The Old School House
6 guests
-
3 bedrooms, 4 beds
3 bathrooms
+1 extra toilet
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Nestled in a typical Devon valley with house martins nesting under the eaves, cattle grazing in the distance and minimal phone reception, you could be forgiven for thinking you've stepped back in time. From the moment you walk in the door, you'll immediately feel the stresses and strains of everyday life melt away. The home has been sympathetically converted to retain its evident charm, with the addition of luxurious modern comforts (including wi-fi – so you won't be completely disconnected from the world). The spacious kitchen is equipped with an AGA for the ultimate in countryside chic, though there's also an induction hob as a backup, plus antique chairs and a beautiful walnut dining table. Through to the new section of the house and you're treated to double-height ceilings and plenty of natural light, in addition to a couple of bedrooms. The upstairs bedroom enjoys views overlooking the orchard and terraced lawns from the open mezzanine beside it. Outside in the garden, you'll find a contemplative space abuzz with insect life throughout the spring and summer, thanks to an abundance of wildflowers. There are plenty of walks from the house, many along secluded footpaths traversing unspoiled valleys – there's a... chance you might not meet another soul. If you can tear yourself away, you'll find plenty of pubs and hotels serving fantastic seasonal produce and locally brewed beers. Alternatively, drop by Alder Vineyard – a ten-minute drive away – for a journey far beyond the bottle.
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Do you have a question about this home or the local area?
What to expect
Highlights
Hike across the wilds of Dartmoor National Park, just a few miles away
Enjoy sun-soaked summer lunches under the pergola in the garden
Warm up by the AGA after autumnal walks out in nature
Pick a book off the shelf and curl up in an armchair, or stretch out on the sofa
Gaze out over acres of rolling fields and unspoiled countryside
Like what you see? Explore more of this home
Home truths
Babes in arms are welcome – please contact the hosts if you wish to bring children under 5 years of age
Due to the rural location, we'd recommend you bring a car – there's parking at the church car park next door
There is central heating but the combination of log fires and the AGA are usually sufficient
Mobile phone reception is poor to non-existent, though there is wi-fi
About this stay
Amenities
Desk / workplace
Laptop friendly workspace
Wi-fi
Air conditioning
Parking available
Washing machine
Garden
TV
Bedrooms & bathrooms
3 bedrooms, 4 beds
3 bathrooms, 1 additional toilet
Local guide
About West Devon
Parts of West Devon could be described as the Cinderella of the county – this gem is often overlooked, but explore, and you’ll discover pretty villages, ancient towns, wild moors and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It’s no wonder its landscapes have inspired so many writers and poets, such as Michael Morpurgo and Ted Hughes. Tavistock, the only town in Devon to hold world heritage status, is said to be the...
Explore the area
Local restaurants, cafes, museums, sites and activities, recommended by our community of hosts and travel experts
Dine at The Leaping Salmon
A warm and welcoming restaurant and bar with amazing service, delicious food, and a great selection of well-kept beer and organic wine. The atmosphere is relaxed and the staff are friendly. Try Chef Ben's 50:50 burger!
Enjoy a Cosy Cafe Experience at Liberty Coffee
Indulge in brilliant coffee and delicious food at this lovely cafe. With a friendly staff and cosy atmosphere, it's the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a tasty meal. Dog-friendly and conveniently located with nearby car parking.
Indulge in Delicious Pasties at Oggy Oggy Pasty Co
Experience the best pasty shop in Tavistock, with friendly staff and mouthwatering flavors. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this is a must-try for a satisfying lunchtime stop off.
Enjoy a Scenic Walk and Delicious Food at Waterfall Tea Room
Located in the beautiful Lydford Gorge, this quaint cafe is the perfect starting point for a scenic walk along the gorge. Indulge in their delicious food before or after exploring the stunning surroundings.
Explore Dartmoor Prison Museum
Discover the history of Dartmoor prison dating from 1809. Excellent museum with displays on prisoners, restraints, and uniforms. Dog-friendly, cheap entry, and free parking. Don't miss the beautiful crafts made by the prisoners in the gift shop.
Explore Merrivale's Ancient Prehistoric Settlement
Discover the stunningly beautiful Merrivale Prehistoric Settlement on Dartmoor, with intact standing stones, cairns, and evidence of settlements dating back 5,000 years. Enjoy great views, nice walks, and immerse yourself in ancient history.
Explore the Enchanting Dupath Well
Step back in time at Dupath Well, a beautifully preserved 16th-century stone chapel built over an ancient sacred well. Discover its fascinating history, admire the stunning stone architecture, and enjoy the tranquil Cornish countryside surroundings.
Get around
Airport
Plymouth City
43 min
Exeter
59 min
Cornwall Newquay
1 hr 5 min
Train station
Gunnislake
28 min
Bus stop
Old Station
17 min
Local shops & services
Convenience store
20 min
Cafe
10 min
Pharmacy
16 min
Points of interest
Beach
Barn Pool Beach
1 hr 35 min
Booking policies
House Rules
Children welcome (1-12 years)
Infants welcome (under 12 months)
No pets
No parties or events
No smoking
Good to know
Arrival from 15:00
Departure before 10:00
Air con
Wifi
Cancellation policy
Up until
30
days
Cancel at least 30 days before your check-in date for a full refund.
Up until
7
days
Cancel at least 7 days before your check-in date for a 50% refund.
Not eligible for a refund once your check-in date is under 7 days away.
Host
This home is managed by Joanna
This home is managed directly by its owner who will be your point of contact before and during your stay. Joanna divides her time between London and Devon. She hopes all her guests feel her beautiful Devon bolthole is a true home-away-from-home, and come to love the area as much as she does.
This home is nominated for the Plum Guide Award.
- Great hosts, not just great homes – We reject homes managed by hosts who don’t meet our standards of excellence.
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- Every home scrutinised by experts, they have to meet our standards.
- Hosts we knowHigh-quality hosting, with track records of high-quality hosting.
- Impeccably clean, well maintained homes.
- Peace of mind in the rare event your host cancels.
- Rated ‘Excellent’ on Trustpilot, delivering exceptional service before, during and after your stay.