Traditional Accommodation in the heart of Dorset

This special place has been in our family since 1986…

Welcome to The Old Forge, a characterful country B&B nestled in the stunning Cranborne Chase. Originally an 18th-century Wheelwright's Forge, this special place has been in our family since 1986.

We offer two cosy guest rooms and a delicious home-cooked breakfast made with local ingredients. For something a little different, discover Woody, our charming shepherd's hut tucked among wildflowers at the foot of Fontmell Down and Melbury Beacon. Complete with a private hot tub, quirky converted BBQ silo, and fire pits beneath the stars, it’s a perfect escape for couples, families, and four-legged friends. Best of all, you’ll have the whole site to yourself — along with our friendly residents: Lily the horse, Shorty the Shetland pony, Theo, and a flock of free-roaming chickens. We also have a charming holiday cottage for two.

History lovers and classic car enthusiasts will enjoy the vintage touches, from enamel signs to old petrol pumps. Tim’s lovingly restored 1934 Lagonda Rapier and the ever-reliable Morris Minor pick-up are still part of daily life here — and Tim is always happy to share stories and show you around the old workshop.

Come, slow down, and soak in the peace of the countryside. We can’t wait to welcome you.

What kind of stay are you?

  • The Couples

    B&B, Glamping or Cottage

    Whether you’d like a snug farmhouse room, a quiet cottage to yourselves, or a hut with a hot tub under the stars, with only the animals for company — simply choose the one that feels right.

  • The Explorers

    B&B, Glamping or Cottage

    Wherever you stay, Compton Abbas is made for exploring. Wander out to stunning views, tucked-away pubs, and historic villages all within easy reach.

  • The Dog Owners

    Glamping or Cottage

    Ideal for stays with your dog. The glamping field is fully enclosed, and the cottage has a secure courtyard. Step outside to miles of lovely walks.

  • The Families

    B&B or Glamping

    Choose the comfort of The Melbury Room, suited to small families, or pitch up next to Woody and sleep under big Dorset skies.

  • Country Bed and Breakfast Retreat in Dorset

    A Characterful B&B in the Dorset Countryside Come and unwind with us at The Old Forge — a peaceful, welcoming base to explore all that beautiful Dorset has to offer.

  • Dog friendly glamping in a shepherds hut cabin.

    Dog-Friendly glamping. A perfect countryside escape for you and your four-legged friend. With a securely fenced field to roam and play, your pup can enjoy the freedom while you sit back and relax.

  • Glamping Romantic for Two in a Cabin Dorset

    Come together. Idyllic getaways for friends and family — relax, reconnect, and enjoy having the entire place to yourselves.

  • Family friendly B&B Country Retreat

    Cosy, spacious, and full of character, this charming country bedroom features a king-size sleigh bed, antique touches, and quality linen. Perfect for couples or small families.

  • Romantic small escape Shaftesbury

    A cosy double room full of character, nestled under rustic beams and featuring a charming tweed bed. Private bathroom next door.

  • Luxury glamping off grid with hot tub

    Escape to your own private glamping retreat featuring a cosy shepherd’s hut - Woody, outdoor kitchen, BBQ hut, and your very own hot tub

  • Fontmell Down nature lovers walking holiday

    Stunning views onto Fontmell Down, Compton Down and Melbury Beacon. The walks are spectacular.

The ultimate romantic getaway for couples. Complete with a private hot tub and a quirky converted grain silo BBQ, our shepherd’s hut Woody offers a unique glamping experience beneath the stars.

Woody the Shepherds Hut

Romantic retreat for two, or pitch a tent and bring company

Dogs welcome. Enclosed field so dogs can run free!

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Holiday Cottage

A cosy cottage escape. The perfect base for exploring Dorset

Romantic retreat for two

Dogs welcome. Enclosed courtyard and breathtaking walks from the door

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Bed & Breakfast

  • B&B with scenic walks

    Melbury Room

    Spacious room for couples or small families

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  • Characterful old bed and breakfast

    Courtyard Room

    Charming double room for couples

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Cranborne Chase International Dark Sky Reserve

Circular emblem with a white silhouette of a moose standing on a hill, surrounded by stars and a night sky background. Text reads 'Chasing Stars,' 'International Dark Sky Preserve,' and 'Cranborne Chase AONB' in gold and white.

Cranborne Chase – Home of Outstanding Dark Night Skies as well as Natural Beauty.

In October 2019 Cranborne Chase AONB became the 14th International Dark Sky Reserve  in the world

Star gazing haven! 

Follow our journey.

What People Are Saying

“We had such an amazing stay here, we had everything we needed and more and spent a lovely few days relaxing. Definitely recommend. Thank you.”

“What a beautiful place for a relaxing weekend away. Sophie and her husband where great hosts and really went above and beyond..”

Book your stay