Apple Tree Lodge | Gillingham | Whistley Fm | Dorset And Somerset

4.6★

5 Guests
3 Bedrooms
1 Bathroom
Pets Yes
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Features

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

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing

Cleanliness

Comfort

Facilities and Maintenance

* Based on a combined average customer score

42 Customer Review(s)

Jeremy
October 2024

“A warm welcome after a long drive from France.”

We thought that it was a lovely touch to provide us with fresh eggs, bacon, sausages and even a bottle of sparkling wine on our arrival. The property is well presented, clean and comfortable located in a beautiful quiet setting overlooking the lakes with Gillingham Town close by with good amenities. The dogs thoroughly enjoyed their stay as well with many local walks to explore.

We thought that it was a lovely touch to provide us with fresh eggs, bacon, sausages and even a bottle of sparkling wine on our arrival. The property is well presented, clean and comfortable located in a beautiful quiet setting overlooking the lakes with Gillingham Town close by with good amenities. The dogs thoroughly enjoyed their stay as well with many local walks to explore.

- Jeremy, October 2024
Eddie September 2024

“We had a fabulous few days, very peaceful and quiet even though there was another lodge nearby.”

Fantastic location and the lodge was spectacular with great facilities especially the shower!! The dogs had a great time in the nearby trees and grass areas, and enjoyed a little golf practice!! Loved the special touch of sausages, bacon and eggs along with a nice bottle of red wine, thank you

- Eddie, September 2024
Shaun September 2024

“Fantastic place to stay Very peaceful and quiet with everything you need a short car journey away”

- Shaun, September 2024
Kathy July 2024

“Apple Tree Lodge is in the most beautiful and restful countryside.”

The surroundings are perfect. Sadly the lodge is desperately in need of some major tlc. If it is left much longer it will not be rentable. The little extras go some way to helping make it cosy but we could not use bbq, despite requesting help nothing happened. Doors did not close, cooker not good. All wood needs revarnishing. Sheets need replacing. Despite the difficulties the cleaners do a very good job. The wonderful and well kept grounds were the best thing about this break.

- Kathy, July 2024

Thank you for taking the time to give us feedback. We are really pleased you enjoyed our surroundings, I agree it is beautiful and peaceful. I am disappointed to hear that you felt the lodge itself needed attention. We are constantly upgrading the lodge and it has recently had brand new windows throughout put in last month, we also had a lot of the wood replaced, this wood has been treated before it was put up and is due to be painted to match the rest of the lodge but unfortunately the weather has hindered our progress, so apologies if this affected your stay in anyway. The BBQ is all in working order but for safety reasons there is an on/off switch on the gas bottle. Apologies that this wasn’t clear and you couldnt get hold of us to explain this. In the welcome folder there are a few different ways to get hold of us so it always a good idea to try a couple of ways if we don’t t respond straight away, failing that we live on site so are usually around for assistance. I will look into this and make sure I make the instructions as clear as possible. Thank you for the feedback about the oven, I will look into to this. As I said before we are constantly replacing items that are not up to standard. Regarding the sheets we again are constantly monitoring and replacing the bedding when necessary, we use 100% cotton bedding on our Emma mattresses and usually have great feedback about the comfort. We always have spares so if you are unhappy about your bedding we will always do our best to rectify that for you. I will keep a closer eye on the sheets when doing the ironing. We are glad you found the lodges very clean our cleaning ladies do a great job and glad you enjoyed our welcome pack. Thank you for the appreciation of the well kept grounds, we work hard on these too. Property Owner
Diana April 2024

“What a lovely place to spend your holiday.”

Beautiful surroundings, breath taking. The cottage can do with some labour around the outside. We have had a lovely stay, despite of the rainy days.

- Diana, April 2024
Stephanie December 2023

“We absolutely loved our lodge and my husband and sons were over the moon with their fishing!”

- Stephanie, December 2023
Nicola October 2023

“Had a lovely family short break here.”

Appreciated the breakfast items, thank you. The lodge suited our requirements perfectly.

- Nicola, October 2023
Ros October 2023

“Unfortunately our dogs had fleas jump on them during our stay.”

