Ed and Amanda have done a fantastic job of renovating this handsome old cottage. It’s a splendid showcase for their passion for British Craft: art, ceramics, rugs, fabrics, furniture – many pieces are for sale too. Guests are left an iPad loaded with heaps of info – cottage history and its beautiful contents, artists, craftspeople, places to visit, pubs, shops. You’ll also find a hamper of artisan goodies, wellies to borrow, logs for the wood-burners, books, DVDs, a PS4 and games – BBQ and al fresco dining spots too. The living space is open-plan, the smart well-equipped kitchen has a cosy seating corner with settle and table made from an oak tree felled in the village and there’s a snug extra sitting room. Upstairs to deliciously comfortable bedrooms (one en suite) with antique furniture melding well with contemporary wallpapers; the twin is simpler and there’s a sparkling family bathroom. The annex, for two, can be booked separately. The village store stocks local produce, you can walk to the pub, and Tisbury, Shaftesbury, and Salisbury are all close. A fascinating place – you won’t want to leave without a national treasure…
This is a special place. The house is flawlessly modernized, but looks to the past — to the spirit of the Arts & Crafts movement, and the contemporary British makers who are keeping craftmanship alive. Beyond the house itself, which could not be more comfortable, the area is a delight. This corner of southwest Wiltshire has all the amenities of the Cotswolds, from historical sites to top-notch food, but with less fuss and perhaps even more beauty. It was a delight to wake up here for three days in the high summer.