We’re excited to bring you the latest news and updates from English Cottage Vacation! This month, we have a delightful mix of features and stories that we know you’ll love.
First up, don’t miss Laura’s debut as the very first guest on Anglotopia’s podcast. She had a wonderful chat with Jonathan Thomas, the Anglophile-in-Chief of Anglotopia, where she shared what makes English Cottage Vacation so special!
We also have some fantastic Winter Wonderland offers just in time for anyone planning the perfect holiday season! Whether you’re looking to book for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year’s, our exclusive discounts are not to be missed!
For those curious about our packages, we’ve broken down our three main offerings to help you choose the perfect fit for your dream vacation. Whether you prefer a fully tailor-made experience, a set itinerary, or a shared cottage adventure, we have something for everyone!
All this and much, much more! Let’s dive right in!
In This Month’s Issue:
- Watch: Laura’s Debut on the Anglotopia Podcast!
- Winter Wonderland Specials: Explore our current offers!
- Our Experiences Explained: Pick Your Perfect Package!
- Amenities Galore: We have everything you need!
- Cottage Gallery: Latest Photos of Well Cottage Interior!
- Perfect Prize: Will YOU be our next picnic basket winner?!!
- Featured Excursion: Salisbury Cathedral
- Telly Talk: “One Foot In The Grave”
- Featured British Saying: “By Jove”
- A Taste of Well Cottage: Laura’s Prawn Cocktail
- Guest Voices: Reviews and Testimonials
- This Month’s FAQ: Is Tipping Included?
- Last Word: Final Thought from Nathan & Laura
Watch! Laura’s Debut on First Anglotopia Podcast!
We are thrilled to share that Laura was the very first guest on Anglotopia’s brand new podcast! In an engaging interview with Jonathan Thomas, the Anglophile-in-Chief of Anglotopia.net—the ultimate website for people who love Britain—Laura had the opportunity to delve into what makes English Cottage Vacation so special!
During the podcast, Laura explained in detail what lucky guests can expect when they stay at Well Cottage. From the luxurious accommodations and personalised 24/7 VIP service to the gourmet meals and guided excursions, she shared all the delightful aspects that make an English Cottage Vacation an unforgettable experience!
Don’t miss out on this fantastic interview! Click the link below to watch Laura’s conversation with Jonathan Thomas and get an insider’s look at what awaits you at Well Cottage!
Winter Wonderland Offers – With 10% Off!
Book your best ever Thanksgiving, Christmas or New Year’s English Cottage Vacation now and let us take care of everything – 10% off package prices right now!
Click HERE to learn more and book before it’s too late!
Discover Our Three Amazing Package Experiences!
Confused by our packages and which one is right for you? Let’s tell you about our three main packages in brief, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your dream English Cottage Vacation at Well Cottage!
Exclusive, Whole Cottage, Flagship Tailor-Made Experience
For groups of up to six guests!
Our flagship package is the ultimate in flexibility and exclusivity, designed to cater to your every desire. This all-inclusive vacation offers complete peace of mind and exceptional customer care.
You and your group can customise every aspect of your stay, from your itinerary to your food choices, through our comprehensive discovery process. This ensures each guest’s desires and dietary preferences are met, providing the ultimate English Cottage Vacation experience.
Enjoy luxury accommodation, tailored excursions with dedicated chauffeur Nathan, gourmet meals expertly prepared by resident chef Laura, in-house spa treatments, dining out experiences, and much more, making your stay at Well Cottage truly unforgettable!
Learn more about the Flagship Tailor-Made Experience – CLICK HERE now!
Exclusive, Whole Cottage, 7 Night, Set Itinerary Experiences
For groups of up to six guests!
For those who prefer a pre-planned approach, our 7 Night Set Itinerary packages offer perfectly crafted itineraries that provide inspiration and peace of mind.
Simply choose from our selection of itineraries that best suit your group’s needs, and we’ll take care of the rest!
This all-inclusive package includes luxury accommodation, tailor-made gourmet menus, a dedicated chauffeur/guide, in-house spa treatments, dining out experiences, and more.
Enjoy a seamless and stress-free holiday, knowing that every detail has been meticulously planned for you!
Learn more about the Whole Cottage Set Itinerary Experiences – CLICK HERE now!
Single Room, Shared Cottage, 7 Night, Set Itinerary Experiences
Perfect for solo travellers and couples, maximum six guests hosted!
Our Shared Cottage 7 Night Set Itinerary package offers the best of both worlds: the privacy of your own room with the camaraderie of shared communal spaces!
Each of our three exquisite bedrooms accommodates up to two guests.