While this isn’t unexpected in properties which allow dogs, we’ve never had this happen before but the carpets throughout looked and felt tired and in need of a thorough steam clean. The tatty duvet in the double bedroom definitely needs replacing for hygiene reasons alone. The bathroom needs an extractor fan and small heater. There’s nowhere to dry towels. Outside there are old rusty folding chairs heaped up at the back of the property and a collection of wet outdoor games items left on the ground underneath the steps. These need to be in a storage bin. The property needs some attention on the outside regarding fresh paint. The wood is clearly deteriorating. Would we stay here again, no! The setting is undeniably beautiful. We left a day early.

- Ros, October 2023
Heather October 2023

“Cooker unpredictable especially the oven.”

Several key bits of cutlery/utensils missing. Decking very slippery indeed in fact I fell over and down the steps. Not good at my age. Despite all of the above we loved staying there and would probably stay there again. A beautiful spot despite the horrible weather!

- Heather, October 2023
Clare October 2023

“Thank you for a fantastic short break.”

The lake fishing is wonderful and the view was superb. The chance to walk through private woodland was a bonus. Yes you do need a car to get to local amenities but the chance to order a takeaway delivery or have a bbq or pizza oven made available was a lovely touch as was the extra breakfast food left in the fridge. I have already booked for 7 night summer 2024.

- Clare, October 2023
Holly August 2023

“Such a quaint little house we loved our stay!”

My boys called it the tree house they were super excited when they saw it. Would highly recommend very impressed with the space inside considering. Also impressed with facility’s inside All in all a fab adventure for our family! X

- Holly, August 2023
David June 2023

“Fantastic week away,great location,comfortable and cosy…best nights sleep in ...”

Fantastic week away,great location,comfortable and cosy…best nights sleep in ages Would deffo recommend staying Oh and so much wildlife around

- David, June 2023
Marguerite June 2023

“This is a wonderful place to stay if you need some respite and peace and quiet or if you have children that need to run around and play outside.”

Hubby and me had a very peaceful few days and Chris and Amy are on hand if you need anything. Thanks so much! Will be back again.

- Marguerite, June 2023
Carrie May 2023

“Just had a wonderful week!”

From the very start with a warm welcome with a bottle of Prosecco & some breakfast supplies, to the very end it was great. Great facilities, from the pizza over, bbq & fishing. The booking was easy & it was clear the owners were very thoughtful. Great place for the kids as so safe for them (obviously have to be careful with the lakes) to run around & play with the equipment (golf, football) left for them to enjoy. Also great for the dogs being so close to beautiful walks. Would definitely recommend & would go back!

- Carrie, May 2023
Patrick April 2023

“Most everything was great.”

A really nice little cosy place to stay. The only thing that was a slight disappointment was we were very excited to use the pizza oven in the garden. However, when we went to use it, it was dusty, with spiders inside! We still managed to cook our homemade pizzas in the oven indoors, but it wasn't quite the same. Otherwise, a really lovely stay :)

- Patrick, April 2023
Catherine October 2022

“Very peaceful with beautiful surroundings, the owners were very helpful, we would highly recommend Apple Tree Lodge to family and friends.”

- Catherine, October 2022
Kriss October 2022

“We had a lovely stay , the lodge was ideal for myself and the children .”

The surrounding area was beautiful and just a nice place to visit.

- Kriss, October 2022
Kathleen October 2022

“Absolutely loved this tranquil location, comfortable lodge and added extras provided for the guests on arrival.”

Looking forward to returning when circumstances permit. Stayed the entire week on the grounds just enjoying the surroundings and beautiful nature.

- Kathleen, October 2022
Rachel July 2022

“We had a fabulous stay at Apple Tree Lodge - the setting was absolutely idyllic and peaceful.”

And the accommodation itself was perfect for 5 adults and in general, was well equipped. We would definitely return again for a long weekend away!

- Rachel, July 2022
Lisa April 2022

“Really enjoyed our break beautiful setting”

- Lisa, April 2022
Jean March 2022

“Lovely property lovely location to explore the county.”

The welcome pack and flowers was a lovely touch will definitely be back.

- Jean, March 2022
Lara February 2022

“Such a lovely lodge, with everything you would need to have a comfortable stay.”

