Canford House, The Ultimate Group Getaway in Dorset

Canford House – Poolside Lounging, Woodland Wanders and Fireside Feasts

A beautiful 8-bedroom country house in the heart of Dorset, sleeping up to 22 with a private indoor pool, peaceful gardens and space to celebrate together.

Set in seven acres of private gardens and woodlands just outside Wimborne, this beautiful eight-bedroom country house was made for proper get-togethers –  the kind that spill from late breakfasts into wildflower wanders, poolside hangs, and long, laughter-filled dinners under the stars.

Sleeping up to 22 across a mix of cosy doubles, spacious suites and family-friendly rooms, there’s loads of space to spread out (and sneak off for a moment of quiet, too). You’ve got a heated indoor pool, a cinema room, huge social spaces, and more than enough room outside for al fresco feasts, countryside strolls and the occasional game of hide-and-seek.

From milestone birthdays to long-overdue catch-ups, or simply bringing everyone together under one (very lovely) roof, Canford House is the kind of place that turns weekends into memories.

The Accommodation

Canford House is made for group stays that actually feel like a break. There’s loads of space to be together – and plenty of room to spread out when you need a moment. Bedrooms are set across three floors, so different generations can find their own rhythm, and with big communal spaces and a private indoor pool, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Perfect for bringing together extended family, catching up with friends, or a bit of both – this place fits just right.

Bedroom configuration

• 8 bedrooms in total, sleeping up to 22 across 6 double beds, 8 single beds and 2 additional fold-out Z-beds
• A mix of doubles, family rooms and twin rooms ideal for large groups
• Accessible bedroom next to the pool with wet room, grab rails, lowered sink and loo

Ground floor bedrooms:

• 1 double bedroom
• 1 accessible double bedroom with ensuite and accessible features including grab rails, lower sink, and accessible shower and loo
• Study with cloakroom (can double as an extra bedroom)

First floor:

• 1 double bedroom
• 1 twin room
• 1 family suite (double + twin) with private bathroom, twin sinks, separate shower room, dressing area and private terrace with lovely views
• Additional shared shower room and a separate bathroom both with loos

Second floor:

• 1 double bedroom
• 1 twin room
• 1 family room with 1 double bed and twin beds

Social Spaces

Canford House is made for relaxed living. With a spacious open-plan kitchen/living/dining area at its heart –  plus two further lounges and a cinema room – there’s room for movie nights, downtime, games, and getting everyone around the table.

• Large open-plan living/dining/kitchen space with breakfast bar, 5 ring hob and high end oven
• Huge country-style dining table for shared meals
• Two additional sitting rooms with comfy sofas, smart TV, books and board games
• Open fires for cosy evenings in
• Second kitchen/pantry – ideal for use by private chefs or caterers
• Study with desk and superfast Wi-Fi (or as an extra bedroom)
• Cinema room with large-screen TV – perfect for film nights

The Pool House

Tucked just a few steps from the main house, the private indoor pool is a real standout – the kind of feature that turns a great stay into a memorable one. Picture early morning laps, rainy afternoon swims, or a slow float with a good playlist and zero responsibilities – this space is made for switching off.

It’s not just the pool either – there are comfy loungers for post-dip lounging, space to gather with a drink, and even a table tennis setup for those who like a bit of friendly competition.

Perfect for both kids who never tire of the water and grown-ups looking to properly unwind.

In the Pool House:

• Large heated indoor pool
• Comfortable loungers for full-on poolside relaxation
• Table tennis for all-ages entertainment
• Plenty of space to gather, sit back and enjoy

Outside the Retreat

The grounds are just as special as the house –  seven acres of gardens, woodland and meadows, all yours to explore. Kids can run wild, dogs can roam, and there’s plenty of space for outdoor games, nature walks or simply sitting with a morning coffee and the sound of birdsong.

