Family showcase historic holiday homes

By Karen Bate karen@westdorsetmag.co.uk

When Ali Stamper and her husband Richard visited Greenwood Grange, a quiet little holiday complex next to Thorncombe Woods, it was love at first sight.

A few weeks later the pair bought the seven-acre plot, home to the 17 stone cottages, transformed from farm buildings, which had been built by Thomas Hardy’s stonemason father Thomas in 1849.

“We fell in love with it,” said Ali, who was making several cups of tea in the kitchen of the largest of the cottages. “We wanted a family project, for me and Rich, my son Joe and for my daughter Katie. Greenwood Grange had belonged to a corporate and we wanted it to be kept local and familiar. We have lived in this part of the world for 30 years and recently sold our holiday park in Chickerell. We know the area inside and out and I think this is so helpful for visitors.”

Each one of the cottages retains its character while throwing a decadent nod to 21st century style. The smallest has two bedrooms, while the largest cottage sleeps 12. It is quite clear all Ali’s 21 members of staff work extremely hard – Greenwood Grange is impeccable. And with a games room, tennis courts, indoor heated pool and the assortment of hens, it’s idyllic.

Ali said: “Greenwood Grange is perfect for friends and gatherings; we have no end of space and options to suit everybody. We also have many people who are here visiting family and want to stay close by. We welcome the friends and family of our guests, and they are more than welcome to stay and use our pool or games room.

“We like our guests to feel comfortable, warm and relaxed.

“Some of our cottages are also dog friendly, which are perfect for your furry friends to enjoy the beautiful woodland walks on our doorstep.”

Ali added: “We are committed to providing our guests with an exceptional experience, and we look forward to welcoming you to our holiday cottage complex.” n greenwoodgrange.co.uk

Higher Bockhampton, Dorchester DT2 8QH

(opposite Thorncombe Woods Car Park)

T: 01305 268874 hello@greenwoodgrange.co.uk