The Local Area

Ellwood Cottages are in the hamlet of Woolland.  Woolland is in an Area Of Outstanding Natural Beauty, in the heart of the North Dorset countryside, with its gentle rolling downland, woodlands and nature reserves.

Within this rich tapestry are many winding lanes, bridle paths, sleepy villages, shimmering rivers and streams, an abundance of wildlife and spectacular views.

A short drive away is the beautiful Georgian market town of Blandford, the important county town of Dorchester and the historical towns of Shaftesbury and Sherborne.

Within easy reach is Dorset’s Jurassic Coast, England’s first natural World Heritage Site, and the Isle of Purbeck.

For Thomas Hardy enthusiasts there is his place of birth and many literary locations to visit.

Attractions for children are plentiful and include , Weymouth SEA LIFE Adventure Park, Abbotsbury Swannery, Dorset Heavy Horse Centre & Farm Park and Monkey World.  See our 'Links' page for links to these and many more activities and attractions.

Good food is a priority in Dorset and delicious locally produced quality food can be found at farmers’ markets, farm shops and in restaurants and pubs.