The Old School House, set in its own private grounds just a short drive from both Brixham and the pretty sailing town of Dartmouth, is the latest rural retreat of character to join Blue Chip Holidays' growing portfolio of exquisite escapes.

Commissioned by Lord and Lady Churston in 1865, this enchanting Grade II listed building has a rich history having been used as a school, a US officers' quarters in the Second World War, and more recently as the local village post office. 

Today, following years of loving restoration, this striking stone building has been transformed into an impressive pet, toddler and family friendly holiday retreat for six.  Available from under £60 per person for a three night stay, The Old School House represents great value and can be booked for a week from 21 June for just £649, saving £147 in the early summer sale. 

Throughout you'll find fascinating features, from its solid elm doors and original school coat hooks, to the working bell tower, and the breathtakingly beautiful banqueting hall crowned with a stunning open vaulted ceiling.

Around every corner you'll find little touches to delight, be it the old post office sign on the banqueting hall door, the beautiful beams in each and every room, or the exquisitely carved staircase.

Downstairs, The Old School House has a large beamed living room that opens onto the kitchen, creating an open-plan area spanning the entire ground floor.  A feature fireplace and handsome wood burning stove creates a warm and cosy sitting area overlooking the gardens.  With windows on both sides this makes for a surprisingly light room.  Finished with solid oak flooring, period windows and comfortable sofas and armchairs, this is a great place sit, chat and relax.

The well-equipped and cleverly hidden kitchen opens onto the living room and garden.  This means you can cook in peace, step out for a breath of fresh air and keep up with the tempo of the conversation. 

Next door, through a beautifully carved wooden door and archway, is the magnificent banqueting hall with its stunning vaulted ceiling, mezzanine, log burning stove and large dining table.  Perfect for extended families or group celebrations this grand room provides a great venue for fine dining, parties and gatherings, and easily sits ten guests; which is handy if you book School Masters Cottage next door, sleeping a further four guests. 

Upstairs are three beautifully finished bedrooms, each with elegant wrought iron beds.  These sit beneath impressive beamed ceilings with pretty views out over the gardens and surrounding countryside.  Bedroom one has its own en suite bathroom with a walk in shower, while the other two rooms share the family bathroom, complete with bath and walk in shower.

Outside, The Old School House has access to a large private enclosed lawned garden with its own summer house, a barbeque and garden furniture. 

Within walking distance of both Elderberry Cove and Broadsand beach, The Old School House is an ideal location from which to explore the coast.  It's also great for dog owners as it's  just a five minute drive to the South West Coast Path.  For food lovers the highly regarded Weary Ploughman Inn is nearby, and Churston Farm Shop is a only short walk away as is a local garden store and popular café.

Available for both short-breaks and seven night stays, three nights can be booked from £350 while week breaks can be booked from £485; less than £80 per person.   For bookings call 0844 7044987 or visit www.bluechipholidays.co.uk

For bookings call 0844 7044987 or visit www.bluechipholidays.co.uk

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Editor's notes:

About Blue Chip Holidays

Set up in 2000, Blue Chip Holidays has become a leading force in high quality self catering with over 900 four and five star properties across Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, The Isle of Wight, Somerset and Wales. 

Ranging from Devon cottages and Cornish retreats to luxury self catering coastal houses, apartments and barn conversions, Blue Chip Holidays aims to provide a wide selection of stunning self catering properties to suit all tastes. The collection includes pet friendly accommodation, family friendly accommodation, child friendly accommodation, accessible accommodation and more unusual properties such as converted chapels, eco retreats, and even sumptuous reclaimed shipwrecks. 

Many properties have a range of onsite facilities such as pools, hot tubs, indoor games rooms, gyms, and children's play rooms.  Each is chosen for its stunning location, amazing coastal or rural views or hi-spec interior, and each is reviewed to ensure they meet the high standard set by Blue Chip Holidays.