As summer reaches its peak, we’re excited to bring you our August 2024 newsletter packed with delightful updates and exclusive offers!
This month, we have a fantastic 20% discount on our whole cottage Thanksgiving and New Year bookings, perfect for creating unforgettable festive memories with your loved ones!
We also have new May dates available for exclusive whole cottage bookings – a wonderful time to enjoy the vibrant spring scenery of Dorset.
Get an inside look at the living room at Well Cottage, our multi-functional space ideal for family gatherings, games, and relaxation.
Our Featured Great British TV section takes you on a nostalgic journey with the beloved comedy series The Vicar of Dibley. Learn about the phrase “tickety-boo” in our British Saying section, and don’t miss our featured excursion to the fascinating Weald & Downland Living Museum.
Stay subscribed for your chance to win a luxurious picnic basket, and check out Laura’s latest recipe for a mouth-watering Lobster Thermidor, perfect for your next special meal. Dive into our latest blog post on the traditional British roast dinner, featuring Laura’s roast turkey recipe – just in time for planning your Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations!
We hope you enjoy this month’s newsletter and look forward to welcoming you to Well Cottage soon!
In This Month’s Issue
- 20% OFF! Thanksgiving & New Year whole cottage bookings!
- Snap It Up! May 2025 dates just freed up!
- Inside Look: The living room at Well Cottage
- Talking Turkey: A Toast To Roasts
- Telly Talk: The Vicar of Dibley
- Featured British Saying: “Tickety-boo”
- Featured Excursion: Weald & Downland Living Museum
- Lucky Reader! Just stay subscribed to win!
- A Taste of Well Cottage: Laura’s Lobster Thermidor!
- Guest Voices: Reviews and Testimonials
- This Month’s FAQ: Why do you sometimes have the calendar open on a shared cottage week?
- Last Word: Final Thought from Nathan & Laura
Exclusive Whole Cottage Bookings for
Thanksgiving and New Year – Now 20% Off!
This festive season, we’re offering an incredible 20% discount on our exclusive whole cottage bookings for Thanksgiving and New Year weeks!
Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy the most luxurious and private holiday at Well Cottage with your loved ones!
Common Features for Both Thanksgiving and New Year Offers
- Exclusive Use of Well Cottage: Enjoy the luxury and privacy of our exquisite accommodation, perfect for up to 6 guests.
- 24/7 VIP Service: Our dedicated team ensures every detail is handled, providing a seamless holiday experience.
- Gourmet Festivities: Savour festive meals crafted by resident chef Laura, tailored to your preferences and dietary needs. The freshest organic ingredients, many sourced from our own gardens, are used to prepare these delightful dishes.
- Chauffeured Excursions: Discover Dorset’s enchanting winter wonderland, historic sites, and natural wonders with Nathan, your personal chauffeur and guide. Travel in our spacious executive-class Mercedes for a comfortable and stylish journey.
- All-Inclusive Amenities: Airport transfers, all meals, drinks, snacks, and excursions are included to ensure you have a stress-free and memorable stay.
Celebrate a Unique English Festive Winter Thanksgiving!
Exclusive Whole Cottage Offer: November 26th – December 3rd, 2024
- Thanksgiving Feast: Indulge in a traditional Thanksgiving dinner with all your favourite trimmings, expertly prepared by Laura. Enjoy classic dishes with a delightful British twist.
- Customisable Excursions: Choose from iconic sites like Stonehenge, ancient castles, the Jurassic Coast, and more. Experience enchanting Winter Wonderland adventures throughout Dorset’s picturesque countryside, towns, and villages.
Book an in-person call with us – CLICK HERE!
Spaces are limited, so act now to secure your spot for these truly unique festive experiences!
Please Note: Some of our shared cottage weeks are also available as exclusive weeks. This is because, until at least one room is booked on a shared cottage week, it can still be booked exclusively.
New May Dates Available for Exclusive Whole Cottage Bookings!
Exciting news! We have new dates available in May 2025 only for exclusive whole cottage group bookings of up to 6 guests. Due to some changes in our guests’ schedules, we are thrilled to offer the dates from May 2nd to May 11th for your perfect English countryside getaway!
Flexible Stay Options
- Book anything from 3 nights to the full 9 nights available, depending on your preferences.
- Choose our 7 Night Set Itinerary or create a custom stay tailored to your group’s desires!
Why Choose May for Your Stay?
May is a beautiful time to visit Dorset, with spring in full bloom and the countryside at its most vibrant. The weather is typically mild and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the scenic beauty and historic sites that surround Well Cottage.
