Shepherd Huts
Cosy Shepherd Hut stays in Dorset
Welcome to South Lytchett Manor, where our hand-built Shepherd Huts offer intimate countryside retreats in the beautiful region of Dorset. Located just three miles from Poole, our Shepherd Huts blend traditional craftsmanship with modern comfort, creating glamping accommodation that embodies the charm of rural living while ensuring all the conveniences of today.
Each Shepherd Hut features heritage design and quality construction, crafted on-site using authentic techniques. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or a unique family adventure, these cosy huts provide a countryside glamping experience with all the familiar modern amenities. After over 18 years of refining our approach to exceptional glamping accommodation, we have created hand-built huts that connect you with the rich heritage of the countryside while offering the comfort and facilities expected from quality rural stays.
Your Shepherd Hut experience
Where countryside calm meets understated comfort through traditional accommodation that celebrates rural heritage, our hand-built Shepherd Huts offer intimate glamping experiences connecting guests with authentic countryside living whilst ensuring modern convenience.
Perfect for:
- Couples seeking retreats with intimate atmosphere and heritage character
- Families wanting unique glamping accommodation that captivates children whilst ensuring comfort
- Nature lovers requiring countryside experiences with modern amenities nearby
- Dog owners needing pet-friendly accommodation with a rural outdoor space
Key advantages:
- Hand-built on-site using quality materials and traditional building techniques
- Traditional heritage design maintaining authentic Shepherd Hut proportions and character
- Scenic location providing countryside immersion
- Modern kitchenette with two-burner hob, under-counter fridge and coffee machine, ensuring self-catering capability
- Flexible sleeping arrangements accommodating couples or families with children under 14
- Dog-friendly options available ensuring four-legged family members enjoy rural adventures
- Award-winning park facilities are steps away, including heated washrooms and family amenities
Hand-built construction and heritage design
Experience the beauty of traditional huts crafted with time-honoured techniques, seamlessly blending with contemporary materials for lasting durability and year-round comfort.
Step inside to discover thoughtfully designed interiors balancing traditional character with comfortable living spaces.
The Shepherd Huts are located within our stunning parkland, connecting you to nature and providing convenient access to award-winning facilities.
Quick guide to what's in your Shepherd Hut
Please Note: Guests provide their own crockery, cutlery, pans, cooking utensils and cleaning supplies. You will also need to provide your towels and bedding (duvet or sleeping bags, pillows, sheets).
Seasonal comfort throughout the year
Spring and Summer adventures
Warmer months bring Shepherd Hut accommodation to life with extended outdoor living and countryside exploration.
What Spring and Summer offer:
- Extended daylight hours are perfect for outdoor relaxation
- Peak season for Dorset attractions and coastal activities within easy reach
- Children’s outdoor play opportunities with safe parkland exploration
Autumn and Winter retreats
Cooler seasons bring a distinctive character to Shepherd Hut stays with atmospheric countryside settings and indoor comfort.
What Autumn and Winter offer:
- Perfect for cosy romantic breaks for two
- Ideal accommodation for exploring Dorset’s peaceful off-season attractions
Frequently asked questions
Yes. Each hut accommodates 2 adults and 2 children under 14 years with a comfortable double bed and two pull-out single beds. The traditional design captivates children whilst modern facilities ensure family comfort.
Our Shepherd Huts are hand-built using traditional techniques and heritage designs, creating an authentic rural atmosphere with modern amenities. The compact interior, combined with a scenic countryside location, provides a cosy glamping experience.
Some selected Shepherd Huts are dog-friendly, but additional charges apply. The countryside setting offers excellent opportunities for dog walking, and we have a dedicated 2.5-acre dog exercise and agility area, as well as washing stations for muddy paws. Over 60% of our guests bring dogs, so your four-legged family members will have plenty of companions.
Each hut includes a modern kitchenette with a two-burner hob, under-counter fridge and coffee machine, enabling self-catering. You’ll need to bring your own crockery, cutlery, pans, cooking utensils and cleaning supplies. Award-winning facilities including dishwashing areas, are steps away.
Our accommodation is perfectly complemented by a range of on-site amenities that enhance your glamping experience while maintaining an authentic outdoor atmosphere.
Explore our award-winning facilities, which include modern shower blocks, laundry services, and family-friendly amenities conveniently located near the Shepherd Huts.
We understand that successful family glamping requires both adventure and safety, which is why we’ve created an environment where children can explore.
The adventure playground is just a short walk from the Shepherd Huts, featuring climbing frames and swings that will keep kids entertained for hours.
