Thomas Hardy's Cottage   Description Birthplace and home of Thomas Hardy until the age of 34. Under the Greenwood Tree and Far from the Madding Crowd were written here. National Trust property since 1948. Hardy’s Cottage is situated in a lovely countryside setting, but what a pity there are no facilities or information centre near the house.     Open Mid March to end October Wed Thur Fri Sat Sun, 11am - 5pm     Prices     Contact Higher Bockhampton, nr Dorchester, Dorset DT2 8QJ Tel:01297 489481 Email Website Streetmap     More pictures     Directions 3 miles north east of Dorchester, off the A35.     Parking Parking is 600yds walk from the cottage.     Refreshments     Accessibility Wheelchair accessible (garden only)     More info WC - The long term plan is to have a visitor centre and hopefully a loo as well.