Host was very welcoming and the little added treats on arrival, were a lovely surprise. The only suggestion I would make is a little heater in the downstairs bathroom would definitely help in the winter months. Absolutely stunning surroundings will definitely be back. Thank you

- Lara, February 2022
Vera November 2021

“Such a lovely cottage for a weekend away with the family!”

All so cosy with a wonderful view, we even had a bottle of wine and ingredients for a tasty breakfast. The children loved the playground and we all played a bit of golf.

- Vera, November 2021
Pauline November 2021

“We enjoyed our stay which was in a quiet and tranquil area.”

The following needs rectifying: The left front hotplate on the cooker does not work and blew the fuses which we sorted. The heater above the door to the bedroom did not produce any heat even though we set it as per instructions. No hot water in upstairs toilet. Owners need to change the Whistley Waters website that stated produce for a cooked breakfast would be left in the lodge. This was not provided (do not put because of Covid as can be put in sealed bags) and when the owners were contacted about this we were told they had left a bottle of wine and eggs instead of sausages and bacon. We had to go to town for breakfast as we did not cater for this not being provided. Barbeque and pizza oven rusty and not cleaned. Outside furniture on patio was rusty. Needs some maintenance and care

- Pauline, November 2021
Alfred November 2021

“We had a very enjoyable stay at the lodge and hopefully will visit again .”

- Alfred, November 2021
Andrew October 2021

“Truly a wonderful peaceful place to stay 1st class dogs love it as well”

- Andrew, October 2021
Laura July 2021

“Thankyou so much to the owners, warm welcome of wine and fresh eggs, fresh milk and butchers bacon and sausages , even treats for the dogs!”

The lodge has so much about it that you really don’t need to go far , we spent a few days over the week just milking around playing games with the kids on the lawn and enjoying the lake and kayak , stunning place we all thoroughly enjoyed

- Laura, July 2021
Carmen December 2020

“Heaven, such a charming wooden lodge, everything you need and more, including bbq and outdoor pizza oven Amy (owner) is ever so friendly and the breakfast pack was delicious, also a nice bottle or prosecco and doggie treats.”

The land and lakes are beautiful and so peaceful, we are already booking for next year See you soon Amy.

- Carmen, December 2020
Anna October 2020

“Downstairs loo flush needs repairing.”

Assumed, as there were only 2 of us in the booking that we were a couple, so only made up the double bed - this was not the case. Much appreciated sausages, bacon and black pudding in fridge for us - assumed we were meat eaters (we are, but no vegetarian alternative). Also provided bottle of wine and eggs. Lots of cobwebs and some live spiders and dust - not the best deep clean. Overall, really pleased with the property, just a couple of minor points.

- Anna, October 2020
Michael September 2020

“Second visit.”

Best welcome pack ever experienced, from flowers to black pudding. Very secluded and peaceful. Dog friendly. Lovely walks round lakes and woodland. Plenty to see from kingfishers to rarer woodland plants. Hosts nearby and readily available if needed. Access roads quite narrow, but adequate. Local drivers patient and courteous. Four good supermarkets available within four miles. Good pubs in surrounding villages.

- Michael, September 2020
Steven July 2020

“Completely glorious place to stay!”

!! perfection!

- Steven, July 2020
Wendy February 2020

“Lovely holiday home.”

We were left ingredients for a fry up in the fridge, as well as chocolate and prosecco, which was an appreciated extra. We arrived in storm Dennis, so the weather was not the best, but the house was heated well. The kitchen is snug, but has everything you need, including a dishwasher with cleaning products supplied. As we holidayed in February, we did not make use of the outside facilities, but they were available. Would definitely recommend and will hopefully return.

- Wendy, February 2020
Barrie November 2019

“Beautiful setting in the countryside with walks galore.”

Generally comfortable accommodation but with a few gripes. The wall heater provided insufficient heating for November. Whilst our upper bodies were warm, our legs and feet were cold. The small electric “fire” used as a focal point was for visual purposes only and gave out no heat. A torch is essential, but none was provided. Similarly, lights in the parking area are necessary. I would suggest that a washing machine would be more useful than a dish washer. Our hosts Amy and Chris, were very friendly and helpful.

