The Transmitter Bunker | Ringstead | Spring Bottom Hill | Dorset And Somerset

4.8★

4 Guests
2 Bedrooms
1 Bathroom
Pets Yes
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Features

Off road parking
Ground floor accommodation
Ground floor bedroom
Open fire
Garden / Patio
Dishwasher
Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing

Cleanliness

Comfort

Facilities and Maintenance

* Based on a combined average customer score

26 Customer Review(s)

Simon
September 2024

“This is an absolutely stunning property and location.”

The transmitter bunker has been beautifully restored and presented as a holiday cottage with everything you need to relax and enjoy your stay. Steeped in history and located on a quiet farm but just a 10 minute walk to the beach it’s near on perfect. Weymouth just 6 miles away for a day out or to stock up on supplies and the Beach Cafe was just down the road for a coffee and treat.Plenty of walk’s available with public footpaths and coastal paths near by the Transmitter Bunker was as a ...

The transmitter bunker has been beautifully restored and presented as a holiday cottage with everything you need to relax and enjoy your stay. Steeped in history and located on a quiet farm but just a 10 minute walk to the beach it’s near on perfect. Weymouth just 6 miles away for a day out or to stock up on supplies and the Beach Cafe was just down the road for a coffee and treat.Plenty of walk’s available with public footpaths and coastal paths near by the Transmitter Bunker was as a location and views the best we have ever been to!! An absolutely stunning property and 100% recommended. The owner I was extremely pleasant and the letting company were very helpful when needed and the one issue we had was dealt with within 24 hours. All in all brilliant.

- Simon, September 2024
Helen September 2024

“This was the perfect get away, we loved everything, from the bunkers history, the view, the fully equipped kitchen, all the facilities provided to make our stay special and easy.”

The only thing we would have liked is a king size bed rather than two singles, this said we still enjoyed every minute of our holiday, the perfect location and accommodation, we will certainly be booking this again.

- Helen, September 2024

Thank you for your very nice feedback and we look forward to welcoming you again. The Standby Generator Bunker will be available for rent very shortly and with 3 bedrooms it does have a double bed in one of the bedrooms. Property Owner
Zoe August 2024

“Absolutely amazing place to stay , beautiful location, property and locals .”

You can be calm and relaxed in the working farmland, walk for miles or have a quiet coffee on Ringstead bay or drive 10 /15 mins down the road and be in the hussle and bussle of the traditional seaside holiday in Weymouth. 100% recommend the property to anyone ( We were 2 adults, 1 child and 1 dog ) . Places and locations like this are the reason we work so hard , It's a retirement dream to have just a little bit of this beautiful place.

- Zoe, August 2024

Thank you for your very nice feedback. Hopefully we may see you again - you may like to try our new Bunker, The Standby Generator Bunker, which should be available for letting through Dream Cottages from the end of October. It is a much larger building and will sleep 6 with 2 bathrooms. We have used the same design principles and there are sea views over the deserted medieval village of Ringstead. Property Owner
Adrian June 2024

“Unusual with lovely sea view and quiet.”

- Adrian, June 2024

Thank you for your nice review Property Owner
Sarah June 2024

“The Transmitter bunker is a wonderful place to stay.”

It has been respectfully and responsibly converted into a great holiday let. It retains so many original features, yet it’s so warming and comfortable. The view from the patio is quite delightful. There aren’t many places we’ve stayed at where we’ve not wanted to venture too far away, because we wanted to stay, relax and literally do nothing. Just watch the wildlife, and listen to the birdsong. Each room is well equipped, comfortable and practical. Our only issue was the sofa. Not the most comfortable and an odd shape. Dining table seats 6 comfortably, sleeping serves 4, but the sofa would definitely not accommodate more than 2. That is our only criticism. We loved the bunker so much we’re already booked to go back next year.

- Sarah, June 2024

Thank you so much for your very nice feedback and we are very pleased that you are returning next year. Property Owner
Carolyn May 2024

“Fantastic. We loved our week long stay.”

Location was perfect, view and surroundings amazing. Lots to do nearby. Great, quirky place to stay. Loved reading about the history of the place and the renovation. Stayed with teenage daughters, they loved their room. Everything we had hoped and were looking forward to in the run up to the holiday. Perfect, thank you.

- Carolyn, May 2024

Thank you so much for your very nice feedback. I am so pleased that you enjoyed your stay. Property Owner
Susan April 2024

“A wonderful place to stay and unwind beautiful views of the Dorset coast.”

