Hammoon Manor

Part of a manor that dates back to the sixteenth century, this beautiful listed barn conversion is not your average country cottage. With enough design credentials for a magazine spread, the home mixes old and new with aplomb. Gather in the grand room to see a space with cathedral-like ceilings and antler chandeliers, with pops of bright modernity from the aquamarine walls and huge pieces of artwork hanging on the walls. There are cosier spots too, including bedrooms that have been tucked up in the rafters ensuring a snug night's sleep, as well as a log-burning fire in the second living room. Comprised of two adjoining barns, the home has got enough room to seat the entire party, with two kitchens for whipping up a feast — ask ahead and the owners will provide you with eggs from the grounds' chickens. Outside, there's a private covered hot tub, a barbecue area and pretty walled gardens to explore, but beyond the gates, one of England's most beautiful counties awaits — Cranbourne Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty can be reached in less than fifteen minutes by car, as can the architecturally unique town of Blandford Forum.

Home truths:
*The home consists of two adjoining barns with two living rooms and two kitchens — these can also be booked separately if you have a smaller party
*The host can arrange private tours of Dorset, outside catering and eggs to be delivered — just ask ahead
*There are also opportunities for coarse fishing on the River Stour and clay pigeon shooting
*The property is wheelchair accessible
*We recommend arriving by car to see more of this rural county and there's plenty of space to park here
*In the summer, there can be a lot of insects, although the host provides repellant
*In both of the first floor bedrooms, the beds can be set up as super king-size or two singles