A shepherd's hut in rural Dorset perfect for getting away from it all

Over recent years, there’s been a growing demand for holidays that reconnect guests with the land and offer a digital detox. Often, they conjure images of something a little too rustic with none of the mod cons and comforts that we actually want – because who wants an unheated shack for a loo and no pubs nearby? Instead, we really want what Aller Dorset offers; two impeccably stylish shepherd-style huts overlooking a serene lake set within the rolling hills of Dorset’s green and pleasant land. A real rural escape, but within the very well curated surrounds created by ex-fashion PR Cat and her husband Ant.

Turning off a small country lane just past the village pub, you drive briefly through the family’s farmyard before parking in an area that denotes this will not be a farm-style stay. Two wheelbarrows greet you, cleverly there to be deployed for getting unwieldy luggage the short stroll over a field. The field is on a slight decline, meaning as you walk over to the huts, they magically appear into view, the trees and lake – and hopefully, sun – providing a most wonderful backdrop. Enter through a paddock gate and there you have your own private sanctuary, kitted out inside with fabrics from Rapture & Wright, Hot Pottery ceramics, By Alice’s splattered glassware and Rosi de Ruig lampshades.

The two huts were designed by Ant and Cat and manufactured by Plankbridge, who have been inundated with requests since the pandemic began. Each sits proudly overlooking a small lake beyond, with a jetty and two separate lounging areas on either side. It’s the most enchanting vista to wake up to, and even more lovely in the dusk light as you sit by the fire inside the hut and look out of the sliding glass doors beyond. The connection with the outdoor world is seamless. Whether via a dip in the lake for the brave or the more luxuriant idea of a bath under the stars in the outdoor tub – a contender for best feature of Aller Dorset – the space extends well beyond the panelled walls of the hut.

The design inside is a masterful working of a small space, divided into a small bathroom at one end complete with a tiled shower, leading onto the kingsize bed-dominated bedroom and then into the kitchen, living and dining space at the other end of the hut, overlooking the lake. The bedroom is nearly filled by the bed, with enough space to move around it easily and storage drawers beneath for your things. There’s even enough room in there for local reflexologist Annabelle Turner to sit at the end of the bed while you lie on the bed, gazing out of the skylight above or picture window beyond as you drift into total relaxation. It’s the main living space in which Cat has shown her masterful touch, managing to fit in a fireplace, honesty bar, built-in banquette and kitchen that are all both charming and incredibly practical. One hut (Links) is kitted out with a verdant green kitchen and pink accents, while the other (Littledown) is blue with red.