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Shires Rest

(Ref. 1066082)

Puxey near Sturminster Newton, Dorset Show on map

4.9

Sykes rating

  • 4 Guests

  • 2 Bedrooms

  • 2 Bathrooms

  • Pets Yes

Features

  • Hot tub
  • Ground floor accommodation
  • Ground floor bedroom
  • Garden / Patio
  • Washing machine
  • Dishwasher
  • Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing
Cleanliness
Comfort
Facilities and Maintenance
  • All reviews
  • lovely (13)
  • tub (13)
  • location (12)
  • hot tub (12)
  • hot (12)
  • eco (12)

28 Customer Reviews

  • "Such a peaceful place to stay."

    We had everything we needed to relax and even the weather was lovely!

    Reviewed by Helen5.0Oct 2024

  • "Lovely cottage stunning location with Bruno, Carlos and Pedro outside each morning, very cute Alpacas"

    Reviewed by Sharon5.0Aug 2024

  • "Beautiful. Well equipped."

    Peaceful. lovely hoast. One of the best Wi Fi and TV packages ever , would definately recommend 100%

    Reviewed by Rolanda5.0Aug 2024

  • "A beautiful property that is peaceful and tranquil in a perfect setting."

    Sitting in the hot tub over looking at the Alpacas and the fields beyond is a unique experience. The property is clean and well equipped with everything you need for an enjoyable stay. Location is great for surrounding area for Weymouth, Blandford Forum, Dorchester all well worth a visit. Or for a more local trip Gold Hill or Sturminster Newton. Definitely try the local fish and chips. In summary a fantastic property. A great place to relax, walk the dogs and generally unwind. Would definitely recommend.

    Hi Chris, that's so nice to hear, happy visitors in our bit of paradise! Great guests and welcome back anytime! Many thanks. Nici Property Owner

    Reviewed by Chris5.0Jul 2024

  • "This is the 2nd visit to Shires rest."

    Revisited because everything was perfect and Nici & Steve are great hosts. Will probably go back again.

    Hi Guys, it was lovely to see you again. It's heart-warming to receive such nice comments. Thank you! Hope to see you again sometime. Nici Property Owner

    Reviewed by Ray5.0Jul 2024

  • "Fantastic place and spotless"

    Thank you so much Alaina, you and your family were very welcome! I hope everything goes well with you are your 'babe' and you all have a great summer and are able to visit us again. Nici Property Owner

    Reviewed by Alaina5.0Jul 2024

  • "What a beautiful place Shires Rest is - a listed barn conversion with history, and now all new and up to date."

    Everything there that you ever need. Its so peaceful, looking out to countryside and watching the 3 alpacas outside, they are so quiet, so no bother at all. Nici and Steve the hosts were there on our arrival, and live nearby so any problems can be sorted - such a lovely dedicated couple. The hot tub was very welcome after our days out. We visited Sherborne Castle and garden centre adjoining it. Athelhampton House was beautiful and the gardens too.Would definitely recommend and its 10/10 from us both.

    Hi Roger and Monica, thank you so much for your wonderful comments, very much appreciated and you were such lovely guests! It makes it all worthwhile when people enjoy our beautiful surroundings as much as we do! Thank you, Nici Property Owner

    Reviewed by Roger5.0Jun 2024

  • "We (2 adults, 2 kiddos) had a lovely stay at this property."

    It was clean, well equipped and the hosts were brilliant - nothing was too much trouble and they even helped with my request to see the cows being milked....because that's what you do when you're staying on a dairy farm! We received a lovely welcome tray with cake and Prosecco and the jacuzzi was ready to go. Its very peaceful on the farm and the 3 alpacas are as good to watch as people! It's in a great location, being 30-40 minutes from lots of attractions such as National Trust properties, Corfe Castle, Bovington etc and just over an hour to get to Mudeford (Nr. Bournemouth) for the No. 1 Crabbing spot in the UK....would definitely recommend!

    Hi Jakki Thanks for your terrific review and we loved having you at Shires Rest. I hope you return one day. Nici Property Owner

    Reviewed by Jakki5.0Aug 2023

  • "We went in May."

