Secure your holiday for £20.
Limited availability, could end at any time.T&Cs Apply.
Icon/Navigation/Chevron/Left Back to search
1 of 26 View Image Gallery
  • Apple Tree Cottage - Dorset - 925256 - photo 1
close

Apple Tree Cottage

(Ref. 925256)

Shillingstone near Sturminster Newton, Dorset Show on map

4.6

Sykes rating

  • 4 Guests

  • 2 Bedrooms

  • 1 Bathroom

  • Pets Yes

Features

  • Open fire
  • Garden / Patio
  • Pub/shop < 1 mile
  • Washing machine
  • Dishwasher
  • Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing
Cleanliness
Comfort
Facilities and Maintenance
  • All reviews
  • cottage (52)
  • lovely (29)
  • great (24)
  • comfortable (20)
  • good (18)
  • garden (17)

62 Customer Reviews

  • "This cottage was not as advertised, the original advert that’s now been changed stated there was an enclosed patio, the gate was Broken so our dog got out onto the busy road, the sofas have seen better days!"

    If you can’t get parked you won’t get parked! The cottage shakes as lorry and tractors busses go past, the beds are uncomfortable and the stairs are very narrow and steep, no baby gate provided.

    Reviewed by Laura2.2Aug 2024

  • "Lovely comfortable stay in Appletree Cottage."

    In a lovely village, perfect travelling distance to the Jurassic coast and surrounded by lovely villages, easily something to do each day. The cottage itself has everything you would need for a comfortable stay. The beds are comfy and the kitchen has every amenity you could need. I’ve noticed a few reviews mention the shower and feel it justified to say we didn’t find any issue. The garden is beautiful and lovely to relax in on a morning with a cuppa. Parking was a concern prior to arrival but we quickly found it was unfounded as we never had an issue. Overall we had a lovely stay and would definitely recommend to others. Clean, comfortable and obviously much thought put in from the owners to make stays as hassle free as possible. Thankyou for a wonderful stay.

    Thanks for the feedback and I am glad you had good stay at Apple Tree Cottage. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Laura5.0Aug 2024

  • "The AppleTree Cottage is a nice cottage."

    The small garden is lovely. The house is cosy. It only needs a short walk to come to a supermarket. Nice walks in the village are possible. We enjoyed it to stay at Apple Tree Cottage.

    Thanks for your lovely comments. I am glad you enjoyed your stay. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Vivien5.0Jul 2024

  • "A lovely cottage in a great location for the village pub, shop, and local walks."

    The cottage is only suitable for two adults really, three at a push. Unfortunately the ongoing maintenance of the house lets the property down, things that have been complained about by other residents for some time, namely problems with the shower, broken toilet seat, and overgrown garden. We therefore consider this property to be over priced.

    Thank you for your feedback which did come as a surprise after your email saying "it's been lovely to visit Dorset again we've had a smashing week." You have repeated historic comments from the visitor book which have been fixed some time ago eg the shower and toilet. Over the last eight years many things have needed fixing and have been mended. The garden is an English cottage garden not a minimalist Chelsea Flower Show garden. We offered for the house keeper to come in but you declined so we were unable to help with any of the issues while at the cottage. Property Owner

    Reviewed by John2.2Jul 2024

  • "Apart from replacing shower head (apparently according to the guest book ) it has been suggested for 18 months."

    It only cost 20.00 to replace and made all the difference x

    Thanks for your feedback. We replace the shower head 2-3 times a year. This part of Dorset has the hardest water in the country and lime scale blocks the head. I had the new one to go on your changeover. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Ann-maria4.1Jun 2024

  • "Only the shower head requires replacing every thing else was spot on ."

    We are all over 60 years old and had a very nice stay

    Reviewed by Susan5.0Oct 2023

  • "Lovely cottage, everything we needed was there."

    It was clean and super cosy. Host was friendly and quick to respond on email.

    Reviewed by Ali5.0Oct 2023

  • "Comfortable, warm, stirs are an experience but soon used to them."

    All in all a delight to stay in.