- Barrie, November 2019

Thank you for taking the time to provide feedback. We are so glad you enjoyed the setting of Whistley Waters and all the walks. I'm so sorry you didn't feel warm enough, we usually get such positive feedback about how warm and cosy the lodge is. The electric fire in the front room has 2 settings, 1 flame only visual effect and then 2 heat settings which are actually very efficient so you probably had only the visual effect on. We feel that the combination of the main wall heater that is quick and efficient with no heat setting restrictions, with the extra boost of the front room electric fire, on heat setting of course and the electric radiators in the bedrooms usually keep people feeling nice and cosy all year round, so I'm sorry you didn't find the right combination for you, if you let us know during your stay we will always come over to help with any situations you are not comfortable with. You are right it is very dark, we usually have movement sensor lights on the outside of the lodge but due to the high winds and rain we are having to replace them, which is happening now, I have been leaving the outside lights on for people's arrival in case they arrive after dark but we can look in to getting an extra light in the car park. Hopefully with this and the new light on the lodge that will create plenty of lighting. Maybe I can look into providing a torch for after dark walks. We can only fit either a dishwasher or washing machine in the lodge. Our thinking behind choosing a dishwasher was as both lodges can sleep up to to 5 and 6 people we felt that would be a lot of washing up for someone to do on their holiday! Since you were a party of 2 in for 2 weeks and working very hard we can totally except that you probably would have preferred a washing machine. We are glad you found us friendly and helpful, we try our best. Wishing you all the best. Property Owner
Tracy November 2019

“The lodge is great and is equipped with everything you need.”

The only downside is the stairs to the bedrooms upstairs. Very narrow and steep but definitely wouldn’t put us off from visiting again. Cosy and warm. There is a little shed outside full of outdoor games for families, even a set of golf clubs that we used on the little course in front of the lodge. We were welcomed with flowers, a breakfast pack of bacon, sausages, eggs and milk, and there was even a treat for our dogs. A really thoughtful gesture which was much appreciated. Overall a brilliant 2 night stay and a definite return visit in the summer months to use the BBQ and Pizza Oven facilities outside.

- Tracy, November 2019
Suzanne October 2019

“The first glimpse of Apple tree lodge was very welcoming the fire was glowing and the lodge was warm.”

We especially enjoyed all the little extras such as flowers breakfast platter and pumpkin pie and local cream . I am sure we will be visiting again as there is such a lot to do and see in this area

- Suzanne, October 2019
Patrick September 2019

“The beds were very uncomfortable, mattresses need changing.”

The couch was also uncomfortable springs were shot. The dining room furniture was too big for the area. The only thing I can say that is positive is that the view was very nice from the deck. The stairway was very steep, not good for anyone with a disability.

- Patrick, September 2019

Thank you for taking the time to offer your feedback, we are so sorry that Apple Tree Lodge did not meet your expectations. We do keep a close eye on the mattresses on the beds to ensure that everyone gets a good nights sleep so I will definitely go and have a lie down on the beds upstairs again to reassess when these should be changed. In the double room the mattress has only recently been changed so it's a shame you did not find this comfortable. I apologise for the sofa, you are right one of the springs on the middle seat of the sofa was broken. We only noticed this during the changeover, we tried our best to do some adjustments to make it as comfortable as possible, we have ordered a new one, unfortunately this did not arrive in time for your stay. As the lodge can sleep up to 5 and often does we need a dinning area to seat that many, it's not a complaint I have had before but maybe I could look at the positioning of the furniture to make sure we are optimising space. Yes, the staircase is narrow so we would recommend to anyone who finds it difficult to climb stairs to use the bedroom and bathroom downstairs. We are glad you enjoyed the view though but feel sad that this was the only positive you could find as we usually get such positive feedback and lots of returning guests to Apple Tree Lodge. It's a shame we couldn't win you over this time. Property Owner
Michael September 2019

“A true hideaway!”

Beautiful site with excellent views and the silence is deafening. Good walks, well-mown paths around the lakes. Local woodland interesting but a bit hilly; ideal for children under escort. My dogs loved it! Wild life almost on the doorstep. Owners nearby and available but not intrusive. Steps to Lodge may look daunting but are at a comfortable angle.Upper floor bedroom not used by only the two of us but can sleep another three. Push-button electrics and Wifi keeps the family in touch but remote. (A bonus!) Some good pubs (with local brews) and menus to suit most tastes within three to five miles. Must-see Stourhead (National Trust) 20 minutes away. Four Supermarkets in Gillingham. The village of Mere has some very individual shops. Certainly one that we would return to.

