Despite its name, Oswald and Julie Hoskyns’ home is not a haven for Lord of the Rings devotees, but it is a place where you’ll find hobbit-like friendliness, curiosity and sheer enthusiasm for the task in hand. And there are tasks in hand aplenty at Hobbit House, where stressed-out urbanites can come and recharge their batteries. They’ll do so not by indulging in out and out R&R but by using the time away to reflect and focus the mind, often by learning a new skill.

The Hoskyns’ quest in life is to share their rural environment and spread the word about eco-friendly regeneration of the countryside - and they do so energetically and with huge passion. At Hobbit House, Oswald offers one to one coaching in countryside skills like hedge laying, hurdle making and charcoal burning, and he will also teach you woodland crafts like dry hedging. Meanwhile Julie is preparing for her bid to take part in the World Pony Driving Championships but teaches carriage driving and stable management in her spare time.

This is green tourism with a big heart. A breakaway at Hobbit House, set in 12 acres at the edge of the village of Whitwell in southern Wight, is like staying with old friends. The Hoskyns want you treat their family home as your own when you visit – to enjoy the roaring log fire in winter, the wonderful views in summer and to sample the home cooking. Whilst they live and breathe outdoor activities, Oswald is equally at home conducting tutored wine tasting and says that he can teach anyone to play the ukulele in five minutes! Stay at Hobbit House and you’ll likely find the enthusiasm catching!

Work away the stress, commune with nature

On the door step
The Tennyson Heritage Coast is only a mile away, including St. Catherine’s Point, the ost southerly tip of the Isle of Wight and a remote area of wild scenery with staggering views.

Going Green

Two long term projects are under way: the building of Bagend, a low impact woodland building, and the creation of a wildlife pond in the grounds of Hobbit House.