    Reviewed by Dawn5.0Sep 2023

  • "We had a lovely stay in a great little cottage"

    Reviewed by Patricia5.0Jul 2023

  • "Delightful cottage, very comfortable and well equipped."

    Pretty back garden provides a lovely view from the kitchen/dining area. There is no window in the lounge. The front door opens fairly closely onto the narrow lane so caution is needed when venturing out, the rear access is very good. Had some great days out to Shaftesbury, Wimborne and Sherborne. A pint of milk on arrival would be welcome.

    Reviewed by Philippa4.7Apr 2023

  • "We had a wonderful few days here at Apple Tree Cottage."

    Very comfortable and cosy, and the most comfortable bed we have ever had in a rental. The cottage is beautifully renovated and decorated with a stunning kitchen and pretty garden. We were lucky enough to have beautiful weather and there are so many walks nearby and pretty towns and villages to visit with excellent pubs and restaurants. We would definitely return to this gem of a cottage.

    Reviewed by Una5.0Apr 2023

  • "Very cosy and comfortable."

    Well equipped and great surroundings.

    I am so glad you enjoyed your stay. We really love the walks, bike rides and pubs on the doorstep. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Andrew5.0Feb 2023

  • "Great little cottage, well equipped and very clean."

    Generous supply of firewood much appreciated. Very quiet with comfy beds makes for very good sleep. General point the older part of the cottage is very old with steep stairs and low door heights. People much over 6' in height will have issues! Overall we had a lovely short break.

    I am glad you enjoyed your stay. When we renovated the cottage we tried to preserve as much of the 1720s part but adding a modern kitchen and bathroom at the back. Hopefully it gives the best of both worlds but one or two doors are not modern heights. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Michael4.1Dec 2022

  • "Cottage is a very enjoyable place for a relaxing week."

    This is our second visit. The village of Shillingstone is very peaceful. We can see ourselves possibly returning again.

    Reviewed by Simon4.4Sep 2022

  • "We had a lovely stay at Apple Tree Cottage and is the perfect location for exploring various parts of Dorset."

    We went with our 5 year old and 9 month old baby and both seemed very settled at the cottage. The cottage is well equipped and our son loved playing with the board games. Thank you for a lovely stay and we hope to return again. Mark

    Reviewed by Mark5.0Jul 2022

  • "Lovely cottage exactly as the photos on the website great location."

    Reviewed by Deborah5.0Jul 2022

  • "Wonderful little cottage, we had a fabulous week."

    Co-op, pub, tearoom are within walking distance, there are some great walks, and a good base for Shaftesbury & the coast. :-D

    Reviewed by Kerry5.0Mar 2022

  • "We had a lovely stay, cottage is very comfortable especially the beds, good location for beaches and fantastic walks along the trail way."

    Great hosts.

    Reviewed by Amanda4.7Feb 2022

  • "We had a lovely time at Apple Tree Cottage, the location was good and the Cottage was well equipped."

    We would rent it again.

    Reviewed by Rebecca4.1Dec 2021

  • "Lovely cosy cottage in a brilliant location in Dorset, close to Sturminster Newton, Sherborne , Salisbury, Shaftesbury all well worth a visit along with many more."

    Bed was so comfortable, great walks nearby for the dog. Also need national trust properties. Would stay again

    Reviewed by Sally5.0Dec 2021

  • "A lovely cottage in a great location for exploring the local area with loads of public footpaths and a cycle way close by."

    The cottage itself was cosy and very clean and tidy. Our only reservations were that the twin bedroom was too small to provide any storage other than a small bedside cabinet. The small rear garden was delightful and provided very useful rear access to the side lane where we parked our car.

    We are glad you enjoyed your stay at Apple Tree Cottage. It is difficult in a 300 year old cottage to squeeze in storage in the second bedroom but there are under bed storage boxes as well. The fire in the lounge is lovely and cosy this time of year. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Caroline4.4Oct 2021

  • "We had a lovely week at Apple Tree Cottage,very comfortable and a good position for travelling to different places."

    We will definitely book again as the cottage is very cosy.

