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Featured in The Times, a child-friendly, 2 bed cottage in Christchurch, Dorset

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Interior
Smart TV, fireplace, DVD player, books
Outdoor dining
2 bedrooms, iron/ironing board, travel crib, free WiFi
Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop

Reviews

10 out of 10

Exceptional

Entire home

2 bedrooms1 bathroom84 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Washer
  • Barbecue grill
  • Kitchen
  • Fireplace
  • Dryer

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Featured in The Times, a child-friendly, 2 bed cottage in Christchurch, Dorset

“Cool Cottages in Dorset” “As cool as they get”, as featured in The Times Travel supplement (May 2016)

Voted “top 5 best rated cottages in the UK for 2017” by Baby Friendly Boltholes (January 2018)

Voted “top 5 best rated cottages in UK for the period 2018 - 2023” by Baby Friendly Boltholes (January 2023)

PALM COTTAGE is a locally listed cottage located in the historic market town of Christchurch, Dorset. A short walk into the town centre, the cottage is also close to Stanpit Nature Reserve and Mudeford Quay, and many of Dorset and Hampshire’s best beaches, harbour towns and the New Forest National Park. Thank you!

Cottage Highlights - Palm Cottage sleeps up to 4 people plus a cot comfortably (6 with the sofa bed), and is geared for all types of visitor but in particular families with children.

- Double aspect open plan living, dining and kitchen space
- Living area with comfy sofas, gas burner, modern LED television and board games for all ages
- Large chalked oak dining table with seating up to 6
- Children’s play nook with an array of toys, books and seating
- Fully equipped high spec kitchen with all mod cons including a dishwasher, washer dryer and Nespresso coffee machine
- Master bedroom with a king size bed, with a feature beamed vaulted ceiling
- Second bedroom has zip and lock beds which can be configured as either 2 singles or 1 king
- Marble tiled family bathroom with power shower, bath & toilet, and natural light
- 60ft cottage style rear garden with seating, artificial grass, a fully kitted outdoor play house and ride-ons, a BBQ and (hopefully) plenty of sunshine all day long.
- located in a cul-de-sac, its a quiet road with street parking available locally
- WIFI included

Baby & Child Friendly - As a family with young children ourselves, Palm Cottage is both baby and toddler friendly as highlighted below:

- a fully equipped kitchen for meal preparation and feeding; a hand blender, microwave, plastic cups, crockery and cutlery (including weaning spoons)
- dining seating; a high chair and a booster seat
- sleeping arrangements; a quality travel cot (no cot linen provided), bed guards for the twin beds, blackout blinds and night lights in both bedrooms, together with a baby monitor and a gro-egg room thermometer
- safety measures; stair-gate at top of stairs and a number of socket covers
- bath time: a selection of bath toys and non-slip mat, a potty, child’s loo seat, step and change mat
- indoor entertainment; a play nook with comfy seating and a selection of toys and books, DVD player and small selection of children’s DVDs
- outdoor entertainment; play house with selection of toys and ride-ons for garden use
- baby sitting services available on request
We do need to point out that this is an old cottage with the original stairs. While effort has been made to ‘child’ proof them, care still needs to be taken.

We really hope you enjoy your time at Palm Cottage as much as we do, and enjoy the beautiful surrounding area!

Property manager

Alexia

Languages

English, French, Greek, Spanish

Property amenities

Beach

  • Near the beach
  • Beach sun loungers

Internet

  • Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Street parking available
  • Onsite parking

Kitchen

  • Refrigerator
  • Stovetop
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Dishwasher
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Electric kettle
  • Toaster
  • Blender

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bed sheets provided
  • Sofa bed

Bathrooms

  • 1 bathroom
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Fireplace
  • Dining room

Entertainment

  • Smart TV
  • Arcade/game room
  • DVD player
  • Books
  • Video library
  • Games

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Fenced yard
  • Barbecue grill
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Outdoor entertainment area

Laundry

  • Washing machine and dryer
  • Near laundromat

Comfort

  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Concierge services
  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • Near the sea
  • In the city center
  • Near a health or beauty spa
  • Near a hospital
  • Near a zoo
  • Near the bay

Things to do

  • Water park
  • Fitness facilities nearby
  • Golf privileges
  • Bicycle on site
  • Parasailing nearby
  • Jet skiing nearby
  • Hiking nearby
  • Cycling nearby
  • Wildlife and game walks nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Water skiing nearby
  • Water tubing nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property)

General

  • Unit size: 900 sq ft (84 sq m)

Similar properties

Enclosed patio area and garden to the rear. Parking space adjacent to property.

The Retreat Holiday Home, Christchurch, Dorset. Family and couple friendly.

