Welcome to our April 2025 Newsletter!
In this edition, we’re unveiling our final three remaining booking slots for 2025 – now available with an exclusive 20% discount!
We also introduce you to our timeless and enchanting local village of Fontmell Magna, offer a taste of Laura’s beautifully curated online recipe collection, and highlight a poignant excursion to Dorset’s historic ghost village, Tyneham. And don’t miss our fabulous WW2 Golden Age of Aviation cottage week offer!
Plus, we’re shining a light on two insightful blogs for those looking to relocate or return to the UK, and inviting you to join our growing Facebook community!
As always, there’s something for everyone – so pop the kettle on, settle in, and let’s dive into another generous helping of English charm and wonderment!
In This Month’s Issue:
- 2025 Bookings: Final 3 spots – save 20% on your dream stay
- Skype Retired: Reach us via WhatsApp instead
- Laura’s Recipe Book: Your guide to gourmet magic
- Neighbourhood Notes: A stroll through Fontmell Magna
- Featured Blog Posts: Relocating or returning to the UK from the US
- Facebook Community: Join us for tips, tales, and timeless English charm!
- Featured Excursion: The abandoned village of Tyneham
- A Taste of Well Cottage: Laura’s Chicken Saganaki
- Newsletter Feedback: Tell us what you think – it takes just 2 minutes!
- Visitor Visuals: Featured photos of guests!
- Guest Voices: Reviews and Testimonials
- Did You Know? Facts you’ll find interesting!
- Win A Luxury Picnic Basket: Just stay subscribed!
- Key Info: Everything you need to plan your perfect countryside escape!
- Last Word: Final Thought from Nathan & Laura
One Thatched Cottage. Three Final Chances. 20% Off Now!
Dreaming of England but looking for something completely stress-free and effortless?
Whether you’re a solo traveller, a couple craving connection, a group of friends who love to travel together, or you’re hoping to share a once-in-a-lifetime experience with family or loved ones—this all-inclusive, culturally immersive English countryside vacation was created just for you.
Stay in a luxurious 18th-century thatched cottage, indulge in exceptional cuisine from your private chef, and enjoy a perfectly curated 7-night itinerary packed with unforgettable moments—all while we take care of every last detail, from arrival to departure.
What’s Included?
Luxury 18th-century thatched cottage stay with extensive amenities
- Private chef & fully catered meals
- Curated or set 7-night itinerary—no planning, no stress
- Chauffeured transportation—no driving needed
- Immersive experiences in Dorset’s breathtaking landscapes & rich culture
- Two friendly, warm, and welcoming English hosts on hand to cater to your every desire
2025 Sales Announcement – Final Availability!
We’re offering an exclusive 20% off our last remaining 2025 dates!
Book as a solo guest, couple, or gather your favorite people—up to 6 guests total—for a private stay. This discount applies whether you’re reserving the entire cottage for your group or booking a single room during a shared cottage week.
Only 3 more bookings are available at this special rate. Once they’re filled, the remaining 2025 dates will be closed. Don’t miss your chance!
Remaining 2025 Dates:
- June 1–5 (4 nights) – Whole cottage only, custom itinerary required
- July 12–19 (7 nights) – Whole cottage or single room bookings available
- July 22–28 (7 nights) – Whole cottage or single room bookings available
- August 7–14 (7 nights) – Shared cottage week, only Bedroom 3 remaining
- September 15–22 (7 nights) – Whole cottage or single room bookings available
- October 11–18 (7 nights) – Whole cottage or single room bookings available
- October 22–29 (7 nights) – Whole cottage or single room bookings available
- December 1–8 (7 nights) – Shared cottage week, only Bedrooms 1 & 2 remaining
- December 10–17 (7 nights) – Whole cottage or single room bookings available
- December 29–January 5 (7 nights) – Whole cottage or single room bookings available
View The Bedrooms – CLICK HERE!
Take A Video Tour Of The Cottage – CLICK HERE!
