Deer Leap Cottage

Customer rating

4.2★

6 Guests
3 Bedrooms
1 Bathroom
Pets Yes
Show on map

Features

Swimming pool
Off road parking
Open fire
Garden / Patio
Cot available
Highchair available
Pub/shop < 1 mile
Washing machine
Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing

Cleanliness

Comfort

Facilities and Maintenance

* Based on a combined average customer score

22 Customer Review(s)

Kevin
August 2025

“It’s. Very nice but the bathroom is not up to scratch, needs another bathroom for 6 people”

- Kevin, August 2025
Roger August 2023

“There is much to like about Deer Leap Cottage, its wonderful grounds and amenities, not to mention the deer!”

However, based on our experiences, there are a number of important issues which I feel I should share with others who might be considering booking. We were a party of 4 adults, 3 children aged 9, 4 and 17 months and a dog. A couple of weeks prior to our departure my daughter made a number of unsuccessful attempts to communicate with you about the provision of equipment. There was never an answer or reply, so I used the online facility to request a high chair and a stair gate prior to our visit. When we arrived, a high chair without a tray was provided but no stair gate. We tried to make contact again immediately but again no answer or reply. We had to improvise with a make-shift clumsy and inconvenient workaround until a stair gate arrived. It never did, for the entire duration of our stay. Believe me, this is a big deal if you have a highly mobile toddler. If you don’t have a stair gate or have no intention of providing one, then please don’t pretend that you will, and make this clear in your pre-booking information so visitors can properly evaluate if the property will meet their needs. There was no pool code readily provided to us upon arrival as promised. Our neighbours in the main house kindly provided us with it from their information booklet. Our information booklet went undiscovered for a couple of days until we noticed it in an unmarked folder in an unexpected location. There is no WiFi in the main living accommodation of the cottage. This is a plain fact, not an opinion. Huddling up against the interconnecting door to the adjoining main house to tap into their WiFi does not cut it. As a consequence of no useable WiFi, access to the claimed Netflix and Sky services is not available, Freeview only. I notice that from previous reviews that this is an ongoing situation. If the subscription payments are being made you need to raise this with your service provider immediately. If you do not intend to rectify this then please be honest about it instead of accusing your guests of tampering with the equipment. Mid week, our neighbours kindly provided us with a high chair complete with a tray that they did not need after they heard about our difficulty using the provided one at meal times as it did not match the table height in the kitchen. On our final day of our holiday my wife finally tracked you down while you were visiting the main house, hoping to discuss our unresolved issues with you before leaving. When presented with our numerous unresolved issues (more than I have had space to communicate in this review), you declined to discuss these issues with us so my wife returned to the cottage for a couple of minutes to provide you with a written list. During the few minutes that it took for us to provide you with the list, you hastily departed from the premises, leaving it to the housekeeping staff to make your excuses that you had “needed urgently to leave due to a sudden family crisis” . We hope all is well with your family and I have deliberately delayed writing this review for a week in the hope that you might contact us with some explanations. None have been forthcoming. Based on our experience, we could not recommend staying at your holiday accommodation as we do not have confidence that you can deliver the service and provision that you advertise and accept full payment for.

- Roger, August 2023
Hilary July 2023

“We loved the setting - the grounds, the lake, the tennis court and the pool.”

Luckily we got on with the family staying in Deer Leap House so sharing facilities was not a problem. The accommodation was comfortable and clean. BUT we were frustrated that, on arrival, the pool was locked, the TV didn't work and the WiFi was non-existent. It took multiple calls from us to the owner and to Sykes Cottages before we received any response. The first two problems needn't have been problems if preparations had been done properly. The third I think is mis-selling and was a problem for my daughter who needed to work. Much better to be honest and say there is no WiFi. The weather was mainly good and we enjoyed our holiday in the end.

