Family Adventures, Slow Days & Starry Nights at The Old Forge

Finding somewhere that keeps both children and adults happy isn't always easy. Families often want space, adventure and time together, while parents also appreciate a little peace and comfort. At The Old Forge, we think we've found a lovely balance.

From April to September, families staying in Woody can add our Tipi Tent for just £50 per night. It's a wonderful way for families or friends to holiday together, giving everyone their own space whilst still being close by. The best part? You'll have exclusive use of the entire site. No neighbouring glamping pitches, no sharing facilities, just your family enjoying the countryside at your own pace.

For those with younger children, we're happy to provide baby monitors, making it easy to keep an ear on little ones while enjoying an evening under the stars.

Right next door is the village playground, complete with a large sandpit boat, swings and climbing frames. As we're in a small village, there's a good chance you'll have it all to yourselves.

Our children, Iris and Woody, aged six and eight, love welcoming visiting families. Under supervision, children can help collect eggs from the chickens, meet the ponies, stroke the animals and experience a little taste of country life that many rarely get the chance to enjoy.

Back at the glamping site, there are plenty of ways to keep everyone entertained. We provide indoor games, giant Jenga, croquet, bats and balls, as well as nature books and binoculars for budding wildlife enthusiasts. Whether you're searching for butterflies on the Downs, watching swallows dart through the evening sky or listening for bats at dusk, there's always something to discover.

One of the things guests love most is that adventures begin straight from the doorstep. There are walks suitable for all ages and abilities, from gentle village strolls to longer rambles across the stunning chalk downland.

If you fancy exploring further afield, there's no shortage of family-friendly days out nearby. The Jurassic Coast is always a favourite, particularly Kimmeridge Bay and the wonderful Etches Collection Museum, where children can discover Dorset's fascinating fossil history. Longleat is just a short drive away, while Moors Valley Country Park offers woodland trails, adventure playgrounds and family cycling routes through the forest. There are also National Trust properties, pottery painting, steam railways and countless hidden gems waiting to be explored.

As evening arrives, family life slows down again. Fire up the barbecue, toast marshmallows around the fire pit, enjoy a splash in the hot tub and watch darkness fall across the Downs.

Being located within an International Dark Sky Reserve means the stars here are truly spectacular. Without distractions from bright lights, Wi-Fi or endless notifications, families often rediscover something wonderfully simple: spending time together.

Perhaps that's what makes family holidays here feel a little different. Children are free to explore, parents can relax, and everyone can reconnect with nature, each other and the slower pace of countryside life.

We also know how expensive family holidays can be, particularly during school holidays. That's why we choose not to dramatically increase our prices during peak season. We believe family adventures should be affordable, accessible and enjoyable throughout the year, not just for those able to travel outside the holidays.

So if you're looking for somewhere to switch off, spread out and make memories together, we'd love to welcome you to The Old Forge.