Booking Options:
- Whole Cottage: Choose from one of our signature 7-night itineraries, or let us create a completely custom experience tailored to your group.
- Single Room (Shared Cottage Weeks): Join a sightseeing itinerary or embrace the magic of our festive winter week—each one perfectly curated for comfort, culture, and connection.
Limited Time Offer: 20% Off
All-inclusive pricing starts from just £3,500 per person for a full week—now 20% off while spots last!
Just book your flights—we’ll take care of the rest. No surprise costs. No tipping required.
Enquire now to receive further details and reserve your bedroom or secure your private group week!
Reach Out Now For More Details And To Book – CLICK HERE!
Farewell Skype: Stay in Touch with Ease
We wanted to let you know that, unfortunately, Skype has unexpectedly deleted our U.S. business number with very little notice. As a result, we have decided not to replace it. Thankfully, WhatsApp is working brilliantly for us, and most of our lovely guests are already familiar with the app!
You can now message or call us directly on WhatsApp:
Laura: +44 (0)7977 564585
Nathan: +44 (0)7739 643745
If you prefer, you can also arrange a call with us at a time that suits you — simply click the button below to schedule a friendly, no-obligation chat with Nathan and Laura about your future holiday plans.
We remain fully contactable via email too: info@englishcottagevacation.com
Thank you so much for your understanding — we’re very much looking forward to hearing from you soon!
Your Slice of English Cottage Charm – Now in Recipes!
Bring the flavours of Well Cottage into your own kitchen with Laura’s beautifully curated online recipe collection – now available to download for just £30!
From elegant breakfasts to hearty mains, indulgent desserts, and Nathan’s signature cocktails, it’s a taste of English Cottage Vacation you can enjoy any time.
Buy & Download Laura’s Recipe Book Right Now – CLICK HERE!
Neighbourhood Notes: A Stroll Through Fontmell Magna
Imagine a quiet English village, tucked away in the rolling hills of Dorset. That’s Fontmell Magna—a picture-perfect place where time slows down, and every street feels like something out of a storybook. Surrounded by the stunning downs of the Cranborne Chase, it’s a place where you can wander through tranquil lanes and let the beauty of the surroundings do all the talking.
As you stroll down the narrow lanes, you’ll be greeted by charming thatched cottages, their gardens overflowing with flowers and ivy. The air feels fresh, and the only sounds you’ll hear are birds chirping in the trees and the occasional peal of church bells from St. Andrew’s Church, which has stood here since the 15th century. The whole village seems to breathe history.
The real heart of the village is The Fontmell, the local pub where villagers come together. Step inside, and you’ll feel right at home as soon as you hear the crackle of the fire and see the warm, inviting atmosphere. It’s a place where everyone knows each other—whether it’s for a pint after a long day or a traditional Sunday roast. The pub is as much about community as it is about food and drink, with friendly locals always ready for a chat.
You’ll also pass by the village hall, which is the social center of Fontmell Magna. With its playground, tennis courts, and a lovely community garden, it’s where locals gather for everything from charity events to picnics. If you’re here on the right day, you might stumble upon a local market or a community event that shows just how connected the people here really are.
If you’re in the mood for a little nature, take a short walk to Colyers Brook Nature Reserve. This hidden gem is a quiet haven, perfect for a peaceful wander through woodlands and wetlands. It feels like stepping into another world, surrounded by the sounds of nature. And if you head to Brooklands Woods, you’ll find a magical spot where the seasons paint the landscape in beautiful colours. In winter, delicate snowdrops blanket the ground, and in spring, the woods come alive with vibrant bluebells. A little brook winds through the woods, adding to the charm and serenity of the area.
The entire village is surrounded by the downs of the Cranborne Chase, offering breathtaking views of the rolling hills and valleys. It’s the kind of place where you can stop, look around, and take in the beauty of the untouched landscape. These downs are part of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and they create the perfect backdrop for a stroll or simply sitting back and soaking in the peaceful surroundings.
