beach with sand at the water’s edge, East Cliff Beach is a beautiful place to spend the day with the family on summer holidays in Dorset. There’s lifeguard cover from July to September in the summer holidays on East Beach itself, but that doesn’t really cover East Cliff Beach, so just be careful when and where you swim and stay away from the cliff base to avoid falling stones. There’s a long stay car park behind East Beach and a smaller short stay car park just before entering the harbour area in front of the Bridport Arms Hotel. Toilets are located at the main West Bay Road car park and baby changing facilities are provided as well. Dogs are permitted on the beach all year round, but it is a clean zone that’s regularly patrolled by wardens imposing fines, so don’t forget to clean up after your pets!
We walked from Lyme Regis to Charmouth across this beach at low tide. MUST be low tide. It was a super walk, a bit challenging in places as we had climb over rocks. The dog absolutely loved it.
October 2018
I really enjoyed this side looking at interesting stone formations. The beach 'shelving' has to be looked out for if you are paddling and it is better to wait until very low tide so that you can see where bits rise and fall.
April 2018
Church Cliff Beach, Lyme Regis
(14 miles)
(3)
Famous for its picturesque Jurassic coastline, as well as its array of fossils, Church Cliff Beach is on the edge of Lyme Regis town. Sandy in places, at low tide there is an extensive rock ledge with hundreds of rock pools where you can catch shrimp. The River Lym flows into the bay, so paddling is a necessity if you want to stroll on the sand. The beach is flanked by rock armour which protects the promenade, and the sand is covered at high tide. There’s paid parking close by, so don’t forget your change. There are facilities, restaurants and cafes in the town. There’s no lifeguard cover on this beach, and dogs are permitted all year round, which is great news for walkers as it also makes up part of the West Dorset Heritage Coast and its accompanying footpaths.
Plenty of parking with a moderate walk down many steps to the beach. Worth the walk though with plenty of fossils around if your prepared to look.
September 2023
Lovely beach but spoilt by the amount of broken bits of glass and rusty metal components that have fallen from the cliff (believe there was some form of rubbish dump at the top of the cliff many years ago) - not a problem for most people but was worried about our dog getting injured.
May 2023
A lovely stretch of beach with rock pools and a chance to find fossils. Get there as the tide is going out and get there early. Take provisions as it is just a beach, of shingle and sand, there are some rocks to clamber over and rock pools to explore. One of our favourite beaches in the UK.
June 2022
March 2024
A really lovely house, thank you for making us feel so welcome. We have been really well looked after and have had a great week.
September 2023
It was easy to relax in the cottage. Very comfortable. Terri and Ray were the perfect hosts
September 2023
So nice to meet you both and your gorgeous dogs. You have been the perfect hosts! We enjoyed our time in your cottage, cosy, yet airy and comfortable.
September 2023
Thank you for letting us share your home. We have had a wonderful 8 days - our first holiday for about 7 years and it has been just perfect. We look forward to returning next year. Ray and Teri were very generous hosts. We recommend Hive Beach at Burton Bradstock - free parking if National Trust members.
July 2023
We had a lovely weeks holiday. The cottage was home from home and emmaculate. The garden was a lovely private sun trap and the owners Ray and Terri allowed us to use the grounds for the dog and children to enjoy. Perfect place for families and couples and not too far from the coast. Couldn’t have asked for more. Will definitely be back to this hidden gem. Thanks Ray and Terri x
June 2023
Well what can I say, a complete home from home. The cottage was immaculate and the garden was very private, peaceful and a wonderful sun trap. Dolly our dog loved her walks around the property. It is a great base to many beaches - Lyme Regis, Hive beach, West Bay. A very special place, we will definitely be returning. Thank you for a fab week!
May 2023
Very enjoyable stay at Greatfield Cottage. It is spacious but also cosy with private access and generous parking . Great welcome and welcome pack . The immaculate garden is a sun trap! Very well located for walking/cycling or just exploring this beautiful part of Somerset. There are lovely walks straight from allotment opposite the cottage and a trip to the beach and coastal path at West Bay is an easy half hourish drive and worthwhile. Definitely recommend the King's Head and the Feed Station in the nearby unspoilt village of Merriott. It is a very dog friendly area with few restrictions.
