Review: Burnbake Forest Lodges with hot tub, Dorset
If you’ve typed ‘lodges with hot tub Dorset’ or ‘hot tub holidays Dorset’ into Google on more than one occasion, you are certainly not alone. In my opinion, any kind of holiday that involves a hot tub is instantly elevated in terms of relaxation levels and enjoyment levels, and for an English staycation, they’re not weather dependent either (although of course stewing in a jacuzzi with sun rays on your face is of course preferable).
There was a reason hot tub purchases increased exponentially during lockdown – because they’re a flipping ace addition to life! Particularly to a small social gathering with your nearest and dearest. During the glorious summer heatwave of August 2022, we spent five days at Burnbake Forest lodges in Dorset, all of which come with your own private hot tub and it was wonderful, so if you’re looking for a similar getaway, I highly recommend! Here’s my review of the luxury woodland lodges and their jacuzzis.
Burnbake Forest Lodges with hot tub Dorset
Close to the staggering ruins of Corfe Castle and sandy beaches of the isle of Purbeck, is woodland hideaway, Burnbake Forest Lodges. 22 luxury lodges, all with a private hot tub, are tucked away in woodland on the far side of Burnbake campsite, at the heart of Rempstone Estate and dreamy Dorset countryside.
Six of these lodges with hot tub are ‘executive’, meaning they’re set in a secluded glade, slightly apart from the others and the rest of the world, making them feel more private. They’re also more open plan than the standard lodges, with a big squishy L-shaped sofa, wood burner, dining table and TV – perfect for large families and groups. There are also 2-bedroom and pup-friendly options available.
Luxurious touches, (think logo-ed bathrobes and slippers), furnishings and welcome tray (with scrummy local butter, bacon, milk and eggs) give off boutique hotel vibes and the lodges really do feel a cut above your standard glamping bolthole. The bedrooms – two on the lower floor and one under the eaves with an en suite upstairs (yes, there’s an upstairs!) – are a good size, pristine and come with plenty of storage space. The beds are comfortable, and kitchens are fully kitted out with everything you need, including a Costa Coffee maker and a washing machine. A stair gate can be added at the top and/or the bottom of the stairs on request if you have little ones in tow.
The sizeable wooden dwellings make the most of their serene, tree-dense surroundings with big windows that peek out to the woods outside, and an open decking area, where you’ll find your private hot tub as well as outdoor table and chairs. Cows wander casually past occasionally on a path that runs close to the executive lodges, bunnies are surprisingly tame and pop up throughout the day, much to the delight of young children.
We timed our stay for the August 2022 heatwave and a shady location and two adjacent executive lodges with hot tubs were the ideal spot for our extended-family 70th birthday celebrations. Wallowing in toasty, bubbly water with stars above, fizzy in hand or a cuppa and the morning sun on your face, surrounded by quiet woodland and passing wildlife, made our Dorset summer holiday birthday bonanza extra special.
Outside on the decking there’s a BBQ stand for disposable barbecues (there were bans on BBQs in the campsite due to the extremely dry ground at the time, but we were allowed to go ahead as our raised metal stand was safe). We also found it very toddler-friendly and my 1.5 year old whizzed round and round with his push-buggy without us having to constantly worry about him. If you are in a group spread across two lodges and have a baby, the monitor will JUST about reach between the two neighbouring lodges if you balance it in the right place!
Our older kids liked visiting the onsite park and little shop for an ice cream (adults liked it for ice and a cold arrival beer). There’s also a cafe, although we never actually made it there!
Lodge bookable extras
For extra indulgence and relaxation, guests can book in-lodge, pampering spa treatments with Charlotte Ford of Purbeck Retreats. Advance booking is essential – give Charlotte a call for details and prices on 07939 821 901 or book online.
For an extra special occasion, or if you can’t be bothered to cook during your holiday, book a private chef to cook something delicious for you in the comfort of your lodge. Choose from a Bespoke Multi Course Dining Experience or a Chocolate Demo.
Any peeves?
The only thing I could fault Burnbake Forest Lodges on is the fact that you if you want a cot or highchair it will cost you an extra £10 each, which given the price of the lodges themselves, seems a bit mean. I took my own instead.
Burnbake hot tub holidays in a nutshell
Burnbake Forest Lodges are perfect for groups and families looking for a countryside retreat near the seaside. The lodges feel like high-end, luxurious self-catering accommodation and staying there feels really special. It was utterly magical to be staying by the coast during actual hot English summer weather and being able to make the most of the balmy summer evenings on our deck.
During good weather, these lodges allow for wonderful outdoor living, close to nature and beautiful scenery, yet can be equally cosy and exciting in colder climes thanks to their wood burners and sumptuous furnishings. In fact a glance at their website will show New Year’s is pretty much sold out already.
Location and things to do near Burnbake Forest Lodges with hot tub Dorset
The site of the forest lodges provides the perfect base for exploring this beautiful part of Dorset. There are miles of cycle paths and fabulous walks, beaches, pubs and attractions to visit nearby and when you’re done sightseeing, it’s lovely to know you’ve got your lovely lodge and a hot tub to sink into when you return. Here are some tried and tested, family-friendly things to do nearby:
Catch the Swanage Heritage steam train from Norden Train Station along the five or so miles of line to Swanage, historic Corfe Castle, Harman’s Cross or Herston Halt.
Discover the fascinating history of Corfe Castle, the stunning view from the top of the ruins and the picture-perfect town of Corfe Castle Village.
Have a drink overlooking Corfe Castle in the garden of The Bankes Arms.
Pretend to be a giant at Corfe Castle Model Village and Gardens. Here you’ll find a 1/20th scale model of Corfe Castle and the village as it was in 1646, plus garden games, a haunted shed, fairy garden and tea room.
Spend the day at the beach! Shell Bay, Knoll, South and North beach can be easily reached from Burnbake Forest Lodges. All have National Trust car parks, so if you’re a member, make sure to bring your card.
Visit The Pig on the Beach, with its stunning food, mesmerising kitchen garden, thatched round houses and views over the sea to Old Harry Rocks, a stop here is a real treat.
Hop across the sea to Sandbanks and Poole on the ferry! Here you’ll find more beaches, family-friendly restaurants with sea views, Poole boating lake, a ferry to Brownsea Island and more exciting days out.
Hit a hole in one at Isle of Purbeck Golf Course, just a stone’s throw away.
Marvel at stunning horseshoe-shaped Lulworth Cove, eat crab sandwiches in the picturesque village and catch a boat to see Natural limestone arch Durdle Door from the sea.
Liked this post about lodges with hot tubs Dorset? Check out more things to do in the area:
Family-friendly days out in Dorset (near Poole)
Family-friendly places to eat in Poole with sea views