There are loads of places to visit within a short drive related to Thomas Hardy and Lawrence of Arabia. This place is unique and ideal for people like us who like to experience the unusual. Only two niggles the track up to the bunker had quite a few potholes which had to be carefully avoided and we would have preferred a double bed instead of singles but still thoroughly enjoyed our stay also would have like spare toilet rolls despite this would recommend a relaxing time away from it all .

- Susan, April 2024

Thank you for your very nice review. The track has taken a beating this winter but is on the list for repair. Property Owner
Noreen April 2024

“We had a fabulous week at the Transmitter Bunker!”

Excellent directions got us straight there and the bunker is clean and superbly renovated. The kitchen is small but is very well equipped with everything you could need. We only live an hour away but still managed to find lots to do in the area that we haven’t done before. Even on a damp day the ever changing, gorgeous view from the huge picture window is enough to occupy us for hours. The bunker is warm and cosy, when you change the temperature of the excellent under floor heating it reverts back to 20 degrees during night though, which made it a little warm for us overnight. Also a double bed would have been preferable for us rather than 2 singles. Just 2 minor bits which didn’t detract from us having a wonderful time in this amazing building that oozes history and won’t disappoint anyone lucky enough to stay there.

- Noreen, April 2024

I am so pleased you enjoyed your stay and we will review the overnight temperature. Property Owner
Judy March 2024

“Condensation from the light tunnels which i have spoken to the owner about.”

Fantastic view. Dogs loved it. More than adequate for two, might be a push for more. Best bit absolutely no phone coverage indoors, bliss

- Judy, March 2024

Thank you for your helpful comments. The original ventilation shafts have now been lined which will hopefully eliminate the condensation issue. Property Owner
Dale February 2024

“Exceptional it was quirky but outstanding views walks location i would ...”

Exceptional it was quirky but outstanding views walks location i would definitely recommend this to anyone but the imagination to have created that beautiful scene thanks

- Dale, February 2024
Mike February 2024

“The option for double bed would be the main recommendation and a few hooks by the front door to hang coats would be great.”

Important to emphasize that these are minor points that wouldn't stop us visiting again. Surprisingly warm and comfortable given the stark appearance of the bare concrete. Overall our stay was very comfortable and the ever changing views were fantastic.

- Mike, February 2024

I am so pleased that you enjoyed your stay. Thank you for your helpful suggestion about hooks and we will put some there. Property Owner
Louise January 2024

“Absolutly outstanding A true little gem hidaway”

- Louise, January 2024

Thank you for this very nice feedback. We are so pleased you enjoyed your stay and hope you will return. We have started work on the second Bunker - the Standby Generator House - which is much bigger (3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms) and closer to the sea with views to Ringstead Bay across the medieval village. The design principles are the same and we hope to have it ready for letting later in the year. Property Owner
David October 2023

“This is an amazing property, quite unique.”

Very warm and comfortable. Love all the fittings etc that are in keeping with the character of this place. The views are wonderful and I couldn't have asked for more, until we had a problem...... We had no lights in the bathroom for two days, a bit inconvenient as there are no windows. I called Sykes cottages twice, was promised someone would contact us, but nobody even gave us a call back, let alone send someone to fix the problem. All rather disappointing. However, I still can't fault this lovely property

- David, October 2023

Thank you for your very nice review. I apologise for the failure to deal with the light in the shower and I believe that Sykes has contacted you about this and also apologised. I was unaware of the problem. For the second time the extractor fan has tripped the bathroom lights as a result of condensation in the vent pipe damaging the motor (the problem of being semi underground). We have found a solution and will be installing a new extractor with a different pipe fitting which will allow condensation in the vent pipe to escape Property Owner
Linda September 2023

“Lovely unique place to stay, loved the history of the bunker.”

Disappointed that recycling from previous visitor had not been removed also we had to clean out the log burner before we could use it. This didn’t detract from a lovely holiday, and we would certainly come back. Would suggest a poker or tongs needed for log burner.

- Linda, September 2023
Roger August 2023

“A really exciting and well presented holiday home.”

Everything you need in one tidy concrete package, with fantastic views and a peaceful secluded location.

- Roger, August 2023

Thank you for your nice comments and I am so pleased you enjoyed your stay Property Owner
Karen July 2023

“Beautiful setting with beautiful views.”

