Overview of Swandown Lodges

Swandown Lodges is a countryside lodge retreat within the Cricket St Thomas Estate near Chard, close to the Somerset, Dorset and Devon borders, view all of our parks for caravan and lodge holidays near Chard in Somerset here.

The lodges sit among rolling farmland, woodland and established estate grounds, with extensive walking routes available directly from the accommodation. The setting works particularly well for couples and families who want a quieter self catering break with plenty of space around them rather than a large holiday resort.

Current holiday accommodation consists of two and three bedroom lodges sleeping four or six guests. Many have private outdoor hot tubs, while a small number are dog friendly. Spacious open plan living areas, fully equipped kitchens, log burners, WiFi, outdoor seating and countryside views make the lodge itself an important part of the holiday.

Swandown also has its own indoor heated swimming pool, available to resident guests through bookable sessions. Families have an adventure trail, while anglers can fish for carp on a catch and release basis at Horsepark Pond.

Adults can also use selected leisure facilities at the nearby Cricket St Thomas Hotel, including a larger indoor swimming pool, gym, sauna and steam room. Spa treatments can be booked separately.

The Cricket St Thomas Country Inn, formerly the Windwhistle Inn, is just across the road and provides breakfast, lunch, dinner and drinks. Cricket St Thomas Golf Club is also nearby, with an 18 hole parkland course, Toptracer driving range, restaurant and sports bar.

Chard and Crewkerne are both approximately four miles away, while Forde Abbey, Lyme Regis, Charmouth, West Bay and the Jurassic Coast can all be reached for days out.

Swandown Lodges at a Glance

Location	Cricket St Thomas near Chard, Somerset
Setting	Countryside lodge development within the Cricket St Thomas Estate
Accommodation	Two and three bedroom lodges
Sleeps	4 to 6 guests
Hot Tubs	Available with many lodges
Dog Friendly	Small number of pet friendly lodges
Indoor Pool	Heated pool on site
Fishing	Catch and release carp fishing at Horsepark Pond
Adventure Trail	Family trail within the estate
Estate Walking	Marked countryside walks
Adult Leisure Facilities	Larger pool, gym, sauna and steam room at nearby hotel
Spa Treatments	Available nearby at additional charge
Golf	18 hole course nearby
Driving Range	Toptracer range nearby
Food & Drink	Cricket St Thomas Country Inn across the road
Shop	Small honesty shop in reception
WiFi	Included
Parking	Allocated lodge parking plus visitor parking
Chard	Approximately 4 miles
Jurassic Coast	Around 30 minutes by car

Planning a Stay at Swandown Lodges

Holiday Style	What Swandown Offers
Hot Tub Breaks	Many lodges have private outdoor hot tubs
Couples Breaks	Quiet countryside, log burners, hot tubs and adult spa access nearby
Family Holidays	Indoor pool, adventure trail and two or three bedroom accommodation
Dog Friendly Holidays	Selected pet friendly lodges and estate walking
Fishing Breaks	Catch and release carp fishing at Horsepark Pond
Walking Holidays	Marked routes through the Cricket St Thomas Estate
Golf Breaks	Cricket St Thomas Golf Club nearby
Spa Breaks	Adult leisure club and bookable treatments at the nearby hotel
Coastal Days	Lyme Regis, Charmouth and West Bay around 30 minutes away
Year Round Breaks	Heated lodges, log burners, indoor swimming and hot tubs

Swandown particularly suits guests who expect to spend time around their accommodation rather than simply using it as somewhere to sleep.

Private hot tubs, countryside views, spacious living areas and log burners make evenings at the lodge part of the holiday, while the pool, fishing and estate walks provide useful activities without needing to drive elsewhere.

The position close to three counties also gives visitors a broad choice of days out. A single stay can include Somerset countryside, Dorset's Jurassic Coast and attractions across East Devon.

Why is Swandown Lodges a Great Holiday Park?

• Two and three bedroom countryside lodges
• Private hot tubs with many lodges
• Heated indoor swimming pool
• Catch and release carp fishing
• Adventure trail and estate walks
• Small number of dog friendly lodges
• Adult access to nearby gym, sauna and steam room
• Jurassic Coast approximately 30 minutes away

Swandown Lodges FAQs

Does Swandown Lodges have a swimming pool?

