A thatched holiday cottage in Blandford Forum with a slate-roofed extension overlooks a well-kept lawn

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A historic market town boasting splendid Georgian architecture, Blandford Forum rests cosily on the banks of the River Stour, breaking through the chalk ridge of Dorset Downs. Blandford offers visitors a fine choice of self-catering holiday homes for those planning holidays exploring the Dorset coast and countryside. You’ll find lines of boutiques in the town centre, such as the family-owned Hambledon Gallery. Let yourself be spoilt for choice with inviting cafes and restaurants, and try out Forum Café’s home-baked treats. Of course, there’s a fine selection of pubs, too, and even a brewery (the Hall and Woodhouse Brewery) offering guided tours, tastings and sales of their excellent ales.

Stone-built Dorset farm cottage with a patio, lawns and mature trees.
Droop Farm Cottage
Hazelbury-Bryan
Dorset
England
Sleeps
6
Bedrooms
3

Uncover the unique charm of Droop Farm Cottage, an idyllic Doret holiday let in Hazelbury-Bryan. This 300-year-old stone barn, converted with care, is an elegant and inviting rural retreat in Dorset for families or friends. Characterized by small windows, a slate roof, and thoughtful décor, the cottage offers picturesque views and modern amenities. Set in the peaceful village of Hazelbury Bryan, Droop Farm Cottage is a perfect blend of comfort and countryside, creating an idyllic setting for a tranquil getaway. View our main page for more details and photos.

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A thatched cottage with thatched porch and large conservatory overlooks a wide lawn.
Under Acre Cottage
Blandford Forum
Dorset
England
Sleeps
6
Bedrooms
3

Under Acre Cottage is a charming chocolate box cottage nestled among the Cranborne AONB in Winterborne Whitechurch. The Grade II listed 16th-century rural cottage boasts a thatched roof & more original features, plus a lovely garden with countryside views, open fire and access to the Dorset coast.

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There are plenty of enjoyable days out to be had within easy reach of the town; It’s a relatively easy 45-minute drive to the Dorset coast and gorgeous locations such as Swanage and Lulworth Cove, and less than that to the larger resorts of Poole and Bournemouth. The Blandford Forum Town Museum shares the area’s fascinating history with all. The Blandford Fashion museum also showcases clothing from 1740-1970. Enjoy the tea room and gardens while the kids explore a trail and try on replica clothing. Also perfect for the whole family is the lively spectacle of the Great Dorset Steam Fair, now in its 47th year in nearby Pimperne, at the end of August. Further keeping to tradition, there’s also a weekly outdoor market; however, various activities like golfing, clay-pigeon shooting and horseback riding are also available.

The surrounding landscape is breathtaking, such as the Dorset ‘Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’ to the west of the town. Additionally, the parish church, Corn Exchange, and town hall all have an English Heritage status – not to mention Coupar House, Pump House, and even the local Natwest building!

Why the graceful architecture? After a fire in 1731, the town was rebuilt, and its surviving Georgian style presents visitors to Blandford Forum with an unforgettable experience. The Iron Age fort atop Hambledon Hill, now a National Nature Reserve, goes even further back in time.

Blessed with stunning views, this gorgeous town has something to offer everyone. A self-catered cottage can give adventure-seeking families the freedom to discover Blandford’s gems, while couples can enjoy a relaxing escape with awe-inspiring views year-round. Take a leisurely cycle to the Jurassic coast, or walk along the luscious Stour river. Alternatively, come find out what inspired Thomas Hardy to include Blandford Forum – or shall we say ‘Shottesford Forum’ – in his novels.