The bunker itself is well thought out and the fixtures and furnishings are great. Being in the country and partially under the ground are going to bring bugs into the bunker and we found our car covered in wasps from the tree sap, which isn't much of a problem if you don't mind them! It's a lovely place to stay if you want to stay in all day, very peaceful, but we used it as a base and travelled all over Dorset. We weren't sure where we were allowed to walk and didn't want to trespass so perhaps a map of public footpaths around the bunker would have been helpful. Thankyou for the opportunity The Payne family x

- Karen, July 2023

Thank you so much for your helpful comments. I am so pleased you enjoyed your stay. Property Owner
Sophie July 2023

“This is an amazing property in an idyllic location with a quirky loft conversion feel to the interior.”

We loved our stay, found the place very well equipped and would consider rebooking for next year. The kids (8&12) were very happy in the environment and even the beds were really comfy! A few very minor points … It’s Britain and it rains!! So a few hooks on the wall just inside the door gif wrt costs would have been so invaluable. The kitchen is small, it’s a perfectly functional space but maybe loosing the odd time think, like the butter dish and all the other very homely small additions but not life necessities would allow more to for cooking! The bin thing is confusing, I’m all for recycling but if it’s so important as bigger outdoor recycling bit is needed. And finally, we do loved how everything was designed and the look of each room, but I think the bathroom is going to end up mouldy if sone sort of solution to water escaping the shower into the floor isn’t found. We tried every which way to use the shower and kept the water in but to no avail. Could a discreet curtain be added to the entrance? To increase the life of the property!! All I all such a precious find, we just want to give tips to make it a lasting success. Thank you for sharing the discs with us.

- Sophie, July 2023
Andrew July 2023

“We spent a lovely week staying in the bunker.”

It was so quirky. We were really cosy and had every thing we needed. I loved the little kitchen and it was so well equipped, everything had been thought of. The views were amazing we loved sitting and watching the wildlife and the ever changing colours of the sea. We were blessed with good weather and I enjoyed many walks with Syd the dog. It was so quiet and peaceful a great place to recharge batteries. The furnishings were excellent and I slept really well. The history in the display case was a great idea and so was the photo book showing start to finish of the bunker. I really want to visit again and also can’t wait to see how the other bunker gets a make over. Sue.

- Andrew, July 2023
Penelope July 2023

“A quiet location, with a glorious view, easy access to much of Dorset.”

The kitchen is of necessity tiny.

- Penelope, July 2023
Catherine June 2023

“The Transmitter Bunker was wonderful.”

I booked it as a surprise for my husband who is recovering after being seriously ill. He has a great knowledge of and love of military and naval history so I thought it would be perfect. It was. Beautifully converted hideaway, literally. Breathtaking views of the landscape and sea. We only left the bunker once for a short walk. We spent time sitting in the peace filled garden reading and watching the wildlife. We spent the evenings watching the bats and the moon over the sea. Arrived to it spotlessly clean and ready. Key easy to locate. All instructions clear. Incredible entrance, like stepping back in time totally. There is a tiny but well designed kitchen. Furniture was comfortable. We didn't light woodburner as weather so warm but appreciated stack of logs etc in case we wanted to do so. The history books and little museum info cupboard were perfect with history of the bunker, as was photo book of how it was transformed. What would be lovely for the future would be maybe a map showing where any walks were etc of the area as we would have liked to walk up to the Pill Box on the hill if you were allowed and short cut to the bay if there was one, we stuck to the road as we obviously didn't want to trespass. We would love to return and very much hope to book again to stay longer and explore the area a bit more. We didn't want to leave and wish we were able to stay longer. Next time.

- Catherine, June 2023

Thank you for your very nice comments. I am so pleased you enjoyed your stay and we look forward to welcoming you back. Property Owner
Margaret June 2023

“I love military history so I was super excited to discover The Transmitter Bunker.”

Nestled in a field in deepest Dorset, this was the most unique place I’ve ever stayed. The restoration has been sympathetic and much of the original concrete is featured. I loved seeing the photo book of the restoration that the owners have left for visitors to read. The view from the south facing terrace is stunning and there is a lovely table and chairs to chill out in the evening watching the sun go down. The kitchen is small but very well equipped and the main bedroom is comfy. There’s a log burner and underfloor heating so it will always be cosy whatever the time of year. I can’t fault it at all. A truly unique and interesting place to stay for a peaceful couple of days.

