Guests say
No. 1 The Old School in Dorchester is a spacious and comfortable cottage, praised for its cleanliness, well-equipped kitchen, and convenient location for exploring Dorset. Guests appreciated the peaceful village setting, proximity to local shops and attractions, and the relaxing atmosphere. The property is well-maintained, with comfortable beds and a lovely garden. While most feedback was highly positive, a few guests noted minor issues with the bathroom and suggested small improvements. Overall, the cottage offers an excellent base for a Dorset holiday, with many guests keen to return.
Multiple reviews mention the property being spotless and very clean on arrival, with no significant complaints about cleanliness.
Guests consistently praised the central location for exploring Dorset, the quiet village atmosphere, and easy access to local shops and attractions.
The cottage is described as spacious, comfortable, and relaxing, with particular praise for the beds. Only minor discomfort was mentioned regarding the bathroom.
The kitchen is well-equipped and the property offers good amenities, though a few guests suggested minor additions and noted a dated bathroom and a broken shower.
A welcome pack was gratefully received by one guest, but as gifts are not guaranteed, this cannot be assured for all stays. The host was described as welcoming and attentive.
About this property
Previously a village school, this unique property is a great base from which to explore the stunning Jurassic Coast..
Ground Floor:
Living room: 24" Freeview TV, DVD Player, CD Player
Kitchen/dining room: Electric Oven, Gas Hob, Microwave, Fridge/Freezer, Washer Dryer
Separate Toilet.
First Floor:
Bedroom 1: Kingsize (5ft) Bed
Bedroom 2: 2 x Single (3ft) Beds
Bedroom 3: 2 x Single (3ft) Beds
Bathroom: Bath With Shower Over, Heated Towel Rail, Toilet.
Gas central heating, gas, electricity, bed linen, towels and Wi-Fi included. Stairgate. Welcome pack. Large, enclosed lawned garden with sitting-out area and garden furniture. Private parking for 2 cars. No smoking.. This former village school, dating back to 1864, is situated in Puddletown in west Dorset, between Dorchester and Poole. This end terrace property is in an excellent location for exploring the Isle of Purbeck, Swanage and further on west, taking in Weymouth and the famous World Heritage Jurassic Coast.
No. 1 The Old School is part of a Grade II listed building, and has been defined as a good unspoiled example of a Victorian school. Since the sound of children running around has gone, it has now been converted into one of five residential homes, No.1 The Old School having formerly been the Headmaster’s home. One can see fine examples of mullioned windows and architecture reflecting the character, and the living room still has the old indoor shutters unique to the school. Now a holiday home offering great accommodation for up to six guests, it is in a delightful village location, where one can amble down to the nearby pub and wine and dine, or visit the local village store for your home requirements.
Nearby, visit Athelhampton House and Gardens, a stone-built, Grade I listed Tudor manor house surrounded by acres of deer park, or Tolpuddle, famed for its martyrs and commemorated with a museum in the village. Spend time out on the beautiful Jurassic Coast, taking in Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door, and enjoy some magnificent scenic coastal cliff walks to Swanage and the Isle of Purbeck. For great family time, venture onto the scenic Swanage Steam Line for a trip back in time, or visit Corfe Castle, Monkey World and the Tank Museum at Bovington. On your doorstep, you have the county town of Dorchester with its museums, and for some seaside atmosphere, Weymouth has a lovely beach. There is a wealth of attractions around, making No. 1 The Old School a wonderful holiday location. The property will be decorated should you be looking to arrive during the festive season. Beach 11 miles. Shop 200 yards, pub and restaurant 500 yards.
Free WiFi
Nearby points of interest
- Durdle Door
Reviews (15)
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Confirmed Guest
Large, comfortable cottage with character. I would definitely recommend.
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Confirmed Guest
The property was spotless on arrival and the welcome pack gratefully received. The beds were comfortable and most kitchen items were provided - perhaps a food waste container could be provided, a few more sharp knives (the ones provided were nice and sharp), a rubber spatula and a small glass bowl(s). Not a criticism as such, but the instructions in the printed documentation on finding the key safe could be better - 'in the alcove at the rear of the property used as a bin store'? Also, the bushes at the front of the house are very overgrown and block a lot of light getting into that window of the living room.The cottage is very well located and easy access on to the Dorchester by-pass makes getting about easy. All in all, one of the best houses/cottages we have stayed in.
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Confirmed Guest
A great property, lovely and clean and a great location for exploring Dorset. Very quiet little village. Would definitely stay again and recommend it to others.