Tallet Barn West

Tallet Barn West stands on an organic farm half a mile from the village of Okeford Fitzpaine, which has a shop and a pub. Sturminster Newton is 3 miles off. The barn is semi-detached and clad in timber, reached by an unmade lane and a shared drive, and it looks out across the Blackmore Vale.

Sliding doors open into a lounge, kitchen and dining room in one. The sofa sits by the wood burner, which comes with a first basket of logs, and the Smart TV is in the same room. The kitchen has an electric oven and hob, a Nespresso machine, a microwave, a fridge/freezer, a dishwasher and a washing machine. A shower room with a walk-in shower and WC is on the ground floor. Stairs lead to a king-size bedroom with a balcony window and a twin bedroom opposite, with a separate WC between them. Because the rooms sit in the eaves, head height is restricted in places.

The enclosed rear terrace holds the hot tub, which is private to the barn and can be used all year, as well as a picnic bench and a charcoal barbecue for the summer months. A large shared field lies beyond. Guests may play tennis, badminton or volleyball in the adjacent all-weather sports barn, with rackets and balls provided; that is arranged directly with the owner. A travel cot and highchair can be requested when you book.

Two dogs are allowed, with extra charges, and two cars fit in the allocated off-road spaces. The barn is best for a couple or a family of four who want a hot tub and some space to play. With Tallet Barn East it can be booked as a pair sleeping eight.