- Hilary, July 2023

Hi Hilary It is great to hear you loved the Deer Leap House and its setting. Also that you found Deer Leap comfortable and clean. I am Concerned you say the TV didn't work. As you know I attended within 2 hours to resolve the problem with the TV. The lead had been pulled out of the back of the sky box by yourselves so this was immediately resolved. The Wi-fi did work but their was a slight issue with its reception in the far end on the living area within the cottage. Your daughter assured me she could work from any area of the house and it wouldn't be a problem. Whist the pool was locked for safety reasons you did have the code within minutes of requesting the code from myself. I am so pleased to hear you enjoyed your holiday at Deer Leap :) Property Owner
John May 2023

“Such a wonderful location and lovely cottage.”

the wifi didn't work while we were there (but to me that was a bonus, which is why I didn't inform the owner while we were there) and the gentlemen who were doing a great job re-lining the pool did park in the spaces allocated to our part of the house, luckily we only had two cars so that wasn't a real problem. The hot water took a long time to get through to us which was only a small inconvenience. the kitchen was very well equipped, The sofa, Kitchen stools, double beds and outdoor seating was very comfortable and the grounds and their facilities were excellent. We thoroughly enjoyed the Table tennis, basket ball hoop, tennis court, fire pit and gardens, including the pond with its fish and the woods with the deer coming into the grounds, both in the morning and sometimes the evening. There are many attractions within a short drive including The Bovington Tank Museum, Lulworth Cove, Durdle Door and Mill House Cider Museum. Dorchester is well worth a visit too with some excellent restaurants, bars and pubs along side historic sites and a good shopping centre. I would highly recommend Deer leap cottage or house for a relaxing or family getaway.

- John, May 2023
Samantha September 2022

“We had a great time at deer leap cottage I managed to get a swim in the pool even though the weather was not warm but the pool was and also use the tennis court.”

The grounds were perfect for the dogs with a wood on the outskirts to explore. Deer were seen every day and all days out were no further than 30 minutes drive away. We defo recommend the Frampton Arms for Sunday dinner which was delicious and is in walking distance. The cottage is attached to a bigger house and you can hear each other through the adjoining door. I would definitely come back and maybe when the weather is warmer to enjoy the pool everyday this was a big plus for me. My only gripe would be that it needs a dishwasher no one wants to wash up on holiday

- Samantha, September 2022
Donna-Marie August 2022

“The cottage was lovely and very well equipped, very clean and set in stunning grounds.”

Hannah was on hand and responded to all messages, however there are some points I believe should be addressed as it did ruin our week. Deer Leap Cottage seems to come secondary to Deer Leap House (both properties attached) due to the size difference. Deer Leap House has seven bedrooms and as such there is space for 3 families or 14 sharing adults….. Deer Leap Cottage has 3 bedrooms so 1 family or 6 sharing adults. Therefore those staying in Deer Leap House monopolise the pool (as in our case) and tennis courts etc. This was not clear when we booked. We paid for the use of the pool and other facilities but barely got to use them due to the other family. They did nothing wrong as they were using the facilities they paid for, which is what we SHOULD have been able to do! We got in the pool for about 1 hour in the evenings when the other families and children were out and 1 day when the other family left early. NOT what we paid for, I believe there should be a week-on / week-off rota for fairness. Had I been told I would be sharing a pool that’s barely big enough for 5 adults with 15 strangers I would not have booked it. The pool is just is not big enough to accommodate that many people from 2 separate properties. Also anyone staying in Deer Leap House have to walk right passed the front of Deer Leap cottage to get to the pool. The other family kept apologising as we were trying to relax in the cottages garden. This is the only garden area for the cottage, Therefore you have absolutely no privacy, whereas the house does! Those walking passed also can see right into the lounge of the cottage as there are no net curtains so again no privacy. Perhaps a hedge or fence to protect privacy of those staying in the cottage would be an idea, or at the very least some net curtains. There was no parasol over the seating area of the cottage yet the house had parasols, garden swing seats etc. I did ask but did not get one so during the heatwave we had no parasol and no pool (as it was over run with the guests from the house). Therefore we sat indoors, not what we paid for! The joining doors in the cottage to the house are thin and you can hear everything. Sadly we had a family that was very loud at night, lots of screaming arguments and swearing, not the owners fault but quite frustrating. Although the listing does say the pool is shared its not explained very well. We feel quite let down, the property is not the cheapest due to the wonderful faculties on offer, sadly we just didn’t get to use any as we would have liked due to the sheer numbers of the occupants in the house