What to Expect
- Exclusive Use of Well Cottage: Enjoy the luxury and privacy of our exquisite accommodation, complete with all the modern amenities and charming touches that make Well Cottage unique.
- 24/7 VIP Service: Our dedicated team, including co-hosts Laura and Nathan, ensures every detail of your stay is handled with care. From gourmet meals to personalised itineraries, we take the stress out of planning.
- Tailored Excursions: Explore the best of Dorset with customised excursions led by Nathan, your personal chauffeur and guide. Whether you want to visit iconic landmarks like Stonehenge, stroll through charming villages, or enjoy coastal walks, we’ve got you covered!
- Gourmet Dining: Indulge in delicious meals prepared by our resident chef Laura, featuring the freshest organic ingredients, many of which are sourced from our own gardens!
- Relaxation and Comfort: Whether you’re unwinding in The Snug, enjoying a game in the living room, or soaking up the sun in our lush gardens, Well Cottage offers a range of spaces designed for relaxation and comfort!
Book Now
Don’t miss out on this rare opportunity to secure an exclusive whole cottage booking in May 2025! These dates are expected to fill up quickly, so act now to reserve your spot and experience the ultimate in luxury and personalised service.
Reach out for more details by clicking HERE – or book an in-person call by clicking HERE!
Inside Look: The Living Room At Well Cottage
This month’s interior talk delves into the heart of Well Cottage – the living room! Although this part of the cottage is a more recent addition, built around 50 years ago, it has been lovingly crafted to blend seamlessly with the rest of the cottage’s historic charm.
The living room at Well Cottage serves multiple purposes, making it the perfect family room, games room, TV room, and formal dining room all in one. It’s a versatile space designed for both relaxation and entertainment. With plush and cosy furnishings, it’s ideal for snuggling up with a good book or enjoying a relaxed evening with family.
One of the standout features of the living room is its patio doors that open onto the courtyard, providing a lovely view and easy access to the outdoors. Inside, there’s a table perfect for playing games or doing puzzles, making it a favourite space for children and adults alike. The TV is great for watching sports events or movie nights, adding to the room’s versatility.
For those special occasions, the living room can also be transformed into a formal dining room. It’s perfect for restaurant-style dining with absolute privacy, offering a splendid ambiance for your evening. Whether it’s a family gathering or a romantic dinner, this space caters to every need.
The living room also doubles as our treatment room. When it’s time to unwind, we close all the curtains, light the candles, play soothing music, and dim the lighting to create the perfect relaxing ambiance. This transformation turns the living room into a serene sanctuary, ideal for any of our rejuvenating treatments.
Classy yet cosy, the living room at Well Cottage truly offers something for everyone. Whether you’re playing games, watching a movie in front of the inglenook fireplace, or enjoying a formal dinner, it’s a space designed to enhance your stay and make every moment special!
Discover more about Well Cottage – CLICK HERE!
From Our Table to Yours: The Ultimate
Roast Turkey for the Holidays!
It’s never too early to start planning your festive celebrations, and we have the perfect inspiration for you! Our latest blog post delves into the delightful tradition of the British roast dinner, a meal that brings families and friends together in a warm, comforting embrace of flavours and aromas.
Discover the rich history and cultural significance of the British roast dinner, and learn why it’s a cherished part of our culinary heritage. From succulent meats to perfectly roasted vegetables and those irresistible Yorkshire puddings, our blog covers it all!
As a special treat, we’re sharing Laura’s very own delicious roast turkey recipe – perfect for your Thanksgiving or Christmas celebration. Laura’s recipe combines traditional British elements with her unique gourmet touch, ensuring a feast that will leave your guests raving.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or trying your hand at a roast for the first time, Laura’s step-by-step guide will help you create a spectacular meal that’s sure to become a holiday favourite.
Start planning your festive feast now and ensure your celebrations are truly memorable. Click HERE to read our blog post and get Laura’s amazing roast turkey recipe!
Stay Subscribed For Your Chance To Win A Luxury Picnic Basket!
Don’t miss out on your chance to win a luxurious picnic hamper just like the ones our guests use on adventurous days out! We’ll be announcing the newest winner in our September newsletter, so make sure you stay subscribed and encourage all your family, friends, and work colleagues to sign up as well!
The perfect companion for enchanting countryside getaways: a luxurious, handcrafted picnic basket designed for two! This elegant basket is crafted from finely steamed willow, complemented by stylish tan leather straps, making every picnic an exquisite dining experience amidst the beauty of nature.
