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August 2023 Newsletter

Greetings from Well Cottage!

Our August 2023 issue is brimming with captivating news and announcements designed to elevate your Dorset escapades.

Limited spots remain for our October getaways, so if the allure of Dorset’s autumn magic beckons, now is the time to act. And as the festive season draws near, consider celebrating December’s pine-scented, sparkly charm with us!

Whether you’re keen on a Tailor-Made Experience or one of our pre-crafted 7-Night Itineraries, including walking tours and festive celebrations, we’ve got the perfect English Cottage Vacation waiting for you.

Families, rejoice! The introduction of our family-focused sample Itinerary promises delightful memories for every generation.

Crave a visual treat? Our Summer at Well Cottage video captures Dorset in all its sun-kissed glory. And if history’s allure is irresistible to you, let us transport you to the Roman City of Bath, our Featured Excursion.

Our limited edition 2024 Calendar awaits your walls and desks, while Laura’s splendid Sausage Rolls recipe will tempt all taste buds.

There’s much to explore, so let’s dive in together!

well cottage august 2023

Above, our gorgeous, 18th century, thatched Cottage; and below, the working well in the front garden!

well cottage well

What’s Included in This Month’s Newsletter

  • We make it easy to enquire with our survey!
  • Check out the video showcasing the wonders of North Dorset that surround Well Cottage!
  • English Cottage Vacation videos at your finger tips!
  • There’s still time to book your 2023 English Cottage Vacation!
  • Introducing our family-focused sample itinerary
  • The first 2025 Shared Cottage experiences released! Book Now!
  • Remaining 2024 Shared Cottage experience availability! Book Now!
  • Well Cottage Summer Garden Update video!
  • Featured Excursion – The Roman City of Bath!
  • Purchase your special edition 2024 English Cottage Vacation Calendar today!
  • Laura’s Recipe of the Month!
  • Reviews and Testimonials
  • This Month’s FAQ
  • Our Final Thought

Tell Us What You Want!

If it slipped past you in our recent newsletter, we’re eager to hear about your plans for your trip to England so we can know how best to serve you.

Dive into our brief (it’s only 2 minutes!) no obligation enquiry survey which has been designed to ask all of the questions you weren’t sure you needed to know the answers to. Your feedback will be instrumental in refining our services, ensuring we deliver the most magical stays for you.

If you are considering a future vacation in England, shape your upcoming getaway with a few simple clicks.

Your travel desires are paramount to us, and we’re thrilled to discover how we can enhance your future stays. Together, let’s sculpt the perfect English Cottage Vacation!

Please complete our very quick survey: CLICK HERE!

Divine Dorset: Watch!

You’ll be forgiven for thinking this is an English Cottage Vacation promotional video! Even though it isn’t, it does offer a glimpse into the immediate area for where Well Cottage sits, and covers a plethora of the surrounding countryside, villages and towns that will be only too familiar to you when you arrive for your vacation with us.

We share this video with you today to either get your English vacation juices flowing or to reignite the English Cottage Vacation nostalgia of your last stay with us.

This really is a remarkable part of the world!

We will be sharing further videos with you each month, and next month features our local town of Shaftesbury in more detail!

English Cottage Vacation Videos

Did you know that English Cottage Vacation has its own YouTube channel packed full of beautiful videos featuring Well Cottage, our guests, excursions, gardens and Nathan and Laura? Its such an immersive way to view our beautiful offerings!

Not only do we have an abundance of videos but we also have nearly 4000 followers!

CLICK HERE to go straight to our channel!

There’s still time to book your 2023 English Cottage Vacation!

Download Our Packages Information

Whether you are looking for a last minute vacation as a group of friends, your young or adult family, a 2023 English Christmas to remember or a romantic getaway for two we still have some options for your this year!

Availability:
October 14th – 31st
November 20th – December 14th

Choose your arrival dates from the selection above. You can choose how many nights you would like to stay and we have package options to suit your budget and your needs!

Get in touch and tell us which dates you are interested in by clicking the button below and we will respond to you right away. Enquire now!

well cottage christmas1

Introducing Our Family-Focused Sample Itinerary!

Unveiling the latest addition to the English Cottage Vacation: Our specially curated family sample itinerary!

Designed with every generation in mind, this new sample itinerary offers a glimpse of the endless possibilities for you and your family by seamlessly blending the serenity of our classic cottage stays with family-friendly excursions.

Enjoy immersion in the rich tapestry of England’s history, from ancient castles to storied streets, ensuring an enriching experience for both young minds and seasoned travellers. At the cottage, relish in culinary delights tailored to all taste buds, from hearty traditional meals to kid-friendly gourmet treats.

The best part? You can opt for this as a set journey or use it as an inspiration for a bespoke family retreat. Visit our website to explore this delightful blend of comfort, adventure, and family bonding. Let us craft the perfect English sojourn for your loved ones!