This all-inclusive package provides a set itinerary filled with exciting activities and expertly curated, chauffeured excursions, luxury accommodation, gourmet meals and more, ensuring a memorable and sociable experience with like-minded travellers!
Learn more about the Shared Cottage 7 Night Set Itinerary experience – CLICK HERE now!
New Opportunity: Overnight Excursions!
Make the absolute most of your visit to England!
As part of our Flagship Tailor Made Package, you now have the opportunity to broaden your horizons with our fabulous overnight excursions!
If you’re joining us in Dorset and also want to visit Cornwall, Devon, or other locations that are over 2 hours away from Well Cottage, we can plan it all for you! The all-inclusive overnight surcharge starts at just USD $500 / $650 per person, per night adding even more options, adventures and flexibility to your luxurious stay!
CLICK HERE to reach out right now for more details!
Well Cottage Amenities: Enhancing Your Luxurious Experience!
At English Cottage Vacation, we believe that every detail matters when it comes to creating a truly sumptuous and memorable stay! Our comprehensive range of amenities ensures that you have everything you need for the ultimate comfort and convenience. Let’s take a closer look at just some of the luxuries awaiting you at Well Cottage!
Indoor and Outdoor Entertainment:
From the moment you arrive, you’ll find a variety of indoor and outdoor games to keep you entertained. Whether you’re in the mood for a relaxing board game indoors or a spirited game of croquet in the garden, there’s something for everyone!
Modern Conveniences:
Each beautifully appointed room is equipped with a Smart TV, allowing you to unwind with your favourite shows and movies. Local cell phones are also be provided for your convenience, ensuring you stay connected with your hosts throughout your stay. Fresh flowers in the rooms and throughout the house add a touch of elegance and freshness to your surroundings!
Gourmet Refreshments:
Start your day with freshly brewed bean-to-cup coffee, a delightful way to energise your morning. Our full bar and drinks fridge are stocked with a selection of beverages to suit every taste, ensuring you never go thirsty!
Practical Essentials:
We’ve thought of everything to make your stay as comfortable as possible! Laundry services are provided to keep your wardrobe fresh, and we have Wellies, rain jackets, and fleeces in every size to keep you comfortable in all weather conditions. For those looking to explore the countryside, we offer backpacks, picnic baskets brimming with Laura’s gourmet treats, chairs, and tables for the perfect outdoor adventure!
Luxurious Touches:
Each room is designed with your comfort in mind, featuring light-up mirrors, plush robes, and slippers. We offer three sizes of towels, each colour-coded for your convenience, ensuring you have the perfect towel for every need. USB chargers and international adaptors are provided, making it easy to keep your devices charged and ready to go!
Attention to Detail:
At Well Cottage, we’ve left no stone un-turned in our quest to provide a luxurious and convenient stay! From the thoughtful placement of fresh flowers, lavish dining table décor to the provision of all-weather gear, every detail has been carefully considered to enhance your experience!
Your comfort and satisfaction are our top priorities! We invite you to relax, unwind, and enjoy the many amenities that Well Cottage has to offer, making your stay as enjoyable and stress-free as possible!
Discover more right now – CLICK HERE!
Gallery of the Cottage: Stunning New Interior Photos!
We always ask guests when they arrive whether the cottage looks like it does in the pictures, and time and time again, they tell us that the cottage is not only more beautiful in reality but also much bigger than it appears in the photos!
We always comment that this is great because it means that you will never be disappointed when you arrive at Well Cottage for the first time. Far from it – you’ll be amazed and delighted!
Explore some new photos of the bedrooms and bathrooms and get a glimpse of the charming, spacious, and luxurious interiors that await you at Well Cottage!
Will You Be Our Next Picnic Basket Winner?!
Don’t miss next month’s English Cottage Vacation newsletter, where we will announce the next lucky winner of a luxury, handcrafted picnic basket designed for two! It could be you!
This exquisite basket, crafted from finely steamed willow and accented with stylish tan leather straps, will make every picnic a delightful dining experience amidst nature’s beauty!
Perfectly sized at L 40cm x W 30cm x H 19cm, it’s ideally suited for romantic alfresco meals.
Tailored for those who love leisurely walks and tranquil park visits, this basket comes equipped with everything you need for a perfect outing. Inside, you’ll find:
- 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
All you have to do is stay subscribed to our monthly newsletters for your chance to win this elegant picnic basket, and be sure to encourage your family, friends and colleagues to sign up too!
Featured Excursion: Salisbury Cathedral
This month’s featured excursion takes you to the magnificent Salisbury Cathedral, a marvel of Early English Gothic architecture just 45 minutes’ drive from Well Cottage. The journey itself is a treat, as it takes you through the spectacular Cranborne Chase National Landscape, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty bordering the home of English Cottage Vacation.
