Woodside Cottage - Remote Retreat

Situated at 'The Lost Village of Dode', Woodside is one of two semi-detached cottages we offer situated in complete tranquility at the end of a 'no through road' in the depths of the Kent countryside, five miles south of historic Rochester. Designed very much as a small, country 'hideaway' this really is an ideal place if you're looking for a magical, spiritual place to retreat to for complete peace and quiet. The ultimate self isolation retreat tucked away from it all....Woodside is located next door to our neighbour retreat Hillview however with the area and grounds being vast and remote we don’t envisage any issues with both cottages being booked at the same time. Built of green oak and recycled materials with imaginative use of handcrafted wrought iron work has been used to great effect throughout. Designed very much as a small, country retreat to be 'inward' looking, you'll find that the minute you set foot inside the door the cares of the world melt away as you begin to unwind and soak up the atmosphere with its intimate, almost medieval, feel. Comfortable, contemporary furnishings in all the living space allow guests to relax and make the most of their stay. Great use has been made of the available living space and all the rooms are well equipped for their size. What makes this cottage unique is that it lies in a tiny hamlet known locally as Dode which was virtually wiped out by The Black Death in the 14th century. All that remains of the original village is the small, former, Norman church, which was last used as a place of worship in 1367, then deconsecrated. Restored in the Victorian era, it is now a popular venue for civil wedding ceremonies, and is frequently available for quiet time and meditation. The site as a whole is steeped in ancient history, details of which can be obtained from the owner, who is an expert on the subject. The ground floor bedroom has a vaulted 'cathedral ceiling' and double bed (4ft 6), hot tub and ensuite Shower Room/WC. The second bedroom comprises an intimate sleeping platform (limited headroom) approached via quirky steps with a double bed (4ft 6). Open plan living room with dining space, wood burning effect electric fire and open plan fully equipped kitchen area. Second shower room, basin and WC. Woodside for a number of reasons is not considered suitable for infants and small children. Enclosed paved terraces and access to two acres of beautiful grounds including a small pond and magical stone circle. A beautiful and intimate living space far away from the madding crowd, ideal for reflection, meditation and peace in a busy world. We do not live on site, however, any problems we are on call to assist up until 8-9pm (unless an emergency) The Lost Village of Dode Far lies far away, in a magical place, where time has stood still, in an almost forgotten valley between Luddesdown and Holly Hill, nestled in the North Kent Downs in the South East of England, there stands a beautiful, enchanting & romantic Norman church which is loved and cared for by your hosts Doug & Mary, it is the only remaining trace of 'The Lost Village of Dode'. This unique, lovingly restored, Norman church, located within an amazing setting is home to our unique wedding venue and two cottage retreats Woodside & Hillview. The two cottages stand just below and within the grounds of the church and enjoy a really peaceful outlook across fields and up to woodland on Holly Hill. It's a superb location for keen walkers with easy access onto the North Downs/Pilgrims Way, which leads to England's premier cathedral city of Canterbury. Although well away from busy main roads, Dode is within comfortable driving distance of a number of visitor attractions, such as the majestic Leeds Castle, medieval Igtham Mote, Chartwell, former home of Sir Winston Churchill, and the historic naval dockyard at Chatham. The cathedral city of Rochester with its Norman castle above the River Medway, is an easy drive as are the creeks and inlets of the north Kent coastline where there are a number of RSPB bird sanctuaries. London, via the M20 is an hour's drive. For a family day out, why not try Howletts Wild Animal Park, near Canterbury, or slightly further afield the seaside town of  Margate (about an hour's drive), with it's many and varied attractions. We allow 1 allocated parking space on site for each cottage, please let us know if you require any additional spaces. Closest rail station is Sole Street station and local amenities in Cobham or Meopham. You can drive to the nearest local pub in 10mins if not walking. Please note the cottages are semi-detached so you may have neighbours if the cottage next door is booked. With the cottages being on the site of our Church please note during April-October /December there is the chance of small weddings taking place on a Thursday, Friday, Saturday and although it doesn’t affect the area of the cottages there will be other people on site during this time. Woodside for a number of reasons is not considered suitable for infants & small children. Please note Air conditioning is partial upstairs. Please note there is no WIFI or internet signal at Dode so perfect if you are really wanting an escape in the country. Phone signal is also limited however pay phone is available in the cottage. Electricity is run on a meter which on arrival is sufficiently topped up however if you need to top up will require £1 or £2 coins. If using the Hot tub regularly it's likely the electric will need topping up. Dogs are welcome but an extra £12 charge per dog applies.