A stormy weekend in style

When choosing our latest staycation, our evenings on the sofa were devoted to scouring the internet for the perfect place to recharge. As autumn approached, I knew that we’d need somewhere that embraced October’s blustery days.

After a bit of convincing Meg that we didn’t need a 24-hour concierge or a Michelin star restaurant nearby, I pitched the idea of a treehouse or shepherd’s hut. A place where we could escape the city, cosy up and lean into the shorter days, and darker evenings.

I wasn’t particularly captivated by the usual online suggestions – wooden-clad huts draped in faux fur and filled with foraged-style furniture. Then I remembered a magical spot we’d been shown a few months earlier by Meg’s sister – the fabulous Aller Dorset.

A colourful cabin set in the Dorset countryside, thoughtfully positioned in front of a serene lake, with interiors that make my maximalist heart sing. The thought of sipping champagne in a statement outdoor bath sealed the deal.

Settling into countryside bliss

We set off from Bristol just as Storm Amy was picking up – I think we saw every type of weather in the space of two days! Fortunately, we’d packed the BIG brollies and had made it to our cabin before the rain properly started. On our way, we popped into a local farm shop to gather ingredients for a very bougie mac ’n’ cheese before checking in at Aller Farm.

Of the four cabins, we chose Kittylands – the pink one! Sam, the owner and creative force behind the interiors, has perfected every detail. From the Beauvamp lampshade and Matilda Goad hardware to the hand-painted welcome hamper, every touch felt carefully considered. Feather-filled cushions and bespoke upholstery came together in joyful pattern clashes, while the spacious en-suite offered all the comfort of boutique hotel.

The moment we arrived, I lit the wood-burning stove, Meg started dinner, and we slipped into our pyjamas, settling in for a cosy night of comfort food and fiercely competitive board games.

Morning mooches by the lake

The next morning, Meg curled up with her book while I pottered around putting together breakfast. I may have had too much fun styling all the colourful serveware on the scalloped wicker tray – très chic!

Later, we wandered down to the lake to scope out the possibility of a cold dip…until we met Mr. Swan. Realising he could outswim us in a heartbeat, we decided to forgo the swan showdown and simply enjoy the calm between storms. 

The sun occasionally peeked out to shine on the leaves just beginning to turn. We sat listening to the wind race through the branches, catching amber leaves as they floated down. I couldn’t help getting rather overexcited at the sight of acorns scattered underfoot, many “still wearing their little hats!”

“They’re still wearing their little hats!”

-Bobby

The skies cleared up, so we seized the moment for an outdoor bath. Racing back to turn on the taps, we popped the champagne, and basked in the our little window of sunshine. A true Ab Fab moment – Patsy would be proud. 

Our dreams were soon to be destroyed by the storm’s vengeful return. A funny memory cemented as we retreated inside.

“GRAB THE TOWELS!” “SAVE THE CAMERA!” “OH GOD, THIS IS WILD!”

-Meg

Pubs, pints and proper food 

We surrendered to the bad weather with a late pub lunch at The White Horse in Hinton St Mary – a great spot for good food and English country pub vibes.

We mooched around the picturesque village, admiring thatched ducks on a cottage roof and the quintessential church, before retreating home for a well-earned afternoon nap. 

That evening, we gained a second wind and did what any good Brit would do… found another pub! The Fox Inn, just a ten-minute walk away, gave us a chance to don our Dubarry boots and waxed coats, Girl Guide motto firmly in mind: “Always be prepared.” 

“Always be prepared”

-Girl Guide Moto

A few pints later, we found ourselves teaching a local the rules of Monopoly Deal – important work. Everyone should know the satisfaction of swiping a full property set from their once-smug opponent.

Thankfully, a late checkout saved us the next morning. It was hard to leave that five star quality bed behind, but we eventually dragged ourselves away from the perfect staycation.

Not quite ready to end our little escape, we drove to Lyme Regis for an idyllic afternoon by the sea. But maybe… that’s a story for another day.