About Yalbury Cottage

Amidst the rolling fields of the Dorset Countryside Jamie and Ariane welcome you to enjoy the unique character of Yalbury Cottage.

Yalbury Cottage, in the small Hamlet of Lower Bockhampton, dates back around 350 years and was once the home of the local shepherd and the keeper of the water meadows. Though surrounded by green fields and woodlands,
we are just two miles from the historic town of Dorchester.

Bockhampton was the inspiration for the village of Mellstock in Thomas Hardy's Under the Greenwood Tree. We are a short walk away from his birthplace and just across the road from his old school house.

There are many other places of interest nearby, including castles, gardens, stately homes, picturesque villages and Dorset's magnificent Jurassic coastline.

We are surrounded by such beauty, yet within easy reach:
Central London 2 ½ Hours, Cornwall 2 hours, Southampton docks 1 hour, Weymouth 20 minutes, Poole Harbour 30 minutes. Bournemouth airport 1 hour, Dorchester railway station 3 miles.

Together, Jamie and Ariane bring with them 45 years of experience in the hospitality industry, having worked in some of the worlds leading hotels.

Ariane is from the North West of Germany, and Jamie is a Brit from Lancing in West Sussex. Jamie has worked for Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts in London, Maldives, Cairo and Hampshire as Executive Chef. They have two children Nikolas and Lara, who are always busy enjoying the glorious Dorset countryside!

We have so much to do for everyone. Whether you are looking for a Golfing or Fishing break with your friends or looking to organise Zorbing for a loved one we have it all in the area. Horse riding around the local fields can quickly and easily be arranged.

Apart from the many wonderful beaches in the area, there is lots for all the family to enjoy, from Monkey World to the Tank Museum - Sea life Centre to the local animal farms, there really is something for all ages.

If you wish to abandon your car then we can arrange bicycle hire (they also provide helmets and maps) so you may explore the area the environmentally friendly way. Take a picnic with you and make a real day of it!!!