- Michael, September 2019
Adam July 2019

“The owners Chris and Amy were very attentive to any needs we had whilst staying at Apple Tree Lodge.”

It was peaceful and charming area to stay. The breakfast platter was a nice little touch for our arrival, would definitely recommend to others and will be booking again

- Adam, July 2019
Steven July 2019

“Apple Tree Lodge is completely wonderful!”

The lodge itself is so comfortable and cosy. Everything you need is there. The surrounding grounds are gorgeous. Being able to walk around the lakes, across fields and through woodland is an exceptional gift to those staying here. We even had the opportunity to play pitch and putt, boules, badminton etc. On arrival we found a very generous breakfast platter in the fridge. We even had coffee beans and a grinder and fresh flowers. These extras really were appreciated. I cannot praise this place enough! Words are insufficient to truly describe how beautiful it is there. The owners are so kind too...what a triumph. I can’t wait to go back.

- Steven, July 2019
Cindy April 2019

“Apple Tree Lodge is ideal if you’re looking for a peaceful holiday.”

It’s surrounded by beautiful country side & the views are amazing. It’s a great place for walkers too as there are many public foot paths to explore. My friend and I took full advantage of this & only used our cars once to drive further out. Although small Apple Tree Lodge is well equipped, cosy & has every thing you need . It was perfect for my friend & I as we both wanted a tranquil setting . The owners were kind enough to leave us with bacon, sausages, eggs & black pudding for breakfast & milk . There were also teabags sugar & coffee In canisters & things like washing up liquid, dishwasher tablets & handwash were provided . - nice touch .

- Cindy, April 2019
Zohair April 2019

“Stunning location that was quite and peaceful.”

We loved the lodge and enjoyed breakfast on the deck and pizza in the evening. Space for the children and dog to play safely as well as activities like the boats, golf and fishing. The hosts were great and super helpful. Really no need to leave the site except to get supplies.

- Zohair, April 2019
Mike February 2019

“Great location if you want some peace and quiet.”

Lovely woodland and lakeside walks. Great touch to provide all the breakfast food, real coffee and fresh milk. We loved our few days here, thank you.

- Mike, February 2019

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Summary

Three bedrooms: 1 x ground floor double, 1 x twin, 1 x single
Ground floor bathroom with a shower over bath, basin and WC, first floor cloakroom with basin and WC
Open-plan living area with kitchen, dining area and sitting area with electric fire
Electric heating, electric fire
Electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge, dishwasher, TV with FreeSat, WiFi
Fuel, power and starter pack for pizza oven inc. in rent
Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
Ample off-road parking
Decking with furniture, gas BBQ and pizza oven, 15 acres of land with lakes
Two well-behaved dogs welcome
Sorry, no smoking
Shop and pub 2.5 miles
Apple Tree Lodge can be booked together with Rose Lodge reference 967741 to accommodate larger groups
Please note: Bookings must start on either a Friday or a Monday
Please note: All School holidays must be booked as full weeks starting Fridays.

The property

Apple Tree Lodge can be found nestled amidst within 15 acres of woodland and surrounded by rolling countryside, just a short distance away from the bustling town of Gillingham.

This unique accommodation is set on the picturesque Whistly Waters, offering the ideal base for a family rural retreat to this part of Dorset.

After an action-packed afternoon, be welcomed into the real home-from-home open-plan living room where you will find everything you could possibly need during a week-long break.

The hub of the home comes with an inviting sitting area with a Freesat TV, a formal dining space and a well-equipped kitchen where you can cater your own delicious meals.

To catch your rest in between your Dorset adventures, find a well-presented double bedroom on the ground-floor, whilst upstairs there is a twin bedroom and a single bedroom resting in the eaves of the property.

If the weather is on your side, spend a moment or two upon the decked area and light up the BBQ as you admire the surrounding views with a glass of something refreshing in hand.

For those feeling active, look forward to exploring the 15 acres of land, where you will find opportunities for canoeing, fishing and pitch and putt.

For local amenities, head to Gillingham where you will find a selection of shops and eateries, as well as an interesting museum.