    Beautiful setting, and high standard accommodation. Hosts were very helpful and friendly, and being on site were available if required. There was everything you would need, both for laundry and cooking. In the adjacent field were three friendly alpacas, lovely to watch them as we sat on the patio or in the hot tub. Next to us was another accommodation, but set in a way that offered privacy to both. Would we book both for the larger family in the future, yes we would. We took Maggie our 3yr old Cavapoo, no problem at all,

    Hi Geoff, thanks very much for your wonderful comments, hope we see you both and your sweet Maggie again. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Geoff5.0May 2023

  • "We returned to Shire’s Rest for our second Easter running."

    This time we brought Grandma and she stayed in Swallows Nest. What could be better than sitting in the hot tub, looking at beautiful peaceful scenery and watching the three alpacas! A wonderful place to unwind. A great base to explore Dorset too. The cottage was very clean and provided everything we could have needed or wanted. Comfy beds too. And a warm welcome.

    Hi Jennifer Thank you for your lovely comments! Much appreciated. It was so nice to see you all again and we're very pleased you've enjoyed our beautiful and peaceful spot. We hope to see you again. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Jennifer5.0Apr 2023

  • "We loved the location and the hot tub and Steve and Nici were great hosts."

    The only issue we had unfortunately were there were lots of flies and you couldn’t really spray fly killer with our dog , and furniture was a bit low for us , but overall we would come again and recommend to anyone to visit and stay.

    Dear Ian Thanks for your comments. Sorry about the flies. You'll be pleased to hear that no-one else has had a problem with flies and I feel sure that the extreme heat was to blame that week. We have also improved some furniture. Best wishes Nici & Steve Property Owner

    Reviewed by Ian4.7Aug 2022

  • "Everything was perfect, such a peaceful location and beautiful barn conversion which has been done to a very high standard."

    We enjoyed the hot tub and watching the alpacas in the field directly opposite. It's a good location for seeing the countryside and attractions. Nici and Steve were both fantastic hosts...we will be back at some point. Thankyou

    It was so nice to have you and come again soon. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Tina5.0Jul 2022

  • "Property exceeded our expectations."

    Very clean, everything we needed was available. View and hot tub was fantastic. Will be going back at some time. Owners couldn't do enough for us. Not holidayed in this country for over 10yrs. Had a great time , with excellent weather.

    Hi Ray, many thanks, we enjoyed having you to stay! Lovely comments. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Ray5.0Jul 2022

  • "We had a wonderful time at Shires Rest."

    The cottage was extremely well equipped, clean and comfortable. Lovely welcome tray on arrival with Prosecco, flowers and a delicious cake which was a nice surprise. The location is beautiful and so quiet we spent most of our time relaxing in the hot tub and looking at the view and the gorgeous alpacas.

    It was such a pleasure to meet you both and to have you to stay, your comments are up lifting. Thank you. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Megan5.0Jun 2022

  • "Fabulous accommodation, perfect for our stay."

    Hi Guys, so pleased you enjoyed Shires! Property Owner

    Reviewed by Les5.0Jun 2022

  • "We had a lovely half term in shires rest."

    Perfect location for getting to local villages and the coast. We visited lots of places inc. durdle door, Poole, Weymouth and Lyme Regis plus lots more The cottage was a cosy base to return to with the added bonus of a hot tub and three alpaca boys! We would recommend the cottage and area Thank you for the welcome cake and Prosecco

    Thank you for your lovely comments and could you let me know why you marked Shires Rest down please. Many thanks. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Jenna4.4May 2022

  • "Beautiful countryside location."

    Lovely hosts. We certainly highly recommend.

    Thanks Guys, we'd welcome you back. Property Owner

    Reviewed by James5.0May 2022

  • "This is the best holiday cottage we have used."

    The quality of the interior was immaculate and the location in Hardy's Wessex was superb. The local walking was great and Stourhead was wonderful as was the nearby sculpture park. For me, it was a place of wonderful creativity and the hot tub was OK too. Great fun.

    Thank you for your wonderful feedback! You were perfect guests and we loved your poetry and ditties you left us with. It's so nice to see that Hardy's country inspired you. See you again one day. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Jennifer5.0May 2022

  • "The holiday property was amazing,from the hot tub to the lovely alpacas."

    Beautiful walks in the local area,you can get all local walks from streminster Newton from any shops. The owners were lovely we had homemade cake,flowers and prosecco on arrival which was a lovely touch. The property was immaculately clean. No negatives at all and I have already recommended to family and friends.

