The Great Escape – A real characterful, quirky getaway
Imagine mornings that start like this — a pink sky spreading over the Dorset hills, your dog already exploring the secure field, and the kettle on in your own quirky, original shepherd's hut. Miles of quiet downland waiting just beyond your door.
Peep through the pergola and you'll spot Woody — once named Mabel, now lovingly renamed after our son. This cosy shepherd's hut is perfect for two, with space to pitch a tent if you're bringing company, or we can make up a little bed on the floor for your toddler.
If you're tired of the noise and ready to properly disconnect, this is it. Inside you'll find a comfy bed, Caledonian Dumpy wood burner, books, board games, and binoculars for stargazing. Step outside onto your upcycled veranda with sweeping countryside views, sink into your own private hot tub under the stars, and let your dog roam free in the secure enclosed field. Rolling countryside walks start straight from the hut.
Step back in time. Switch off completely. Spend real quality time together without the daily grind following you.
“A hidden gem just for the two of you and the dog. Sometimes you just need to leave it all behind. Step back in time with modern comforts and stay in charming shepherds hut full of true vintage charm at the bottom of rolling hills”
Essentials
Sleeps 2. This is your space alone — no other guests, no shared facilities, just you two and the countryside.
Private bathroom with compost loo and shower just 30 metres away
Private outdoor kitchen stocked with essentials and treats
Firewood,BBQs, fire pits, and a pizza oven available for your use
Dog secure field to run free ! £25 per dog per stay
Want to bring company? Pitch a tent for £25 per night
Private hot tub
You can't miss our vibrant orange hot tub, set within a handcrafted timber surround offering privacy and shelter — the perfect spot to unwind in any weather.
Heating Options
For your first use, we'll have the tub heated and ready via our propane boiler — this is complimentary and takes just under 2 hours. Simply let us know your arrival time and we'll make sure it's toasty when you get here, or enjoy heating it in your own time!
For your second use, you have two options: use the traditional external wood burner (which takes 2 to several hours depending on the weather, and creates a wonderfully authentic experience), or drain and refill the tub using the propane boiler again for £20.
The Setting
Now under cover with two open sides, you can enjoy stunning views up to Fontmell Down while you soak. If it rains, only your legs might get wet, and on clear nights you're perfectly placed for stargazing.
Silo the BBQ/fire hut
Once a humble grain silo at Gourd’s Farm just down the lane, Silas has been lovingly transformed into a unique, all-weather BBQ and fire pit hut — now proudly settled here at The Old Forge.
With an integrated fire pit and plenty of cosy seating, Silas offers a one-of-a-kind space to gather, cook, and unwind. Whether you’re grilling dinner or simply toasting marshmallows, he’s got you covered — literally!
Fitted with four removable shutters, Silas adapts to all seasons and weather, offering shelter when you need it and open-air vibes when you don’t.
Hunker down, light the fire, and enjoy the warmth — whatever the weather.
Extras
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![Local organic breakfast home cooked]()
Breakfast Hamper
Breakfast in bed? Yes please! Start your day the indulgent way with a hamper delivered straight to your door — no need to leave the comfort of your bed.
Each hamper includes:
🥐 Freshly baked croissants
🍯 Homemade marmalade, Very Berry & strawberry jam
🍎 Freshly pressed apple juice
☕ A thermos of tea or coffee of your choiceThe perfect slow start to your day in the countryside.
£8 per person
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![Aga-cooked farmhouse breakfast]()
Cooked Breakfast
Breakfast is Served! Join us in the farmhouse for a truly delicious start to your day. Our breakfasts are home cooked using only the best local, organic, or free-range ingredients — fresh, flavourful, and made with love.
🍳 Menu
📋 Pre-order required at least 24 hours in advance
📝 Pre-order formCome hungry — you’re in for a treat!
£15 per person
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![Glamping with pizza oven]()
🍕 Pizza Kit
Everything you need for a perfect pizza night — just roll, top, and bake!
Includes:
🍕 2 sourdough dough balls (100% natural & vegan)
🍅 Homemade pasta sauce
🧀 Mozzarella
🌿 Fresh basilOptional toppings available on request.
Fancy DIY?
Dough balls: £5 each – available in the freezerPlease note: Dough needs 24 hrs to prove from frozen. Let us know when you’d like your pizzas ready!
£15 per kit
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![Secluded glamping retreat Dorset]()
Old Forge Morning Pair for One
Cook-It-Yourself Breakfast Pack.
cook your own hearty breakfast on the BBQ or in your kitchen. Two rashers of smoked backed bacon and one local butchers sausage – a hearty Old Forge favourite. This will be ready in the fridge for you for your arrival.
£6 per pack
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![Peaceful glamping in coutryside]()
The Old Forge BBQ for Two
Cook-It-Yourself BBQ Pack
Includes four sausages and two 4oz burgers from our local butchers. Perfect for a relaxed evening in the silo or under the stars. This will be ready in the fridge for you for your arrival.
£10 per pack
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![Pitch a tent glamping family friendly]()
Bring company
Did You Know?
You’re welcome to bring friends or family along!A tent can be pitched for up to two additional guests. Just remember to bring your own towels and bedding.
£25 per night
What our guest have to say
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"What a fantastic place to stay with everything you need for a cozy getaway. Sophie the host was very helpful and such a nice person that was great at communication and extremely helpful with everything we asked. A lovely rural area with beautiful walking routes, capped off at the end of the day in front of the bbq/fire before soaking in the spacious hot tub. The site had all we could ask for to accommodate our stay. Our first time glamping and it didn’t disappoint. 5 stars all round"
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"We had the most relaxing and cosy stay in Woody at the Old Forge. The perfect retreat away from London, with a great kitchen to cook some delicious dinners, and a fire pit for roasting marshmallows and cooking. We loved walking in the surrounding areas of the Downs, and playing scrabble by the wood burning stove"
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“WOW. We had an amazing time getting back to basics so to speak. Beautiful countryside, stunning views and the animals for company. Fantastic hosts. We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves”