Salisbury Cathedral, formally known as the Cathedral Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary, is one of the most iconic structures in England. Its construction began in 1220 and was remarkably completed in just 38 years, making it one of the most cohesive examples of Early English Gothic architecture. The cathedral’s stunning spire, added in 1330, stands at 404 feet, making it the tallest church spire in the United Kingdom since 1561.
One of the most fascinating features of Salisbury Cathedral is its mediaeval clock, which dates back to 1386 and is considered one of the oldest working clocks in the world. Another historical gem housed within the cathedral is one of the four surviving original copies of the Magna Carta, signed in 1215. This precious document is displayed in the beautifully adorned Chapter House, which features an octagonal shape, a slender central pillar, and a decorative mediaeval frieze depicting scenes from Genesis and Exodus.
The interior of the cathedral is equally breathtaking, with its tall and narrow nave accentuated by the contrast of light grey Chilmark stone and dark polished Purbeck marble columns. Visitors can also marvel at the modern font designed by water sculptor William Pye, which was installed in 2008 and is the largest working font in any British cathedral.
No visit to Salisbury Cathedral would be complete without exploring the stunning Cathedral Close, home to numerous historic buildings and museums. The close itself is a serene and picturesque area, offering a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.
While you’re there, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the historic city of Salisbury. The city is rich in history and charm, with its mediaeval streets, quaint shops, and delightful cafes. It’s a quintessentially English city that perfectly complements the grandeur of the cathedral.
Co-host and dedicated chauffeur Nathan will drive you there and back in comfort and style, ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable excursion. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply looking to immerse yourself in the beauty of the English countryside, a visit to Salisbury Cathedral is an experience not to be missed.
Travel Tips:
- Time Needed: 1/2 day or whole day
- Travel Time: 45 minutes on average.
- Local Tip from Nathan & Laura: We can visit a Roman Villa on the way home if Salisbury has not provided enough history!
Next month’s featured excursion will take you to The Blue Pool Nature Reserve at Wareham, also just 45 minutes’ drive from Well Cottage. Stay tuned!
In the meantime, we invite you to explore all of our amazing excursions – CLICK HERE!
Featured Great British TV: One Foot In The Grave
This month, we’re celebrating the classic British sitcom “One Foot In The Grave“, which was filmed in Walkford, just an hour’s drive from Well Cottage! Created by David Renwick, the show aired from 1990 to 2000 and became an iconic staple of British television.
The series follows the misadventures of Victor Meldrew, brilliantly portrayed by Richard Wilson. Victor, a cantankerous retiree, constantly finds himself in bizarre and unfortunate situations, much to the exasperation of his long-suffering wife, Margaret, played by Annette Crosbie. Despite his perpetual grumpiness, Victor’s antics provide endless laughter and memorable catchphrases, like the famous “I don’t believe it!” The show’s unique blend of traditional sitcom elements with dark humour and surreal situations set it apart from other comedies of its time.
One Foot In The Grave is set in a fictional town in Southern England, with most exterior scenes filmed on Tresillian Way in Walkford, Christchurch, Dorset. The picturesque setting adds to the charm of the series, making it a visual treat for viewers. The series subverts the typical suburban sitcom genre by incorporating elements of black comedy and farce, often leading to hilariously unexpected scenarios.
Victor’s constant battle with life’s absurdities, from being buried alive to dealing with eccentric neighbours, is both relatable and outrageously funny. His interactions with his tactless family friend Jean Warboys and his next-door nemesis Patrick Trench add to the comedic chaos. The character of Victor Meldrew has become a cultural icon in the UK, symbolising the quintessential grumpy old man who faces the trials of modern life with a mix of bewilderment and outrage.
Despite its traditional production, One Foot In The Grave wasn’t afraid to tackle darker themes and controversial topics, which sometimes sparked debate among viewers. However, it was this daring approach that earned the show critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. The series won several awards, including the 1992 BAFTA for Best Comedy, and was ranked 80th in the British Film Institute’s list of the 100 Greatest British Television Programmes.
If you’re staying at Well Cottage, why not take a nostalgic trip to Walkford and see where this beloved sitcom was filmed? Relive the hilarious moments and explore the picturesque locations that served as the backdrop for Victor Meldrew’s many misadventures. It’s a perfect way to connect with a piece of British television history while enjoying the beautiful Dorset countryside!
Watch some of the funniest moments below!
Featured British Saying: “By Jove!”
This month’s classic English saying is the delightful exclamation “By Jove!” If you’ve ever heard this phrase and wondered about its origins, read on!
