The DugOut
The DugOut is a turf-roofed, handcrafted earthhouse in a secluded spot next to our woodland. Like the Big House, the DugOut has sensational views. It is very special to us as it was our home for ten years whilst Ed was building and crafting the Big House and it is a pleasure to share this unique retreat with our guests. The DugOut is nestled snugly into the hill looking south over its own private garden and lawn to a fabulous far-reaching view taking in three counties. Whether you are soaking in the bath whilst taking in the view, curled up by the fire reading a book or eating alfresco on the terrace, we are confident you will enjoy the privacy and tranquility of the Dugout.
Many of the ideas and techniques used in the Big House were trialed first in the DugOut: the cut stone floor, the woven wood lattice, shaved hedgerow timbers and wandering organic curves wherever you look.
The DugOut also has many of its own fun and unique parts: the pulley light switches, copper and zinc piping, a bath encased in books and a roundwood, chestnut king size bed, shaped to fit the contours of the round bedroom.
Ed has put literally thousands of hours into working and fashioning almost every single aspect of the DugOut. It is a complete one-off!
Please know that we are always out and about working on our smallholding, so it is easy to cross paths during your stay. If you would like to join us for a cup of tea or coffee in the Big House at some point, you would be most welcome and we can arrange this for a time that suits us all.
Prices
The DugOut is available all year round at a cost of £285/night. Please enquire.
It is self-catering accommodation for two people with a two-night minimum stay midweek and a three-night minimum stay at weekends. We can be flexible on changeover days and length of stay, so do ask if you want something different.
For different arrival and departure days please contact us at ask@lifeonthehill.co.uk.
Changeover days are normally Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, so your stay would start and end on one of these days.
Arrival time is after 3pm and departure time is by 11am
Check availability
If you would like to book the DugOut, check the calendar for availability and contact us at ask@lifeonthehill.co.uk Please use this email for any questions or queries.
Essential bits to know
The DugOut is self-catering accommodation for two people.
Kitchen: Everhot stove, microwave and kitchen equipment. Condiments and treats from us as a gift on your arrival.
Boot room: Fridge/freezer.
Sitting room: Wood burner and a large basket of logs. (Extra logs are always available). Optional WiFi, sound system, flat screen/DVD discretely placed.
Bedroom: King size bed with all linen provided.
Bathroom: Loo, basin and shower. Bath sheets, bath towels, hand towels and handmade soaps provided.
Library/Bathroom: Double ended roll top bath and books!
Outside: There is a private garden. On the terrace there is garden furniture, barbeque and fire-pit.
Parking: There is secure parking next to the garden path that leads to the DugOut.
We are sorry that we can not accommodate dogs or children at the moment.