Whilst we try to cover as much information as possible within our website we appreciate there will always be questions. Below are the answers to the most common questions that we are asked. Should you still have further questions please contact us.

Q: How can I check availability / prices / book  

All availability / prices / booking can be made securely here on our website via the BOOK NOW link. Should you have any difficulty please do not hesitate to contact us. Please do just check you are looking at the correct property i.e. either Hengistbury Reach or Stourcliffe Retreat

Q: Can I pay in instalments?

Yes, a 20% deposit will secure any dates. The balance will then become due 60 days before arrival. For bookings made a way in advance if you would prefer to make monthly/regular payments rather than leave it all until 60 days before arrival then just let us know and we can discuss a payment plan to suit?

Q: Do you need a car? 

You don’t need a car to enjoy all that we have to offer.

Hengistbury Reach is a 15min walk from Christchurch train station. Stourcliffe Retreat a 15 min walk from Pokesdown Train  station ( the next stop on line from Christchurch). Or both are just a  short 10 minute taxi ride from Bournemouth train station.

For shorter stays there is so much to see and do on your doorstep. For longer stays then the wider area can be explored –

By very regular buses – morebus

Trains – South Western Trains

Ferries (seasonal) Bournemouth Boating Services, Mudeford Ferry, Sandbanks Ferry, Isle of Wight Ferry.

Beryl bikes & scooters are also available to hire. 

Q: How far are you from the airport? 

Bournemouth airport is a 15 min taxi ride.  London Heathrow & Gatwick are 2 – 2.5hr drive.

Q: Do you cater for young children?

Yes we do. When traveling with young children we know how space in the car is at a premium so we will provide a travel cot, high chair, bathroom step/ toddler toilet seat, plastic cups, plates & bowls, buckets & spades & age appropriate toys, books and games. 

Q: Do you offer a babysitting service?

Yes, our grown up daughter Emma has been working in childcare for the last 14yrs. If you are attending a wedding, event or perhaps would just like a child free  evening meal out then do discuss dates with us as early as possible as this service is subject to availability (additional charges apply).

Q: Can you walk to the beach or do you need to drive?

You can walk to the beach and access 8+ miles of coastline. The nearest stretch of beach to Hengistbury Reach is Hengistbury Head & Mudeford Sandspit. The nearest stretch of beach to Stourcliffe Retreat is Southbourne beach & Fishermans Walk beach .

Q: How busy are the local beaches

Our beaches are relatively quiet all year round. (Just avoid central Bournemouth beach which is further along the coastline and can get very busy in the peak season)

Q: Are there any pubs, cafes & restaurants nearby?

You will be absolutely spoilt for choice! See our LOCAL AREA page for some of our favourites (we also provide more information at the property). Southbourne , Tuckton and Christchurch all offer a wealth of cafes, restaurants and pubs catering for all tastes. 

Q: Are you dog friendly?

We welcome dogs at both of our property’s but would recommend Hengistbury Reach if you have a larger dog/more than 1 dog due to its fully enclosed accessible garden. More information can be found HERE 

Q: Can you offer dog sitting?

Whilst the area is very dog friendly some visitor attractions understandably don’t allow dogs e.g. Paultons Park which is very poplar with visiting young families. If your dog(s) is happy in the company of other dogs ( i.e. ours who are very easy going) then we may be able to look after them for you at our home nearby….or if you’d just like someone to sit with your dog in the property for a little while while you go out this may also be possible. Please do discuss with us early as this service is subject to availability and at an additional cost.

Q: Is the hot tub ( Hengistbury Reach) for private use?

Yes, guests booking Hengistbury Reach have exclusive use of the Jacuzzi hot tub which will be maintained by us throughout the holiday. Cosy waffle dressing gowns will be supplied ( for adults only) as well as towels. We recommend you bring some flip flops to wear on the walk to and from the hot tub from the house. 

Q: Do you offer short breaks?

Yes, we offer short breaks at Hengistbury Reach off peak and to fill any occasional gaps between longer stays during peak season. Minimum booking varies by month but is from 2 nights. (With set up/changeover costs being the same whatever the length of stay a longer booking will always work out cheaper on a cost per night basis.)

Q: Do you offer longer stays?

Yes, at Hengistbury Reach we offer stays up to 28 nights ( subject to availability). At Stourcliffe Retreat we offer flexible  ‘winter lets’ between October-Easter of 3 weeks to 6 months. Please contact us to discuss should this be of potential interest.