The best traffic-free bike rides around Puddletown

If open go inside, also there a bench next to the river

What a wonderful place: time seems to have stood still here. While some of the furniture has been reconstructed, it's fortunate that Hardy's house has been so completely preserved: a fascinating journey into the Victorian England of one of the world's leading authors... the room where he wrote many of his poems and novels, an enchanting garden, and even the somewhat quirky "Pet Sematary," where several dogs and cats were buried. So much of the atmosphere is still preserved here: a must-see, ideally with a guided tour: it's worth it.

Stair Hole is a fascinating and impressive place on the Jurassic Coast in southern England that is definitely worth a visit. The cliffs and rocks that jut out into the sea here are breathtakingly beautiful and provide a dramatic backdrop for photographers and nature lovers. Particularly impressive is the natural rock formation that leads into the water like a staircase (hence the name) – a real highlight for any visitor. The area is perfect for coastal walks, where you can enjoy the fresh sea air and admire the impressive natural surroundings. Stair Hole is a place that combines tranquility and beauty and leaves a lasting impression. An absolute must for anyone who wants to experience the wild beauty of the English coast!

* Historic Structure: The cottage itself was built in 1800 by Hardy's great-grandfather and has remained largely unaltered since the Hardy family left. It offers a glimpse into 19th-century rural life, with its open hearths, small windows, and stone floors. While the furniture inside isn't original to the Hardy family, it is authentic to the period, helping to recreate the atmosphere of his upbringing. * National Trust Property: The cottage is now owned and managed by the National Trust, ensuring its preservation and public access. * Traditional Cottage Garden: The property features a typical cottage garden, complete with roses around the door, which would have been an early inspiration for the author.

* Hardy's Early Life and Works: Hardy lived in this cottage until he was 34 years old. It was here that he wrote some of his early and influential works, including the novels Under the Greenwood Tree (1872) and Far from the Madding Crowd (1874), as well as early poetry and short stories. The surrounding landscape, including the adjacent Thorncombe Wood and the heathland (which inspired his fictional "Egdon Heath" in The Return of the Native), profoundly influenced his writing.

Thomas Hardy's Cottage is a significant literary landmark located in Higher Bockhampton, near Dorchester, Dorset, England. It is a quaint, cob and thatch cottage, notable for being the birthplace of the celebrated author Thomas Hardy in 1840. Here's what makes it special:

* Athelhampton Chantry: The south transept, known as the Athelhampton Chantry, is a major historic interest. It contains numerous monuments to the Martyn family of nearby Athelhampton House, with tombs dating back to the 13th century. The effigy of Sir William Martyn (d. 1503), who built much of Athelhampton House, is particularly high quality.

* 17th-Century Woodwork: The interior boasts a wealth of 17th-century woodwork, including the pulpit, reading desk, altar rails, font cover, and box pews. The gallery over the west end of the church, dated 1635, is wonderfully carved and bears a Latin inscription: "You come hither, not to be seen, but to listen and to pray."