The Bothy

Tucked within a tranquil walled garden beside the historic Minterne House, The Bothy offers a wonderfully unique escape where heritage, comfort and a touch of indulgence come together. Sleeping up to six guests
across three beautifully appointed bedrooms, this characterful retreat is perfectly suited to families, couples holidaying together and groups of friends looking to experience Dorset at a gentler pace.

Thoughtfully designed across two floors, The Bothy blends cosy spaces for relaxation with generous areas for gathering. Step inside through the practical boot room, ideal for muddy wellies after countryside walks or days spent exploring the estate, before discovering the welcoming ground floor sitting room. Comfortable sofas and a television create a cosy spot to unwind, whether it's movie nights with the family, board games after dinner or simply putting your feet up after a day outdoors.

Also on the ground floor is a charming twin bedroom with its own ensuite bathroom, making The Bothy particularly well suited to multigenerational stays or guests seeking easier access without navigating the stairs.

Upstairs, the property opens into a striking open-plan living space where soaring ceilings and exposed character create an impressive sense of light and space. The well-equipped kitchen and dining area make entertaining effortless, whether you're preparing relaxed breakfasts before heading out for the day or gathering around the table to share good food and conversation. As evening falls, light the wood burner, pour a glass of wine and settle in for cosy nights spent together.

The remaining bedrooms can also be found upstairs. Two elegant super king-size rooms provide restful sanctuaries at the end of each day, one benefiting from an ensuite bathroom while the other enjoys use of a separate shower room nearby. With flexible accommodation and thoughtful touches throughout, The Bothy effortlessly balances practicality with comfort.

Outside, the private walled garden creates a secluded haven where holiday life unfolds at its own pace. Sink into the bubbling hot tub beneath the stars, enjoy morning coffee on the patio or fire up the barbecue for leisurely al fresco suppers as children and dogs play nearby.

One of The Bothy's most distinctive features is its privileged access to the estate's leisure facilities. Through a connecting gate, guests can enjoy the heated outdoor swimming pool and lawn tennis court, with a daily allocated time slot reserved exclusively for their party. Whether it's a rejuvenating swim, family tennis tournament or lazy afternoon spent beneath the shade, these moments transform an ordinary holiday into something truly memorable.

Beyond your doorstep lies the beauty and history of Minterne itself. Guests enjoy complimentary access to the celebrated Minterne Gardens, where winding pathways lead through a spectacular Himalayan valley filled with lakes, waterfalls and seasonal displays of rhododendrons, azaleas and rare trees. Once home to the Churchill family before the estate passed to the Digbys in the eighteenth century, Minterne's rich heritage adds another layer of fascination to your stay, while private tours of Minterne House offer the chance to delve deeper into its remarkable past.

With its combination of private luxury, exclusive leisure access and exceptional surroundings, The Bothy offers an experience that feels both intimate and indulgent – a hidden gem designed for making memories together.

3 Bedrooms: Twin (ensuite), Superking (ensuite), Superking (adjacent shower room)
Main Lounge, TV, WIFI.
Large open plan kitchen/diner/lounge: range oven, gas hob, microwave, fridge, freezer, and dishwasher. Dining area for formal dining. Open plan lounge with woodburner
Bathrooms: Ensuite bathroom, ensuite shower room and private additional shower room.
Secure Part Walled Garden, good size lawn, large patio with outside furniture and gas BBQ.
Parking, 2 off road spaces.
Central Heating. Travel cot, high chair and stair gate by request. Linen and towels included in weekly and short break bookings.
Two dogs welcome, the first dog is charged at £25 extra, the second is free.

Hot Tub (£50 hire charge) and timed slot (noon until 2 pm) for access to large outdoor swimming pool and tennis court. The pool is open from late April/Early May to October only.

Set within the peaceful village of Minterne Magna, The Bothy provides a wonderful base from which to discover one of Dorset's most enchanting corners. Surrounded by rolling countryside and ancient landscapes, this is a place where nature and heritage exist in perfect harmony.

At the heart of the estate are the magnificent Minterne Gardens. Influenced by generations of passionate horticulturists and enriched by Himalayan plant collecting, these extraordinary gardens reward exploration throughout the seasons. Follow pathways beside tumbling streams and tranquil lakes, admire vibrant displays of rhododendrons and azaleas, and find quiet corners perfect for pausing to soak in the beauty of your surroundings.

Just two miles away, Cerne Abbas offers traditional village charm, with its famous hillside giant, welcoming country pubs and quintessential Dorset character. Venture further afield to Sherborne, home to two historic castles and a stunning abbey, or spend a day exploring Dorchester's museums, independent shops and literary connections to Thomas Hardy.

For those who love the outdoors, the Dorset Downs provide endless opportunities for walking and cycling, while the Jurassic Coast's dramatic beaches and cliff-top vistas are within easy reach for memorable day trips.

Whether your perfect holiday involves leisurely swims, long lunches in the garden, countryside adventures or simply slowing down in beautiful surroundings, The Bothy offers a truly special setting in which to experience Dorset.

Distance to Minterne Gardens – Complimentary access included
Distance to Heated Outdoor Pool & Tennis Court – Direct access with a daily exclusive time-slot
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