The Old Rectory

About this property

The Old Rectory is the perfect Georgian country house. The Grade II listed property sits close to the centre of Symondsbury, just a mile and a half from the coast and 100 metres from the Ilchester Arms pub. Eleven double bedrooms comfortably sleep up to twenty two adults, while several rooms also have single beds so that the house can accommodate large parties of up to twenty nine people. Four reception rooms, a large verandah and two acres of gardens means there is ample space, while proximity to country walks, the beaches of the Jurassic Coast and pretty towns and villages make it easy to arrange a stay that everyone will love whether you are there for a family celebration or a team building weekend with colleagues.

The Old Rectory is a classically elegant Georgian house in the peaceful Dorset village of Symondsbury, providing a luxurious standard of accommodation for 22-29 guests in 11 bedrooms. It is ideal for extended family gatherings, with the layout also lending itself well to team building events and workshops. The house dates from 1730 and is one of the largest Georgian rectories in England. In addition to being within walking distance of the village church, it is also just 100 metres from the excellent Ilchester Arms pub and less than two miles from Dorset's stunning Jurassic Coast.

Symondsbury is a delight. Thatched cottages built from golden sandstone nestle quietly in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. A tributary of the River Simene wends through the village and was once a place of pilgrimage by those who believed its waters to have healing properties. Walk to the top of Colmers Hill for a magnificent vantage point over the surrounding countryside, or stroll beside the river - both are lovely. Symondsbury has a village store, cafe, and bicycle hire, with a good cycling route being along Monarchs Lane and down the bumpy but scenic Shutes Lane.

While the basics are readily available in Symondsbury, the nearby town of Bridport, just a mile and a half away, has a wider choice of places to eat, drink and shop, including a twice-weekly market held Wednesday and Saturday, a vintage market and a farmers’ market. It is a vibrant market town that prides itself on its busy calendar of events and excellent choice of amenities.

The Jurassic Coast is within easy reach by car, bicycle or foot. Protected as a unesco World Heritage Site, the unique landscape is the perfect place for a Dorset beach holiday. You can charter a sightseeing boat, book a seat on an adrenaline-fuelled rib tour or arrange for an expert to take you deep sea fishing. On land, there are miles of beautiful beaches to enjoy with Charmouth being particularly good for fossil hunting.

There is so much to do in the surrounding area. You can fill your days with walking, cycling, fishing, golf, horse riding, sightseeing, paint balling, browsing the local markets or indulging in a relaxing treatment at the eco-friendly beauty salon in Symondsbury. The owners of The Old Rectory are proud of their excellent reputation and keen to help make your stay exceed your expectations whether you need to source an enormous Christmas tree, arrange a treasure hunt or plan a full weekend of team-building activities.

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Accommodation Comprises:

The rooms are generously proportioned and decorated in a style that suits the age and character of the Grade II listed property. The feeling is that of a country-house hotel, yet you have the extra space and privacy that comes from staying in a house.

Downstairs:

Drawing room which is one of four fantastic living spaces, and perfect for socialising. Tall windows allow in lots of natural light and frame views over the garden, and there is ample seating thanks to large leather sofas and armchairs. A 55-inch flat-screen television with a full menu of Sky TV channels, give guests easy access to a variety of entertainment. It also boasts a working fireplace.

Dining room which is another wonderful space. It opens on to the house's magnificent verandah and has lovely views towards the coast. The dining tables seat up to 32 people - ideal for celebration meals with family and friends.

There is more space to spread out and relax in the library, where guests will a pool table and a selection of books and games.

Kitchen with a practical layout and good-quality appliances to make catering for up to 29-people a lot more fun than it sounds! Features include an electric range cooker, microwave and dishwashers, as well as ample crockery and cutlery for 29 people. The kitchen also has a washing machine.

Downstairs cloakroom is at the rear of the house and includes a WC and handbasin.

Upstairs:

Eleven bedrooms, each comfortably furnished to ensure a good night's sleep for guests. Some of the bedrooms have super-king (6-foot) beds, and two have king-sized four-poster beds. All are beautifully decorated with good storage.

Six of the bedrooms have ensuites with a shower, WC and handbasin, and there are three further shared bathrooms.

Outside: The house sits in two acres of private gardens with large areas of lawn ideal for playing games. The rear garden has fantastic views over the valley towards the coast. A wide verandah spans the back of the house and has furniture to sit and enjoy an outdoor meal or just relax and enjoy the view. There is off-street parking for 10 cars.

Additional Information: The Old Rectory is available for short breaks (weekends charged from £4500). Bed linen, duvets and pillows are provided, and there are two bath towels per bedroom. The house has an open fire (logs are not provided but can be purchased in the village) and central heating. Up to two dogs are permitted.