    Thank you for your terrific feedback, it was our pleasure to have you! Xxx Property Owner

    Reviewed by Karen5.0Apr 2022

  • "The barn was beautiful."

    We thoroughly enjoyed our stay there and Steve and Nici were kind and friendly. We loved the alpacas and have no hesitation in recommending Shires Rest.

    Thanks to both these lovely people, so appreciative and happy guests! We'd love to see you again. Xxx Property Owner

    Reviewed by Valerie5.0Mar 2022

  • "Friendly, courteous, helpful owners."

    Lovely property. Peaceful and quiet location.

    Thank you for your great comments, but do let me know how we can improve our facilities? Xxx Property Owner

    Reviewed by Kathryn4.7Mar 2022

  • "Great property and location."

    Thanks for your comments and feedback, if you'd like to let me know how we slipped up on the cleanliness we'd really appreciate it! Many thanks. Xxx Property Owner

    Reviewed by S4.7Dec 2021

  • "Absolutely wonderful stay!"

    Nici & Steve were amazing & nothing was too much trouble. Hot tub was great after long days out & the alpacas were an absolute treat to wake up to everyday! Hope to visit again soon!

    Thank you so much, we loved having you too! The 'boys' are happily rolling in the dust and catching brambles in their fluffy coats! Xxx Property Owner

    Reviewed by Laura5.0Nov 2021

  • "Fantastic short break thanks to Nici and Steve."

    Great accommodation and such a warm welcome. We will be back to explore more and say hello again to ‘the boys’ who greeted us at the back door each morning. Who knew Alpaca were so friendly?! Thanks so much.

    Thank you so much and your feedback was so helpful! Come back and see what we've changed! Big kiss to Buddy. Xxx Property Owner

    Reviewed by Ian5.0Oct 2021

  • "Thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Shires Rest."

    Property exceeded our expectations and our hosts were very friendly and accommodating, always on hand for any requests etc. Would highly recommend this dog friendly property.

    You're so kind, love to Maximus! 'Boys' hoping to see him again. Xxx Property Owner

    Reviewed by Anne5.0Oct 2021

  • "Lovely location."

    Good base for days out. Exactly as described on the website. Hosts were great.

    Thank you Trish, much appreciated! Sofa's now changed so bring that gorgeous Fred back to visit! Xxx Property Owner

    Reviewed by Trish5.0Sep 2021

  • "The hosts were very helpful, were on hand always very approachable (lovely)"

    Reviewed by Deborah4.7Sep 2021

  • "Shires rest was absolutely wonderful and the hosts did a fabulous job of looking after us."

    The boys out back we’re good company and kept an eye on us when in the tub!! Sturminster Newton is a nice town and we especially enjoyed the mill and watching the kingfishers in various locations. I have no hesitation in recommending Shires rest to anyone wanting a break away from it all.

    Reviewed by Dave4.7Aug 2021

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Summary

  • Two bedrooms: 1 x king-size with en-suite walk-in shower, basin and WC, 1 x ground-floor twin with en-suite walk-in shower, basin and WC
  • Open-plan living space with kitchen, dining area and sitting
  • Ground-source underfloor heating
  • Electric oven and induction hob, microwave, fridge/freezer, washer/dryer, dishwasher
  • TV (no terrestrial available but Netflix is available), WiFi
  • Fuel and power inc. in rent
  • Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
  • Designated parking
  • Graveled garden with hot tub, furniture and barbecue
  • One well-behaved pet welcome
  • The garden is fenced but not secure
  • Sorry, no smoking
  • Shop 1.8 miles, pub 1.4 miles
  • Please note: Sunday changeovers not accepted
  • Please note: Bookings can only start from a Friday
  • Note: This property accepts Holiday bookings only and can not accept worker or local authority bookings.

The property

Sturminster Newton 1.7 miles.

Nestled on the grounds of the owners organic dairy farm, in the quaint hamlet of Puxey, rests this delightful barn conversion, Shires Rest.

Offering contemporary yet traditional interior, Shires Rest is the perfect base for a family retreat to the picturesque county of Dorset.

Stepping inside, you'll be welcomed into a stylish open-plan living space, beautifully-decorated with wooden features and flooded with natural light welcomed in through the elegant patio doors, inviting you to kick off your shoes and unwind with a seat on the sumptuous sofa as you enjoy a moment of peace in front of the television.