Compact and practical with dimensions of L 40cm x W 30cm x H 19cm, it’s ideally suited for romantic alfresco meals. Designed for enthusiasts of leisurely walks and tranquil park visits, this basket is equipped with all the essentials for a picturesque outing. It includes:
- 2 fine china plates
- 2 wine glasses
- A cosy tartan picnic blanket
- A bottle opener
- Soft napkins
- A cooler bag to keep your treats fresh
- Stainless steel cutlery for a touch of luxury
Keep your eyes peeled – more prizes are coming for our valued subscribers! Simply stay subscribed to our captivating monthly newsletters for your chance to win!
Featured Great British TV: The Vicar of Dibley
This month, we’re highlighting one of the most beloved British sitcoms of all time – The Vicar of Dibley. This hilarious series originally aired on BBC One from 1994 to 2007 and has since become a staple of British comedy. Created by Richard Curtis and written by Curtis and Paul Mayhew-Archer, the show stars the wonderful Dawn French as Geraldine Granger, a female vicar assigned to the fictional village of Dibley following the Church of England’s decision to allow the ordination of women in 1993.
The Setting and Characters
Set in the picturesque Oxfordshire village of Dibley, the show captures the quirky charm of rural English life. Geraldine Granger, with her warm heart and sharp wit, quickly becomes a beloved figure in the community, despite initial resistance. The ensemble cast of eccentric villagers, including the bumbling verger Alice Tinker, played by Emma Chambers, and the cantankerous parish council chairman David Horton, portrayed by Gary Waldhorn, add layers of humor and warmth to the series.
A Cultural Phenomenon
The Vicar of Dibley was not just a ratings success; it became a cultural phenomenon. The show’s Christmas and New Year specials consistently ranked among the top 10 UK programs of the year. The series received numerous awards, including British Comedy Awards, International Emmys, and BAFTA nominations. It even placed third in a BBC poll of Britain’s Best Sitcoms in 2004.
Legacy and Continued Popularity
The show’s appeal endures, with its mix of heartfelt moments and laugh-out-loud comedy. Its legacy is celebrated in a new stage adaptation and various charity specials. The quaint village of Turville in Buckinghamshire, where much of the series was filmed, continues to attract fans eager to see the real-life locations of Dibley.
A Must-Watch Experience
If you haven’t experienced the comedic genius of The Vicar of Dibley, now is the perfect time to start. Its timeless humour and endearing characters offer a comforting escape into the idyllic British countryside. And if you’re already a fan, there’s no better way to relive the laughs than by watching some of the funniest moments from the series.
At English Cottage Vacation, we embrace the quintessentially British charm that The Vicar of Dibley epitomises. Imagine discussing your favourite episodes over one of Laura’s exquisite gourmet dinners or while relaxing in The Snug, surrounded by the cosy ambiance reminiscent of a traditional British home!
Stay tuned for more Great British TV features, and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of British culture and humour during your stay with us at Well Cottage!
Featured British Saying: “Tickety-boo”
This month’s featured British saying is “tickety-boo,” a delightful term that means “fine” or “OK.” The origin of “tickety-boo” is somewhat uncertain, but it is believed to potentially derive from the Hindi phrase “ṭhīk hai, bābū”, which translates to “it’s all right, sir.” This term became notably recognised in British slang around the 1940s, adding a charming touch to the English lexicon.
“Tickety-boo” embodies a sense of everything being in good order or running smoothly. It’s a term that exudes positivity and assurance, often used to convey that things are just as they should be.
At English Cottage Vacation, we strive to ensure that everything is always tickety-boo for our guests. Whether it’s the seamless planning of your itinerary, the exquisite gourmet meals prepared by Laura, or the luxurious comfort of Well Cottage, we make sure every detail is perfectly in place. So, when you stay with us, you can be confident that everything will be absolutely tickety-boo!
Featured Excursion: Weald & Downland Living Museum
This month, we invite you to explore the fascinating Weald & Downland Living Museum, located less than two hours’ drive from Well Cottage via scenic countryside and coastal routes. This living museum offers a unique glimpse into the rural life of South East England over the past 1,000 years, making it a perfect day trip for history enthusiasts and families alike.
Nestled in the beautiful South Downs National Park in West Sussex, the Weald & Downland Living Museum spans 40 acres and features over 50 historic buildings, re-erected from their original sites. From a replica Anglo-Saxon hall house to an Edwardian tin church, the museum’s collection of buildings tells the stories of the people who lived and worked in the region throughout history.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the past with regular demonstrations, including milling in a 17th-century watermill, cooking in a Tudor kitchen, and blacksmithing in a Victorian smithy. The museum also offers seasonal demonstrations, making each visit unique and educational.