• Outdoor dining area with large table and plenty of seating
• BBQ and pizza oven for relaxed, alfresco feasts
• A gorgeous swing under the main Oak tree
• Wildflower meadows and woodland trails
• Wildlife spotting and space for play

Corporate Retreats

Canford House is made for more than just downtime – it’s a brilliant space for team getaways, strategy sessions and off-site retreats that feel both productive and genuinely enjoyable. There’s room to focus, room to unwind, and a setting that helps everyone breathe a little deeper.

With plenty of breakout spaces, a dedicated study, a cinema room for presentations or film nights, and optional extras like private catering or wellbeing sessions, it’s an easy, inspiring place to bring people together – and spark ideas that stick.

Extras & Add-Ons

Want to make your stay extra special? A range of additional services and activities can be arranged on request, including:

• Private catering and chef experiences
• Nanny services or childcare
• Team-building and group activities
• Wellbeing treatments and massage
• Cocktail-making workshops
• Cooking classes
• And more – just ask!

Location

Canford House sits just outside Wimborne Minster, right in the heart of Dorset’s gorgeous countryside. It’s where rolling fields meet ancient woodland, giving all ages plenty of space to explore, unwind, and enjoy the fresh air.

You’re close enough to charming market towns like Wimborne and Poole for shopping, cafés, and local culture, but far enough away to really switch off. Nearby beaches at Bournemouth and Poole make for brilliant family days out – perfect for building sandcastles, paddling in the sea, or soaking up some sunshine.

For history lovers, there’s Kingston Lacy’s stunning stately home and gardens, plus the quirky Wimborne Model Town. Outdoor fans can enjoy scenic walks around Brownsea Island or adventure-filled days at Splashdown Poole waterpark.

With nature reserves, family-friendly farms, and iconic spots like the Jurassic Coast on your doorstep, this location offers something for everyone and a beautiful backdrop to your stay.

Nearby Attractions

• Royal Signals Museum – great for curious minds
• Jurassic Coast – Lulworth Cove, Durdle Door & dramatic coastal walks
• Bournemouth, Sandbanks and Studland beaches – perfect for summer days out
• Swanage Railway – step back in time
• The Tank Museum – fascinating for all ages
• Farmer Palmer’s Farm Park – perfect for little ones

Getting Here

Despite its peaceful setting, Canford House is easy to get to –  with good transport links and plenty of parking.

• Nearest train stations: Poole or Bournemouth
• By road: Around 25 minutes from Poole / 30 mins from Bournemouth / under an hour from Salisbury
• Nearest airport: Bournemouth (BOH)

Perfect For

Gathering the whole family under one roof, planning a getaway with friends, or organising a special celebration – Canford House is ready to welcome you. With space, comfort, and plenty of places to hang out together – or find a quiet moment – it suits all kinds of groups and occasions.

Here’s who’ll love it most:

• Multigenerational and large families, also perfect for a family wishing to invite parents and in laws at different points of their stay – if you’re a smaller group but you love this retreat, the owners would love you still to enquire as they are flexible with smaller groups staying
• Groups of friends
• Big celebrations and milestones
• Dog lovers (with plenty of walks nearby)
• Corporate retreats and team-building weekends
• Wellbeing and wellness escapes
• Relaxed stag and hen groups looking to have a civilised and pampered weekend away

Your Dorset Escape Awaits

Canford House is everything you need for a truly memorable getaway – whether that’s a big family reunion, a friends’ weekend away, or a corporate retreat with all the extras. With space for up to 22 people, thoughtful bedrooms, a stunning indoor pool, and acres of beautiful gardens and woodland to explore, it’s a place where everyone can feel at home and enjoy their own rhythm.

Set in the heart of the Dorset countryside, close to charming market towns and iconic spots like Kingston Lacy and the Jurassic Coast, you’re perfectly placed to switch off, reconnect, and make the most of every moment together.

If you’re after space, comfort, and a touch of luxury in a setting that feels both private and welcoming, Canford House is waiting to welcome you.