- Margaret, June 2023

Thank you. I am so glad that the Transmitter Bunker lived up to your expectations. Property Owner
Nicola-jayne May 2023

“This is an outstanding place to stay.”

You can really feel the history as soon as you walk through the doors. The build creatively pairs modern technology with the past and all of the wonderful features of the old bunker. You can spend all day just sitting and watching the view of the bay and looking out to sea. Stunning! No more words. Absolutely amazing, we would go back tomorrow. Thank-you

- Nicola-jayne, May 2023
Rachael May 2023

“We had a wonderful stay at the bunker.”

Such a fantastically unique place that manages to maintain the look, feel and history of the bunker with a really comfortable feel. The bunker had everything we need and the small kitchen was perfectly kitted out for our stay. All the little touches have been thought of throughout. The views from the bunker are absolutely stunning and driving to the bunker - seeing the bay and then through the dairy farm was a joy each time. The garden was fantastically landscaped and really suited the architecture of the bunker and frames the view so perfectly. We were blessed with rabbits, pheasants and woodpeckers. The bunker is also very well situated at Ringstead for exploring Dorset and we found most places were just 15-40 minutes away across the county, with bay beautiful beaches and villages very close. My only constructive feedback would be that the option of a double bed set up rather than twin beds in the main bedroom would have been appreciated. However the beds were wonderfully comfortable and the bedrooms so quiet and peaceful.

- Rachael, May 2023

Thank you very much for your lovely feedback. It is greatly appreciated Property Owner
Sarah April 2023

“Amazing holiday.”

I will miss that splendid view. The property is quirky but beautiful and well equipped. The wildlife with daily visits from hares deer and woodpeckers was lovely to see. Great location to explore Dorset which is beautiful. Thoroughly enjoyed highly recommended

- Sarah, April 2023

That is such nice feedback. Thank you so much. Property Owner
John April 2023

“We loved the Transmitter Bunker!”

The accommodation was everything we hoped it would be. I loved the history of the building, and the way the bunker has been refurbished, while keeping the original feel. The views over the sea from the living room and patio are remarkable. Excellent for a holiday – and even better if you’ve got an interest in World War II history.

- John, April 2023

Thank you so much for your very nice feedback. It means a lot to us. Property Owner
Jay April 2023

“Thank you so much for letting us stay at the bunker.”

It’s perfect. Quirky place with amazing history and beautiful views out over the bay. The general location is great for exploring the area with Durdle door and Lulworth cove down the road in one direction and then Weymouth, Lyme Regis and Charmouth easily reachable in the other direction. Our little boy loved the bunk bed and his room became the fossil hunting classroom where we had to go for lessons!! Every little detail has been thought of to make our stay easy and comfortable.

- Jay, April 2023

Thank you for your very nice feedback. We are so pleased you enjoyed your stay. By converting the Bunker to holiday accommodation we have been able to preserve an important piece of history and so your comments are most welcome. Property Owner

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Summary

Single-storey
Two bedrooms: 1 x twin, 1 x bunk
Shower room with walk-in shower, basin, heated towel rail and WC
Open-plan living space with kitchen, dining area and sitting area with open fire
Ground source energy generation, polished concrete floor with underfloor heating
Electric oven and hob, fridge/freezer, slimline dishwasher
Smart TV, WiFi
Fuel and power inc. in rent
Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
Washing machine (located in plant room) Off-road parking for 4 cars
Enclosed front garden with lawn, patio and furniture
Two well-behaved dogs allowed
Sorry, no smoking
Shop 2.2 miles, pub 1.6 miles
Note: Check-in from 4pm, check-out at 10am
Note: The garden is fenced
Note: There are steps in the garden

The property

Preston 4 miles.

Tucked away in the rural setting of the Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in Ringstead Bay near Preston, Dorset, discover this sympathetically restored, unique former bunker, The Transmitter Bunker which sits in the middle of the owner’s dairy farm, two fields away from the sea.

Boasting all ground-floor accommodation, stunning sea views and an abundance of character, The Transmitter Bunker welcomes four guests to experience the ultimate quirky retreat in Dorset.

After unloading your personal belongings in the off-road parking spot, cross the threshold into your delightful holiday home ready to recline in the sitting area in front of the roaring open fire and Smart TV; perfect for relaxing at the end of a long day.

Allow the designated chef to rustle up a culinary delight in the compact but well-fitted kitchen, complete with all the necessities required to ease your self-catered stay; settle down at the dining table to tuck into a feast or savour mealtimes on the private patio so you can soak up the quirkiness of your surroundings a little longer.

