Get More From Your Marnhull Hot Tub Cottage Break
Booking cottages with hot tubs in Marnhull gives you access to one of North Dorset's most charming villages whilst enjoying the kind of luxury and space that hotels simply can't match. This historic settlement served as the inspiration for Thomas Hardy's "Tess of the d'Urbervilles" and sits perfectly positioned between Sherborne and Shaftesbury.
The village offers excellent country breaks with its mix of thatched cottages and traditional pubs. You'll find everything from boutique cottages for 2 to large family holiday houses that sleep groups comfortably. Many properties feature private hot tubs and welcome dogs too.
What to do on a family or couple's hot tub break in Marnhull
Marnhull sits in the Blackmore Vale with rolling countryside stretching in every direction. The village itself has Saxon origins and grew around its position on ancient trading routes. St Gregory's Church dominates the skyline with its impressive tower visible for miles around.
Whether you're after romantic breaks or planning getaways with a large group, Marnhull works brilliantly as a base. The village has proper local pubs serving decent food and the surrounding area offers walking routes that suit all fitness levels. You're also within easy reach of Dorset's coast and major attractions.
Sightseeing in Marnhull
The village retains its agricultural character despite modern development. Crown Inn and Blackmore Vale Inn both date back centuries and serve as community hubs. Nash Court is a particularly fine example of local architecture. The surrounding farmland produces excellent local produce that you'll find in nearby farm shops.
Top 5 attractions you have to see in Marnhull
The area around Marnhull packs in history, natural beauty and family-friendly activities. Here are five places that deserve your time.
Sherborne Abbey and Old Castle
Just 6 miles south, Sherborne Abbey stands as one of England's finest parish churches with Saxon foundations and stunning fan vaulting. The Old Castle ruins sit in beautiful grounds managed by English Heritage. Both sites offer fascinating insights into medieval life and architecture.
Shaftesbury and Gold Hill
This hilltop town 8 miles north became famous through the Hovis bread advert. Gold Hill's steep cobbled street lined with cottages is genuinely spectacular. The town itself has independent shops, cafes and the excellent Shaftesbury Abbey Museum. Views across the Blackmore Vale are outstanding.
Sturminster Newton Mill
This working watermill 4 miles away dates from the 17th century and still produces flour. You can tour the building and see the machinery in action. The riverside setting is lovely and there's a small museum explaining milling history. Thomas Hardy lived nearby and wrote about this area extensively.
Stourhead House and Gardens
About 12 miles northeast, Stourhead ranks among Britain's finest landscape gardens. The Palladian mansion contains remarkable art collections whilst the gardens feature classical temples around a central lake. Spring brings rhododendrons and autumn delivers spectacular colours. Allow at least half a day for your visit.
Blackmore Vale Dairy Trail
This circular walking route takes you through classic Dorset countryside. The 6-mile trail passes working farms and offers views that inspired Hardy's novels. You'll spot plenty of wildlife and the route is well signposted. Several shorter variations exist if you've got young children with you.
Don't Miss These...
| Attraction | What you'll experience | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Sherborne Abbey and Old Castle | Medieval architecture and English Heritage ruins with beautiful grounds | Everyone |
| Shaftesbury and Gold Hill | Iconic cobbled street with panoramic views and independent shops | Couples |
| Sturminster Newton Mill | Working watermill with demonstrations and riverside walks | Families |
| Stourhead House and Gardens | World-class landscape gardens and art collections | Everyone |
| Blackmore Vale Dairy Trail | Countryside walking through Hardy's landscape | Groups |
Visitor FAQs
How do I get to Marnhull?
The nearest train station is Gillingham (Dorset) 3 miles away with services to London Waterloo and Exeter. By car, take the A30 from Shaftesbury or approach via the A357 from Blandford Forum. Most holiday lets include parking.
What family activities are available near Marnhull?
Longleat Safari Park sits 20 miles north with its famous lions and stately home. Farmer Palmer's Farm Park near Poole offers hands-on animal experiences. The Jurassic Coast is 40 minutes south with fossil hunting and beaches. Many cottages to rent are dog friendly too.
Where are the best romantic spots?
Gold Hill at sunset is magical. Stourhead's lakeside temples create perfect moments. For dining, The Grosvenor Arms in Shaftesbury serves excellent food. Your cottage with hot tub provides the ultimate romantic setting after exploring.
Is there good shopping nearby?
Sherborne has excellent independent shops along Cheap Street. Shaftesbury offers antiques and local crafts. Yeovil provides high street chains 15 miles away. Farm shops around Marnhull sell outstanding local produce including cheese and meat.
Are hot tub cottages suitable for last minute booking?
Absolutely. Many luxury cottages and lodges offer deals on last minute availability. You'll find everything from cheap cottages to boutique properties. Check availability for 1 bedroom retreats or big cottages sleeping large groups. Pet friendly cottages book quickly though.
Staying in one of the hot tub cottages in Marnhull gives you the perfect blend of relaxation and exploration. After days spent visiting historic sites or walking the Blackmore Vale, returning to your self catering retreat with its bubbling jacuzzi feels absolutely right. Book your cottage breaks here and discover why Hardy loved this landscape so much.