Agents

Join Our Newsletter and Win a Luxury Picnic Hamper!

Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates, exclusive offers, and travel inspiration. Plus, you'll have a chance to win a delightful two-person quintessentially British picnic hamper - the exact type that we use for our guests at Well Cottage, delivered straight to your doorstep. Sign up today and let the adventure begin!

“Luxury All-Inclusive Vacation”

With Private Hosts, Chef & Driver, and Full Itinerary Included

A private culturally immersive countryside experience
located in Dorset, south west England.

Cotswolds – Jurassic Coast – Stonehenge – Bath – Highclere Castle…


Experience England as a local without any of the planning or stress in small groups of up to six.

Stay in a three bedroom 18th century thatched cottage, surround by countryside with fully organised, guided adventure and sight-seeing throughout the south west of England. Your live in hosts take care of everything from start to end!

“More Than A Vacation…
This Is The English Fairytale You’ve Always Dreamed Of…”

What’s Included?

Everything is included in our ONE PRICE PROMISE!
Whether you choose a Tailor Made Itinerary or a 7-Night Pre-curated Itinerary, Laura and Nathan take care of every single detail.

Discover exactly what “everything” means →

What is an English Cottage Vacation?

Let us show you!
This isn’t just another cottage rental.
This is an experience that changes the way you vacation forever.

Watch now →

Choose Your England Experience

Your cottage, your way. Book Well Cottage exclusively for your group of up to six, or join other solo or duo guests in our shared cottage
experience, all with the same exceptional service from Laura and Nathan.

Book The Entire Cottage

Pure privacy for your group of up to six. Well Cottage becomes your exclusive English countryside retreat. View your options →


Book a Bedroom

For one or 2 guests per room. Join fellow England enthusiasts. Share stories, make connections, and enjoy the same personalised service.

“Finally, the perfect vacation you’ve been searching for!”







Your Hosts, Chef and Driver

Founders of English Cottage Vacation
Laura & Nathan Kurton







Your Itinerary

Well Cottage sits in the stunning north Dorset countryside — your gateway to England’s hidden gems.

What our guests say

“Specialists in Hospitality – Exceeding Expectations is our Passion!”

The Cottage

The definition of England.
Well Cottage is an authentic 18th-century thatched countryside cottage—the quintessential “chocolate box” beauty that defines the English countryside culture. Welcoming up to six guests across 3 luxury bedrooms each with private bathrooms, it’s nestled amongst rolling hills with views that will take your breath away.

Gourmet Dining

Chef Laura personally prepares exceptional meals tailored to your tastes and dietary needs. From traditional English classics to international favourites — every dish uses only the finest ingredients.

Amenities

Every luxury detail is thoughtfully provided — from exquisite bathroom products, robes and slippers to rain jackets, brollies and wellington boots for countryside walks. Every need anticipated for the perfect English getaway.