    Reviewed by Susan5.0Oct 2021

  • "Relative small garden but good position and locality"

    Reviewed by Robert John4.7Sep 2021

  • "Fantastic little cottage, loved our stay there."

    Reviewed by Michaela4.7Aug 2021

  • "This was a lovely quirky cottage that was perfect for us with all the natural aspects and attention to detail with the renovations being tastefully done."

    We have two teenage sons with us who loved it also. The wifi was great and accessible in all rooms of the house. Our phone reception was brilliant. We has a pleasant peaceful relaxing stay just what we needed came home well rested. The cottage is not too far from amenities most within a 45 minute drive. The neighbours are endearing and extremely helpful in our hour of need when we needed a mechanic they recommended Keith from around the corner who was fantastic and saved the day. Would definitely recommend cottage and would go again.

    Reviewed by Amanda4.4Aug 2021

  • "I was on a teacher training course at Bryanston School and my husband came along for a holiday whilst I was away during the day."

    It was a perfect location for us as it was only a short drive to the school at 8am each day. We also enjoyed cycling on the nearby cycle path just down the road in the light evenings. Everything worked well in the cottage and it was a perfect size for the 2 of us. I would think that it may not be so good for 4 adults as the bedrooms are so close in the tiny upstairs. The stairs were very narrow and steep which, if you are careful, is not a problem, but just to be waned. The garden was delightful and there was a summer house for our bikes - we just needed a bit of sunshine to enjoy the outside, but that can\t be ordered!

    Reviewed by Marian4.4Aug 2021

  • "Great location."

    The garden needed some work and cleaning. Missed tumble dryer! Some of Cutlery were not cleaned and we had to clean all of them.

    Reviewed by Shashi3.8Jul 2021

  • "Cottage as listed."

    Very well equipped. The back garden was rather overgrown, offering privacy but reducing the natural light. The paving in the back garden was very slippery when after rain.

    Reviewed by Rodney4.4Jun 2021

  • "Apple Tree Cottage was the perfect base for discovering many beautiful parts of Dorset."

    A blend of traditional and modern, this cosy little cottage had everything we needed for our stay. We particularly enjoyed sitting in the pretty little garden to eat our lunch and the view of lambs from our bedroom window. Don’t forget to sample the fish and chips from the mobile Pilgrim Fryer which visits The Ox pub on a Tuesday... delicious!

    Reviewed by Wendy5.0Apr 2021

  • "Had an excellent relaxing break at Apple Tree Cottage - highly recommend!"

    A good mixture of modern facilities and character features. We loved the wood burner. Kitchen is extremely well-equipped and the bed very comfortable. Could have quite happily stayed for Christmas! Thank you Jane and Geoff!

    Reviewed by Zoe5.0Dec 2020

  • "Peaceful surroundings."

    Good central base for Dorset. Definitely recommend this quaint modernised cottage with all mod cons.

    Reviewed by Gary5.0Sep 2020

  • "A delightful and comfortable cottage in a lovely area - the quieter end of the county."

    Good facilities in the village and excellent walks from the front door.

    Reviewed by Ken4.7Sep 2020

  • "Great little cottage that provided the perfect base for us to explore."

    Well equipped.

    Reviewed by Tina4.1Aug 2020

  • "We had a fantastic week at the cottage."

    It catered for all our needs in a great location not too far from the Dorset coast and local attractions.

    Reviewed by Christopher5.0Aug 2020

  • "Good location and comfortable but needs more storage and also kitchen equipment eg pans."

    Overall value for money and has character. Probably ideal for a couple with young children as the 2nd bedroom is very small.

    Since your visit which was the first after lockdown, we have added more pots and pans and also updated with wifi. Thank you for your feedback Property Owner

    Reviewed by Michael3.4Jul 2020

  • "Enjoyed our long weekend at this sturdy, welcoming little cottage, which served as a great base for exploring the local area."

    Narrow winding staircase + downstairs loo may cause some issues for those with moderate mobility problems. Nicely decorated & furnished with everything you'll need for your break, including very comfortable beds & a wood burner. Only improvements we could suggest would be a more sturdy showerhead, a bin in the main bedroom & a more powerful flush on the loo! We'd certainly stay here again.

