Orchard Cottage was purchased in 2023 by Annabel Delisle and had been empty for 2 years with a very overgrown garden and in sore need of a plumbing and electrical upgrade. Originally three cottages built in the 1700s, with a 1980s extension. The buildings are made of Rammed Chalk and Thatch.

Following a recent renovation the property now features 21^st century mod cons within the original historic house. The grounds extend to about a quarter of an acre with an organic “No Dig” vegetable garden.

On your visit you will be able to learn about retrofitting a listed building, sheep’s wool insulation, no-dig veg & flower growing and composting. Orchard Cottage shows that it is possible to work within the constraints of Dorset Planning requirements to upgrade a thermally inefficient Listed building whilst retaining the historic fabric. We have employed local tradesmen who have brought their own expertise and skills to the upgrade.

Our aim has been to provide an energy efficient home with the parameters of a Grade II listing. Although we have been denied permission for solar panels as they fall within the curtilage you can come and learn how we have tried to work around this.