Royal Oak House

• Sleeps: 12
• Bedrooms: 7
• Bathrooms: 6
• Minimum stay: 2 nights

A stay at Royal Oak House is perfect for big and little kids alike, with dedicated children’s play areas inside and out, and ‘grown up’ games (including skittles, table football, pool, and darts) for unleashing competitive spirits!

That’s not all. There’s a secluded library for those who love getting lost in a good book, and a fully-equipped gym for working off calories whipped up in the gorgeous garden kitchen. Oh, and not to mention a shimmering outdoor swimming pool, heated from May to September, for lazy summertime laps.

You’ll find the striking property set within two acres of rural loveliness in the village of Motcombe, on the Dorset and Wiltshire border. Not only is the Blackmore Vale in ridiculously easy reach, but local ‘must-visits’ include Gold Hill in nearby Shaftesbury – otherwise known as the setting of the iconic Hovis TV ad of yore!

A former pub, Royal Oak House was built in 1875. Yet while the grand building has retained all of its character and charm, its modern, art-inspired décor is creative and colourful throughout, with plenty of high-end appliances. And with no pesky bar getting in the way, there’s plenty of space for everyone to relax, unwind, and enjoy holiday life to the fullest.

Up to 12 guests can be accommodated in seven sumptuous bedrooms, with a convenient mix of twin, double, king, and superking beds. (Our tip: choose the first-floor four-poster king room for superlative morning views – either through the French doors or out on the spacious terrace!). Some rooms boast their own en-suite bath or shower facilities, while additional family-sized bathrooms and separate WCs mean there won’t be any awkward morning queues.

Congregate in the luxurious drawing room, with plush furniture and carefully curated art, or around the large dining table, which seats all 12 guests comfortably. The kitchen area is worthy of a swish cookery show, with bold blues and bright oranges adding a dash of vibrancy to the many time-saving appliances. There’s also a preparation island, a chic breakfast bar for morning coffee, and plenty of chairs to help keep the designated chef company.

Outside awaits a ‘wow-factor’ covered dining patio for sunset suppers prepared in that garden kitchen (you’ll want your camera handy, too!). If you’re in the mood for a pre-dinner swim, there’s a separate pool-house changing room – complete with a walk-in shower – that means you can freshen up without having to traipse back through the house again.

At a glance

• A former Dorset pub, strikingly converted into a family-friendly holiday home for up to 12 guests.
• There are seven bedrooms to choose from, with a convenient mix of twin, double, king, and superking beds.
• Fun facilities include in and outdoor games for kids both big and little, and a seasonal outdoor swimming pool for summer laps.
• Additional highlights include a well-equipped gym, a library, and outdoor kitchen and dining facilities.
• The retreat is set on the edge of the Blackmore Vale in North Dorset, on the border with Wiltshire, with plenty to see and do close by.

Features

• Family Friendly
• Large Groups
• Swimming Pools

More information

Let the kids exert some energy in the dedicated play area, which boasts everything from a trampoline and climbing frame to swings and a slide, as you catch up on life under the emerging stars… true holiday bliss.

Things to note

Pets are not permitted to stay. The swimming pool is heated and in use from May to September. There is CCTV at the retreat’s exterior for security purposes. Please note: although the property is a former pub, there is no bar.