Looking for holiday inspiration? Visit the Information Hut, situated in the centre of the park. It is filled with local maps, recommendations for activities and attractions, as well as information on cycling and walking routes to help you plan your days out in Dorset.
Feel free to ask our reception team for recommendations. They are locals and can guide you on the best beaches for young kids, top attractions, and fun ideas for rainy days.
We’ve got options that don’t involve you cooking every meal or driving to Poole when everyone’s tired.
Regular catering vans visit the park serving fish & chips, wood oven pizza, Thai, Funky fries and delicious pancakes. Perfect for when you just want someone else to cook. To see who is visiting, take a look here.
During high season, grab a delicious breakfast butty from the Café at the Gates or a freshly baked pastry, along with a barista-style coffee.
From May till the end of September, join us for a sundowner at The Manor’s Tap. Open 4 pm to 8 pm daily, serving a selection of beer, wine, cocktails and soft drinks.
Our shop is well stocked with all of the essentials and local produce, just in case you forget anything.
Just a short 10-minute walk away is The Cowshed at The Courtyard Craft Centre or St Peter’s Finger Pub, serving delicious home-cooked food.
Take a three-mile drive to Poole, and there is a wide choice of restaurants and supermarkets when you need them.
Accommodation essentials:
- Bedding including duvet or sleeping bags, pillows and comfortable sheets for all family members
- Towels for personal use and shower facilities in award-winning washrooms
- Personal toiletries and any specialist personal care requirements
Kitchen and dining equipment:
- Crockery, cutlery and glassware for family dining and meal preparation
- Pans, cooking utensils and preparation equipment for two-ring hob cooking
- Washing up bowl and cleaning products for kitchen maintenance
- Food storage containers and any specialist dietary requirements
- Tea towels and cloths for general kitchen use
Out and about essentials:
- Waterproof clothing and footwear suitable for British coastal weather conditions
- Warm layers and extra blankets for evening stargazing sessions and outdoor deck relaxation
- Entertainment for children, including books, games and outdoor toys for various weather conditions
- Torches for evening walks to facilities (pathways are lit but torches are helpful)
Ready to experience Shepherd Hut glamping in Dorset? Our traditional accommodation provides an authentic rural retreat whilst ensuring contemporary comfort for couples and families seeking countryside connection. Book early to secure your preferred dates during the summer season.
What you need to know at a glance:
- Sleeps four (one double bed, two single futons for kids under 14)
- Small kitchenette for self-catering flexibility
- Check-in from 3 pm, check-out by 11 am
- Dog-friendly Huts are available (additional fee of £5 per dog per night, booking essential)
You’re probably wondering about check-in time. Please arrive any time after 3 pm, come to the reception, and we’ll show you where everything is.
When to book:
- Peak Season (July-August, Easter, school holidays): Book early to avoid disappointment.
- Shoulder Season (April-June, September-October): Good availability and still amazing weather
- Off-Peak (November-March): Most flexible for dates, perfect for enjoying a quieter Dorset
Prices start from £75.00 per night per Hut staying Sunday to Thursday off-peak
Discover Dorset’s top attractions
Our Shepherd Huts serve as the perfect base to explore some of Dorset’s most popular attractions. Ideally situated for easy access to both Bournemouth and Poole, you’ll find stunning beauty spots along the Jurassic Coast are just a short drive away.
If you prefer not to drive, then hop on the bus outside the front gates (Number 40 to Poole) to start your Dorset adventure.
Discover a wealth of exciting attractions, beautiful beaches, and fantastic day trip opportunities, all just 30 minutes away! Take a look at our inspiring guide of things to do and make the most of your adventure.
What’s nearby:
- Poole Harbour and waterfront (3 miles)
- Award-winning family attractions, including Splashdown, Farmer Palmers, Monkey World, The Tank Museum, Corfe Castle (between 10 and 45 minutes)
- Bournemouth beaches (20 minutes)
- Sandbanks (10 minutes)
- Studland Beach (22 minutes)
- Jurassic Coast sites (30 minutes)
- Supermarkets and essentials (under 10 minutes)
Prices
All prices are per night and include VAT.
£75.00 Sunday – Thursday inc* special rate
£82.00 Sunday – Thursday inc
£87.00 Sunday – Thursday inc
£87.00 Sunday – Thursday inc
£124.75 Monday – Thursday inc
£82.00 Sunday – Thursday inc
£97.50 Sunday – Thursday inc
£117.75 Sunday – Thursday inc
£87.00 Sunday – Thursday inc
£75.00 Sunday – Thursday inc * special rate
Ready to book your Shepherd Hut experience?
Check availability and book online. If you have a question, please call our friendly team on 01202 622 577