- Donna-Marie, August 2022

HI Donna Im really sorry your holiday was not as good as it could have been. Also that you felt unable to use the pool as much as you would have liked to and completely take on board what you are saying . Other families to date have not found it a problem, however , i accept your points under you circumstances. We are going to review the entrance to the pool so they the house guests would not need to walk near the cottage. The tennis court does have a booking system in place already which works. The pool will be reviewed but to date it has worked well, The pool has always been shared with the house as is a relatively big pool. It was unfortunate that the guests were loud . I would encourage ay problems to be bought to my attention whilst guests are staying to see if we can do anything to help. I did travel 10 miles to bring you the extra toilet paper you requested but no one alerted me to the issues you have now raised at that time . At the time you were in the pool and seemed happy so I was completely unaware of these issues but I can only apologise again. Property Owner
John August 2022

“Lovely cottage in a beautiful area.”

Swimming pool a big plus, and the surrounding woodland and wildlife very interesting. Cottage was spacious and well-equipped. Only slight inconvenience was that for a 3-bedroom and up to six people, a second toilet would make things more comfortable, especially as toilet is in shower room.

- John, August 2022
Barbara Ann July 2022

“We enjoyed the holiday and found Deer Leap to be ideal especially as we had a dog with us for the first time.”

Hannah was very helpful.The children enjoyed the pool.We would highly recommend it and would love to go again

- Barbara Ann, July 2022

It was lovely to meet you all. Pleased to hear from you whilst you were here that all had such a wonderful time. at Deer Leap ☀️ Property Owner
Stephanie July 2022

“A warm welcome and a super, well-equipped cottage with excellent facilities.”

The house itself is just lovely, the grounds and shady woods beyond and the herd of deer that regularly frequent them are a real treat and are great for walking dogs, especially in the warmer weather. Loads of comfortable outdoor furniture, toys and inflatables for the very welcome pool. The cottage is in a great location: 5 minutes one way to a nice pub and Moreton station where you can get a train to Dorchester (10 mins) or Weymouth (20 mins) and 5 mins the other way.to a well-stocked Co-op We had one of our best UK holidays here. I heartily recommend.

- Stephanie, July 2022
Brendan July 2022

“A beautiful cottage with excellent facilities in a stunning part of the country, seeing the dear in the mornings and utilising the heated pool was the kids favourite, very good amenities near by, this is located in perfect position in that your far enough out that you feel secluded but Dorchester is 10 minutes drive, 20 mins from Weymouth and a local Co-op is 5 minutes walk, the owner was very kind in the very breif time we saw her, we truly felt at ease as we were a bit apprehensive on going at first but within a couple of hours felt we had made a great find, we will definitely be going back.”

- Brendan, July 2022
Richard June 2022

“We had a very happy family get-together at Deer-Leap cottage.”

We especially enjoyed the extensive grounds with woodlands, a lake and a swimming pool, and plenty of deer sightings! Would happily return.

- Richard, June 2022
Paul June 2022

“Great stay, we really enjoyed our time at Deer Leap.”

The grounds are beautiful and the wildlife amazing. We made good use of the tennis court and the pool. We will book this property again.

- Paul, June 2022
Pamela May 2022

“Cottage in wonderful surroundings.”

Loved having the sinks in the bedrooms. The owner kindly opened the swimming pool for us three days early which we really appreciated. Having only one toilet for six people is hard!! Especially with three boys. The owner was very helpful. It would have been good to have a visitor's book for local recommendations. We found some lovely local gems which people new to the area would appreciate.

- Pamela, May 2022
Leanne September 2021

“The plus side is the location, beautiful setting, close to a wonderful pub and near to towns and beach.”