Yes. Swandown has its own indoor heated swimming pool for resident guests. Pool sessions are booked during the stay so families can enjoy the pool without it becoming overcrowded.

Adults can also use the larger swimming pool at the nearby Cricket St Thomas Hotel leisure club under the park's membership arrangements.

Do Swandown Lodges have hot tubs?

Many of the current two and three bedroom lodges have private outdoor hot tubs positioned beside the accommodation.

Not every lodge has a hot tub, so guests should choose an accommodation option where it is specifically included.

Can you go fishing at Swandown Lodges?

Yes. Horsepark Pond provides catch and release carp fishing for guests who bring their own fishing equipment.

Fish must be returned carefully to the water and visitors should check the latest rules at reception before starting.

Is Swandown Lodges dog friendly?

Yes, but only a small number of lodges currently welcome dogs.

Selected pet friendly lodges accept up to two dogs. Dogs must be kept on leads around the estate because Swandown sits within working farmland with livestock.

Is there somewhere to eat at Swandown Lodges?

There is no restaurant within Swandown itself.

The Cricket St Thomas Country Inn is just across the road and serves food and drinks, while Cricket St Thomas Golf Club also has dining and bar facilities nearby.

How far is Swandown Lodges from the Jurassic Coast?

Charmouth and Lyme Regis are approximately 30 minutes away by car. West Bay and other stretches of the Jurassic Coast are also straightforward day trips.

Accommodation at Swandown Lodges

Swandown specialises in substantial two and three bedroom holiday lodges rather than caravans.

The accommodation is privately owned, with a selection available for holiday rental.

Two Bedroom Lodges

Two bedroom lodges sleep four guests and work particularly well for couples, smaller families or two couples sharing.

Typical layouts provide two substantial bedrooms and two bathrooms, with selected accommodation giving each bedroom its own en suite shower room.

Large windows and vaulted ceilings feature in several lodges, helping make the most of natural light and views across the estate.

Open plan living areas combine the lounge, kitchen and dining space.

A log burner provides an additional focal point during autumn and winter breaks.

Many current two bedroom lodges have a private outdoor hot tub.

Selected two bedroom accommodation welcomes up to two dogs.

Three Bedroom Lodges

Three bedroom lodges sleep six and provide more space for larger families or groups travelling together.

Typical layouts combine double and twin bedrooms, with two or three bathrooms depending on the individual lodge.

Some properties use split level or two storey layouts to take advantage of their position on the hillside.

Large living spaces, private gardens, patios or balconies provide plenty of room when six guests are sharing the accommodation.

Private hot tubs are available with many three bedroom lodges.

Selected dog friendly three bedroom accommodation is also available.

Private Hot Tubs

Hot tubs are one of Swandown's defining accommodation features.

They are positioned outside the lodge on private patio or garden areas and overlook the surrounding countryside in many locations.

Because the lodges are available throughout much of the year, hot tubs are equally useful for summer evenings and colder autumn or winter breaks.

Guests are asked to keep noise to a minimum during evening hot tub use because a mixture of holiday and privately used lodges share the Swandown development.

Kitchens

The lodges have fully equipped kitchens designed for proper self catering.

Typical equipment includes:

• oven and hob
• microwave
• fridge freezer
• dishwasher
• kettle and toaster
• cooking equipment and tableware

Many lodges also include a washing machine, while larger accommodation can provide additional utility equipment.

Living Areas

Open plan living areas are generally spacious and include sofas, dining space, Smart TV or television and a log burner.

Large windows, patio doors and high ceilings are common features throughout the lodge collection.

Bathrooms

Two and three bedroom lodges generally have more than one bathroom.

Selected two bedroom accommodation has an en suite bathroom for each bedroom, while larger three bedroom lodges can have two or three bathrooms.

This makes the accommodation particularly practical for couples sharing and multi generation family holidays.

Outdoor Space

Each lodge has private outdoor space in the form of a patio, decking, balcony or garden depending on its position.

Barbecue facilities are available with selected accommodation.

One allocated parking space is provided with each lodge, with further visitor parking available.