“By Jove” is an expression used to show surprise or to add emphasis, similar to saying “My goodness!” or “Wow!” It first appeared in the English language in the late fourteenth century as a way to refer to the Roman god Jupiter (whom the Greeks called Zeus). Back then, it wasn’t about the planet but about the powerful deity who ruled over the sky and had dominion over both gods and men. To avoid blaspheming the Christian God, people would invoke Jove’s name instead, saying “By Jove” to express astonishment or amazement without offending religious sensibilities.
This charming phrase was even used by Shakespeare in his 1588 play Love’s Labour’s Lost: “By Jove, I always took three threes for nine.” It’s a wonderful nod to the rich history of the English language and the clever ways our ancestors expressed themselves.
At English Cottage Vacation, we love embracing the quirky and fascinating aspects of British culture, and “By Jove!” is a perfect example. Imagine yourself at Well Cottage, surrounded by the beautiful Dorset countryside, perhaps out on yet another spectacular excursion, or enjoying a delicious gourmet meal prepared by Laura. And when something delightful surprises you, you’ll find yourself exclaiming, “By Jove, this is wonderful!”
Stay tuned for more classic English sayings and immerse yourself in the charm and history of England with us!
Featured Recipe: Laura’s Prawn Cocktail
Ingredients:
(Serves 4)
For the Prawns (Shrimp)
- At least 5 shelled, uncooked non frozen, jumbo prawns per person
- 1 lemon
- Malt vinegar
- Fresh thyme
- Fresh oregano
- Salt
- Pepper
For the Marie Rose Sauce
- Juice of ½ lemon
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 5 tbsp tomato ketchup
- A few drops Tabasco sauce
- 2 pinches smoked paprika
- ½ tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp sour cream
- 4 tbsp mayonnaise (regular or vegan)
- 1 pinch cayenne pepper
- A pinch of salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
For the Garnish
- 2 small gem lettuces
- Lemon wedges
- Cayenne pepper or paprika
- Fresh chives chopped
Directions:
- Bring a large pan of water to the boil and the ingredients for the prawns. Add the whole prawns and cook until they rise to the surface.
- Drain and chill in ice-cold water.
- Cut the little gem lettuces in half.
- For the sauce, mix all the sauce ingredients together.
- To assemble the cocktails. Arrange two-thirds of the leaves in martini glasses, trifle glasses or small bowls.
- Shred the remaining leaves and add to the centre of the glasses/bowls.
- Add a spoonful of sauce, then the prawns and top with another spoonful of sauce. If you prefer you can mix the prawns in the sauce first and then spoon them onto the lettuce.
- Garnish with cayenne or paprika, chopped chives or thyme sprigs and lemon wedges. At the right rime of the season I love to use chive flowers to garnish.
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
This Month’s Frequently Asked Question: Is Tipping Included?
Yes… and no! We are Brits so we don’t expect tips! So from a tourist point of view, they are included, but from our point of view they never existed! We pride ourselves on doing a great job no matter what! Your happiness is our priority because if you are not happy, our award-winning business simply wouldn’t thrive. There are no hidden costs when you book your all-inclusive, tailor-made, luxury English Cottage Vacation!
To view our other Frequently Asked Questions, CLICK HERE!
Our Final Thought…
“The joy that you give to others is the joy that comes back to you.” – John Greenleaf Whittier
As we reflect on the continuing pleasure of our time at Well Cottage, we are reminded of the immense joy that comes from bringing happiness to others. Each day, we strive to create an atmosphere where our guests feel not only welcomed but cherished. It is this dedication to service that lies at the heart of English Cottage Vacation.
From the lovingly prepared gourmet meals to the thoughtfully planned excursions, our goal is to make every moment of your stay as delightful and memorable as possible. Watching our guests enjoy the beauty of Dorset, relax in the comfort of their surroundings, and share laughter over a delicious meal brings us immense joy.
As the seasons change and we move from spring into the full bloom of summer, we are excited about the new adventures and experiences that await our guests. Whether it’s exploring all the wonders of Dorset and beyond, basking in the beauty of our gardens, or simply enjoying the serene atmosphere of Well Cottage, there is always something special to look forward to.
We are deeply grateful to each of you for being a part of our extended family. Your smiles, stories, and presence inspire us to continue doing what we love. We look forward to welcoming new guests and reconnecting with returning friends, sharing the joy and tranquillity that Well Cottage offers.
Thank you for choosing to spend your time with us. We will always strive to continue bringing joy to your lives, one unforgettable experience at a time!
With warmest regards,
Laura & Nathan