The cottage has a lot of potential and the owner is very pleasant. But...the kitchen is very poorly equipped, 3 saucepans and two small baking trays, no frying pan, no grill rack, lots of empty cupboards. There is a decent sized fridge and a freezer (but no ice tray) no dishwasher which is desirable in this sized cottage. There is simply not enough catering equipment for 6 adults (potentially what the cottage can sleep). Being a self catering cottage you would expect to be able to adequately cater for the whole family, not in this case. I tried to speak to the owner but mobile signals are non-existent and when I tried to find the owners I was told they were at work, the children handed me a small frying pan. The single beds are extremely uncomfortable and creak every time you move, the pillows provided were very thin. Only one room had spare pillows for those of us who like two pillows each (a must if the pillows are this thin). We were provided with one small bath towel each, no hand towels in any of the rooms or the bathroom. Fortunately there were only 5 of us so we hand one extra towel and three of us had bought pool towels with us just in case we had a swim in the pool. The heating is controlled in the main house (where the owners live), there is no option in the cottage to switch it on or off. If the owners switch it on then you can turn it down at the thermostat or radiators. But if it off in the main house there is no heating in your cottage. Two of the bedrooms did not have any heating as the radiators did not work. A light in the kitchen kept flashing and we had to turn it off. This is a dog friendly cottage but understandably dogs are not allowed upstairs, with this in mind to keep the dogs downstairs there should be a stair gate or something to block the stairs. There is not enough seating in the lounge for 6 people unless you all sit upright and right next to one another on the sofa. The dining table in the lounge is not needed as there is sufficient dining area in the kitchen, the dining table could be replaced by two easy chairs. The weirdest thing were the connecting doors to the main house, downstairs is a door in the hallway which links to the kitchen of the owners house, it is an internal door and we could plainly hear them talking and moving around on the other side of the door, at one point I was aware of someone stood the other side listening to our conversation. Upstairs on the landing there is a similar internal door linking the cottage to the main house. Both doors had bolts on which prevented them from being opened from the main house but it was a really strange set up and made us feel uncomfortable.

- Leanne, September 2021
Anne September 2021

“We enjoyed our week at Deer Leap Cottage.”

The grounds are lovely and ideal for walking our dog. We made full use of the table tennis and heated pool. Geoff was friendly and happy to assist if needed. The cottage was clean, comfortable and well located for access to Lulworth Cove, Durdle Door, Bovington Tank Museum and Dorchester, among others.

- Anne, September 2021
Gavin August 2021

“Fantastic. Gorgeous cottage set in stunning grounds.”

Swimming pool was an unexpected bonus. Hosts where excellent, friendly and helpful. Would highly recommend this cottage, beautiful location. We will be booking again for a different time of year, can’t wait.

- Gavin, August 2021
Deborah August 2021

“We loved our week at Deer Leap Cottage.”

Great location for exploring Dorset and we enjoyed days out in Weymouth, Swanage and Lulworth cove. Cottage was very comfortable and our children enjoyed the (heated) outdoor pool (even in the rain!) the games room, toasting marshmallows on the fire pit and we had a couple of games of tennis too. We also enjoyed our glimpses of the roaming deer around the cottage.

- Deborah, August 2021
Ben July 2021

“Fabulous week at Deerleap cottage.”

The pool is fantastic & used daily by the kids. Tennis court and table tennis also fabulous. The grounds around the cottage are full of adventures to be had with deer coming up to the house on a daily basis. The cottage is lovely with everything we needed. The owners are on hand if you require anything & were super helpful & the kids loved helping the owner feed the fish in the lake. We can’t wait to return.

- Ben, July 2021
Lynsey July 2021

“We absolutely loved our stay at deer leap cottage.”

Plenty of room for our family of 5 plus big dog. Tennis court and swimming pool are perfect and location is spot on. Lots of cupboard space and full length mirrors and large kitchen and living room and bedrooms also very spacious. Geoff & Hannah are super friendly and greeted us and showed us around the cottage and the grounds of the house are gorgeous. Geoff helped our boys feed the fish in the lake which they loved. There’s deer every day in the grounds just outside the house. Just keep your dog in a lead! Ours would be after the deer ha. Pub just short walk down the road with great food, play area and friendly people. Loads of attractions just easy short drive away. Weymouth beach is brilliant, steam train, monkey world etc all near by. We will be back!!!