Alternatively, travel slightly further afield to the charming town of Shaftesbury or explore the landscape of the AONB.

Apple Tree Lodge is an outstanding retreat for exploring the coast and countryside of Dorset.

Please note: Bookings must start on either a Friday or a Monday.
Please note: All School holidays must be booked as full weeks starting Fridays.

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About the location

GILLINGHAM

Shaftesbury 5 miles.

A small bustling North Dorset market town in the heart of the Blackmore Vale, well served by a good selection of local shops, inns, restaurants, and a direct rail link from London to the West Country. The town was immortalised by John Constable's famous painting of The Old Town Bridge, which now hangs in the Tate Gallery. The Blackmore Vale, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is part of the Stour Valley, vividly depicted by Thomas Hardy in Tess of The D'Urbervilles, as 'Vale of the little dairies', with lush green countryside and a 'patchwork quilt' of fields. The area abounds with pretty rural walks and offers numerous National Trust properties and historic houses within a short drive, such as Stourhead, Longleat and Wilton, whilst the wonderful Dorset Heritage Coast is also an easy drive.

Should you wish to fish at the property, there will be an additional charge of £35 per person providing they are over 12. 12 and under can fish for free.
Note: A maximum two well-behaved dogs are allowed at the property and £25 per charge per pet - if you would like to enquire for additional dogs then please contact our office.

This property offers the following short breaks:

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Features

Reviews & Ratings

“A warm welcome after a long drive from France.”

“We had a fabulous few days, very peaceful and quiet even though there was another lodge nearby.”

“Fantastic place to stay Very peaceful and quiet with everything you need a short car journey away”

“Apple Tree Lodge is in the most beautiful and restful countryside.”

“What a lovely place to spend your holiday.”

“We absolutely loved our lodge and my husband and sons were over the moon with their fishing!”

“Had a lovely family short break here.”

“Unfortunately our dogs had fleas jump on them during our stay.”

“Cooker unpredictable especially the oven.”

“Thank you for a fantastic short break.”

“Such a quaint little house we loved our stay!”

“Fantastic week away,great location,comfortable and cosy…best nights sleep in ...”

“This is a wonderful place to stay if you need some respite and peace and quiet or if you have children that need to run around and play outside.”

“Just had a wonderful week!”

“Most everything was great.”

“Very peaceful with beautiful surroundings, the owners were very helpful, we would highly recommend Apple Tree Lodge to family and friends.”

“We had a lovely stay , the lodge was ideal for myself and the children .”

“Absolutely loved this tranquil location, comfortable lodge and added extras provided for the guests on arrival.”

“We had a fabulous stay at Apple Tree Lodge - the setting was absolutely idyllic and peaceful.”

“Really enjoyed our break beautiful setting”

“Lovely property lovely location to explore the county.”

“Such a lovely lodge, with everything you would need to have a comfortable stay.”

“Such a lovely cottage for a weekend away with the family!”

“We enjoyed our stay which was in a quiet and tranquil area.”

“We had a very enjoyable stay at the lodge and hopefully will visit again .”

“Truly a wonderful peaceful place to stay 1st class dogs love it as well”

“Thankyou so much to the owners, warm welcome of wine and fresh eggs, fresh milk and butchers bacon and sausages , even treats for the dogs!”

“Heaven, such a charming wooden lodge, everything you need and more, including bbq and outdoor pizza oven Amy (owner) is ever so friendly and the breakfast pack was delicious, also a nice bottle or prosecco and doggie treats.”

“Downstairs loo flush needs repairing.”

“Second visit.”

“Completely glorious place to stay!”

“Lovely holiday home.”

“Beautiful setting in the countryside with walks galore.”

“The lodge is great and is equipped with everything you need.”

“The first glimpse of Apple tree lodge was very welcoming the fire was glowing and the lodge was warm.”

“The beds were very uncomfortable, mattresses need changing.”

“A true hideaway!”

“The owners Chris and Amy were very attentive to any needs we had whilst staying at Apple Tree Lodge.”

“Apple Tree Lodge is completely wonderful!”

“Apple Tree Lodge is ideal if you’re looking for a peaceful holiday.”

“Stunning location that was quite and peaceful.”

“Great location if you want some peace and quiet.”

Summary

The property

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About the location

GILLINGHAM