Rewilding

Our patch of land which formally grazed our ponies and donkey for the last 25 years is having a much needed rest!  We are rewilding and in the process creating a refuge for many species of wild flowers, insects and songbirds.  There are skylarks, linnets, yellowhammers and red kites soaring in our skies, and wild flowers in our meadow attracting butterflies such as the Adonis and Chalkhill blue and the rare silver-spotted skipper.  A carpet of wild grasses and flowers will be allowed to flourish to add to the diversity of habitats.

Glamping, Go!

We cannot wait to welcome you back to The Old Forge!! Our glamping huts Mabel and Sam, are awakening from their long slumber. You can now book direct with us on our website. Mabel is a perfect getaway for couples, or families adjoined with Sam to guarantee complete privacy.

2021 HotelsCombined Recognition of Excellence Award!

The Old Forge consistently achieved the highest standard of customer satisfaction worldwide based on 103 reviews, resulting in an incredible score of 9.5 out of 10.

We are ready to welcome you!

From the 12th April you too could be here…. Sam & Mabel our shepherds huts and our self catering cottages The Smithy and Wheelwrights will soon to awaken from their long slumber. Drink in the vivid greens of Fontmell Down and listen out for the cries of buzzards soaring above. There will be primroses on the banks.

Cranborne Dark Night Skies

Cranborne Chase AONB was designated an International Dark Sky Reserve in October 2019

Cranborne Chase became the first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the country to be designated in its entirety as an International Dark Sky Reserve.

Some people are lucky enough to recognise ‘the Plough’, but for others, seeing stars and their constellations is often impossible because of light pollution. Here in Cranborne Chase we can see the Milky Way and the Andromeda galaxy, if the clouds allow!

Covid safety measures

When we are able to open again, rest assured, we will be doing everything here to keep you safe. All areas and items have been sanitised with Electrox sterilising water which acts 80 times faster than bleach without the harsh chemicals. You can find out more about Electrox here.

Covid Closure, once again!

Following on from yesterday’s announcement, we will be closed from until further notice. If you are booked to stay with us you will be entitled to move your dates, or will be offered a full refund. Please contact us through the agent who you have booked with to re-arrange.
We look forward to welcoming you all back when it is safe to do so. Stay home, and stay safe everyone.

Covid Closure

Following on from yesterday’s announcement, we will be closed from Thursday 5th November for four weeks. If you are booked to stay with us from the 5th November to the 2nd December, you will be entitled to move your dates, or will be offered a full refund. Please contact us through the agent who you have booked with to re-arrange.
We look forward to welcoming you all back when it is safe to do so. Stay home, and stay safe everyone.

New pony!

We would like to introduce you to Pumpkin! Our newest edition to The Old Forge, a sweet little 11.3h Welsh Mountain pony who has come to join Scrumpy Jack and his pals.

We now have a hot tub!

Glamping with an giant orange tea cup wood fired hot tub!? Yes please! Our newest addition. Soak away your worries and take in the view over Fontmell Down with a glass in hand.