    Reviewed by Carolyn4.4Feb 2020

  • "It’s was the most beautiful and dainty cottage we’ve ever had the pleasure of staying in."

    Beautifully laid out and exactly like it is in the pictures we couldn’t fault anything about this property. It was beautifully laid out and had everything you could need so many thoughts or extras they don’t always come with a holiday let. DVDs and games for the kids extra blankets a box of chocolates and a bottle of wine left for us and a Christmas tree put up which was brilliant as we stayed over Christmas with the children. We really cannot recommend this place enough It’s the perfect location to get to Poole and Bournemouth And just all round perfect!

    Reviewed by Shana5.0Dec 2019

  • "The cottage is conveniently located for exploring the Dorset area."

    For 3-4 people it´s big enough. There is actually everything available (washing machine / dishwasher / microwave / oven / fridge and freezer). The possibility for more than 2 people to make coffee is limited, as only a french coffee maker / pressure coffee is available. We will visit the area again in an early summer and then book the cottage again. It has a very nice little garden / seat to the rear, which we unfortunately could not use seasonally. Large food markets can be reached by car in 10-15 minutes, the coast in 30 minutes, the airport in about 1 hour. All conditions for a nice holiday were given. However, if someone can not climb up or down narrow, steep steps, the two bedrooms are hard to reach for these people.

    Reviewed by Anita4.1Nov 2019

  • "The cottage in general was spot on, however the sofa and chairs are only fit for the tip so uncomfortable and unclean."

    The cups were badly stained, the cleanliness in general was poor. Everything else was great so disappointing that these few problems existed

    Reviewed by Geoff2.8Oct 2019

  • "Comfortable and well equipped cottage situated in a village with a good shop, pub and tea shop (need to check opening times)."

    The wood burning stove would come in useful in cold weather as the central heating is a bit eccentric.

    Reviewed by Mary4.4Oct 2019

  • "After having trouble finding the cottage the owner was very helpful considering I called him very late !"

    Cottage itself is beautiful and cosy . Stairs are quite steep but we managed .. rooms & beds very comfortable .. kitchen dining area was fab very well equipped .. log fire in sitting room was amazing especially when it was cold at night .. bathroom was lovely too ! The cottage is a bit out the way and very peaceful we took my 70 yr old mother and her friend and they loved it . It was hard to get the ladies organised in the morning which meant a team of cleaners arrived & were cleaning around us whilst we were still getting dressed . They were all standing around while my husband was still in a shower making us feel uncomfortable as he had to walk through with a towel in to go upstairs and get dressed , I told them we would be ready in 20 mins and thought they would have waited in there car but no they started cleaning around us . That was my only complaint everything else was perfect

    Reviewed by Rosina4.4Sep 2019

  • "Smart, small house is pretty location."

    Very well equipped for cooks.

    Reviewed by David5.0Sep 2019

  • "A wonderful little cottage, it had everything we needed for our three night stay It was extremely clean ( I am very fussy when staying away)."

    Reviewed by Anna5.0Apr 2019

  • "Our stay was most enjoyable."

    Apple Tree Cottage is a lovely, comfortable cottage in beautiful countryside with everything we needed. We hope to return later in the year as this was only a fleeting visit. We would have no hesitation in recommending this cottage.

    Reviewed by Lynette5.0Mar 2019

  • "This cottage is very quaint with a lovely modern kitchen extension."

    You do have to be very careful on the small staircase, but you are warned its not suitable for people with limited mobility. It was lovely and clean and warm. The wood burner was great. Although we didn't sit in the garden it looks as if it will be a great spot to relax in the warm weather. I would definately recommend it.

    Reviewed by Debra5.0Feb 2019

  • "Batholith in the sink was stuck and we couldn’t contact the owners until the next morning."

    Had to shave in the kitchen. However, upon contact they allowed us to whack it and it came unstuck. Lovely, cosy cottage overall.

    Reviewed by Verity4.4Feb 2019

  • "Please don't send a text message 1 day before our departure date requesting a deposit of £114,which was paid 3 months previously."

