About this property
Plush Cottage is a Grade II listed 18th-century thatched cottage, set within a Dorset village at the heart of Thomas Hardy country. Sleeping seven guests plus a cot, this characterful cottage is well suited to families, walkers and those drawn to Dorset’s literary heritage, with the building itself appearing in Tess of the d’Urbervilles. Step inside to find spacious and atmospheric interiors, shaped by low beams, thick stone walls and exposed brickwork. The cottage kitchen is centred around a traditional AGA, with a small induction hob also available, and a dining table seating 6–8 guests, creating a natural hub for shared meals and long conversations.
There are two separate living spaces: a sitting room with a 43-inch Smart TV, and a study/snug with a Bluetooth projector, desk space, stable BT Fibre plus broadband, and views across the garden, ideal for reading, writing, or quieter evenings in. The sleeping accommodation is arranged across the original house and a later extension. Three bedrooms sit within the original part of the cottage, a king-size, a large single and a bunk room, served by a generous family bathroom. The thick walls and thatched roof help regulate the temperature throughout the seasons. The extension provides a fourth bedroom, arranged as either a super-king-size or twin room, along with a separate shower room and its own access, offering flexibility for different group arrangements.
Outside, the garden wraps around the cottage with lawned areas, mature planting and, during wetter months, a gently flowing stream at the rear. It is a lovely space for morning coffee, time with a book or evenings outdoors scented with honeysuckle. Off-road parking is provided for two cars, with EV charging available. The cottage is less than 100 metres from the Brace of Pheasants, an award-winning Dorset pub known for its food and local ales. Numerous walks lead directly from the doorstep, providing access to the Wessex Ridgeway and far-reaching views across West Dorset. Hardy’s Cottage is close by, making this an ideal base for literary walks through landscapes that inspired his novels.
Further afield, Dorchester offers museums, shops and historic interest, while Sherborne is home to its impressive castle. The UNESCO World Heritage Jurassic Coast, including Durdle Door, Lulworth Cove and Chesil Beach, is within easy reach, offering dramatic scenery and memorable coastal walks. Whether exploring Hardy’s Wessex on foot, visiting the Jurassic Coast, or gathering together in a historic Dorset cottage, Plush Cottage provides a rewarding base for discovering countryside, coast and culture.
Plush is an idyllic Dorset hamlet nestled within the Dorset Downs, surrounded by rolling chalk hills and peaceful rural scenery. The village features traditional thatched cottages and a historic manor house, set among quiet lanes and open countryside. Attractions include local walking trails, with the Hardy Way passing directly through the hamlet and linking places associated with Thomas Hardy. Plush also offers gentle routes across the surrounding chalk hills, rewarding walkers with wide, rural views. Dining options centre on The Brace of Pheasants, a well‑regarded inn offering home‑cooked Dorset dishes. Everyday essentials and supermarket shopping can be found in Dorchester, around eight miles to the south. A short drive away is Cerne Abbas, home to Cerne Abbey and the Cerne Abbas Giant, which together offer rich history and dramatic hillside scenery, ideal for anyone wanting a mix of heritage and walking routes. Also within an hour is Minterne Magna, known for Minterne Gardens and St Andrew’s Church; its colourful seasonal planting and peaceful woodland paths make it a lovely choice for visitors seeking tranquillity and natural beauty.
EPC Rating: Band EAccommodation
Four bedrooms: 1 x super-king-size (zip/link, can be twin on request), 1 x king-size, 1 x large single, 1 x bunk bed.
Bathroom with bath, basin, and WC.
Shower room with shower, basin, and WC.
Kitchen/diner.
Sitting room
Central heating.
Oven, hob, Aga (with small induction hob available), microwave, fridge/freezer, kettle, toaster.
Smart TV, Bluetooth projector, WiFi.
Fuel and power included In rent.
Highchair, stairgate, steps for bathroom, and cot available.
Bed linen and towels included In rent.
Garden with patio and lawn.
Off-road parking for two cars, though the space may be snug for larger vehicles.
EV charging is available at the property via the Monta app (guests will need to bring their own tethered charger).
One well-behaved dog welcome.
Sorry, no smoking.
Pub 0.1 miles, shop 5.5 miles.
Note: Small seasonal stream in garden; low barrier present but children and pets must be supervised.
Thatched roof safety - no smoking or naked flames within 5m (incl log burner, candles, BBQs, fire pits)