For those who enjoy nature, the museum provides delightful woodland walks and is dog-friendly, so your furry friends are welcome to join the adventure. The waterside café, also dog-friendly, is perfect for a relaxing break, or you can enjoy your own picnic amidst the picturesque setting.
At English Cottage Vacation, we ensure your visit to the Weald & Downland Living Museum is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. Co-host and dedicated chauffeur Nathan will drive you there and back in the executive comfort of our Mercedes people-carrier. To make your day even more special, co-host Laura will prepare a gourmet picnic basket filled with delicious treats and beverages. Nathan will set up picnic tables and chairs in the best spots, allowing you to dine in style while soaking in the beauty of the surroundings.
Experience the rich history and serene landscapes of the Weald & Downland Living Museum, and create lasting memories with English Cottage Vacation!
Next month, join us as we explore Highclere Castle, the real-life Downton Abbey!
In the meantime, explore all of our amazing excursions – CLICK HERE!
Laura’s Luxurious Lobster Thermidor
Indulge in a taste of luxury with Laura’s Lobster Thermidor, a classic French dish that combines tender lobster meat with a creamy, rich sauce, all topped with a golden, cheesy crust. Perfect for a special occasion or an elegant dinner, this recipe brings a touch of sophistication to your table.
Servings: 2
Ingredients
- 2 whole lobsters, about 450-600g each
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 100ml dry white wine
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 200ml double cream
- 60g grated Gruyère cheese
- A handful of fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- A squeeze of lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the Lobsters: Begin by cooking the lobsters in boiling salted water for about 8-10 minutes, or until they turn bright red. Remove from the water and allow them to cool slightly. Once cooled, split each lobster in half lengthwise and carefully remove the meat from the tail and claws, keeping the shells intact. Chop the lobster meat into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In a medium-sized skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped shallot and minced garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Pour in the white wine and let it simmer for a few minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate and the liquid to reduce by half.
- Add Cream and Mustard: Stir in the Dijon mustard, then pour in the double cream. Continue to cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly. Add half of the grated Gruyère cheese, and continue to stir until it melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Combine Lobster and Sauce: Add the chopped lobster meat to the skillet, stirring gently to coat it evenly with the creamy sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer for a couple of minutes, ensuring the lobster is heated through.
- Fill the Lobster Shells: Preheat your oven’s grill to high. Spoon the lobster and sauce mixture back into the empty lobster shells, mounding it generously. Sprinkle the tops with the remaining Gruyère cheese and a pinch of paprika for added colour.
- Grill to Perfection: Place the filled lobster shells on a baking sheet and grill under the preheated grill for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the Lobster Thermidor from the grill and let it rest for a moment. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately with a side of crisp green salad, crusty bread, or steamed vegetables for an unforgettable dining experience.
Enjoy your fabulous lobster thermidor!
FAQ: Why do you sometimes have the
calendar open on a shared cottage week?
Because until someone books a room, we keep the dates open for our group bookings. As soon as one room is booked, the week is no longer available for exclusive whole cottage bookings.
To view our other Frequently Asked Questions, CLICK HERE!
Guest Voices: Reviews & Testimonials
Don’t just take it from us – here’s what our guests have been saying!
Website Reviews
Google Reviews
Tripadvisor Reviews
Our Final Thought…
“The best thing to hold onto in life is each other.” – Audrey Hepburn
As we navigate through life, it’s the moments spent with loved ones that truly stand out and bring us the greatest joy. At English Cottage Vacation, we believe in creating spaces and experiences that foster these precious connections.
Whether it’s a family gathering around the dinner table, a cosy evening by the fire, or an adventurous day exploring the beautiful Dorset countryside, each moment is an opportunity to build memories that will last a lifetime.
We take immense pleasure in seeing our guests cherish these special times with their loved ones. Our goal is to provide an environment where you can relax, reconnect, and relish the simple joys of being together.
From Laura’s gourmet meals that bring everyone to the table to Nathan’s expertly guided excursions that spark shared adventures, every aspect of your stay is designed to enhance your experience and strengthen your bonds.
As the seasons change and we look forward to the festive months ahead, we encourage you to hold onto these moments with your family and friends. Cherish the laughter, the stories, and the shared experiences that make life truly beautiful.
Here at Well Cottage, we’re honoured to be a part of these treasured memories, and we look forward to welcoming you back time and time again.
With warmest regards,
Laura & Nathan
