Well Cottage
Stay in a traditional yet luxuriously modernised, 18th-century English thatched cottage, complemented by its stunning surroundings
you’ll truly feel like you are in a romantic British movie, experiencing England in the best, most authentic way possible…
Take A Video Tour Of Our Cottage
Welcome
Our traditional thatched cottage is named after the working well in the front garden, which can be seen from the quiet lane on which the cottage is found.
Well Cottage is perfectly situated in the middle of the beautiful English countryside of Dorset, completely private and exclusive to you and your group of up to six people.
We purchased the cottage with one goal: to provide space, ambience, luxury, convenience, and an authentic English experience.
The History
Our traditional thatched cottage is named after the working well in the front garden, which can be seen from the quiet lane on which the cottage is found.Our cottage has historically always been a comforting place that has hosted many. The well and the original part of the house, ‘the heart’, was originally a drovers’ cottage, designed to provide a place to rest and eat for tradesmen delivering goods by horse and cart to London.
It has since been expanded over the years but still retains many of its original features, including its thatched roof, inglenook fireplace and bread oven.
The Area
Well Cottage is located in a tiny hamlet called Bedchester, which falls under the civil parish of Fontmell Magna in the north Dorset countryside.
The cottage is surrounded by thousands of acres of beautiful woodland, fields and farmland, historical ruins and hamlets. It borders the Cranborne Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, so this is the most perfect place for exploring, hiking, cycling and enjoying British countryside views and picnics.
Relax and unwind
Luxury Bedrooms
Feel at home in one of three serene bedrooms during your stay here with us in Dorset. Each bedroom has been lovingly decorated with their own character and charm, for your utmost comfort.
The Snug
Well Cottage features three beautiful reception rooms, and the Snug is perhaps the most charming of them all. As the original heart of the cottage, this cozy space showcases a magnificent inglenook fireplace with a real open fire, often lit on cooler evenings to create the perfect atmosphere.
The Snug is designed for relaxation and connection. It’s an inviting place to share special moments with family or friends, lose yourself in a favorite book by the fire, or enjoy a quiet after-dinner drink while wrapped in warmth and comfort.
With its historic character and timeless English cottage charm, the Snug is a guest favorite at English Cottage Vacation—a room that feels as cozy as it is unforgettable.
The Living Room
Classy yet cosy, the living room serves as your ultimate multi-purpose sanctuary. This versatile space seamlessly transforms to meet every mood and moment of your stay.
Games & Entertainment Hub
Perfect for family game nights, children’s activities, or settling in to watch a movie together in front of the inglenook fireplace. The comfortable seating and warm atmosphere create the ideal setting for quality time with loved ones.
Relaxation Retreat
Unwind in elegant comfort with a good book, enjoy quiet conversation, or simply savour the peaceful ambience after a day exploring the Dorset countryside.
Tranquil Spa Setting
This serene space doubles as our therapy room, where professional spa treatments take place in complete privacy. The calming atmosphere and soft lighting create the perfect environment for your rejuvenating treatments.

Come together
Dining experiences
Enjoy flexible dining spaces designed to suit every mood and season. From cosy indoor Garden Room dining to relaxed al fresco meals on our patio or courtyard, each setting offers its own ambience.
The Kitchen
Throughout the day you will find chef Laura in her incredible kitchen. Laura will cater to dietary requirements, food preferences and cravings, ensuring your culinary experience is like no other.
All food and beverages at Well Cottage are included. You’ll also enjoy the traditional English ‘dining out’ experience, with one meal away from the cottage included in your stay.*
Each day you will be served breakfast, lunch and a three-course evening meal, plus snacks and beverages. A gourmet packed lunch is included for your excursion days away from the cottage.
The Garden
Soak up the English sunshine with a Pimms or G&T while enjoying the splendor of nature in the garden. With a perfectly tended lawn and beautiful plants and hedges to admire, this is as far as you need to go to enjoy the best of the British outdoors if you so desire!
We have a lots of outdoor games for all the family fun and comfy seating areas to enjoy English barbecues and sunset cocktails.
Read more about lazy days spent at Well Cottage.
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.