When the evening draws to a close, wash away the day in the lovely shower room and you’ll be ready to climb into bed and catch your rest ahead of another exciting adventure.

You can practically feel the history emanating from every part of the property with original features throughout.

Formerly the home of one of two transmitter blocks serving RAF Ringstead during the Second World War, the Transmitter Bunker was part of the Chain Home radar, a coastal early warning system which stretched from Cornwall in the West to Norfolk in the East.

The station was commissioned in early 1941 and finally decommissioned in 1956.

The renovation has had regard for the fact that the Bunker is listed Grade-II, with the original concrete walls and other features retained.

If that’s given you a taste for local history, then why not get out and about exploring the area?

Start your day in Ringstead Bay with its stunning shingle beach that stretches for nearly half a mile; here you can while the days away paddling the shore, sunbathing, or simply watching the world go by. The Reef café is a newly renovated café on the beach carpark, serving delicious homemade cakes, coffees and teas, soups in the winter, bacon rolls, burgers and in the summer holidays, wood fired pizzas.

Then why not refuel at the Smuggler’s Inn Pub.

Further afield, embark on a relaxing stroll along the South Coast Path, stopping off at Man O’War Beach before heading to Lulworth Cove.

Travelling west you’ll find the popular seaside location of Weymouth, where the Sea Life Centre, Lodmoor Country Park, Nothe Fort and Sandsfoot Castle all reside, offering plenty to see and do for the whole family, in addition to a plethora of shopping and eating opportunities so you can enjoy a hearty meal on the days you don’t feel like cooking!

For all of this and more, book a unique stay at The Transmitter Bunker (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Nh6k913nQQ).

Can be booked in conjunction with Woodlands Cottage (property ref 994807), Pitt Cottage (property ref 994553) or the Standby Generator Bunker (property ref 1137374).

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About the location

RINGSTEAD

Weymouth 7.6 miles.

Ringstead Bay in Dorset is an unspoilt pebble beach on the Jurassic coastline surrounded by striking cliffs and farmland. The original village mentioned in the doomsday book no longer exists, but there is now a small vibrant community nestled at the back of the bay in a variety of unique houses. You can enjoy walking the South West Coast path or meander through the woodland walks, whatever your preference this is a gorgeous place to be outside. When you are ready to explore further afield, you will find Lulworth Cove and Durdle door a short 11 miles away and Weymouth with it’s beautiful beach and plentiful restaurants and cafes 7 miles to the west. The Bovington Tank Museum, Monkey World Rescue, and Tyneham Village all offer varied and interesting days out just a short drive from Ringstead, presuming you can tear yourselves away from the unspoilt beach.

Any proposed booking with a changeover on a non standard date must first be cleared with the respective cleaners.

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Features

Reviews & Ratings

“This is an absolutely stunning property and location.”

“This was the perfect get away, we loved everything, from the bunkers history, the view, the fully equipped kitchen, all the facilities provided to make our stay special and easy.”

“Absolutely amazing place to stay , beautiful location, property and locals .”

“Unusual with lovely sea view and quiet.”

“The Transmitter bunker is a wonderful place to stay.”

“Fantastic. We loved our week long stay.”

“A wonderful place to stay and unwind beautiful views of the Dorset coast.”

“We had a fabulous week at the Transmitter Bunker!”

“Condensation from the light tunnels which i have spoken to the owner about.”

“Exceptional it was quirky but outstanding views walks location i would ...”

“The option for double bed would be the main recommendation and a few hooks by the front door to hang coats would be great.”

“Absolutly outstanding A true little gem hidaway”

“This is an amazing property, quite unique.”

“Lovely unique place to stay, loved the history of the bunker.”

“A really exciting and well presented holiday home.”

“Beautiful setting with beautiful views.”

“This is an amazing property in an idyllic location with a quirky loft conversion feel to the interior.”

“We spent a lovely week staying in the bunker.”

“A quiet location, with a glorious view, easy access to much of Dorset.”

“The Transmitter Bunker was wonderful.”

“I love military history so I was super excited to discover The Transmitter Bunker.”

“This is an outstanding place to stay.”

“We had a wonderful stay at the bunker.”

“Amazing holiday.”

“We loved the Transmitter Bunker!”

“Thank you so much for letting us stay at the bunker.”

Summary

The property

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About the location

RINGSTEAD