May 2023
Very clean and comfortable accommodation, we had a lovely long weekend. Even though the weather wasn't great, we managed to enjoy a few hours of sunshine in the enclosed pretty garden. The King's Head in the village was very friendly and we had a nice pub meal there. Our hosts were great too, popping by to check that everything was ok. Highly recommend!
May 2023
The cottage is spacious but cosy. Very clean and well equipped. Garden space is immaculate and a lovely suntrap. Good location for walking. Beautiful surroundings. Terri and Ray were very good hosts. Thanks!
September 2022
Excellent hosts. We were made to feel very welcome. Lovely outside seating area. Everything that we needed was supplied and the cottage was very clean. The welcome pack was lovely. Thank you. Recommended places to visit - Ham Hill Country Park, Prince of Wales pub, Lyme Regis, Charmouth and West Bay.
March 2024
A really lovely house, thank you for making us feel so welcome. We have been really well looked after and have had a great week.
September 2023
It was easy to relax in the cottage. Very comfortable. Terri and Ray were the perfect hosts
September 2023
So nice to meet you both and your gorgeous dogs. You have been the perfect hosts! We enjoyed our time in your cottage, cosy, yet airy and comfortable.
September 2023
Thank you for letting us share your home. We have had a wonderful 8 days - our first holiday for about 7 years and it has been just perfect. We look forward to returning next year. Ray and Teri were very generous hosts. We recommend Hive Beach at Burton Bradstock - free parking if National Trust members.
July 2023
We had a lovely weeks holiday. The cottage was home from home and emmaculate. The garden was a lovely private sun trap and the owners Ray and Terri allowed us to use the grounds for the dog and children to enjoy. Perfect place for families and couples and not too far from the coast. Couldn’t have asked for more. Will definitely be back to this hidden gem. Thanks Ray and Terri x
June 2023
Well what can I say, a complete home from home. The cottage was immaculate and the garden was very private, peaceful and a wonderful sun trap. Dolly our dog loved her walks around the property. It is a great base to many beaches - Lyme Regis, Hive beach, West Bay. A very special place, we will definitely be returning. Thank you for a fab week!
May 2023
Very enjoyable stay at Greatfield Cottage. It is spacious but also cosy with private access and generous parking . Great welcome and welcome pack . The immaculate garden is a sun trap! Very well located for walking/cycling or just exploring this beautiful part of Somerset. There are lovely walks straight from allotment opposite the cottage and a trip to the beach and coastal path at West Bay is an easy half hourish drive and worthwhile. Definitely recommend the King's Head and the Feed Station in the nearby unspoilt village of Merriott. It is a very dog friendly area with few restrictions.
May 2023
Very clean and comfortable accommodation, we had a lovely long weekend. Even though the weather wasn't great, we managed to enjoy a few hours of sunshine in the enclosed pretty garden. The King's Head in the village was very friendly and we had a nice pub meal there. Our hosts were great too, popping by to check that everything was ok. Highly recommend!
May 2023
The cottage is spacious but cosy. Very clean and well equipped. Garden space is immaculate and a lovely suntrap. Good location for walking. Beautiful surroundings. Terri and Ray were very good hosts. Thanks!
September 2022
Excellent hosts. We were made to feel very welcome. Lovely outside seating area. Everything that we needed was supplied and the cottage was very clean. The welcome pack was lovely. Thank you. Recommended places to visit - Ham Hill Country Park, Prince of Wales pub, Lyme Regis, Charmouth and West Bay.
The Feed Station
(Less than a mile)
(1)
Award winning cyclist’s café in Merriot with Route 30 running immediately past the front door. The perfect spot to stop, refuel and swap information with other cyclists in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Choose from a mouthwatering menu of breakfasts, sandwiches, delicious main meals, homemade cakes and lots more.
The Feed Station, Sandy Hole, Merriot TQ16 5QR (T: 01460 271598)
Quirky and charming café in a beautiful old village school. Very tasty huge sausage rolls and delicious cakes. Friendly and efficient staff. Unspoilt village. Recommended!
