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SHEPHERD'S RETREAT

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Exterior
Private kitchen
Room
Private kitchen
Room

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
1 bedroomSleeps 2

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Pet-friendly
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Outdoor space
  • Parking available

Explore the area

View map
Alderholt, England
  • Place, Cranborne Lake
    ‪2 min drive‬
  • Place, Fordingbridge Museum
    ‪5 min drive‬
  • Place, New Forest National Park
    ‪7 min drive‬
  • Airport, Southampton (SOU)
    ‪42 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 2)

Main bedroom

1 Double Bed

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Garden

About this property

SHEPHERD'S RETREAT

Beautiful artisan built large luxury Shepherd's Hut with patio and chiminea. Separate en suite bedroom. This stunning hut has the ambience of modern living in a quite country retreat, with wood burner. Ideal for couples. Free logs.
Situated at Foxhill Farm set apart from our other holiday cottages is our one bedroom absolutely charming luxury Shepherd's Hut. Built on the frame of an old vintage cart we have incorporated some of the old oak beams for some added character. A hand built fitted oak kitchen supplies ample cupboard space, a full size gas cooker, fridge/freezer, microwave, coffee machine & toaster.
A built in table with leather stools and leather armchairs provide comfortable seating plus a tv with dvd and a cosy wood burning stove completes the look.
The separate bedroom provides a hand built centralised double bed plus bedside units and hanging wardrobe space is provided, plus a further tv with dvd, along with an en suite bathroom with full size shower, heated towel rail, toilet, sink unit and shaving light.
An enclosed patio area with chiminea and bbq makes a delightful setting for outdoor relaxing plus outside your patio area there are large grass areas for walking (dogs on lead).
From the Shepherd’s Retreat you can cycle or walk a short distance into the forestry tracks. We have plenty of storage for your bikes. If you wish to bring your boat to take to the coast then we can store this securely for you.
At the bottom of the road we have the local shop/post office and village pub.
Situated on the edge of the New Forest, located on the boundary of Dorset and Hampshire, close to the River Avon. Ideally situated to explore Ringwood Forest, on our doorstep, and a short drive can take you to the New Forest National Park famous for its free roaming ponies, donkeys, cattle and pigs in the autumn,, New Forest Water Park, Moors Valley Country Park, the local quaint town of Fordingbridge, delightful Wimborne Minster or the local market town of Ringwood. All offering excellent pubs/restaurants and coffee houses. Bournemouth coast’s spectacular beaches are an easy 25 minute drive, the Jurassic coast within easy reach and the ancient city of Salisbury with its beautiful cathedral is well worth a visit.
This is a perfect romantic hideaway, an ideal bolt hole for couples and under 2 hours from London, easily accessible and ideal for a country break. Minimum stay of 2 nights.
A lovely country outlook over our wild meadow is enjoyed from the hut. Dogs are welcome (£10.00 per stay). Minimum 2 nights stay.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Outdoor space
Parking available

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs less than 23 kg per pet (limit one pet total)
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property

About the area

Fordingbridge

Located in Fordingbridge, this cottage is in a rural area and near a water park. Go Ape at Moors Valley Ringwood and Wayland's Sixpenny Brewery are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore New Forest National Park and Cranborne Chase and the West Wiltshire Downs. Cranborne Manor and Ringwood Health and Leisure are also worth visiting. Jet skiing and waterskiing offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with cycling and hiking/biking trails nearby.
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Map
Alderholt, England

What's nearby

  • Cranborne Lake - 2 min drive - 1.7 km
  • Fordingbridge Town Hall - 5 min drive - 4.3 km
  • Fordingbridge Museum - 5 min drive - 4.7 km
  • Fordingbridge Hospital - 5 min drive - 4.7 km
  • New Forest National Park - 7 min drive - 6.7 km

Getting around

  • Bournemouth Station - 24 min drive
  • Bournemouth (BOH-Bournemouth Intl.) - 21 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Altrullo - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Costa Coffee - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪The Ship Inn - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪The Foresters Arms - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪The Moody cow - ‬7 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is SHEPHERD'S RETREAT pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 1 total) with a maximum weight of up to 23 kg per pet. Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.

How much does it cost to stay at SHEPHERD'S RETREAT?

As of 13 April 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at SHEPHERD'S RETREAT on 14 April 2026 start from NZ$231, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at SHEPHERD'S RETREAT?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at SHEPHERD'S RETREAT?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at SHEPHERD'S RETREAT?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is SHEPHERD'S RETREAT located?

Situated in a rural location, this cottage is 0.7 mi (1.1 km) from Cranborne Lake and within 3 miles (5 km) of Fordingbridge Town Hall and Fordingbridge Library. Fordingbridge Museum and Fordingbridge Hospital are also within 3 miles (5 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 35 out of 35 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 35 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 35 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 35 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 35 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Carol

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, communication
It was so peaceful and the grounds were glorious. Would definitely go back again 😊
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mervyn H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely little cabin, and perfect for what I wanted - a quiet retreat for a short break.Jim on site was very friendly and welcoming.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lee T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely place for a get away

Beautiful clean shepherd's hut, with every you need inside and out . Had a great time . Will definitely be going back.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely shepherd's hut in a great location

We had a lovely stay at shepherd's retreat - it is really beautifully decorated, surprisingly spacious and very clean. The location is great for accessing New Forest by car. We really enjoyed our stay!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Julie H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Shepherds Retreat

Great accommodation, great location, perfect place to unwind and relax. Would definitely recommend.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Linda

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Excellent hosts beautiful hut absolutely spotlessly clean. Everything you need for a cosy getaway
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Zachary H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place for a relaxing break.

Amazing space in an amazing place. The hosts were incredibly friendly and quick to respond. The shepherds hut was clean and full of character. The attention to detail was great. Would definitely stay here again.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Philip B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A little piece of heaven…!