Explore our family itinerary suggestions right now – CLICK HERE!

ecv family guests

2025, 7 Night Set Itinerary, Shared Cottage Experiences

In last month’s newsletter, you may remember us telling you about our plans to launch our Shared Cottage experiences on our website. Well… since then a lot of background work has been done. As usually happens with big projects like these, new considerations arise delaying the process! Please bear with us as the launch is imminent and will make enquiring and booking through our website so much more streamlined.

In the meantime we are so happy to announce the first of our 2025 Shared Cottage Experiences.

2025
August 19th – 26th

Bedroom One
Single Occ – $9,500 USD
Double Occ – $11,000 USD

Bedroom Two
Single Occ – $7,000 USD
Double Occ – $9,500 USD

Other currencies available.

Our 7-Night Set Itinerary Shared Cottage Experiences are designed for luxury, all-inclusive, single-room stays. Tailored especially for individual travellers or couples, these 7-night shared cottage experiences offer the perfect balance between solitude and camaraderie. Relish the privacy of your dedicated room and en-suite while also indulging in shared cottage adventures and bonding with fellow guests.

Our room selections for this immersive journey encompass:

  1. Garden View Elegance: Revel in the comforts of a US King-size bed, an intimate en-suite equipped with a shower, and windows opening to the breathtaking vistas of our refined garden and the sprawling countryside. Rates start at $9,500 USD for single occupancy and $11,000 USD for doubles.
  2. Countryside Haven: This offering boasts a US Queen-size bed, a private shower room, and mesmerising views of the verdant landscapes. Starting rates are $7,000 USD for singles and $9,500 USD for couples.
  3. Soothing Solitude: Choose between a US Queen-size bed or twin singles, paired with a dedicated adjacent bathroom and serene sights of the open fields. Pricing starts at $5,000 USD for a solo traveller and $7,000 USD for a couple.

(Prices also available in your preferred currency)

ecv bedroom1 aug23

2024
We still have 2 rooms available:
July 22nd- 29th

Bedroom One (pictured above)
Single Occ – $9,500 USD
Double Occ – $11,000 USD

Bedroom Two (pictured below)
Single Occ – $7,000 USD
Double Occ – $9,500 USD

Don’t miss out! Get in touch to secure your spot!

Your luxury stay with us promises a curated English adventure, peppered with select chauffeured excursions and moments to cherish forever, plus all meals courtesy of your very own resident gourmet chef. Head over to our updated website now to make direct reservations for your marvellous Mixed Cottage Experience!

Alternatively, of course, you can simply get in touch with us directly via our contact page – or via our web chat (it’s us in person – no robots!)

ECV Bedroom 2

Experience Summer at Well Cottage: A Visual Journey!

There’s something truly enchanting about Dorset in the summer, and nowhere is this magic more evident than in the gardens of Well Cottage.

We’re thrilled to share our latest video, capturing the verdant splendour that our gardens have to offer! Immerse yourself in vistas of rolling green lawns, punctuated by bursts of vibrant blooms emanating the sweetest of fragrances. Our trees, cloaked in full summer foliage, stand tall against the backdrop of Dorset’s magnificent countryside.

It’s not just a garden; it’s a sensory experience that speaks to the heart of every nature lover. Let our video transport you to a place where every moment is drenched in summer’s embrace. Dive into the visual spectacle now! Then book your all-inclusive, tailor-made, luxury English Cottage Vacation and experience the magic for yourself!

Featured Excursion: A Day in the Beautiful Roman City of Bath

ecv bath1

Join us on a memorable journey to the heart of the Roman city of Bath! Prepare to be captivated by the incredible fusion of ancient Roman history and stunning Georgian architecture. Nathan, your dedicated chauffeur, will ensure a comfortable 1-hour journey in our executive Mercedes people-carrier through the scenic counties of Wiltshire and Somerset!

Our guided walking tour starts with the iconic Royal Crescent, one of the greatest examples of Georgian architecture in the UK. Followed by Great Pulteney Street, an elegant thoroughfare that once housed figures as eminent as Napoleon III. The charming Pulteney Bridge, including the photogenic weir, beckons next, followed by a visit to The Circus, another striking example of Georgian architecture.

Our final historic stops are the majestic Bath Abbey, dating back to 1611, and the world-renowned Roman Baths museum, including the original pump room. Once you’ve immersed yourself in the remarkable history of Bath, we return to Well Cottage for a delightful cocktail hour or a quintessential English cream tea.

Stay tuned! In next month’s newsletter, we’ll take you to Thomas Hardy’s Cottage, the quaint birthplace and childhood home of the famous English author!

Explore more of our amazing excursions – CLICK HERE!

ecv bath2

Don’t Miss Out On Our 2024 Calendar!