May 2023
The Lord Poulett Arms
(2 miles)
Winner of multiple awards and newspaper column inches, The Lord Poulett is a wonderful thatched stone inn with excellent food, a good choice of drinks and a pretty beer garden. Inside the muted colours, open fires and flagstone floors create a thoroughly English atmosphere; a great spot for lunch, dinner or just a few relaxing drinks at the bar.
The Lord Poulett Arms High St, Hinton Saint George TA17 8SE (T: 01460 73149)
Pips Railway Carriage
(3 miles)
As the name suggests this quirky café is indeed housed in a restored 1850’s railway carriage at the disused station at South Petherton. Serves great coffee, teas and delicious cakes crafted on-site and in the full service restaurant expect exciting & innovative flavours for breakfast and lunch.
Pips Railway Carriage, South Petherton TQ13 5JH
The Dinnington Docks
(3 miles)
Much loved among locals and for very good reason, The Dinnington Docks is an unspoiled countryside pub with beautiful views from its large garden, a well stocked bar packed with fine local ales and ciders and a menu boasting excellent locally sourced fare. Well worth a visit.
The Dinnington Docks Fosse Way, Dinnington, TA17 8SX
Frogmary Green Farm
(4 miles)
Stop by at the Farm & Field Café at Frogmary Green Farm for delicious breakfasts, ciabattas, bagels and homemade pastries which on clear days can be enjoyed down by the idyllic lake and arboretum. Keep an eye on the website too for monthly evenings of feasting, cocktails and live music – what’s not to like ?
Frogmary Green Farm, South Petherton TA13 5DJ (T:01460 242775)
Haselbury Mill
(Less than a mile)
A fabulous destination to eat, drink, listen to live music or simply admire the beautiful Somerset stone buildings or wander the 14 acres beautiful grounds. A huge range of choices for food and drink are available along with an interesting calendar of events.
Click here for further details
UK Llamas
(5 miles)
A unique, relaxing and hugely enjoyable way to enjoy the spectacular Dorset countryside, UK Llamas offer a range of different walks, treks and experiences with their friendly llamas and alpacas, suitable for all ages, abilities and group sizes. Trek along the spectacular Jurassic Coast or opt for a more relaxing ramble around the local lanes, all rounded off with a traditional cream tea.
Click here for further details
Forde Abbey House and Gardens
(7 miles)
(7)
Dating back more than 900 years, Forde Abbey House and Gardens is a family home as well as a working estate that welcomes visitors all year round. In more than 30 acres of grounds including lakes, the age and beauty of the property is something to experience in itself, with features including the famous Mortlake tapestries created from the cartoons Raphael painted for the Sistine Chapel. You can have lunch or tea in the Monastic Undercroft Tearoom, there’s a gift shop and plant centre for gifts to take home. The property also hosts guided tours and activities for families and children, and seasonal events are organized, so do keep an eye on the website before you visit. Prices start at £12.50 for adults while children under 15 go free.
We did a circular walk via here and was expecting to be able to purchase a cup of tea and cake from their cafe but you couldn’t, you had to pay admission! The long driveway in gave us a good view of the abbey…just a shame we couldn’t buy tea!
October 2023
Beautiful gardens and spectacular fountain.
July 2023
We had a wonderful day at Forde Abbey the children really enjoyed the holiday quiz they had put on and the fountain was amazing!
August 2022
The gardens were beautiful and the fountain was breathtaking. The cloistered cafe served good quality food using produce from the garden.
August 2022
Entrance fees over the top.
June 2022
Visited the gardens. Absolutely beautiful.
September 2021
Beautiful to visit!
May 2019
Donkey Walking Adventures
(8 miles)
(1)
If you didn't bring your dog on holiday with you, you can walk a donkey instead! For an unforgettable holiday experience, spend the morning or afternoon with a friendly donkey, getting a hands-on, up-close and personal experience. After choosing your donkey, giving him a brush and learning some safety and handling tips, you'll set off along the pretty lanes and byways surrounding historic Beaminster. Bring a picnic or stop off at a pub for lunch while your donkey waits outside!
Click here for further details
This is an absolute gem! Quite unique. Chris is a great host and the two children in our party loved it. He was really helpful in accommodating us at short notice and when we had to cancel the first booking because of weather.