Kitchen
Pet friendly
Free WiFi
Outdoor Space
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (68)
The Retreat Holiday Home, Christchurch, Dorset. Family and couple friendly.

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Contactless check-in available

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

Pets not allowed

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation

About the neighborhood

Map
Christchurch, ENG

What's nearby

  • Christchurch Harbour - 3 min drive
  • Mudeford Quay - 5 min drive
  • Highcliffe Castle - 5 min drive
  • O2 Academy Bournemouth - 9 min drive
  • Southbourne Beach - 9 min drive

Getting around

  • Christchurch Station - 5 min drive
  • Bournemouth (BOH-Bournemouth Intl.) - 16 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪The Kashmir - ‬10 min walk
  • ‪Caffè Nero - ‬18 min walk
  • ‪The Thomas Tripp - ‬15 min walk
  • ‪The Boathouse Restaurant - ‬18 min walk
  • ‪The Ship Inn - ‬16 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Featured in The Times, a child-friendly, 2 bed cottage in Christchurch, Dorset pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Featured in The Times, a child-friendly, 2 bed cottage in Christchurch, Dorset?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Featured in The Times, a child-friendly, 2 bed cottage in Christchurch, Dorset?

Check-out is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Featured in The Times, a child-friendly, 2 bed cottage in Christchurch, Dorset located?

This family-friendly Christchurch cottage is located by the sea, within 1 mi (2 km) of Christchurch Castle, Regent Centre, and Christchurch Priory. Mudeford Quay Beach and Prototype Bailey Bridge are also within 2 mi (3 km). Christchurch Station is 26 minutes by foot.

Featured in The Times, a child-friendly, 2 bed cottage in Christchurch, Dorset Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 93 out of 103 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 10 out of 103 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 103 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 103 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 103 reviews" "

9.6/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Claire C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect getaway
Great cottage in a great location near to the centre of Christchurch. The cottage has everything we needed and we had a fabulous relaxing stay without 2 children. We’ll definitely be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Melanie B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Comfortable and Close Walk to Shops, Restaurants
Nicely updated upstairs bedrooms and bathroom, updated kitchen/living area downstairs, play area for youngsters and outside hang-out area. Good appliances, but dryer wasn't working during our stay. Prompt communication with host.
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Adrian L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Christchurch
Lovely place to stay
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Caroline J.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great, child friendly cottage
We had a lovely week staying at Palm Cottage. It had everything we needed (high chair, cot, etc) and our daughter loved all the toys and books. Great location and lots to do without having to drive too far.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Mike S., London

Liked: Cleanliness
Always a delightful property
We have stayed here several times as we have family in the area. It’s our first choice given the location ( 3 restaurants within walking distance) but the star is the property itself. Warm and cozy, with high quality fittings. Alexia could not be more helpful. Highly recommended
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Chloe B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Getaway
Amazing property, expertly catered for families with small children. The owners have created a very stylish yet friendly environment for everyone staying to enjoy. Highly recommend.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Rae F., Basingstoke Hampshire UK

Liked: Cleanliness
Great weekend getaway
We had a lovely little weekend getaway! Communication with Alexia, was great and quick for anything needed. Our daughter loved the under the stairs den and the little fairy door. The bed bumpers and all the kids supplies were perfect, we didn't need to travel with anything!! Location was great for seeing all the spots around. Parking although limited, was not a problem at all. We didn't get to use the outdoors space, but I know it would be perfect if the stay was longer and in the summer. All in all a perfect family space and getaway!!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Robert K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Canada guest
Excellent location. Facility was modern and homey. Maybe could include personal hygiene products such as shampoo and soap.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023

8/10 Good

Jenny B., Wolverhampton

Great location
Lovely cosy cottage in a great location! Owner has thought of everything you would need which is lovely Cleanliness wasn’t up to par and found it difficult to find places to put any belongings, food particularly -but owner has been very empathetic & promised to get this improved along with a full redecoration - to keep it as good as the photos ! Looking forward to this :-)
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Maureen H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Trip with friends
The property is beautiful. Very clean and everything is to the highest standard. Great communication with owner.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

ron w.

Liked: Cleanliness
all you need for a pleasant stay
what a beautiful cottage in a quiet area. everything you need is there. clean and well maintained. close to all kinds of activities and nature. would definitely go here with my grandchildren.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Tom C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Lovely stay
Very nice and tidy property with everything you would need. Alexia was great host answering questions and making sure everything was okay.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sandra M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Enjoyed Palm Cottage
What a lovely cottage - clean, bright and well located. Alexia was quick to respond and very helpful. Our toddler had the best time discovering all the little play areas, and we had a relaxing holiday as everything we could possibly need had been provided. Hope to be back again sometime.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023

8/10 Good

Kristie G.