As you continue your walk, you might want to pop into a tea room for a traditional English experience. Picture yourself sipping a cup of freshly brewed tea and enjoying a slice of homemade cake, all while taking in the stunning views of the countryside.
Fontmell Magna isn’t just a village—it’s a feeling. It’s the sense of history, community, and nature coming together in a way that feels timeless. A simple walk through this village is the perfect way to experience the true charm of rural England. It’s a place that feels like a classic English storybook village, where every corner seems to have a tale to tell, and every step feels like you’re walking through the pages of a beloved novel.
Featured Blogs: Relocating or Returning to the UK from the US
Whether you’re an American dreaming of a new life in Britain, or a Brit abroad planning your return home, our latest blogs are packed with insights, inspiration, and practical advice.
In “An American Moving to the UK: What You Need to Know,” we walk through everything from lifestyle shifts to cultural quirks, demystifying the move and offering tips for settling in smoothly – all with a touch of Dorset charm, of course!
Meanwhile, “Moving Back to the UK After Living in the US” is your go-to guide for making a seamless return, whether it’s been two years or 20. From the emotional side of repatriation to the nuts and bolts of getting re-established, it’s all there.
Read these very informative blogs now and share them with someone who’s ready to cross the pond!
Join Our New Facebook Community!
Come and join our growing community on Facebook, where we share updates from the cottage, seasonal snapshots, and a behind-the-scenes look at life in Dorset.
Featured Excursion: The Abandoned Village of Tyneham
The abandoned village of Tyneham offers a fascinating glimpse into England’s past, making it the perfect destination for an unforgettable excursion during your stay at the English Cottage Vacation.
Nestled in the heart of Dorset’s stunning Isle of Purbeck, Tyneham provides a quiet, poignant retreat where history, nature, and tranquility meet.
A Scenic Journey to the Past
Your visit to this ghost village begins with a scenic drive through the picturesque countryside, where you’ll be treated to views of rolling hills and the dramatic Jurassic Coast. As part of your tailor-made itinerary, Laura and Nathan, your dedicated hosts, will ensure your journey is seamless and comfortable, with a personalized experience at every step.
Upon arrival, you’ll explore the preserved remnants of Tyneham, including the 15th-century St. Mary’s Church, the quaint School House, and the Tyneham Farm. The village’s peaceful surroundings offer a unique chance to reflect on its rich history, from the heart-wrenching evacuation during WWII to the poignant silence that surrounds the empty homes. With the guidance of your hosts, you’ll learn about the villagers’ lives before the wartime requisition and how they were forced to leave their homes forever.
Coastal Paths & Countryside Peace
For those with a keen interest in history or a love of nature, Tyneham also serves as an excellent starting point for a peaceful walk across the stunning Purbeck Hills. The area is renowned for its natural beauty, and you may choose to extend your exploration to the nearby beaches, cliffs, or the captivating landscape of the Jurassic Coast.
Your excursion to Tyneham can be customized to include a delightful picnic by the sea or a visit to a nearby charming village, ensuring your day out is as relaxed or as adventurous as you desire. After a memorable journey into the past, return to your cozy English cottage, where you can unwind in comfort and enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal prepared just for you.
This excursion to Tyneham is the perfect addition to your exclusive, all-inclusive English Cottage Vacation, blending history, nature, and luxury into a seamless, unforgettable experience.
Extend the Experience: From Tyneham to the Sea
After your exploration of the abandoned village of Tyneham, a visit to the nearby Lulworth Cove or Mupe Bay beaches makes for a perfect way to unwind and soak in the natural beauty of the area.
Just a short drive from Tyneham, Lulworth Cove is a stunning horseshoe-shaped bay, ideal for a peaceful walk along its shoreline, or simply to sit and take in the breathtaking views of the turquoise waters and limestone cliffs. If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can hike up to Durdle Door, the iconic natural limestone arch that stands proudly over the sea, offering panoramic views of the coast.
Alternatively, for a more secluded experience, Mupe Bay is a hidden gem with dramatic cliffs and a rugged shoreline. It’s an ideal spot for a quiet picnic or a stroll along the coast, where you can enjoy the tranquil sounds of the sea and the untouched beauty of the Jurassic Coast.