- Lynsey, July 2021
Mcdonald July 2021

“Deer Leap Cottage exceeded our expectations on so many levels From the warm family welcome on arrival ,to the well appointed facilities in cottage, the vast grounds, lake , fish, forests walks swimming pool , tennis court, games room, fire pit and lots more not to mention the sight of herds of quaint deer roaming freely.”

This venue would suit all levels of holidaymakers and retreaters and offers extremely good value for money, we would highly recommend to all. We will definitely revisit to relive the fantastic experience.

- Mcdonald, July 2021
Stephen June 2021

“The house was a super place for us!”

It felt so quiet and secluded. It has lovely grounds all around it with tennis court, a lovely outdoor pool, a summer house containing toys and a table tennis table. The lake was very pretty and our granddaughter enjoyed feeding the fish. There was lots of wildlife in the grounds and we saw deer many times - even in the middle of the day. The rooms were all a good size and had everything we needed and more!

- Stephen, June 2021
Sharon June 2021

“We had a wonderful week at Deer Leap Cottage, saw actual deer everyday.”

The pool, tennis court and table tennis kept us all entertained! Sky, Netflix and working WiFi is amazing for the teenager with us! A huge plus! Location is brilliant 20 mins to Wareham, Lulworth Cove, Studland Beach is around 30 mins away, the Frampton Arms in the village is great for food and within a short work, would suggest you book, difficult currently to just turn up. So lovely to find a cottage that accepts a dog but does not smell as though dogs have been there. Geoff & Hannah are lovely, on hand if you need them and so helpful.

- Sharon, June 2021

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Summary

Three bedrooms: 1 x double with Smart TV and basin, 1 x double with basin, 1 x twin with basin
Shower room with walk-in shower, basin, heated towel rail and WC
Kitchen
Living/dining room with open fire
Electric oven, induction hob, microwave, fridge, freezer, 2 x Smart TVs, WiFi
Fuel and power inc. in rent
Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
Highchair, travel cot and stairgate available on request
Off-road parking for three cars
Lawned garden
Communal grounds including heated outdoor swimming pool (open from the beginning of 1st of June - 1st October), tennis court (with basketball net) (rackets can be provided), table tennis and unfenced lake
Two well-behaved dogs welcome
Sorry, no smoking
Shop 0.4 miles, pub 0.3 miles
Train Station 3 min walk
Note: Logs provided for open fire during winter months
(Communal grounds are shared with Deer Leap House 1060785)
Note: This property can be booked with Ref 1060785 sleeping 21 guests in total.

The property

Enjoying a wonderful position on the grounds of the owner's home, on the outskirts of the Dorset village of Moreton, is Deer Leap Cottage, a large semi-detached holiday home.

Families are perfectly suited to this lovely dwelling, with lots to entertain like the tennis court and outdoor swimming pool, as well as being in a great location for touring both the coast and countryside.

Discover a spacious living/dining room to come home to after a day of adventure, with a large corner sofa to sink into and a Smart TV to entertain amidst the tasteful décor.

Head into the contemporary kitchen to find sleek, glossy units and a breakfast bar with striking red stools, home to a host of integrated appliances to cook up your favourite dishes.

Serve up family meals at the dining table back in the living/dining room, providing a perfect way to come together at the end of the day.

When the night draws in, head to one of the lovely bedrooms to rest for the next day's activities, choosing from either two doubles or the twin room, with all bedrooms featuring a vanity basin unit and plenty of storage for your things, with the master double boasting a Smart TV, and the second double featuring a decorative fireplace.

Feel refreshed following a busy day with a shower in the shared shower room, or begin your day with a warm rinse instead to wake you up to the day ahead.

The grounds of Deer Leap Cottage are frequently roamed by wild deer, so you may catch sight of some as you stroll around the grounds.

Enjoy lots of fun times in the outdoor swimming pool, create a family tournament of table tennis, or simply enjoy a rally of tennis on the tennis court, rackets provided, on a sunny day.