August 2020
Mapperton House & Gardens
(9 miles)
(3)
Home to the Earl and Countess of Sandwich, Mapperton is a glorious sandstone manor house and romantic garden surrounded by unspoilt Dorset countryside. Check the website below for visiting times which do vary and look out for seasonal events such as Easter garden trails for children and outdoor theatre. The light and airy Sawmill Café serves light meals, coffees and cakes; unfortunately no dogs are allowed in the house or gardens.
Click here for further details
We came here on an overcast day and spent over 3.5 hours just walking about these fabulous gardens. We took our own picnic with us but there is a cafe which was very busy at lunchtime with seating both inside and out in a large patio area. Really appreciated being able to take our dog in with us - we wouldn't have been able to visit otherwise. Thoroughly recommended. Wish I had had time to book it before we came on holiday as we could have used our Tesco Vouchers. Probably worth booking online in advance too.
July 2021
Beautiful gardens and very informative and detailed tour of the house.
August 2019
Spent a most pleasant couple of hours walking the grounds. Be prepared to traverse steps [up & down] but worth it especially if you like topiary which I am not a great advocate of but I found the topiary at Mapperton most interesting.
June 2018
Charmouth Beach
(13 miles)
(7)
Perfect for family days out, Charmouth Beach is a mix of sand and pebbles, fossils (for which the area is famous), good swimming and good surf. It is divided into two distinct areas (East and West) by the mouth of the River Char, which often forms a lagoon suitable for boating or watching the ducks swim past. To get to the beach, simply find the centre of the village and follow Lower Sea Lane. There are ample car parks close to the beach as well as another one half way down Lower Sea Lane if those are full. Dogs are allowed on the West beach as long as they are on leads from 1st May and 30th September between the sea defenses and Lyme Regis but not on the area of beach in front of the beach huts and the Heritage Centre. From 1st July to 31st August dogs are not allowed on East Beach between 10:00am and 6:00pm, but are welcome outside these hours. At East Beach there is a beach café and picnic tables close by, and in the summer months there is a bouncy castle. There are also lots of beautiful walks close by to enjoy. West Beach meanwhile is about a mile and a half long and is a haven for fossil hunters and avid rock-poolers.
Charmouth Beach is just wonderful, lovely walks with no cars or road noise. Heaven!
April 2024
Walking this beach from Lyme Regis
October 2023
Great beach, Its busy by the shops but plenty of places to walk to find space away from others. The toilets are bad, so with a few wipes and wash you hands after. Get there early for parking. It is sand, shingle and rock pools, so great for a non commercialised beach day. Follow the tide out if you are fossil hunting but best to have a guided tour first from the museum so you know what you are looking for. One of our favourite sea sides in Britain.
June 2022
This is a beautiful area. Gets very busy and there are about four car parks and on street parking. The museum was very fascinating. Toilet queue was horrendous. This is a great area for inflatables as you can go down the stream if you want instead of the sea. There is also a large grass bank to picnic on instead of the beach cobbles.
August 2021
Great beach if but a bit stony where we went, good facilities for food and drinks and no where near as many seagulls as Lyme Regis.
August 2021
Lovely quaint beach.
May 2019
Lovely spot to sit, relax and look for fossils.
October 2018
Eype Beach
(13 miles)
(2)
A small pebble beach close to the historic market town of Bridport, Eype Beach is a steep shelved beach (Eype means ‘steep place’) with beautiful views of the West Dorset coast. Dogs are permitted all year round and refreshments are available at Lower Eype. The beach is part of one of the most beautiful little villages in the area, where buildings can be traced back to the late 18th century. Consisting of Lower Eype and Higher Eype, it’s the lower part of the village that has access to the beach, which also boasts the magnificent Golden Cap, the highest cliff on the south coast at 191-metres above sea level. The beach is favoured by swimmers and fishing fans as well as avid fossil hunters, and there is parking nearby for a few cars as well as toilets and a pub.
Narrow access. Park at the top for free and walk down to the church and carry on down via a path.
September 2023
Very narrow single track access road with limited passing places. Would not recommend purely due to access difficulties.
