Monthly Archives: September 2015

T’was the night before Christmas and throughout Lancombe’s grounds

Not a creature was stirring…except for the chickens

Each cottage was bursting with tinsel and charm

Waiting for families to arrive arm in arm

When a note from Dear Santa arrives on the mat

“I’ll be coming to Lancombe, you can be sure of that”

Dressed all in fur from his head to his feet

A little bit tarnished from ashes and soot

“I come bearing gifts for the good girls and boys”

The reindeer sleigh was choc full of toys!

As the grotto opens, one by one they can see

Shiny bows and big presents, ‘Is that one for me’?

Then dinner arrives, it’s from Asda you see,

It was ordered last week just in time for us to eat

Turkey, sprouts and potatoes, in the oven they go

So we can stroll the woodland, and play in the snow*

Once the pudding is cold and the night has drawn in

The fireplace is lit and the games can begin

Monopoly, balderdash…even cards can be played

‘They haven’t stopped laughing’, the field horses neighed

As boxing day falls with a crisp dawn frost

Mum and Dad take a swim in the warm pool, (it’s a must)

Then all wrapped up with hats, scarves and boots

Everyone goes to the beach for a blustery hoot

As the Christmas fun ends, the children all shout

“This has been the best Christmas ever, we have no doubt”

“Can we come again next year, oh please parents please”

And Caroline books their favourite cottage out with ease

“Farewell my friends, until next year…

But if you fancy a summer break, I’ll be right here”

If you’d like to make a reservation to stay on one of our fabulous country cottages or lodges over the Christmas break, then just give us a call on 01300 320562 or email info@lancombe.co.uk to make your reservation.

We’d be delighted to welcome you to Lancombe!

*Fake snow available on request 😉

Winter is one of the best seasons to explore the stunning beauty of Dorset’s coast and countryside.  Don’t let the cold weather put you off this winter; dress up in your warm clothes and put on your walking boots and venture out to see some of the counties’ most stunning landscapes and wildlife.

 

Here are a few of our favourites:

Portland Bill and Castle

When a winter storm is about to hit, there is no better place to witness the spectacle of the huge rolling waves than Portland Bill.  Take in the blustery views over the limestone cliffs and spot the seabirds blowing on the breeze. Why not stop at the Lobster Pot Café and warm up, with stunning views of the ocean it is the perfect spot to indulge in some homemade pie.

 

The Historic Blackmore Vale

Starting out at the beautiful village of Marnhull, you can explore the stunning countryside of Blackmore Vale.  This is quite simply rural Dorset at it’s finest.  You’ll climb over a kissing gate and stiles, and once you’ve built up an appetite, you can head to the 15^th Century Blackmore Vale Inn where you can enjoy beautiful, locally inspired and seasonal food with a pint of real ale in front of a roaring wood fire.  Dogs and horses are welcome here too!

 

Radipole Lake RSPB Reserve

If you’re a keen birdwatcher, then make a day of it at Radipole Lake Reserve.  One of Weymouth’s most beautiful spots for dog walkers and families alike to enjoy a tranquil and peaceful walk.  The winter months will bring sightings of Water Rail, Pied Wagtails and Pochard; you can also see a magical display of hoar frost on the trees and vegetation on a particularly frosty day.  Binocular hire is available here and there are also guided walks.  After an enjoyable walk around the reserve, you can stop at the café and indulge in a home-made cake!

 

Lyme Regis

The pretty little town of Lyme Regis is renowned for its fossils.  Here you’ll find fossil shops and fossil tours, even the pavements have ammonites.  It is well reported that after a winter storm, the fossils are more exposed from the cliffs, perfect for the novice fossil hunter!  Take yourself down onto the beach with your dog and explore the cliffs and beaches.  There is a picturesque harbour here, along with 3 main beaches for you to discover.  Why not try out some tasty cod and chips at ‘By The Bay’, a fabulous seafood restaurant with wonderful views of the area.

 

Dorset may be known as a summer destination but the county has so much to offer in the winter months, especially for anyone interested in getting back to nature, photography, dog walking, rambling or those in need of some ‘me time’, and a place to breathe in the fresh sea air.

 

Happy Walking!