Our Trip Advisor Reviews

Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Virginia S profile picture
Virginia S
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
An unbelievable experience delivered with panache! My husband and I spent two week with Nathan and Laura at English Cottage Vacation with a friend joining us for one of those weeks. We have traveled independently throughout England, but chose to book this vacation because we had a bucket list of Dorset sites to see and things to do. We did them all in great style and without any hassles. How often does that happen? But the best part of our vacation (well, besides Laura's fabulous food) was Nathan's enthusiasm for Dorset and his willingness to share the interesting nooks and crannies. Would you believe an archeological museum in a shepherd hut? We saw more and experienced more than we could have done on our own AND it is truly the only vacation in thirty-five years of traveling that we returned home more relaxed than when we started. Do not hesitate to make your own adventures with Nathan and Laura!
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Dan S profile picture
Dan S
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Great cottage, great hosts, great vacation, great experience! Everything about our vacation was great. Laura and Nathan were friendly and knowledgeable, and provided superlative service. I'm always impressed by folks who provide a unique and well-planned experience for their guests. Let me say that Laura and Nathan were first-rate in ever aspect of our vacation. Nathan picked us up at Heathrow and drove us to the cottage, which was about a two-hour drive. It was a great way to get an introduction to the area. The cottage is beautiful and the yard around it was beautiful and there was comfortable seating outside (and a swing hanging from one of the trees in the yard that I would use every morning for about five minutes - it made me feel like a kid again!) We'd start the day around 8:00 with a breakfast prepared by Laura. A delicious and an excellent start to the day. Then we'd leave with Nathan on our daily excursions around 9:30. All of our daily trips were fun and interesting. My wife and I enjoy walking and working out and each of the locations we saw allowed us to get plenty of steps in seeing the sights each day. The evening before each trip, Nathan would give us a summary of what we'd be doing the next day and give us background information about the location. Then he would continue to give us information as he was driving us to that day's locations. Nathan's vehicle was the most comfortable one in which I'd ever travelled. In addition to Nathan, there were five adults in the van and we had more than adequate space. The van would have held at least two more adults comfortably. He's also a great driver so we could sit back and relax on our daily trips. We'd arrive at our morning location and would have an hour or two to walk around the area and/or do a tour of a particular castle, building or specific area. Nathan would let us know where we'd meet him mid-day. When it would get to be lunchtime, Nathan would find an area outdoors for us to eat. He'd set up and table and chairs and we'd have a lunch that Laura had prepared for us including snacks and drinks. He was obviously very familiar with each of the locations we were touring and the areas he'd find for us to have lunch were really relaxing and comfortable. After lunch we'd be on to our next location to visit for the day. After we toured what was on the schedule for the afternoon, Nathan would drive us back to the cottage and we'd have a couple of hours to relax, have a drink and snacks before dinner was served. We would usually have dinner around 7:00. The dinners prepared by Laura were all fantastic! All of them were as good (or better) than we'd experienced at high level restaurants. Every night after dinner (except one night when we were doing an early evening tour of Stonehenge - which, by the way, was superb - smaller group and we were allowed to walk around and through Stonehenge itself) some of us would go for a walk on the roads in the hamlet surrounding the cottage. Beautiful countryside, quiet and interesting, and (once again) Nathan would make sure we had flashlights (called torches in England) and one night when it was a bit rainy we wore yellow vests so we'd be more noticeable to drivers. We rarely saw any drivers because the area surrounding the cottage has no commercial businesses and any drivers we encountered were going slowly and safely. Then we'd retire for the evening in our separate bedrooms. Ours was very comfortable with its own bathroom . Then the next day, we'd do go on another excursion and do it all over again. Our only disappointment was that we had to leave after a week. I would have been fine doing another week of daily excursions!
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Happiness553863 profile picture
Happiness553863
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
A Holiday at Well Cottage Holidays at Well Cottage are splendid!! The trips, food, service and other guests have all been wonderful, so much so that I visited again this year after a hiatus of five years. Everything was exactly as I remembered and I was able to pay more attention to details at the castle ruins, the grand homes, gardens, and coast than I had the first time through. It is truly an experience that you won't forget, I promise!
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Kathy B profile picture
Kathy B
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Vacation of a lifetime Make your reservation NOW. You will not regret spending a week at English Cottage Vacation with Nathan and Laura. From the time Nathan picks you up at the airport until he drops you off again, you are expected to do nothing but relax, sightsee and eat. Laura is a true treasure in the kitchen. Each meal or picnic is designed and prepared down to the last detail, including the lovely table scapes. Her menus are well thought out, and the final product delicious. Nathan has an abundance of knowledge pertaining specifically to the excursion of the day…lots of tidbits you would not hear from a tour guide. He is very patient and drives with great care. There really aren’t enough words to describe the experience of this all inclusive vacation.
