Chiddock Cottage, Midgham

Chiddock Cottage sits within Midgham Long Copse, a cluster of four single-storey barn conversions on a working stud farm at the end of a track in Midgham. The property forms part of an L-shaped group adjoining two others while remaining detached from the fourth. High vaulted ceilings and exposed beams fill the interior with light, while rustic concrete floors softened by rugs and natural wood furniture keep things practical and unfussy.

All accommodation occupies the ground floor. A separate utility room houses a washing machine and tumble dryer. Two bedrooms provide a kingsize bed in one and twin singles in the other. A bathroom offers a bath with overhead shower while a second shower room adds a cubicle and toilet.

An open-plan living area flows into a dining space and kitchen equipped with an electric oven, induction hob, microwave, fridge-freezer and dishwasher.

Oil-fired underfloor heating, electricity, bed linen and towels come as standard, along with a welcome pack and initial logs for the woodburner. Satellite television and Wi-Fi keep things connected without dominating the space.

Outside, a private decked sitting-out area holds garden furniture for morning coffee or evening meals. Guests share an enclosed courtyard featuring a fire pit, pizza oven and barbecue with the neighbouring properties.

The surrounding forty acres of woodland remain open for exploration on foot or with dogs, up to two of which stay free. A children’s play area and daily freshly laid eggs from the farm chickens add gentle rural rhythm. Fly fishing on site requires a licence while archery and axe throwing operate by arrangement. Horse livery can also be booked in advance.

The location places the cottage along the Avon Valley path with easy reach of the New Forest National Park. Fordingbridge lies a short drive away for everyday provisions and a riverside wander across its medieval bridge. Ringwood offers further shops and cafés while Christchurch Harbour and the beaches beyond sit within reasonable distance for a day by the sea.

Cathedral cities of Winchester and Salisbury sit further afield for those seeking historic streets and open green spaces. Moors Valley Country Park and Avon Heath Country Park provide additional forest trails, cycle routes and open-air activities without the need for lengthy travel.

Chiddock Cottage suits couples seeking quiet or small families and walking groups who value direct access to countryside. The single-storey layout with one step to the entrance keeps movement straightforward. Private parking for two cars sits right beside the property. Electric vehicle charging can be arranged with the owner.

Key Features

Accessibility

Single-storey layout with all rooms on the ground floor and one step at the entrance.

Layout

Open-plan living, dining and kitchen area plus two bedrooms (one kingsize, one twin) and two bathrooms (one with bath and shower, one with shower cubicle).

Local Amenities

On-site shop and freshly laid eggs, pub and restaurant two miles away, woodland paths and River Avon access immediately outside, Fordingbridge for daily needs within a short drive.

Parking

Private space for two cars adjacent to the cottage.

The barn conversion balances comfort with the working farm environment. Underfloor heating takes the edge off cooler evenings while the woodburner adds focal warmth. Shared courtyard facilities encourage relaxed outdoor time without isolating guests from the wider site. The surrounding woodland and stud farm activity create a setting that feels both private and part of a living rural operation. Fresh eggs appear daily while occasional glimpses of horses in the fields remind visitors of the farm’s daily work.

Inside, the high ceilings and plentiful beams avoid any sense of enclosure despite the compact footprint. Natural materials and simple furnishings keep maintenance easy and the atmosphere calm. The kitchen works efficiently for self-catering whether preparing quick lunches or slower evening meals using local produce. Both bathrooms provide practical options for morning routines or post-walk clean-ups.

Outside space extends the living area naturally. The deck catches morning sun while the shared courtyard becomes a gathering point after dark around the fire pit. Woodland walks start from the doorstep, offering routes of varying lengths through managed grounds that change with the seasons yet remain accessible year round. The Avon Valley path runs close by for longer riverside rambles linking to broader networks across the region.

Outside spaces include an extended garden area and woodland walks through managed areas.

The New Forest lies within easy reach for those wanting open heathland, ancient trees and free-roaming ponies. Cycle hire and waymarked trails suit different fitness levels while riverside reserves add variety. Fordingbridge itself supplies a compact market-town feel with independent shops and places to eat when the need for a change of scene arises. Further afield, the coast at Bournemouth or Poole provides contrast with shingle beaches and harbour views after a drive through forest and farmland.

Chiddock Cottage works well for short breaks or longer stays where the emphasis rests on space to breathe rather than constant activity. The combination of modern fittings within traditional barn walls, private decking and shared yet spacious grounds delivers straightforward rural accommodation without unnecessary extras. The stud farm setting adds authentic background noise of country life while the woodland buffer maintains a sense of seclusion.