The neighbouring kitchen boasts a charming pastel décor, housing all of the essential amenities required to prepare a heart-warming meal for the group to enjoy gathered around the dining table, or if you're lucky enough to experience the warmer weather, take your dining experience outdoors to indulge in a spot of alfresco dining on the patio.

End the day in style with a luxurious seat amongst the bubbles in the hot tub, backed by the captivating views of the surrounding countryside, where you'll catch sight of the quirky alpacas that roam through the fields.

When the day draws to a close, head back indoors to rest your head in one of the two thoughtfully laid out bedrooms, with the choice between a spacious king-size with en-suite shower room and a twin room resting on the ground-floor, ideal for guests with limited mobility and benefiting from access to it's own en-suite shower room.

Note: This property can be booked with ref: 1066081, together sleeping up to eight people.

Puxey Farm Barns

Two elegantly appointed barn conversions nestled on the grounds of the owners working farm in the quiet hamlet of Puxey, a stone's throw away from the quaint town of Sturminster Newton. Tucked away in a picturesque rural setting, enveloped by scenic fields and farmland, Puxey Farm Barns are both beautifully presented to a high standard, featuring a tasteful traditional yet contemporary interior throughout. Whether you're looking to enjoy a solace retreat to the country, or head off on foot to explore your stunning surroundings, Puxey Farm Barns offer a promising choice to spend some well deserved quality time with your loved ones. Each dwelling boasts a stylish open-plan living space featuring an amply-equipped contemporary kitchen, a grand dining table and a snug seating area, inviting you to gather together and enjoy a movie marathon after a fun-filled day. There is a private outdoor space provided alongside each cottage as well as a courtyard, offering the perfect sociable space to hold group celebrations. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the grounds on the farmland, meeting the friendly alpacas on your way, or venture into the heart of Sturminster Newton where you'll find a number of eateries, including traditional pubs, takeaways and quaint tea rooms as well as a well-stocked supermarket and a handy convenience store for picking up the essentials. The area is known for hosting Sturminster Newton Cheese Festival each September, as well as being a walkers haven with the Hardy Way foot trail which runs through the farm itself! Just a scenic stroll away, enjoy a round of golf at Foulke and Henstridge Golf Courses, home to 9 holes on luscious greenery, or venture out to the renowned Ashley Wood Golf Vlub just outside of Blandford for a day on the superb course before stopping for a delicious lunch at the course's Clubhouse 1896. A notable attraction you won't want to miss is the fantastic Longleat Safari Park, which boasts a fun-filled day out for all the family along with a touch of history from the magnificent manor house and gardens encompassing the site. For more peaceful walks around manicured gardens, make your way to Stourhead and explore the picture-perfect lakeside gardens. Sturminster Newton Mill is also within easy reach from the farm and is popular among tourists for its four ancient flour mills still standing and operating strongly today. Within easy reach is the bustling town of Yeovil, where you can explore the heritage locomotives on display at Yeovil Railway Centre or venture to the quaint village of Shaftsbury home to the famous Gold Hill, a delightful and charming cobbled hill, lined with characterful cottages. Travel further afield and explore the marvellous landscapes of the Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, home to dramatic coastal cliffs, beaches and heathland, offering something to suit everyone. Puxey Farm Barns offer contemporary accommodation in an idyllic location for all to enjoy, whatever time of year.

Note: This property has a Good Housekeeping bond of £250.

View on map

About the location

STURMINSTER NEWTON

Blandford Forum 11 miles.

The small, attractive market town of Sturminster Newton is set on the banks of the River Stour, reached via a graceful, six-arch, 15th century bridge, carrying a warning of deportation to those who may damage it! The whole area acted as inspiration for the works of Thomas Hardy, who wrote Return of The Native whilst living in the town. The region is dotted with thatched cottages, rural walks, stunning country views, and fascinating towns, such as Sherborne, with its abbey and castle, whilst the beautiful Dorset Heritage Coast is also within easy reach, making this an ideal base all year round!

Please note: Sunday changeovers not accepted.
Please note: Property will only accept small dogs.
Please note: Bookings can only start from a Friday.
Note: This property accepts Holiday bookings only and can not accept worker or local authority bookings.