Liked: Cleanliness
Lovely base for our family holiday!
Had everything we needed for our holiday. We used Palm Cottage as a base as we were out every day exploring Dorset so only used the cottage in the evenings for dinner, bath & bed! Local days out we enjoyed: * Hengistbury Head/Mudeford/Land train * Avon Beach/Highcliffe Castle/Crabbing Mudeford Quay * Boat trip to Swanage, then steam train to Corfe Castle * Sandbanks * Brownsea Island * Peppa Pig World * Moors Valley Country Park Positives: * Great to have a cot, we just brought our own mattress and bedding for baby * Baby/children's crockery and cutlery was very handy and helpful * Good cooking facilities like oven/hob/microwave, washing machine and a coffee machine * Very well equipped including a children's play cupboard under the stairs with toys and lovely books to read at bedtime. * Bathroom is very well equipped too with a child's toilet seat, stool to reach the sink and bath toys to play with. * Beds were comfortable and there were fans to keep cool with. * Shower was lovely & powerful and the kids enjoyed their baths. Negatives: * Parking was a BIG problem as no dedicated space so as we were out exploring each day, we got back late a lot to find no parking nearby. * Steep stairs - not ideal for crawlers/toddlers/young children. * Doorways and stairs - hubby kept banging his head as he is over 6ft tall & there was no warning signage. * Only 1 wine glass Alexia was a fantastic host and very quick at replying to any questions or messages. Thank you!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023

8/10 Good

Janice C.

Well appointed cottage and good location
Title says it all, Christchurch was a pleasant surprise and the accommodation was comfortable and very child friendly and the host was attentive and helpful. Only real downside, maybe the garden could have been tidier and more comfortably garden chairs provided.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

8/10 Good

Emily R.

Palm cottage
Cottage is in a lovely quiet street and good acces to many beaches. We did have some issues with cleanliness in the cottage but this was resolved. Overall we had a lovely stay
Stayed 5 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jacqui S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Cosy in Christchurch
A lovely property in a very convenient location. Alexia was very responsive to any messages and clearly wants guests to enjoy their stay. Will definitely recommend to others who would like to visit the area.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Mike S., London

Liked: Cleanliness
Another lovely stay
We’ve reviewed this property before. The fact that we keep going back is probably all you need to know. Great location, very child friendly and three restaurants in walking distance . Excellent property manager who couldn’t be more helpful. Look forward to many more visits
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023

8/10 Good

Kezia D.

A pleasant stay
Lovely little place. The space was great for us as a family. We packed so much less, knowing what was available at the property during our stay. The play nook and games cupboard was great for the kids when we had to stay in due to bad weather. We had to be careful on the stairs but this was expected. Advice - if you are over 6ft be careful walking through the doorways upstairs as these are low. A few issues around cleanliness, other than that, we had a pleasant stay.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Samantha N.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful Cottage
We had a lovely shirt break at Palm cottage. A perfect location whilst visiting family. My children loved the little play nook. Alexia was a perfect host and very responsive to any questions we had. Would not hesitate to book again. Thank you x
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Imogen M.

Liked: Cleanliness
The perfect London getaway!
I recently stayed here with my boyfriend and the whole trip was lovely. Palm cottage is situated perfectly down a quiet side road, however only a short walk to the town centre and beach slightly further afield. We enjoyed going to the beach, visiting Highcliffe Castle and generally just relaxing. Alexia was such a great host, answering any questions I had very quickly and the house felt so warm and cosy. Thankyou so much Alexia, we will definitely be back soon!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Mike S., London

Liked: Cleanliness
Always a delight to stay here
We've reviewed Palm Cottage before. We always stay here if we can as it is an ideal base. We're grandparents but it is very family friendly for children and Alexia could not be more helpful
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Karen W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Little gem
Lovely cottage fully equipped for every eventuality.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Mike S., London

Liked: Cleanliness
Fabulous
We've stayed at Palm Cottage before as we have family in Christchurch. It really is a knockout property-warm, cosy, high quality f&f, everything works first time. Very child friendly (we had our 2 yo grandson over on a couple of days) Alexia, the owner is a delight to deal with.Sets a very high standard, we wouldn't bother staying anywhere else
Stayed 6 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Mike S., London

Liked: Cleanliness
Highly recommended
A lovely property furnished and decorated with great style. High quality fittings and equipment, throughout. Ideal for young families but also a great base for us (in our 60's) on grandparent duty. The owner, Alexia, could not have been more helpful. We've already booked again!
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2023