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Tina V profile picture
Tina V
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Best of the UK is here We are experienced Travellers, so have a lot of experiences to compare, but our stay here at Well Cottage was over the top wonderful. From the pretty cottage, delicious gourmet meals, and beauty of the English countryside to the variety of interesting excursions and hospitality of Nathan and Laura, we absolutely loved our stay. Pictures don't do the scenery justice nor can words describe the meals. These guys really know how to treat their guests like royalty. Just go...
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Jerry K profile picture
Jerry K
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Quintessential English Cottage Vacation We just returned from the most wonderful English Cottage Vacation at Well Cottage. Laura and Nathan are truly remarkable hosts. Attention to detail was quintessential to the experience. They provided a perfect balance of relaxation and excursions to see incredible sights. The VIP sunset inner circle tour of Stonehenge is a once in a lifetime experience. From small country lanes to Motorways, Nathan navigated us each day with precision as we were provided ample opportunities to explore independently and join in guided tours each day. Laura was incredible as she sent us on our way each day after savoring a gourmet breakfast, enjoying a wicker basket picnic lunch that she prepared and returning after the day’s activities to cocktails and canapés followed by a 5 star dinner that was incredible and only outdone by it’s presentation. We did arrive as guests and we feel like we left as friends whom we look forward to visiting again. Kathy and Jerry K
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Donna N profile picture
Donna N
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
A Vacation Beyond our Wildest Dreams! We are so blessed to have celebrated our 50th Wedding Anniversary by experiencing the ultimate English Cottage Vacation of a lifetime and stay at the home of this lovely couple, our hosts, Nathan and Laura! We knew this would be a special holiday, but it far exceeded our expectations! We recognized the genuineness of Nathan and Laura that came across immediately when we first met them. Our first impression was the charm and welcoming smile of Nathan when he arrived in London to collect us at the hotel. Nathan immediately went into tour advisor mode and narrated the points of interest that London is known for. We loved hearing Nathan’s depiction of the beautiful countryside, and his excitement to show us a new area to explore each day, from the quaint hamlet he and Laura live in, to the villages, towns and cities that have their own charm and uniqueness. When Nathan isn’t driving, he puts on a few more hats—waiter, bartender, gardener, etc., and occasionally shows his skills at unique napkin folding designs. When we reached the cottage, Laura was outside greeting us with her warm and inviting smile and exuberant charm! Laura’s mouthwatering meals were not only incredibly savory, but exquisitely presented with imaginative plating and description. Her personality continued to shine through with her decorative skills that makes Well Cottage so warm and inviting. Laura is always on cue video taping by descriptively narrating her guests daily happenings, showing the gardens, the cottage, gardening tips, and if that isn’t enough, she recently published her own online recipe book! Nathan and Laura’s effortless attention to detail is spot on as shown by the passion and devotion they put into making sure we were always comfortable. It truly shows that they genuinely enjoy what they do, and they both complement each other so well. The stunning gardens surrounding the cottage with the most spectacular palette of colors are not only attributed to Laura and Nathan’s hard work, but also to Laura’s Mum’s personal attention. You can tell they all put a lot of love into making Well Cottage an enchanted, fairytale-like setting. Thank you Nathan and Laura for creating this wonderful experience, that was beyond our wildest dreams, to ensure our 50th Anniversary would be so very special and unforgettable! Love and Cheers!❤️ Tony and Donna N.
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Katrina H profile picture
Katrina H
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Unbelievably wonderful! One of the best weeks of my life. All my expectations were exceeded. The service, knowledge, care, and personal touches are something I have never experienced. Nathan and Laura know how to read guests needs and desires and by the end of your stay you feel like you are friends. Nathan and Laura know how to create a balance of vacation and experiencing local life. You have opportunity to experience as much as you are willing to or have the energy to participate in. For example, walking with Nathan to a local farm to get eggs or taking a different hiking path if you can't handle the incline of another route. Staying at Well Cottage was one of the best weeks of my life. Unbelievable experience. I can't believe I actually got to do it!
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Katy profile picture
Katy
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Incredible vacation! Don't hesitate to book:) We spent a week with Laura and Nathan, traveling with in laws who are in their 80s, my husband and I in our 50s and our two young adult kids. Laura kept us fed with the most incredible meals (and her desserts!) while Nathan toured us around the countryside and made special accommodations for the less mobile folks. They were kind, attentive and spoiled us. The cottage is so beautiful, cozy, and comfortable, the countryside is gorgeous. We will be talking about this trip for the rest of our lives.
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Paradise61289 profile picture
Paradise61289
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Perfect English Vacation Our stay at Well Cottage was absolutely wonderful! Nathan and Laura went above and beyond to make sure everything was perfect. Definitely a trip of a lifetime. And the food was amazing! The gardens are beautiful and the cottage is a perfect country get-a-way. Highly recommend.