Whether you choose to visit the beach before or after your time in Tyneham, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the peace and serenity of this remarkable part of Dorset.
Your hosts, Laura and Nathan, will ensure everything is arranged for you, from transportation to the best spots for a relaxing beach experience.
History in the Skies: A WWII Experience Like No Other
If this blend of history, heritage, and heartfelt storytelling at Tyneham stirs your curiosity, you’ll love our Golden Age of Aviation cottage week in August 2026. Timed to coincide with the thrilling WWII-themed air show at nearby Compton Abbas, this exclusive experience is tailor-made for history enthusiasts. From ghost villages to vintage aircraft soaring overhead, it’s a unique opportunity to walk through the past – then watch it fly!
Book Our Limited Edition WW2 Air Show Experience – CLICK HERE!
Featured Recipe: Laura’s Chicken Saganaki
(Serves 4)
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 large onions, chopped
- 4 teaspoons chopped Garlic
- 3 teaspoons dried oregano
- 7 boneless chicken breast
- 2 cans chopped tomatoes
- 1 can pitted black olives
- 1 can puree/paste
- 2 chicken stock cubes
- 1/2 bottle red wine
- Sugar
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
Directions
- Heat oil in heavy large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onions, garlic and oregano and sauté until onions are tender.
- Season chicken with salt and pepper. Add chicken to skillet and sauté until brown, about 5 minutes.
- Using tongs, turn chicken over. Then remove chicken from pan, let it cool and then chop into pieces.
- Add all other ingredients except feta to the pan and bring to boil. Cover skillet. Reduce heat to medium-low
- Stir sauce and continue to boil over high heat until thickened, about 30 minutes. Ad sugar to taste.
Combine and Finish
- Just before serving add chicken to sauce again and heat through for 5 min or until chicken is just cooked.
- Mix in cheese and simmer until heated through but not quite melted.
- Serve in dishes and Garnish with Parsley and a little crumbled feta.
Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.
- Pair with roasted cherry tomatoes, crusty bread, rice, or orzo for a complete meal.
Tips:
- For a richer sauce, add a splash of cream or a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
- Substitute chicken with shrimp or prawns for a seafood variation.
- Adjust the spice level by adding chilli flakes
Love this recipe? It’s just a taste of what’s waiting in Laura’s Online Recipe Book now available! Packed with lots of scrumptious recipes, from breakfasts and afternoon teas to indulgent desserts and classic cocktails, it’s the perfect way to bring the magic of Well Cottage to your kitchen! Click below for instant access!
Get Laura’s Recipe Book Now – CLICK HERE!
Help Us Improve Our Newsletter – In Just 2 Minutes!
We love sharing news, stories, and updates from Well Cottage – but we want to make sure we’re giving you the content you enjoy most.
Whether it’s the behind-the-scenes peeks, British telly recommendations, exclusive offers, or Laura’s delicious recipes, we’d love to hear your thoughts.
CLICK HERE to Take Our Quick Survey!
It takes less than 2 minutes and will help us shape future newsletters to better suit what you want to read.
Thanks for helping us make our monthly updates even better!
Guest Appearances: Joyful Faces, Unforgettable Places
A few treasured snapshots of recent guests living their best British life with us – laughter, adventure, and unforgettable memories!
Guest Voices: Reviews & Testimonials
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Vacation of a lifetime
“Truly the trip of a lifetime! Nathan and Laura helped us tailor an itinerary that met both of our interests, and even found a museum guide with expertise for a personal tour in a very unique area. The Cottage is lovely, super- comfortable, and our every need was met, including fabulous food from Chef Laura, who also made wonderful gluten-free cuisine. Nathan was a fabulous driver and tour guide. We can’t recommend them enough, and can’t wait to go back.” – Emily B
We’d be so grateful if other previous guests share their experiences on TripAdvisor and Google Reviews too! Also be sure to check out the testimonials featured on our website!
