This little cottage in the Dorset heathland was the rural retreat of T. E. Lawrence, the famous Lawrence of Arabia. It's perfectly preserved as if he had just gone out, and despite its diminutive dimensions, is one of the most interesting National Trust properties I've visited. What sets Clouds Hill apart is the guided tour, which begins outside with an in depth introductory talk. This covers the details of Lawrence's life and work, ending with his untimely demise in a motorcycle accident on the road nearby. It's an opportunity to learn things you didn't know about the man and the time he lived through; I left knowing a lot more than I did when I arrived. Following the talk you are able to look inside the property, with guides on each floor happy to answer any questions. It's an opportunity to see some of Lawrence's most treasured possessions, and see some of the fixtures which he personally designed, including the fire guards which made innovative use of stainless steel. Outside the cottage is the motorcycle shed, built to house Lawrence's beloved Brough Superiors. He owned several of these fine machines during his life and greatly enjoyed riding them. Today, this building houses an information display. Above the cottage is a small hill, from where you can look over the sprawling heathland, much of which is used for tank testing. There's a picnic bench where you can sit and enjoy the view. Onsite facilities include a small parking area and toilets. Adult tickets were £12 at the time of my visit, which felt like a fair price for a unique experience. Pre-booking is essential as the property is small and can't accommodate large groups. A short walk along the road is the memorial stone marking the site of Lawrence's motorcycle accident.

A small cottage that the great TE Lawrence once lived. It has been kept as original as possible & that includes the furniture. Advisable to book to look round it guided by well equipped NT staff. A thoroughly enjoyable experience. There is a small car park & gift shop.

We just wanted to see the cottage to complete the circle after visiting the nearby Tank Museum. Unfortunately, we were subjected to a lengthy and excruciatingly detailed lecture which left only a few minutes to view the property as the following group were attempting to enter at their appointed time. A few pertinent facts would have been more than sufficient. Visits are regulated by a limited number of tickets for each time slot - recommend booking online in advance.

This is a small National Trust site and booking is a really good idea. Due to size this is managed by guided tour and provides a fascinating incite to the legend that is T.E. Lawrence aka Lawrence Of Arabia and the impact his world still has on ours today. More importantly it helps you get an idea of the man, a constant learner and innovator. I know of his love for speed, particularly on motorbikes, but hadn't realised it was a passion he took into bikes and aircraft. This was he bolthole from his fame, one he could bring friends to, and often did. He worked on his writings here and was much read with an extensives liberary in such a small building. Well worth the visit, but will say again, book.

As Trust members we finally visited Clouds Hill, cottage of TE Lawrence aka Lawrence of Arabia on our recent holiday in Dorset. Carpark is small so book ahead. Not sure a place for children to visit. Dogs on leads allowed in the grounds only. The cottage is near Bovington and close to where he sadly died. Wasn't sure what to expect on arrival but not aware there would be a talk prior to going into the cottage. The gentleman who gave the talk was exceptionally knowledgeable and we now know more about Lawrence's life, after around 30 minutes. After this you get to go into the cottage, again, 2 more people giving talks explaining about the rooms and it's contents - Very interesting! There is also an old bike shed to look in which unfortunately no longer houses his bikes. The whole tour takes around an hour. Lawrence had a very colourful life which was sadly cut short. You can also visit his grave which is in a nearby village. Doubt we will visit again but definitely worth the hour if you are interested in historical figures.