There’s something of The Secret Garden about the setting of the Shepherd’s Hut at Blanda. You’ll find this little bolthole, alongside a glasshouse, in the old vegetable garden of a Victorian rectory. The high hedges, once designed to keep growing produce sheltered, now do the same for you and ensure your stay is peaceful and secluded. To be honest there’s not much chance of anything else around here. This is the rural hamlet of Chaffcombe in southern Somerset. It’s a sleepy little settlement with a church and not much more. It’s the perfect place to just relax... though there's no denying that the 30 minute-drive south to the Jurassic Coast is pretty tempting too.
Step inside the shepherd’s hut and things are just as tranquil as on the other side of the stable door. It’s been simply but thoughtfully furnished – all done with a gentle touch. The timber clad walls are whitewashed, the colour in the bedding and cushions is soft and there are well-chosen antiques and vintage pieces here and there. It gives the impression of age and solidity although, in actual fact, this place is rather new. You’ll notice that in the spotlessly clean en suite which has modern plumbing (and by that we mean a flushing loo and hot water shower). There’s electricity to the hut which powers lights under vintage shades, a two-ring hob and a stove. There’s just enough to make stays here comfortable but not enough to distract. There’s deliberately no TV and no WiFi either.
Instead, you can sit outside by the fire at night or in the fairy-lit glasshouse if it rains. You can head out on walks into the surrounding countryside or drive to explore a little further, perhaps visiting one of the good gastro pubs that are a short drive away. Heather, your host, is a reassuring presence who will pop to stay hello with her dogs during your stay. She’ll let you know about the best local places to visit if you want to get out and about. But don’t feel guilty if you want to stay right here and enjoy the peace and tranquility of your own little secret garden.