Latest Offers

Click to see the latest offers we have for English Cottage Vacations

Awards

ECV Dorset Tourism Awards 2023 24 GOLD logo
SW Tourism Award

Our Google Reviews

English Cottage Vacation place picture
5.0
Based on 60 reviews
Carol O'Connor profile picture
Carol O'Connor
4 months ago
Beyond our expectations! Food, drinks, excursions, beautiful warm and cozy cottage and Laura and Nathan are so warm and welcoming, you feel so comfortable and peaceful here!
Missy Chance profile picture
Missy Chance
8 months ago
Perfection from the time you are picked up at airport until you are dropped off. Nathan and Laura have seen to every detail of your stay in the beautiful English countryside. The cottage, the food and the itinerary are beyond compare. Best vacation ever.
Phil Moore profile picture
Phil Moore
8 months ago
I joined this vacation with my wife, who was making her second journey to Well Cottage in six months! It was everything she promised: unmatched service, delightful and charming accommodations, 5 star meals and enchanting countryside. Nathan and Laura made this experience one I will never forget. In fact, it took several weeks to catch my breath once I returned to the US. I highly recommend The English Cottage Vacation.
Diane Capone profile picture
Diane Capone
11 months ago
Staying at this quintessential English countryside cottage was pure magic. Every detail was perfect, from the cozy thatched roof charm to the incredible white-glove service that anticipated our every need. Laura and Nathan handled every bit of the planning and logistics, making it the best and most effortless way to experience the English countryside. We were so touched by the incredible surprise the they put together for my mom’s birthday. A beautifully decorated dinner and the most stunning cake, all planned simply because we’d mentioned it was her special day. Truly above and beyond in every way. Can't wait to go back!
J J profile picture
J J
1 year ago
We truly loved each and every moment. We were taken care of from the first day to the last. Nathan and Laura are fabulous host.
Beth Mobley profile picture
Beth Mobley
1 year ago
From our pickup at the train station till our drop off at the airport, everything was handled perfectly. Could not have asked for a better experience at the English Cottage and all the tours we did and the adventures we had. Laura and Nathan took care of our every needs and wants. Amazing hosts. Absolutely amazing time. Would highly recommend it for anyone to experience it too. Five stars for everything!
Tina Vernet profile picture
Tina Vernet
1 year ago
Outstanding attention to detail. Varied meals, absolutely delicious with great drinks and canapes, an abundance of food for lunch, loved eating lots of local ingredients. Very warm, personable hosts, yet not intrusive. Spotless bedroom and bath. Lovely snug, dining and living room. Appreciated all the space for guests. Pretty gardens with games. We wanted for nothing. And I had a the iced tea I could drink!
Katrina H profile picture
Katrina H
1 year ago
One of the best weeks of my life. All my expectations were exceeded. The service, knowledge, care, and personal touches are something I have never experienced. Nathan and Laura know how to read guests needs and desires and by the end of your stay you feel like you are friends. Nathan and Laura know how to create a balance of vacation and experiencing local life. You have opportunity to experience as much as you are willing to or have the energy to participate in. For example, walking with Nathan to a local farm to get eggs or taking a different hiking path if you can't handle the incline of another route. Staying at Well Cottage was one of the best weeks of my life. Unbelievable experience. I can't believe I actually got to do it!
Larry P profile picture
Larry P
1 year ago
We’ve just returned from a week at English Cottage Vacation, and I can honestly say it was one of the best trips we’ve ever taken. Imagine the luxury and service of a high-end cruise, but instead of being at sea, you’re in a beautiful thatched-roof cottage surrounded by the English countryside. That’s exactly what Well Cottage feels like—cozy, comfortable, and absolutely first-class. The biggest surprise for me was the food. I expected good, homey meals, but what we got was restaurant-quality cuisine every single night—and we got to enjoy it in our comfy clothes! Laura is a professional chef, and her talent shows in every dish. From our elegant anniversary dinner (filet mignon, scallops, fancy cake and all!) to the cozy canapés by the fire, every bite was memorable. Even the picnic lunches were next-level. These weren’t sandwiches on a park bench. We had linen tablecloths, real china, and gourmet food—even in the back of the van during a rainy day! Nathan, our host and guide, has an amazing knack for