The cottage lies on the outskirts of Moreton, near to Moreton train station and the village amenities of Crossways, so you're just a simple stroll from shops and pubs, with The Frampton Arms being a fabulous local watering hole.

Moreton is known for being the resting place of T.E.

Lawrence, also known as Lawrence of Arabia, while the surrounding area is known as 'Thomas Hardy country' as the acclaimed writer's birthplace of Bockhampton and home of Max Gate are not far, with the beautiful rolling Dorset countryside setting the scene of many of his wonderful novels.

Discover plenty of areas to walk nearby and further afield, with cyclists sure to enjoy the quiet country lanes on long rides.

Not far from Deer Leap Cottage is Monkey World, a fantastic sanctuary for monkeys within an open air park, so you can see these wonderful creatures up close, while the Tank Museum is sure to please history enthusiasts!

The scenic Jurassic Coast is an easy car or train journey away, with incredible spots like Lulworth Cove sure to take your breath away, home to pristine sands and clear waters, while Durdle Door presents guests with a perfect holiday snap any time of day, but particularly special at sunset.

Hop on a train down to Weymouth to enjoy a fun-filled day on the beach, backed by colourful beach huts and beachfront amusements, you can find attractions like Sandworld and SEA LIFE Centre, or head down to the picturesque harbour before continuing on to Nothe Fort.

Make unforgettable memories in Dorset with your loved ones at Deer Leap Cottage.

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About the location

MORETON

Dorchester 7.6 miles; Weymouth 12.3 miles; Blandford Forum 14.5 miles.

Moreton is a tranquil village that sits just 8 miles east of the County town of Dorchester, and is famous for it’s association with the celebrated soldier, writer and pioneering archaeologist T.E.Lawrence, better know as Lawrence of Arabia. He settled in the village in a cottage called Cloud’s Hill and now owned by the National Trust. While living here he struck up a relationship with Louisa Frampton and some of their letters can be seen in the Moreton Tea rooms. Moreton sits just 8 miles from the County town of Dorchester where you can find Thomas Hardy’s Former home and cottage, as well as many cafes and restaurants and other high street amenities you require. If you are interested in military history then the Bovington Tank Museum is just 6 miles drive away, and a very informative day.

Note: There is a large unfenced lake on the property grounds and children must be supervised at all times.
Note: Well behaved dogs are welcome but must be supervised outside due to wild deer on site.
Note: Swimming pool available in summer months (1st June - 1st October).
Note: Swimming pool/tennis court/table tennis is also shared with neighbouring property Deer Leap House 1060785.

This property offers the following short breaks:

Winter
Off-season
Christmas

Moreton, Dorset (Ref. 1060768)

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Features

Reviews & Ratings

“It’s. Very nice but the bathroom is not up to scratch, needs another bathroom for 6 people”

“There is much to like about Deer Leap Cottage, its wonderful grounds and amenities, not to mention the deer!”

“We loved the setting - the grounds, the lake, the tennis court and the pool.”

“Such a wonderful location and lovely cottage.”

“We had a great time at deer leap cottage I managed to get a swim in the pool even though the weather was not warm but the pool was and also use the tennis court.”

“The cottage was lovely and very well equipped, very clean and set in stunning grounds.”

“Lovely cottage in a beautiful area.”

“We enjoyed the holiday and found Deer Leap to be ideal especially as we had a dog with us for the first time.”

“A warm welcome and a super, well-equipped cottage with excellent facilities.”

“We had a very happy family get-together at Deer-Leap cottage.”

“Great stay, we really enjoyed our time at Deer Leap.”

“Cottage in wonderful surroundings.”

“The plus side is the location, beautiful setting, close to a wonderful pub and near to towns and beach.”

“We enjoyed our week at Deer Leap Cottage.”

“Fantastic. Gorgeous cottage set in stunning grounds.”

“We loved our week at Deer Leap Cottage.”

“Fabulous week at Deerleap cottage.”

“We absolutely loved our stay at deer leap cottage.”

“The house was a super place for us!”

“We had a wonderful week at Deer Leap Cottage, saw actual deer everyday.”

Summary

The property

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About the location

MORETON