Accommodation Comparison

Accommodation Type	Bedrooms	Sleeps	Key Features
Two Bedroom Lodges	2	4	Spacious living, two bathrooms and countryside views
Hot Tub Lodges	2 or 3	4 to 6	Private outdoor hot tub and patio or garden
Three Bedroom Lodges	3	6	Larger family or group accommodation
Dog Friendly Lodges	2 or 3	4 to 6	Selected accommodation accepting up to two dogs
Multi Bathroom Lodges	2 or 3	4 to 6	Two or three bathrooms depending on lodge
Split Level Lodges	3	6	Elevated accommodation with private balcony or garden

Practical Accommodation Information

Bedrooms	Two and three bedroom options
Maximum Capacity	6 guests
Hot Tubs	Available with many lodges
Bathrooms	Two or three with much of the current range
Kitchens	Fully equipped
Dishwasher	Included with current holiday lodges
Washing Machine	Included with many lodges
Log Burner	Included with current principal lodge range
Heating	Included
Bed Linen	Included
Towels	Included
Beds	Made up for arrival
WiFi	Included
Dogs	Up to two in selected accommodation
Cot	Available
Highchair	Available
Stairgate	Available where required
EV Charging	Available with selected accommodation
Parking	One allocated space plus visitor parking
Smoking	Accommodation is non smoking
Check In	From 4pm
Check Out	By 10am

Park Facilities at Swandown Lodges

Swandown has a stronger facilities range than a typical small lodge development, particularly because it combines its own pool, fishing and outdoor activities with additional leisure facilities across the wider Cricket St Thomas Estate.

Indoor Heated Swimming Pool

Swandown has its own indoor heated swimming pool within the lodge development.

It is available to resident guests and is particularly useful for families with younger children or for swimming during wet weather.

The pool currently operates through bookable time slots.

This reduces the number of people using it at once and makes it easier for families to plan a quieter swim.

The pool is open through much of the day, with current guest information advising visitors to reserve a session during their stay.

Cricket St Thomas Hotel Leisure Club

Adult guests can also use selected facilities at the nearby Cricket St Thomas Hotel leisure club under Swandown's membership.

These include:

• larger indoor heated swimming pool
• gym
• sauna
• steam room

The leisure club is adults only.

Visitors should check the current opening times at Swandown reception before visiting and take the appropriate leisure club card.

This arrangement gives couples and adult groups a much broader spa and fitness option than the smaller family pool within Swandown itself.

Spa Treatments

Beauty and spa treatments can be booked separately at Cricket St Thomas Hotel.

Treatments carry an additional charge and should be reserved directly with the leisure facility.

This gives visitors the option of building a spa session into a hot tub or couples break without Swandown itself becoming a spa resort.

Carp Fishing

Horsepark Pond provides on estate fishing close to the lodges.

The pond is stocked with carp and operates on a catch and release basis.

Guests need to bring their own fishing equipment.

Fish must be returned carefully and no fish may be removed.

The water gives anglers somewhere to spend a few quiet hours without travelling to a separate fishery.

Additional fishing is available locally at venues around Chard and Crewkerne.

Adventure Trail

The family adventure trail runs through the estate near the lodges.

A woodland path leads from the Swandown area towards the trail and the country inn.

The route combines simple challenges with woodland surroundings and provides an outdoor activity suitable for children and adults.

Children under 16 need to be accompanied by an adult.

Dogs are not permitted on the adventure trail.

Cricket St Thomas Estate Walks

Marked walking routes extend through the wider estate.

Some follow surfaced or quieter estate roads while others cross fields and woodland and are better suited to stout walking shoes.

Cricket St Thomas remains a working agricultural estate, so walkers may encounter livestock, tractors and estate vehicles.

Dogs must be kept on leads.

Several cattle grids have adjacent ramps designed to make selected routes easier for pushchairs and wheelchairs.

Lakes and Gardens

Guests can walk through the Cricket St Thomas lakes and gardens via the entrance close to the estate church.

The landscaped grounds provide an easy alternative to the more rural estate walks and give visitors somewhere to explore without leaving Cricket St Thomas.

Cricket St Thomas Golf Club

Cricket St Thomas Golf Club is less than a mile away and is open to visiting golfers.

The established 18 hole parkland course dates back to an original nine hole design created in 1932 and was later extended to 18 holes.

