Hidden within the historic walls of the Minterne Estate, The Pool House is an enchanting retreat designed for couples seeking a little more from their Dorset escape. Combining character, comfort and exclusive touches, this one-bedroom hideaway offers the perfect setting for romantic getaways, special celebrations and restorative breaks surrounded by one of Dorset's most beautiful landscapes.
Set beside the estate's heated outdoor swimming pool and lawn tennis court, The Pool House enjoys a wonderfully unique position. Here, days can unfold entirely at your own pace – from leisurely breakfasts and countryside walks to afternoon swims and cosy evenings spent beside the fire.
Step through the private entrance and into the welcoming open-plan living space, where traditional charm meets thoughtful modern comforts. At its heart sits a wood-burning stove, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere throughout the seasons. Sink into the sofa with your favourite film on the Smart TV, dust off the record player for a nostalgic evening soundtrack, enjoy music through the Amazon Alexa, or simply curl up with a good book while the fire crackles nearby.
The kitchen has everything needed for relaxed self-catering stays, including a gas hob, electric oven, microwave, fridge, freezer and dishwasher. Whether you're preparing a leisurely breakfast before exploring the estate or sharing a simple supper accompanied by a bottle of wine, the adjoining dining space makes every meal feel special.
A contemporary wet room can be found on the ground floor, while charming cottage-style stairs lead to the mezzanine bedroom tucked beneath the eaves. Here, a luxurious super king-size bed takes centre stage, creating a peaceful sanctuary with lovely views across the surrounding estate. It's the perfect place to linger over lazy mornings and uninterrupted lie-ins.
Outside, The Pool House continues to impress. A terrace with outdoor furniture and a coal barbecue invites relaxed al fresco dining, while screening provides an added sense of seclusion. Beyond this lies one of the property's most distinctive features: direct access to the heated outdoor pool and tennis court.
While these facilities are shared with other holiday properties on the estate, Pool House guests enjoy exclusive use of the pool each day in its designated timeslot, offering the perfect opportunity for a leisurely swim before retreating indoors for a cosy evening by the fire. The pool area has also been fenced to provide additional privacy and peace of mind for guests staying at The Pool House, particularly those travelling with dogs. This considered addition allows you to relax and enjoy your surroundings knowing both two-legged and four-legged guests can safely make the most of the outdoor spaces.
Guests also enjoy complimentary access to the magnificent Minterne Gardens, where winding paths lead through a spectacular Himalayan valley filled with waterfalls, lakes and one of the country's most celebrated collections of rhododendrons, azaleas and rare trees. Once home to the Churchill family before passing to the Digbys in the eighteenth century, the estate's rich history adds another layer of intrigue to your stay, while private tours of Minterne House offer the opportunity to delve deeper into its remarkable past.
With its romantic setting, exclusive swimming hours and exceptional surroundings, The Pool House offers an unforgettable escape where the simple pleasures of life take centre stage.
New romantic retreat joining the portfolio in June 2026.
New Cottage
Pool House
New romantic retreat joining the portfolio in June 2026.
New Cottage
Facilities
Semi Detached One Bedroom: Superking
Main Lounge, TV, DVD, WIFI.
Large open plan kitchen: gas hob and electric oven, alongside a microwave, fridge, freezer and dishwasher. Dining area for formal dining.
Ground Floor Bathroom: Shower Room
Screened Garden, good size lawn, large patio with outside furniture and gas BBQ.
Parking, 1 off road space.
Central Heating. Travel cot, high chair and travel stair gate. Linen and towels included in weekly and short break bookings.
One/two small dogs welcome, the first dog is charged at £25 extra, the second is free.
Free Access to out door pool and tennis court from 2 pm until 4 pm. The pool is open from late April/Early May to October only.
Local Area
Minterne Magna is one of Dorset's best-kept secrets. Surrounded by rolling countryside and timeless villages, it offers a peaceful retreat from the pace of everyday life while placing some of the county's most captivating experiences within easy reach.
At the heart of the estate lie the beautiful Minterne Gardens, included as part of your stay. Explore tranquil pathways that weave through a Himalayan-style valley, discover tumbling waterfalls and hidden lakes, and admire spectacular seasonal displays that transform throughout the year. The gardens are the result of centuries of passion and curiosity, shaped by generations of plant collecting and careful stewardship that continue to this day.
Just two miles away, the picturesque village of Cerne Abbas invites visitors to discover its famous hillside giant, traditional country pubs and quintessential Dorset charm. Nearby Sherborne offers magnificent castles and a stunning abbey, while Dorchester provides independent shopping, museums and literary links to Thomas Hardy.
For couples who enjoy the outdoors, the surrounding Dorset Downs offer exceptional walking routes through unspoilt landscapes, while the Jurassic Coast's iconic beaches and dramatic cliff-top views make for unforgettable day trips.
Yet some of the greatest pleasures can be found much closer to home. An evening swim beneath open skies, a glass of wine beside the wood burner, or a quiet wander through the gardens before breakfast are often the moments that stay with you long after your holiday has ended.
Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply carving out time together, The Pool House offers a wonderfully romantic base from which to experience Dorset's quieter side.
Distance to Minterne Gardens – Complimentary access included Distance to Heated Outdoor Pool & Tennis Court – Adjacent, with exclusive pool access daily Distance to Cerne Abbas – 2 miles Distance to Dorchester – Approx. 10 miles Distance to Sherborne – Approx. 10 miles Distance to Jurassic Coast – Approx. 18 miles
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