avoiding the crowds. We visited popular destinations like Corfe Castle, Durdle Door, and the Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm Museum, yet it never felt hectic or rushed. Every day’s itinerary was thoughtfully planned, balancing big sights with quiet corners. A highlight for me was the Castletown D-Day Centre—an interactive, hands-on WWII museum where I got to sit in a jeep, hold a rifle (heavy), and even operate an anti-aircraft gun. It was both moving and fun. Back at the cottage, the evenings were a true treat—cocktails in the garden, sitting by the fireplace with a dram of whisky, and great conversation. Laura and Nathan made everything feel so personal. From surprising us with a beautifully decorated dining room for our anniversary to sharing stories from their garden and kitchen, they went above and beyond to make us feel at home. If you're looking for a luxurious, personalized, and utterly unique English countryside experience—without needing to dress up or drive yourself around—this is it. We felt pampered, relaxed, and completely taken care of. Already dreaming of our next visit!
Steve Buckley profile picture
Steve Buckley
1 year ago
From the time we stepped into the arrivals hall at Heathrow until we left, every detail of our visit to Well Cottage was handled perfectly. The accommodations were excellent. The food was well beyond expectations. As we told friends, all we had to do was show up when suggested, and everything else was taken care of. As well as the set itinerary Nathan and Laura had surprises for us nearly every day of our stay. It truly was the trip of a lifetime.
Deborah Goss profile picture
Deborah Goss
2 years ago
Nathan and Laura have created a luxurious English cottage complete with beautiful gardens amazing food and drink comfortable rooms and well planned excursions. The pace of each day was perfect, leaving the cottage after a scrumptious breakfast to enjoy all the countryside has to offer, ruins castles small villages and a picnic lunch. We would return to a wonderful cocktail hour and then a gourmet three course dinner. The area was peaceful and many times we would take a walk before dinner to work off all that delicious food. Our hosts spoiled us completely, it was hard to leave.
natalie green profile picture
natalie green
2 years ago
Our week with English Cottage Vacations was a truly delightful experience. Hosts Nathan and Laura have curated an experience that allows guests to immerse in the English countryside, while relieving guests of the burdens of decision-making that travel often entails. Each day of the stay was planned to give guests a glimpse into the history, culture and picturesque beauty of the Dorset region. Nathan is the tour guide, chauffeur, and picnic host. On the daily excursions, we visited two to three different gems of the region, and at each location, we had plenty of time to explore and engage. Chef Laura prepared scrumptious breakfasts to start the day, and packed personalized lunches for our afternoon picnics. After each exciting day out and about, Laura welcomed us back to the cottage with snacks and drinks, and we took time to enjoy the cottage’s garden and snug to relax and reminisce on the day’s adventure. In the evening, dinner began with a visually stunning tablescape, matching the vibe of the menu to come. Chef Laura tailored her menus to incorporate traditional English fare with more modern dishes, and she accommodated each diner’s dietary needs and wants. Each aspect of the trip and the cottage itself has been crafted with the guests’ comfort and enjoyment in mind. The van is spacious and rides smoothly. The common spaces in the cottage (snug, garden room, gardens, etc.) are cozy and plush, inviting guests to sit a while. Our bedroom (the beehive room) was spacious, inviting and comfortable. But what made our time at Well Cottage truly exceptional was Nathan and Laura’s hospitable nature, their ability to anticipate guests needs and interests, and their sense of pride in sharing their very special part of the world with others. English Cottage Vacations, notably Nathan and Laura’s approach to hospitality, provided a travel experience unlike any other.
Carla profile picture
Carla
2 years ago
We visited Well Cottage in June with our family and it was easily one of the best vacations we have ever had. From the moment Nathan picked us up in the luxury vehicle, to the moment he dropped us off at Heathrow airport, we were completely spoiled. Nathan and Laura are outstanding hosts! They take so much time and effort to get to know their guests, and everything is done for you. Laura is an incredible cook, and every day that we had a picnic lunch, we were excited to unveil the little delectable treasures she had packed for us that day. The cottage is absolutely lovely, so quaint yet modern and every evening, we enjoyed experiencing the stunning garden and walking through the lovely country side. I cannot say enough good things about English Cottage Vacations, and I look forward to going back.
