A unique retreat for lovers of English literature, this converted school house was where novelist Thomas Hardy may have first picked up his pen. Nestled in Lower Bockhampton, 3 miles from Dorchester, the four-bedroom cottage, which sleeps eight guests, is believed to have been his very first school. This retreat is ideally located for exploring the picturesque Dorset countryside and the dramatic Jurassic Coast; it is also perfectly placed for visiting bustling Dorchester, with its independent shops, eateries, museums and art galleries. Venture 10 miles to spend time in Weymouth, with its sandy beach, Sea Life Centre, castle and seaside attractions. Bowleaze Cove, 8 miles away, is also popular for swimming and paddleboarding. Keen walkers can also pick up the South West Coast Path here. Tudor Athelhampton House, with its gorgeous gardens, 4.5 miles from the cottage, also makes a great day out.

Make your way up to this wonderful retreat that’s steeped in history. Step inside to find yourself in rooms where the writer of Tess of the d’Urbervilles and Jude the Obscure spent his childhood days. Kick your muddy boots off or leave your beach sandals in the hall, before wandering on into the cottage to enjoy some downtime with your nearest and dearest. Gather in the cosy lounge to chat, watch the Smart TV and open the French windows to the garden. Head through to the enchanting farmhouse-style kitchen to conjure up culinary delights, then choose between a casual meal in here at the breakfast table or a more formal dinner in the dining room. There is also a utility room with a WC downstairs. The four bedrooms are on the first floor of the cottage and comprise of two doubles and two twins. Completing the first floor is a family bathroom, a family shower room, and a separate WC.

The property sits in wraparound gardens, with areas of lawn and patio, where you can relax over morning coffee out in the Dorset summer. There is off-road parking for four cars at the cottage. Please note, the garage is not for guest use.

House Rules

Additional information and rules

No dogs allowed


- 4 bedrooms – 2 doubles and 2 twins

- 2 bathrooms – 1 family bathroom with bath and WC, 1 family shower room with shower, 1 separate WC (next to shower room), and 1 separate WC (in utility room)

- Electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge/freezer and dishwasher

- Washing machine and tumble dryer

- Air source heating

- Smart TV

- Unenclosed wrap-around garden

- Private parking for 4 cars

- Shop 2.5 miles, pub 1 mile, beach 8 miles

- Please note the garage is not for guest use


Additional information and rules

No dogs allowed


- 4 bedrooms – 2 doubles and 2 twins

- 2 bathrooms – 1 family bathroom with bath and WC, 1 family shower room with shower, 1 separate WC (next to shower room), and 1 separate WC (in utility room)

- Electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge/freezer and dishwasher

- Washing machine and tumble dryer

- Air source heating

- Smart TV

- Unenclosed wrap-around garden

- Private parking for 4 cars

- Shop 2.5 miles, pub 1 mile, beach 8 miles

- Please note the garage is not for guest use



Host Terms & Conditions

The Travel Chapter Limited, trading as “holidaycottages·co·uk”, acts as agent for the property owner. Therefore, when you make a booking the contract is between you and the owner. Please note our terms and conditions will also apply when you make a booking. These can be found in the footer of our website, holidaycottages·co·uk.

Full travel and key collection instructions will be emailed directly to you upon receipt of full payment.