Hambury House

Hambury House is a beautiful, new build, thatched cottage in the quaint village of West Lulworth. The property has been tastefully designed to delicately incorporate traditional features such as a thatched roof and wooden ceiling beams into the build, whilst retaining a contemporary feel.

Situated in the heart of the village, the property is within a short walk of the village stores and a couple of pubs including the Castle Inn, a 16th century thatched tavern reputed to be one of the oldest public house in Dorset.

Known as the Gateway to the Jurassic Coast, West Lulworth is situated within a scenic 10 minute stroll of the picturesque Lulworth Cove, a sheltered horse-shoe shaped natural harbour.

Historically, the cove was notorious as a popular landing point for Smugglers looking to land their illicit booty. Today a fleet of fishing trawlers are based in the cove as well as pleasure boats offering scenic day voyages along the coast, whilst the sheltered position makes the cove particularly popular with beach goers looking to sun bath and swim. Lulworth Cove is only half a mile from Durdle Door, an iconic natural Limestone Arch which has featured in several music videos, television productions and movies such as Nanny Mcphie.

The accommodation at Hambury House comprises of a stylish living area with doors leading out to the garden, furnished with two sofas seating six, armchair, coffee table, 32” flat screen TV with Freeview, DVD and ipod docking station. Wi-Fi is also available. A selection of board games, DVDs and books are also provided. The kitchen features a double oven, hob, fridge, freezer and dishwasher and a full range of utensils including microwave, toaster, kettle and coffee machine. A separate utility room features a washing machine, dryer, iron and vacuum cleaner. There is also a downstairs wash room with wc and wash basin. The dining room features a table and eight chairs and a side board.

Bedroom one is en-suite and situated on the first floor and is furnished with a king-size bed, fitted double wardrobe, chest of drawers, occasional chair, storage chest and two bedside cabinets with lamps. A hair dryer and alarm clock are also provided. Bedroom two is also en-suite and situated on the first floor, furnished with a double bed, fitted double wardrobe, chest of drawers and two bedside cabinets with lamps. Bedroom three is situated on the first floor and is furnished with twin beds, double wardrobe, chest of drawers and two bedside cabinets with lamps. Bedroom four is situated on the first floor and is furnished with ‘zip and links’ beds, fitted wardrobe, chest of drawers and two bedside cabinets with lamps. The bathroom is situated on the first floor and features a bath, shower cubicle, wc, wash basin, mirror and shaver point.

Outside there is a patio and enclosed garden complete with furniture ideal for al fresco dining complete with charcoal barbecue. There is also designated car parking for two cars.

Lulworth

Most famed for its horse-shoe shaped cove formed approximately 10,000 years ago by the power of river and sea. Lulworth Cove is a pebble beach and by virtue of its natural protection, is very sheltered. On the east end of the beach steps lead to the fossil forest and Mupe Bay with its cliff top walk. A cafe on the beach serves ice cream and during the summer months boat trips to Durdle Door although the walk from Lulworth to this famous landmark is also worth taking the time to do during your stay.

Surrounding Villages

Lulworth Cove is actually in West Lulworth so it should come as no surprise that a nearby village worth a visit is East Lulworth. Burngate stands in between the two and if you travel east along the coast you will come to Tyneham. To the west you will arrive at Ringstead.

Events

By far the largest event in the area is Camp Bestival held at Lulworth Castle, dubbed the greatest family show on earth. This annual event is normally at the end of July and is predominately a music event but with a huge section dedicated to kids. From face painting and bouncy castles to medieval jousting and an insect circus and everything in between. There are four main stages for the music acts which are jam packed over all three days. In addition there are DJ sets, comedy, theatre and shows, attractions and activities, poets, authors and talks and plenty of food. If you are looking for a festival that is for all the family and diverse then look no further.

Activities and Attractions

The biggest attraction is still the amazing Lulworth Cove itself, a must see and visit if you are in the area. There is a Heritage Centre at the cove that has recently been enlarged and improved and there are sections on the countryside, fossils, geology, smuggling and sailing. Don't miss out visiting the Dolls House, a traditional Dorset fudge and sweetshop, tea garden and ice cream parlour in the lane leading down to the cove. From here you are within walking distance of Durdle Door or for a more relaxed visit take the boat. The shingle beach at Durdle Door can shelve quickly in places but the beach has excellent water quality as recommended by the Marine Conservation Society. You will also find the ever popular Durdle Door Ice Cream Kiosk.

The Lulworth Estate is set in 12,000 acres of fantastic Dorset countryside and dates back to the 11th century. On the estate is the stunning Lulworth Castle which for me is the epitome of what a castle should look like with its four round towers at the corner of the square building. Ruined by a large fire, the castle was restored by the English Heritage and was opened to the public in 1998. You can now explore the castle, the Tower, two churches, woodland walks, a children's playground and beautiful grounds to picnic in. The castle is open all year round.

Eating Out

Eating out in West Lulworth is provided by The Castle Inn, the Lulworth Beach House and the Lulworth Cove Inn giving you a good choice of styles and prices. Booking is advised in the summer months. There are also some excellent pubs to visit in the surrounding villages.