June 2017
West Bay Beach, Bridport
(14 miles)
(4)
Under the golden glow of the majestic sandstone cliffs and the Golden Cap, the highest cliff on the south coast, West Bay Beach (made famous by the popular drama series Broadchurch) is in the south of the historic market town of Bridport. At the western end of Chesil Beach, the area forms part of the Dorset Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site within Lyme Bay and is a wonderful location for family holidays. Bridport Town is a short bus ride away or a very pleasant 20-minute walk. The beach itself is shingle, sand and pebbles with steep shelving, a slipway and a harbour. There’s an auxiliary coastguard and lifeguards at your service, toilets, disabled toilets and a beachside refreshment kiosk. Nearby activities include kayaking, snorkeling, fishing, sailing, swimming surfing and jet skiing. There are also car parks close by and while dogs are banned from May to September, they are allowed out of the summer season.
Lovely to stroll along the top of the dune which is compacted, easy to walk on and accessible from either the pier or the road beside the Visitor Centre. Wonderful views.
October 2023
Lovely walk, bit strenuous climbing up Golden Cap, buts it’s worth it ! However there is an easier route too.
September 2018
Lovely place to wonder around. Great relaxing beach to stroll along brilliant view of the cliffs. Easy parking. Fish and chips from the Seasider chippie went there twice in the week. really tasty.
August 2018
we loved West Bay very much did not eat at any of the restuarants there apart from the George Hotel (one night) as Gluten Free options were either poor choices or non existant.
July 2017
East Cliff Beach
(14 miles)
(2)
A fine shingle beach with sand at the water’s edge, East Cliff Beach is a beautiful place to spend the day with the family on summer holidays in Dorset. There’s lifeguard cover from July to September in the summer holidays on East Beach itself, but that doesn’t really cover East Cliff Beach, so just be careful when and where you swim and stay away from the cliff base to avoid falling stones. There’s a long stay car park behind East Beach and a smaller short stay car park just before entering the harbour area in front of the Bridport Arms Hotel. Toilets are located at the main West Bay Road car park and baby changing facilities are provided as well. Dogs are permitted on the beach all year round, but it is a clean zone that’s regularly patrolled by wardens imposing fines, so don’t forget to clean up after your pets!
We walked from Lyme Regis to Charmouth across this beach at low tide. MUST be low tide. It was a super walk, a bit challenging in places as we had climb over rocks. The dog absolutely loved it.
October 2018
I really enjoyed this side looking at interesting stone formations. The beach 'shelving' has to be looked out for if you are paddling and it is better to wait until very low tide so that you can see where bits rise and fall.
April 2018
Church Cliff Beach, Lyme Regis
(14 miles)
(3)
Famous for its picturesque Jurassic coastline, as well as its array of fossils, Church Cliff Beach is on the edge of Lyme Regis town. Sandy in places, at low tide there is an extensive rock ledge with hundreds of rock pools where you can catch shrimp. The River Lym flows into the bay, so paddling is a necessity if you want to stroll on the sand. The beach is flanked by rock armour which protects the promenade, and the sand is covered at high tide. There’s paid parking close by, so don’t forget your change. There are facilities, restaurants and cafes in the town. There’s no lifeguard cover on this beach, and dogs are permitted all year round, which is great news for walkers as it also makes up part of the West Dorset Heritage Coast and its accompanying footpaths.
Plenty of parking with a moderate walk down many steps to the beach. Worth the walk though with plenty of fossils around if your prepared to look.
September 2023
Lovely beach but spoilt by the amount of broken bits of glass and rusty metal components that have fallen from the cliff (believe there was some form of rubbish dump at the top of the cliff many years ago) - not a problem for most people but was worried about our dog getting injured.
May 2023
A lovely stretch of beach with rock pools and a chance to find fossils. Get there as the tide is going out and get there early. Take provisions as it is just a beach, of shingle and sand, there are some rocks to clamber over and rock pools to explore. One of our favourite beaches in the UK.
June 2022
Your selected break
Other available dates
Book now & only pay 1/3 today
With our advanced booking deposit scheme only pay 1/3 today (available on bookings over 6 weeks in advance).
Your booking is safe and secure