Apple Harvest in Poole, Dorset

Apple Harvest Self-Catering

You'll find this 18th-century cottage in the charming town of Wimborne Minster, only a short drive from the Dorset coast. As far as locales go, we think it's the best of both worlds – the array of pubs, cafes, eateries and shops in the town centre are within walking distance, yet you're surrounded by stillness and peace back at home. Take it all in from the walled garden or the shared orchard, where the scent of sweet apples lingers in the fresh air.

A quintessential English hideaway brimming with character, this home is as cosy as it looks, with its chalk-white walls, Farrow & Ball paints and reupholstered vintage furniture. Flex your culinary muscles in the rustic kitchen using produce, honey and home-laid eggs from the estate, curl up with an engrossing book from the host's library in front of the wood-burner in the Inglenook fireplace, or enjoy a soak after a walk through the countryside in the clawfoot tub upstairs. No matter what you get up to, you'll be able to enjoy the sweeping views across the Stour Valley and the village rooftops.

Home truths:
*This home is semi-detached, and the cottage next door can also be rented if you're travelling with larger parties – please ask the host for more information
*While the shops and restaurants in town are within walking distance, we think you'll want a car for exploring further afield
*For those with reduced mobility, there's a ground floor twin bedroom and en-suite bathroom here