This former school, nestled in a pretty Somerset village, is just a dream; soft sandstone exteriors contain a beautifully refurbished dog friendly home, lovingly restored by its owner with carefully chosen luxuries paired with unique, original features.
Step through the front door and you'll discover a gorgeous, open-plan living area and four stunning bedrooms, three of which are en suite, plus a family bathroom. With underfloor heating and oak stripped allergenic floors throughout, every comfort has been considered to make your stay truly perfect - and with two easy-access bedrooms downstairs, it's great for those with limited mobility.
Set within the stunning village of Compton Pauncefoot, this is a perfect retreat to explore the beautiful Somerset countryside, whether it's mystical, musical Glastonbury, the Roman city of Bath or the natural wonders of Cheddar Gorge and the Mendip Hills.
Living and eating
The beautiful open plan living, kitchen and dining room with underfloor heating throughout and high ceiling is the original school room. Spacious and welcoming, it's the perfect place to come together; the ultimate space for spending time with each other, whether it's a celebration, a meet up after time apart or simply as family away from the distractions of every day.
You'll find the sitting area at the heart of the room, where the sumptuous grey L-shaped sofa lies in front of the cosy wood burner, a wonderful spot to retire to after dinner with a glass of something in hand. If you need some entertainment, there's a Smart TV (cleverly disguised as a mirror) plus a SONOS sound system to create the soundtrack to your holiday.
At the far end of the room, nestled next to the stairs, the spacious, country-living kitchen offers plenty of space for food prepping, whether it's a late breakfast or Christmas dinner. Fully equipped with everything you could possibly need, there's a Rangemaster electric range cooker with induction hob, microwave, dishwasher, fridge and freezer plus fabulous extras such as a coffee machine, Nutribullet, food processor, blender and walk in larder - enough to satisfy even the most demanding chef!
At the other end of the room by the window lies the stunning antique dining table for ten, dark and smooth with age, the perfect setting for dinner parties.
In addition, you'll find the washing machine and tumble dryer in the boiler room off the main hallway.
Sleeping and bathing
There are four stunning bedrooms, three en suite, two of which are located on the first floor and two on the ground floor, sleeping seven people in total.
The master bedroom is on the first floor, with semi-vaulted ceiling, a king-sized bed and en suite shower room. With beautiful William Morris wallpaper lining the room and fitted wardrobes, the stunning roll top bath, set within the bedroom itself, is the centrepiece of the room, perfect for long indulgent soaks.
The second bedroom on the first floor also has a king-sized bed, this time a cream bed knobs-and-broomsticks affair, complete with en suite shower room and semi vaulted ceiling.
On the ground floor there's a further king-sized bedroom, spacious enough for those with limited ability. With stunning dark wood wardrobe and chest of drawers, there's also French doors which lead directly out on to the terrace in the garden. This room also has an en suite shower room.
The fourth bedroom is a super-sweet single bedroom with delightful Peter Rabbit wallpaper, a perfect hideaway for little ones with French shutters to ensure any light on a summer's evening is shut out. This room has use of the downstairs family bathroom.
Outdoor space
Step outside and you'll find a pretty country garden complete with sun-soaked terrace, lawned area and borders packed with flowers and shrubs. Here you'll also discover a garden table with lazy Susan and chairs plus a cast iron brazier - fabulous for fires but can also be used for barbequing. The perfect spot for alfresco dining.
Setting
The Old School enjoys a quiet, rural setting, within beautiful countryside - much loved by the people who live in it. Due to its peaceful location, we kindly ask our guests to maintain the tranquil setting to respect our neighbours' peace and privacy.
Please note, this retreat is not suitable for hen or stag parties.
Parking
There are two parking spaces on the left-hand side as you approach The Old School.
Larger parties
Should you be part of a larger party, our retreat School House is located next door and sleeps six. Windsor Lodge and Nursery Cottage are within a short walk - these both sleep six. Sherbourne Lodge is also nearby and sleeps five. You can view these properties here.
Easy access
The Old School has two of the bedrooms - one king size and one single - located on the ground floor, perfect for those with limited ability. The king size bedroom in particular can be accessed from the terrace through French windows and has an en suite with easy access into the shower.
Babies and children
Babies and children are most welcome, please bring your own baby equipment with you.
Dogs
The Old School welcomes one well-behaved dog. Please note, there is an additional fee per dog, per week or short break.
In the Area
As you would expect for a countryside idyll, there are some fabulous places to eat and drink nearby, with The Kings Arms in Charlton Horethorne, The Queens Arms in Corton Denham and The Camelot in South Cadbury. Make sure to book a table at The Newt in Castle Cary, famed for its incredible grounds, whilst the Roth Bar & Hauser & Wirth Gallery in Bruton is a must too. The gorgeous town of Sherborne is just seven miles away and home to all the amenities you need, plus a beautiful abbey and castle dating from 1594 built by Sir Walter Raleigh. There's a train station if you're thinking of arriving by train for a complete break. Additionally, you're close to Glastonbury (make sure to visit the abbey and iconic Tor), the city of Wells, the natural wonders of Cheddar Gorge, the Wookey Hole Caves, the Mendip Hills, Cranbourne Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the Blackdown Hills. You're also only an hour from the Roman city of Bath. This is also an ideal location to stay for wedding guests of Cadbury Court.
