A quiet escape among the rolling hills of Dorset
Set within the peaceful Dorset countryside near Piddletrenthide, Tokenhill Dorset offers guests the chance to slow down and reconnect with nature. Created by Shaun and Jane Crocker on their working farm, the retreat combines thoughtful hospitality with the simple beauty of the surrounding landscape.
We spoke with them about the story behind Tokenhill, their favourite local moments and the little details that make a stay here so special.
Can you tell us a little about Tokenhill, its history, ethos and what makes it such a lovely place to stay?
We started with a conversion on part of our house, turning it into 'Tokenhill Cottage;, and were then keen to expand our hospitality offerings and diversify the farm!
After a meeting and a visit to Plankbridge and a look at the quality of the huts and the attention to detail (which is amazing!), we instructed them to build our first hut, 'Hurdlemakers', and then a second hut 'Spindleberry', to complete our site. We were keen to offer quality accommodation and give guests the opportunity to relax and enjoy everything the Dorset countryside has to offer.
The huts sit in a peaceful field surrounded by majestic chestnut trees and newly planted copse, which has been planted between the huts, to give each one its own peaceful space. The only neighbours they'll have are the cows in the surrounding fields who are always curious to see who the latest visitors are.
Guests can expect a relaxing stay within nature, but will all the modern luxuries. Indulge in an outdoor roll-top bath, cosy fire-pit conversations, and even put your barbecue skills to the test.
What does a perfect day in this corner of Dorset look like to you?
A perfect day in Dorset would start with waking up to birdsong, whilst eating breakfast on the deck of one of our Shepherds huts. Then a drive down to the coast and a walk along the beach. Back home again, followed by a walk down the lane to ‘The Brace of Pheasants’ pub in nearby Plush and enjoy a delicious supper.
Then returning to sit by the fire-pit, or have a bath in the Outdoor bath and watch the stars.
How does Bramley fit into the experience you create for guests, and do you have any Bramley favourites among visitors?
We live in such a beautiful part of the countryside that we needed to supply guests with a product that aligned with our own values. The Hand wash is always a guest favourite and most commented on and the most well used product. They can't get enough!
If someone is visiting Tokenhill, what are some of the little local joys or hidden gems you’d recommend they experience?
A perfect day in this part of Dorset would be to have a refreshing early morning walk, then a day trip down to the Jurassic Coast, a walk at Kimmeridge at low tide, always our family favourite or a visit to Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove.
What inspired you to create the experience you offer here in Dorset, and how would you describe the feeling you hope guests take away?
A stay at Tokenhill Dorset is all about nature and relaxation and we were keen to add quality products that would be enjoyed by guests. Bramley have products that enhance the stay for Guests with ingredients that are all natural, and share our belief in the power of nature.
A Place to Slow Down
Ultimately, Tokenhill Dorset is about the simple pleasures: birdsong in the morning, open countryside, good food, coastal air, and quiet evenings beneath the stars.
It is a place to pause, breathe and reconnect with nature, a gentle reminder that sometimes the most memorable experiences are also the simplest.
Images provided by Sarah Middleton