Since we gave a sneak peek in our last newsletter, there’s been an overwhelming response with a surge of orders for our 2024 Scenic Journey Calendar. The uniqueness and limited edition nature have clearly resonated with many. Remember, we’re committed to a single print run for these gems, so secure yours before they vanish!

Dive into the mesmerising beauty of Dorset and its surroundings, beautifully captured and showcased. This calendar is a tribute to the spellbinding terrains and vistas that our guests relish during their time with us.

Each month greets you with a distinctive spectacle — serene coasts, picturesque hills, quaint villages, and iconic landmarks. Relive past moments or get inspired for your next trip; these vibrant pictures promise a mini-escape every day!

These calendars serve as a lovely adornment for your space or a heartfelt holiday gift for someone with wanderlust. Revel in the allure and grace of southern England all through 2024!

Choose from two sizes, each featuring the same captivating photos, to fit any spot or preference:

  • A3 size for wall display $32.00 USD / $42.00 CAD
  • 8″ x 8″ tabletop edition $20.00 USD / $26.00 CAD

*Shipping costs are included in the listed prices!

ecv calendar2

8″x 8″ Desktop Calendar – Buy It Now For $20.00 USD
8″x 8″ Desktop Calendar – Buy It Now For $26.00 CAD

A3 Wall Calendar – Buy It Now For $32.00 USD*
A3 Wall Calendar – Buy It Now For $42.00 CAD*

Recipe of the Month: Laura’s Splendid Sausage Rolls!

Laura's sausage rolls
Ingredients:

  • 450g high meat content sausage meat
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 4 sticks celery, finely diced
  • 1 peeled, cored, grated apple
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh sage
  • 350g puff pastry
  • 1 egg, beaten with 1 tbsp milk
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Pre-heat oven to 220C/450F
  2. Grease and line two large baking sheets with greaseproof paper.
  3. Mix the sausage meat, onion, celery, apple and sage together and season with a little salt and pepper.
  4. Roll the pastry out on a well-floured board into a large rectangle.
  5. With floured hands, take a third of the sausage meat mixture and make a long sausage shape, then lay it in the centre of the pastry. Moisten the edges with a little egg and milk mixture then wrap the sausage meat in the pastry.
  6. Place cuts on the angle in the top of the sausage roll to allow the steam to escape.
  7. Place them all on the baking sheets, brush with beaten egg and bake for 20 – 30 minutes until the pastry is puffed up and golden brown.
  8. Remove the sausage rolls from the oven and allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving warm, or cold.

Can also be made into smaller and bite sized sausage rolls.

Reviews and Testimonials: Accolades Galore!

Hearing first hand accounts and delightful tales from our guests is the highlight of what we do. To know that we’ve been a cornerstone in their unforgettable getaways brings us immense pride.

Every piece of feedback paints a vivid picture of the English Cottage Vacation experience. This stands as evidence of our continuous effort to make every guest’s stay nothing short of spectacular.

Peruse the candid comments from our past guests. These reflections offer the best window into the unique adventures you’re set to embark on:

Your trust is paramount to us. That’s why our booking system is foolproof, complemented by accommodating cancellation and rescheduling policies. For that added layer of trust, our company details – Appanage Vacations Ltd – can be confirmed via the UK Government’s ‘Companies House’ website.

Join our community of satisfied guests. We’re sure you’ll be penning another one of our many 5-star reviews! Dive into the charm of an English Cottage Vacation amid Dorset’s captivating landscape!

well cottage distant

Frequently Asked Questions: Featured FAQ

Q: Is there WiFi available at Well Cottage?

A: Yes, we offer complimentary unlimited WiFi for our guests! Though we’re nestled in the English countryside, you’ll still be able to stay connected with the outside world (should you wish to!)

We even have WiFi in our luxury touring vehicle too, so you can always stay in touch!

To view our other Frequently Asked Questions, simply CLICK HERE!

Our Final Thought…

ECV Nathan Laura 1 e1664971277438

“Life was meant for good friends and great adventures.” – Anonymous

In the verdant embrace of Dorset’s countryside, life’s truest treasures are often found in the heartbeats of moments shared. At Well Cottage, it’s not just about the panoramic views, the gourmet delights, or the journey through time — it’s about the tapestry of friendships woven together and the new memories etched into our souls.

Each guest arrives as a traveller, curious and eager, but leaves as a cherished friend. With every shared laughter over Laura’s culinary feats, every awe-inspired gaze during Nathan’s excursions, the bond deepens. These aren’t mere vacation days, but a beautiful fusion of souls from various walks of life, uniting in shared experiences.

While seasons change and years roll on, the friendships formed here remain timeless. And just as stories of old echo through our halls, the tales of newfound camaraderies will resonate for years to come.

Here’s to the magic of new encounters and the warmth of familiar smiles. We eagerly await the joy of sharing another chapter with you.

Much love as always,

Nathan & Laura

well cottage aerial