Tree lined fairways, countryside views and well drained ground make it suitable for golf throughout much of the year.

Toptracer Driving Range

The golf club also has an award winning Toptracer driving range.

The technology tracks ball flight and gives golfers data about their shots while also supporting interactive games and virtual golf.

It can be used by beginners as well as established golfers and equipment is available for visitors who have not brought their own clubs.

Golf Coaching and Pro Shop

PGA coaching is available at Cricket St Thomas Golf Club.

The professional shop provides golf equipment and assistance, while visitor tee times can be booked directly with the club.

Cricket St Thomas Country Inn

The Cricket St Thomas Country Inn is immediately across the road from Swandown.

Formerly known as the Windwhistle Inn, the historic property has undergone a major refurbishment and now provides breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner and drinks.

There are indoor dining areas, a bar and outdoor space for warmer weather.

Its proximity makes it particularly useful for Swandown guests who want a meal without driving into Chard or Crewkerne.

Honesty Shop

A small honesty shop operates from reception.

It carries a limited range of everyday essentials together with additional logs and kindling for the lodge log burners.

It should be considered a convenience facility rather than a full holiday park supermarket.

Games and Reception Facilities

Playing cards, puzzles, games and DVDs can be borrowed from reception.

These provide a useful wet weather option for families spending an evening in the lodge.

Park Facilities

Facility	Details
Indoor Pool	Heated on site pool with bookable sessions
Fishing	Catch and release carp fishing at Horsepark Pond
Adventure Trail	Woodland family activity trail
Estate Walking	Marked routes through farmland and woodland
Lakes & Gardens	Estate gardens available to guests
Dogs	Selected pet friendly lodges and estate walks
Hot Tubs	Private hot tubs with many lodges
Adult Pool	Larger pool at nearby hotel leisure club
Gym	Adult access at nearby hotel
Sauna	Adult access at nearby hotel
Steam Room	Adult access at nearby hotel
Spa Treatments	Available nearby at additional charge
Golf	18 hole course nearby
Driving Range	Toptracer facility nearby
Food & Drink	Cricket St Thomas Country Inn across the road
Shop	Small honesty shop at reception
Games	Games, puzzles and DVDs available from reception
WiFi	Included
Parking	Lodge and visitor parking

Places to Visit Near Swandown Lodges

Cricket St Thomas itself provides the easiest days out, with estate walking, the lakes and gardens, golf and countryside immediately around the lodges.

Chard is approximately four miles away and provides supermarkets, independent shops, cafés and everyday services. Chard Museum explores the town's industrial and social history, including its association with early powered flight.

Crewkerne is also approximately four miles away and provides shops, restaurants and rail connections.

Forde Abbey is one of the closest major visitor attractions. The historic house is surrounded by around 30 acres of gardens with lawns, herbaceous borders, mature trees and water features.

Wayford Woods provides a smaller local nature reserve with woodland paths and landscaped areas.

Ham Hill Country Park gives visitors around 400 acres of open access countryside, archaeological remains and extensive views across Somerset.

The Jurassic Coast is approximately half an hour away.

Charmouth is particularly well known for fossil hunting and its Heritage Coast Centre, while Lyme Regis combines beaches, the Cobb harbour, independent shops and fossil related attractions.

West Bay provides dramatic sandstone cliffs, harbour walks and access to the South West Coast Path.

Nearby Attractions

Attraction	Approximate Distance	Approximate Drive
Cricket St Thomas Estate Walks	On the estate	On foot
Cricket St Thomas Golf Club	Under 1 mile	A few minutes
Chard	Approximately 4 miles	10 minutes
Crewkerne	Approximately 4 miles	10 minutes
Forde Abbey & Gardens	Approximately 4 miles	Around 10 minutes
Wayford Woods	Approximately 3 miles	Around 10 minutes
Ham Hill Country Park	Approximately 12 miles	Around 20 minutes
Axminster	Approximately 10 miles	20 minutes
Charmouth Beach	Approximately 14 miles	Around 30 minutes
Lyme Regis	Approximately 14 miles	Around 30 minutes
West Bay	Approximately 16 miles	30 to 35 minutes
Clarks Village	Approximately 25 miles	Around 40 minutes