The Huckleberry Retreat
holiday cottage

When Booking
When booking, you’ll receive numerous automated messages with useful information including gate code and on arrive, the car park is immediately on the left. If you have difficulty walking or have heavy bags you can drive down to the holiday cottages but I would ask to drive back and park in the designated car park. Initially, it’s a good idea to stay on the paths or driveway. I recently had a guest drive on the grass and became stuck in the mud.

If you are arriving at night, we are a quiet location with limited light pollution and therefore it might be worth bringing a torch or use your phone light. There is obviously some lighting but its limited.

Bin Area
Located next to the main entrance. We have two recycling bins with green lids, (paper, cardboard, plastic bottoms) No glass of plastic bags please. We have two landfill bins, one brown bin and one green glass basket.

Central Heating
This has been trial and error, everyone is different and I’ve had guests say its too cold and too hot. These are modern buildings and the insulation is fantastic so they don’t take much to heat up. The heating is timed to go on at 5.30am until 9am and then 4pm until midnight, at 25 degrees, then in each cottage, you can individually control the heating by each radiator using the TRV – thermostatic radiator valve. However, the times and temperatures are subject to change depending on the time of year. I control this on my phone using an app, so its super easy to adjust. If you just message me, I can adjust the heating in seconds.

Bar-b-que
This is in the pipeline but currently you are welcome to use a disposable bar-b-que on the concrete where the picnic table is, away from the cottages.

Animals
If you have children, I’ll often pop out and show off the rabbits or let the children feed them. 

Outdoor play
Our Playground is located directly opposite the cottages, so the younger people can play, explore and use their imagination. The equipment is inspected and used at your own risk. Located next to Summerbreeze Orchard is Avon Heath where there is a larger playground and slightly beyond this is Moors Valley Country Park with several playgrounds, steam train, Go Ape and forest trail.

The playground comprises of our Mud kitchen, vintage tractor, large climbing logs, seesaw, swings and wendy house.

At the very bottom of the grounds we have a bug hotel, this is our AIR BEE & BEE.

The legal stuff

Playgrounds offer children and families a secure, engaging space where they can test their abilities, enjoy fresh air, engage in pretend play, friends, fun and exercise reaping all the benefits playgrounds offer.

Playground safety is important to us and we make sure the equipment is not faulty and all fully tested and inspected.

Unfortunately, with all activity comes the inevitable risk of injury.

We do not know your child’s abilities or knowledge. Its important they know how to play safely, respect others and are less likely to get hurt.

Adult supervision is key. Adults can prevent injuries by making sure equipment is being used correctly and can give a child first aid right away if needed. Kids should always have adult supervision on the playground. Children will naturally test their limits.

Please note:

1. The playground is a no smoking area.
2. All persons use the playground at their own risk.
3. In the interest of safety, please do not bring dogs, glass, drinks or food, into the play area.
4. Children must be supervised by an adult

In case of an emergency, call 999.

We cannot accept responsibility or liability for a claim, loss or damage whatsoever, which may result from using this facility, except so far as provided by statute. 

Even on the best managed playgrounds, accidents will happen.

Forest and Beach Walks
There are plenty of enjoyable walks, through the forest or across the Heathland. The New Forest is stunning a full day out and lots to see. Within a fifteen minute drive are the beaches, including Bournemouth Beach, Boscombe Pier, Southbourne Beach, Alum Chine Beach, Hengistbury Head and across to Sandbanks. Each beach is different and all have something to offer. Hengistbury Beach and Christchurch is great to take the dog, walking and exploring but not swimming, Southbourne, Boscombe, Bournemouth and Alum Chine are good for swimming.

How far is Bournemouth Airport? 
10 minutes by car

How long does it take to drive to Durdle Door?
I would budget one hour drive.

Is there enough parking for a Jet Ski?
There is plenty of parking, so if you have two cars, jet ski or similar, I’m confident we can accommodate you. 

Are towels included? 
No, please bring your own towels.

Is there an iron? 
Yes.

The cottages are well equipped for cooking and dining.

Tea, Coffee, white & Brown sugar
Toilet roll
Tea Towel
Washing Up Liquid
Bin Liner

Summerbreeze Orchard is set within 3 acres within a secure gated development, nestled in greenbelt countryside between the New Forest, Bournemouth Beach, Poole and Ringwood town.