John Hoppers profile picture
John Hoppers
2 years ago
Ken Fleming profile picture
Ken Fleming
2 years ago
The last week of May 2024 was our second stay with Nathan and Laura at Well Cottage. While the weather was a little nicer when we visited last year, everything else about our visit was up to our hosts' usual high standards. Laura's meals were superb, and Nathan helled us develop an itinery different from but just as appealing as last year's. If you like good food, attractive surroundings, English history, and luxury, try Well Cottage. You won't be disappointed.
Nancy Gilbertson profile picture
Nancy Gilbertson
2 years ago
Do you want to be pampered and taken care like you are family? Do you want to relax and feel at home? This is the place to be. We ate delicious home cooked Michelin-worthy foods; were chauffeured to all the places we wanted to visit; AND we never had to pack and unpack every night OR stay in some impersonal hotel. It was a wonderful experience (our second time!).
This experience was by far the most all inclusive vacation I have ever experienced. From the moment I was arrived at LHR and transported to the charming cottage I was treated like royalty! Nathan and Laura are hosts extraordinaire. Everything and i mean literally everything was included with the exception of gifts I took home. This included, meals at the cottage and outside, alcohol, transportation, and tickets to venues. In addition they provided local cell phones so I kept my cell phone on airplane mode using WhatsApp when I had internet service (which they have in the van and the cottage). This is the first time I have been out of the country and never incurred international roaming fees! I was the inaugural visitor for their Winter Holiday stay. I am so happy I had the chance to experience this! With Laura as the chef every meal was a culinary delight. She and Nathan helped celebrate my December birthday in style along with a proper British Christmas Lunch. It was the first time I had ever experienced Christmas Crackers! They were so much fun I ordered some for my grandchildren for Christmas dinner ( you cannot transport these home on the plane. They have to be ordered stateside). A special treat was the "spa day" where I had a chance to relax and be pampered (all apart of the AIF). I loved this stay so much I have already planned a ladies trip for 2025. I can't wait to share my experience with my friends!
Stephanie Black profile picture
Stephanie Black
3 years ago
Hands down, the best vacation we’ve ever had. Nathan and Laura of English Cottage Vacation go above and beyond to make you feel welcome and cater to your every need. We had a group ranging from 8yrs old to folks in their 70’s. Somehow they structured our days to keep my two kids entertained, well fed and educated in a fun way every day. But the adults didn’t feel like they were on a kids trip either. Laura’s skills in the kitchen are as good, if not better, than any award winning restaurant in major cities. We had a few special requests including a Beef Wellington night and my daughter’s 11th birthday party and she knocked them both of the park! Nathan is your tour guide extraordinaire! We let him plan our entire stay and there wouldn’t be one thing we would change. As I said before he kept both the adults and kids entertained each day. Your accommodations will be welcoming, charming, comfortable and clean. We had the largest group they could accommodate and everyone had their own private space to relax and unwind each evening. The grounds are beautifully kept and we loved spending most dinners on their patio soaking in the fresh air and scent of their beautiful garden. We never repeat vacations as we always feel there’s more to see and experience, but I can say with confidence we will be back to spend more time with Nathan and Laura! Thank you two for such an amazingly unforgettable family vacation. ????
Carrie Herndon profile picture
Carrie Herndon
3 years ago
While we had visited England before, this was our first visit to Dorset. We couldn’t have asked for a better experience staying at Well Cottage. No detail was overlooked. The cottage is cozy but spacious, and the garden is beautiful and perfect for lounging or birdwatching. Laura is an amazing chef. She was able to create delicious meals with our differing tastes and my dietary restrictions. We did a bespoke package and Nathan organized an itinerary for us that incorporated our planned requests as well as seamlessly incorporating a couple of “oh while we’re here can we” requests. Nathan and Laura are the perfect hosts and are great company. They made sure our vacation was truly memorable.

