Experience the charm of No. 1 The Old School, a former village school in Puddletown, west Dorset. This unique property boasts a large enclosed lawned garden with sitting-out area and garden furniture, perfect for relaxing after exploring the stunning Jurassic Coast.
Reviews
9.09.0 out of 10
Wonderful
Entire home
3 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 6
Popular amenities
Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Free WiFi
Outdoor Space
Parking available
Add dates for prices
About this property
Entire place
You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.
No. 1 The Old School
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
Property amenities
Internet
Available in the cottage: Free WiFi
Parking and transportation
Onsite parking includes off-street options
Kitchen
Dishwasher
Freezer
Bedrooms
3 bedrooms
Bedsheets provided
Bathroom
1 bathroom
Towels provided
Living spaces
Living room
Entertainment
CD player
TV with cable/satellite channels
Outdoor areas
Garden
Terrace
Laundry
Laundry facilities
Washer/dryer
Comfort
Heating
Pets
No pets allowed
Suitability/Accessibility
Smoking not allowed
Safety features
No carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is no carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
First aid kit
Fire extinguisher
General
Garden
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You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
Rules
The guest will be charged 50% amount for a cancellation after the reservation is made.
Pets
Pets not allowed
Children and extra beds
Children are welcome
Events
No events allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Property payment types
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts credit cards
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is no carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
About the neighborhood
Dorchester is home to this cottage. While the natural beauty of Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove can be enjoyed by anyone, those looking for an activity can check out Weymouth Harbour.
Kingston Maurward Park and Gardens and Skirmish Dorset are also worth visiting. Visit our Dorchester travel guide
Situated in Dorchester, this cottage is within 3 mi (5 km) of Tolpuddle Martyrs Museum, Hardy's Cottage, and Sculpture by the Lakes. Kingston Maurward Park and Gardens and Dorset Teddy Bear Museum are also within 6 mi (10 km).
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No. 1 The Old School Reviews
Reviews
Wonderful
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travelers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
Lovely clean cottage. Well equipped and very spacious.
Anita
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Debbie Rabot
May 5, 2026
Enjoyed a week in this lovely converted school.
Enjoyed a week in this lovely converted school. Cottage has everything you need and the local village shop is nearby. Great base for exploring the Dorset countryside.