Did You Know?
When Nathan and Laura began their journey to create the ultimate luxury vacation experience, their first mission was to find the perfect cottage. It wasn’t easy—they visited nearly 50 properties across the southwest of England before finding the one that truly ticked every box.
They were searching for more than just charm and beauty. The right home had to be close enough to London for seamless transfers, yet nestled in a peaceful countryside setting—ideally near a market town with cozy pubs, local shops, and easy access to a variety of excursions.
The wish list was long and detailed:
- A rich sense of history
- At least three bedrooms, each with its own bathroom
- A snug with an Inglenook fireplace
- A warm, welcoming country kitchen
- A bright dining space
- A lush garden with stunning views
- Quiet corners for guests to relax in peace
- And a separate space for Nathan and Laura to stay—close enough to be available, but never in the way
Many homes had some of these qualities. None had all. And most needed significant renovation to meet the standard of luxury Nathan and Laura envisioned—drawing on years of experience working aboard private yachts, where no detail is ever overlooked.
Then, in August 2019, after a full year of searching, they found it: Well Cottage.
It didn’t just meet their expectations—it surpassed them.
Well Cottage had everything they’d hoped for, including its own vegetable garden and a layout perfectly suited to the guest experience. The kitchen, positioned at the far end of the cottage, allows guests to enjoy privacy and quiet in their own rooms. Yet it’s far from tucked away. The space is open, warm, and welcoming—designed to naturally invite guests in as they pass through or linger for a relaxed chat with Laura while she prepares breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It’s a space where comfort and connection blend beautifully, offering a sense of home without ever intruding on personal space.
Surrounded by wildflowers, farmland, and miles of scenic walking paths, and nestled within the natural beauty of Cranborne Chase, Well Cottage offers far more than just a place to stay—it offers a feeling.
Set in the heart of this breathtaking countryside, the cottage has become the centrepiece of Nathan and Laura’s one-of-a-kind, all-inclusive vacation experience.
Come see it for yourself. Slow down, reconnect, and share something truly special with the ones you love.
Now to view our Frequently Asked Questions, CLICK HERE!
Stay Subscribed For Your Chance To Win A Luxury Picnic Basket!
Next month we’re giving away another exquisite luxury picnic basket to one lucky reader! Crafted from finely steamed willow with elegant tan leather straps, it’s compact and practical (L 40cm x W 30cm x H 19cm), perfect for romantic meals outdoors!
Includes:
- 2 fine china plates
- 2 wine glasses
- A cosy tartan picnic blanket
- A bottle opener
- Soft napkins
- A cooler bag to keep your treats fresh.
- Stainless steel cutlery for added luxury.
This basket is a dream companion for leisurely walks, tranquil park visits, or scenic countryside adventures.
Invite friends and family to sign up to our newsletter for their chance to win, too. Share the link right now – CLICK HERE!
* Disclaimer: The basket we deliver is subject to availability but we will always strive to ensure comparable quality!
Essential Information: Everything You Need to Know
Planning your perfect English Cottage Vacation is as seamless as the experience itself. From booking and payment to designing your tailor-made itinerary, here are some key links to show you just how effortless our process is:
Your Tailor-Made Itinerary, Discovery Process
Our Final Thought…
“April prepares her green traffic light and the world thinks Go.” – Christopher Morley
As spring bursts forth here in Dorset, there’s a renewed sense of possibility in the air. The gardens are bursting with colour, the hedgerows are alive with birdsong, and Well Cottage is once again filled with the gentle rhythm of guests arriving to rest, explore, and reconnect.
This time of year always reminds us of fresh starts – not just in the garden, but in life. Whether you’re planning a long-dreamt-of visit to England or simply finding joy in life’s quieter moments, we hope this newsletter has brought you a little closer to your own version of a “green light.”
We can’t wait to welcome you, whenever the time is right. Until then, we’ll be here – fluffing pillows, stirring sauces, and soaking in the magic of spring.
With love from Dorset,
Nathan & Laura