Call us to find out more…

If you prefer to discuss your vacation plans in-person why not schedule an in-person online video chat with Nathan and Laura at a time that suits you? Click the link to book you chat now.

As Featured In

With years of experience in luxury hospitality, this is the only vacation experience of its kind across all of England with personal hosts catering specifically to you throughout your entire stay.

Sign up to our newsletter

Add your email address below to sign up to our Monthly Newsletter containing updates, photos and information on all things English, cottage and countryside!

Nathan and Laura share with you what’s new at Well Cottage, what activities and sights you can enjoy during your English Cottage Vacation, current availability and much much more.

A few of our frequently asked questions…

Q. What makes English Cottage Vacation different from other luxury vacation rentals in England?

A. English Cottage Vacation isn’t a vacation rental—it’s a fully hosted, all-inclusive luxury experience that combines the intimacy of staying in a private home with the impeccable service of a five-star resort.

Key Differences:
Personal Hosts, Not Staff: Nathan and Laura aren’t employees—they’re the owners who live at Well Cottage and personally host every guest. You’re not one of hundreds; you’re welcomed into their home with genuine care and attention.

Truly All-Inclusive: Unlike vacation rentals where you handle everything yourself, or hotels where extras add up, everything is included—chef-prepared meals, chauffeur service, excursions, entrance fees, spa treatments. One price, no surprises.

No Planning Required: You don’t research, book, or coordinate anything. Nathan plans and executes your entire itinerary based on your interests. You simply show up and enjoy.

Local Expertise: Nathan and Laura’s intimate knowledge of Dorset and surrounding areas provides access to hidden gems, insider experiences, and authentic local culture that guidebooks and rental properties can’t offer.

Exceptional Exclusivity: With only 16 weeks of guests per year, this isn’t a high-volume operation. Every detail receives personal attention, and every guest receives an experience crafted specifically for them.

Complete Flexibility: Unlike group tours or rigid itineraries, your schedule adapts to your pace, preferences, and mood—while still being entirely
organized for you.

This is hospitality reimagined: the freedom of a private home, the luxury of a resort, and the personal touch of staying with knowledgeable friends.

Q. What does All-Inclusive really mean?

At English Cottage Vacation, “all-inclusive” means complete transparency and peace of mind. We provide one comprehensive price quotation, and that is the only price you pay—no hidden fees, no surprise charges, no unexpected costs. Your quoted price covers everything outlined in your bespoke itinerary, allowing you to relax and enjoy your experience without financial concerns throughout your stay.

Q. Is tipping expected?

Tipping is not customary in England, and there is no expectation for gratuities during your stay. Of course, should you wish to offer a tip to your massage therapist, tour guides, or your hosts, it would be graciously appreciated – but please know this is entirely at your discretion. We want you to feel comfortable with English customs, where excellent service is provided as standard without the expectation of additional compensation.

Q. How many guests do you host per year / How exclusive is this experience?

English Cottage Vacation is an exceptionally exclusive experience. We host approximately only 16 weeks of guests per year, as we only accept bookings when Nathan and Laura can personally provide the full experience.

Our Exclusivity:
With only three bedrooms available and Nathan and Laura serving as your dedicated hosts throughout your entire stay, our intimate scale ensures every guest receives the personalized attention, bespoke service, and exceptional care that defines English Cottage Vacation.

Why We Stay Small:
We intentionally limit our bookings to maintain the quality and personal touch that makes this experience so special. Nathan and Laura are with you throughout your vacation—not managing multiple properties or delegating to staff. This hands-on approach means every detail receives their direct attention.

This limited schedule also allows Laura and Nathan to work on cleaning and maintaining the cottage and gardens, researching and planning itineraries, seasonal decoration, and all the behind-the-scenes work that ensures every guest experience is flawless.

Booking in Advance:
Due to our extremely limited availability, we recommend booking 12-18 months in advance, particularly for peak seasons. Many guests—especially our returning guests who make up 40% of our bookings—book a year or more ahead to secure their preferred dates.

This exclusivity isn’t about scarcity—it’s about ensuring every guest receives an unforgettable, deeply personalized English countryside experience.


Scroll to Top