This was our 5th time staying in this fabulous escape! It’s home from home! The hut is well equipped, we can cook a good meal in the kitchen, although this time we had to BBQ on the terrace, which was fab! The bed is comfortable and the shower room is perfectly adequate! Thank you Denis and Heather
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gary R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect getaway

Spotless and charming property in an ideal location for exploring the New Forest. Couldn't have asked for more and the sun shone all the time we were there.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Stuart M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect

This is the second time we stayed here but in a different shepherds hut. Shepherds Retreat is nice and spacious and has everything you need. New forest on your doorstep and owners nice and friendly. Location is great. We will be returning again in the near future. You will not be disappointed if you stay.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ken T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Loved it

Shepherd retreat was spot on had everything we needed and was a good base for walks etc. definitely recommend
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kate C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

First holiday without kids!

Perfect base to explore New Forest. Stunning location and quirky, cool place to stay. Bijou and well appointed. Really clean and tastefully decorated. Lovely hosts. A real find!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Aaron W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Honeymoon break

We had a lovely stay. Very well put together, all the things you need are there and upto date. Situation is ideal for Bournemouth and New forest. Would go back in the future so that says it all.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

allison k.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect in every way

Perfect stay left alone and property was perfect with everything we needed and more ... nice touch to have fire logs wrc
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ben C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A Peaceful Weekend in a Wonderful Setting

We had a lovely weekend staying in the Shepherd’s Retreat. It was very well equipped to a high standard and immaculately clean. The property is in a very peaceful spot and with excellent access to The New Forest, Salisbury, Bournemouth and the coast. Heather and Denis are excellent hosts and very welcoming and clearly thought had gone into ensuring their properties are to a high standard to guarantee the best possible stay for their guests. We’ll certainly be heading back to stay again and we’d recommend this as an ideal and unique getaway for a couple.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Julian L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Exceeded Expectations in Every Way

Shepherd's Retreat exceeded our expectations in every way. It is a substantially built hut, using reclaimed oak in the interior, clean and comfortable, and equipped with basic cooking essentials. With friendly hosts, its own private patio (barbecue and chiminea), and overlooking a small paddock, it is perfect for a relaxing break. The nearby forest is ideal for dog walks, and there is plenty to see and do in the area.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Vanessa T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Shepherd's Retreat was a real treat

I had a fabulous 3 night stay in Shepherd's Retreat. I absolutely loved the accommodation. It was clean and the bed was very comfortable and it had everything I needed. It was great having the enclosed outdoor space as I had my dog with me. The area was lovely with Ringwood forest within walking distance and Highcliffe beach was only 30 minutes drive away. I really enjoyed my stay, the hosts were very welcoming too and I look forward to visiting again soon.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Edward and Vivien J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

All consideration to privacy and quiet.

Peace and tranquility without isolation. Very comfy with a lovely tiny garden providing all comforts. Lovely walks right outside to take our dogs. We enjoyed our stay very much at the Sheoherd's retreat. A child gate to keep the dogs in place would be a great help.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Phil B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Third time lucky!

We have really enjoyed our previous two visits to the Shepherds Retreat and our third visit was equally spectacular. We arrived during a storm but the accommodation was cozy and we didn’t feel exposed to the elements. I say we were lucky, because we had a beautiful walk on the beach and a couple of excellent walks in the New Forest and the weather was perfect for all of our activities. We will be returning again soon!
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Alan J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

quintessentialy quaint.

Location fantastic in quiet peaceful surroundings, ideal base for trekking around Dorset. Absolutely loved the cabin, well kitted out with all you need and very comfortable. If I was to be hyper critical, and this is in no way a deal breaker, a power point or 2 with easy access in the bedroom would be a welcome addition. Don't be put off though, we would highly recommend this property to anyone, superb place.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful retreat

We thoroughly enjoyed our 2-night stay at the Shepherd's Retreat. It's in a very green and quiet location, set back off a country road that seems to have little traffic - we never noticed any traffic noise. Our cottage overlooked a small green space with a wild area and apple trees. Farmland over on one side, and on the other side (separated by a thick hedge) was the village sports field. The sports field is a large green space and was ideal for taking our dog for a good walk. We met a lot of friendly dogs (and owners) there. From the cottage we could occasionally hear the gentle thwack of cricket being played and the muffled sounds of boys playing football, but these added to the sense of tranquility. The cottage itself is cosy and comfortable. There is a small kitchen area reasonably well equipped (including an unexpected coffee machine, which we appreciated). We had decided to eat out during our stay, so we only used it for making breakfast. There's little working space, so you'd have to be very organised to use it for any substantial cooking. Two comfortable leather chairs face a wood-burning stove that puts out a tremendous heat. The bed was very comfortable and we slept really well. There's a small bathroom wth a good shower. Wifi was included, although the signal was weak in the bedroom. I don't think either of us have anything negative to say about our stay here and we would happily return.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Linda S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Just perfect

Lovely property, well equipped and in a great location. The cabin is so peaceful with lovely bird song . We will definitely return.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Donald C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Brilliant

Brilliant
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fabulous and quirky

It was a high quality, beautifully presented accommodation and we will definitely return.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Phil B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Our little haven

This hut is just perfect. Heather and Denis have thought of everything, and the place is warm, cosy, comfortable - and doesn't feel cramped despite being tiny! The decor is really lovely, feeling quite opulent, and we find the bed very comfortable, the shower nice and hot with good water pressure. And it's just so peaceful there - such a haven from our busy lives. Within 10 minutes from the hut we are in the heart of the New Forest, or only 25 minutes from spectacular beaches. This was our second trip here, and we'll absolutely be back.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2022

About the host

Hosted by Heather and Denis Castle

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