    Other than that, it was the nicest cottage we've stayed in, so far.

    Reviewed by Patrick5.0Jan 2019

  • "We had a wonderful Christmas week!"

    The cottage was delightful and extremely well equipped. There are lovely walks from the house and nearby small towns to visit such as Blandford and Shaftesbury.

    Reviewed by Abigail5.0Dec 2018

  • "My second stay here."

    Had a lovely few days at Apple Tree Cottage. It is so cosy warm and comfortable. Will definitely return!

    Reviewed by Joanna5.0Nov 2018

  • "Apple Tree Cottage was a lovely cosy cottage."

    The rooms were comfortable, and we lit the wood burner without a problem, which warmed the whole cottage on the night we lit it, on the other nights the radiators were more than adequate. There was a pretty garden, and the cottage was situated down a quiet country lane. The kitchen was particularly impressive and quite high tech, but with the instructions in the cottage guide we managed to work them all out.

    Reviewed by Christina5.0Oct 2018

  • "We were a little disappointed that there was no welcoming pack eg milk as we have p It would be a nice touch if there was milk and coffee for that much needed cuppa after a long journey."

    Hardly any hand wash left. Owners correctly identified that the stairs are very steep so not for anyone unsteady on their feet. A washing line or bigger clothes horse would've been useful as washing machine but nowhere to dry. No washing liquid provided. Otherwise very nice bright and airy cottage with traditional features.

    Reviewed by Melanie4.7Jul 2018

  • "Lovely cottage with beautiful countryside views from rear double bedroom."

    Facilities were good. Sitting room furniture a bit tired. Lovely kitchen and bathroom and really comfy beds. Biggest spiders I've ever seen in my life!! Great location for exploring Dorset and New Forest. Down side front door leads direct onto road where it goes to single track and no footpath or street lighting. **** Owner Response **** Thanks for your feedback and we are pleased you enjoyed your stay. The chairs in the lounge are 18 months old. We have had it professionally cleaned after your comments and will look to renew it as soon as we have found suitable replacements. We always use the back door and leave by the garden gate rather than the front door. It gives a lovely approach to the cottage. Hopefully we can see you at Apple Tree Cottage again soon.

    Reviewed by Heather4.4May 2018

  • "Lovely cottage, very old with a bright modern kitchen/ diner and bathroom extension."

    Quirky stairs, sitting room seemed dark at first, but was really comfortable and cosy, and there is a log burner for winter evenings. Nice and clean, pretty and everything you need. Good quality appliances and very responsive heating. Small, pretty enclosed garden. Lots of great places to visit within an easy drive.

    Reviewed by Ann-marie5.0Mar 2018

  • "The cottage was very nicely presented, being clean and comfortable to a high standard."

    We did have a small problem in keeping warm, as the electrical heating has an embedded timing cycle, which we could not override, and there were times when we had to light the woodburner to help out. This did not spoil things however, just a small point for future users.

    Reviewed by John4.4Mar 2018

  • "We could not have been happier!"

    My parter and I stayed at this cosy yet modern, well equipped, extremely clean, beautifully quiet and lovely cottage for 4 days during a period of heavy snow. It was honestly exactly what we were looking for; if not better. The owners were extremely responsive and beyond helpful, including having a great local knowledge. We’re already looking forward to our next visit.

    Reviewed by Paul5.0Mar 2018

  • "The cottage was charming and the location great."

    Good value for money and a wonderful break was had by all.

    Reviewed by Lara4.2Feb 2018

  • "Very nice cottage with great facilities, comfortable beds the kitchen is nice and sunny and the living room very snug in the evenings."

    Will be returning next year I hope.

    Reviewed by Joanna5.0Nov 2017

  • "Lovely cottage, well presented in a good location,"

    Reviewed by Paul5.0Oct 2017

  • "Great cottage in a lovely location"

    Reviewed by Christine5.0Jun 2017

  • "Apple Tree cottage was beautiful, perfectly located close to all of the places that we wanted to visit."

    Our toddler daughter loved the garden & it was safe & secure for her to toddle around. Lovely surroundings, regularly said good morning to the horse in the stables behind the cottage & to the sheep over the road. The cottage was a perfect size for the 3 of us & extremely well appointed, modern but with character & beautifally decorated. I've already looked up to stay here again!!

    Reviewed by Katie5.0May 2017

  • "Perfect spot to escape."

    Beautifully renovated, relaxing environment. My wife and I and our dog had a great pre-Xmas retreat. Iplayer and Netflix access a bonus!

    Reviewed by Peter5.0Dec 2016

  • "Perfect :-)"

    Reviewed by Soubha5.0Oct 2016

Show more Hide all

Summary

  • Two bedrooms
  • 1 x king-size double, 1 x twin
  • Ground floor shower room with walk-in shower, basin and WC
  • Kitchen with dining area
  • Sitting room with woodburner.
  • Electric central heating with underfloor heating and woodburner
  • Electric oven and induction hob, microwave, fridge/freezer, dishwasher,washing machine, TV with Freeview, DVD, iPod dock, WiFi, selection of books and games
  • Fuel, power and starter pack for stove inc. in rent
  • Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
  • Roadside parking for 1 car beside a lane within 50 yards, on a first come, first served basis
  • Bike storage
  • Enclosed patio with furniture and BBQ
  • One well-behaved dog welcome downstairs only
  • Sorry, no smoking
  • Shop and pub 8 mins walk
  • Note: The steep stairs may not be suitable for people with limited mobility
  • Note: Intermittent mobile phone reception
  • Note: The cottage is situated beside a country lane and therefore some associated traffic noise can be heard.

The property

A delightful, traditional, brick-and-flint terraced cottage, dating back to 1730, tucked away down a country lane within the charming Dorset village of Shillingstone.

This comfortable cottage is ideal for friends and families wishing to explore this lovely part of the country.

The cottage has been lovingly renovated throughout to offer a most cosy holiday home.

You step into a comfortable sitting room which has a woodburner, a perfect place to snuggle up on those cooler evenings.

The well-equipped galley kitchen features an induction hob, and offers everything you need to serve up tasty treats which can be enjoyed in the bright dining room, both rooms having underfloor heating.

Then when tiredness overtakes you, climb the quirky staircase to one of the comfortable bedrooms, one of which has a king-size double bed and the other is a twin bedroom.

Completing the accommodation, the family shower room is conveniently situated on the ground floor.

Patio doors from the dining room of this attractive cottage open out onto a sheltered and pretty paved cottage garden.

When the weather's warm you can sit out and relax with a good book, take a sip of your favourite tipple or make use of the barbecue facility.

There is also undercover bike storage in the summerhouse if you wish to take advantage of the local cycle paths and mountain biking opportunities.

Locally, there are lovely walks to be had, or venture down to the restored Somerset and Dorset railway station, where you can browse the memorabilia and treat yourselves to a cup of tea and slice of cake!

Within easy reach you can explore charming Sturminster Newton, beloved by Thomas Hardy, the bustling Georgian market town of Blandford Forum, ancient Shaftesbury and historic Sherborne, with its castles and abbey.

Alternatively, take your buckets and spades to the stunning Dorset Jurassic Coast.

Then when evening comes, make your way back to your welcoming and cosy cottage.

A real gem of a Dorset holiday destination.

View on map

About the location

SHILLINGSTONE

Sturminster Newton 4 miles; Blandford Forum 5.5 miles.

The friendly village of Shillingstone can be found beside River Stour, in the heart of North Dorset’s Blackmore Vale, only a short drive from the bustling Georgian market town of Blandford Forum. Once on the Somerset and Dorset railway line, the village is proud of its beautifully restored station. Locally there are a wealth of well marked footpaths, criss-crossing the surrounding Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with the local pub welcoming you with refreshments after your stroll. Within easy reach are the ancient towns of Shaftesbury and Sherborne, whilst the scenic Dorset Jurassic Coast is also easily accessible. An attractive Dorset village providing a rural base from which to explore this lovely area at any time of the year.

This property offers the following short breaks:

  • Winter
  • Off-season
  • Last minute
  • Christmas