About the House
The Old National School is a Grade II listed house, nestled in the beautiful hamlet of Sampford Spiney, located within Dartmoor National Park. Dating from 1585, the house sits in an idyllic spot between the Church and picturesque Sampford Manor, once owned by Sir Francis Drake. Originally the Church hall, the building became the parish school in 1887 until 1923. It wasn’t until the 1960’s that it became a residential dwelling. With its varied history, the house is quirky, with its lovely spacious rooms hinting at its eclectic history.
Sleeping 5 comfortably (an additional ‘truckle’ bed could accommodate an additional child).
Upstairs
Galleried area above the kitchen/dining area.
Good size sleeping area with king size bed
Study area with desk (an additional truckle bed suitable for a child can be sited here)
Downstairs
Large bedroom with bed than can either be a super-king or twin beds
Family bathroom
Large sitting room (the old school room) with log burning stove
Beautiful and well equipped kitchen/dining space, with open fire and double doors to courtyard
Shower/toilet/utility room
Small bedroom with single bed
Because of its location, with sheep, ponies and cattle grazing the moor year-round, we have to be extremely careful about dogs staying at The Old National School. Therefore, we allow only either 1 large, or 2 small dogs per stay. The house has an enclosed walled garden so you can relax in the garden knowing your dog is contained safely. Please note we do not provide, dog beds or towels for drying off your dog so you will need to bring your own. We ask guests not to allow their dogs on the furniture or in the bedrooms, as a consideration for guests who do not own dogs.
guest feedback
so peaceful and relaxing.
The walk up to Pew Tor at sunrise
and sunset was a highlight!” ”
you are reminded of our
beautiful world”
We enjoyed the tranquillity this place
brings in the beauty of Dartmoor.
We definitely hope to return”
lockdown therapy. We leave with
many happy memories and having had the
chance to draw breath.”
location, which revives the spirits.
Enjoyed the bird song and
bells, some wonderful weather and
magical moments with wildlife”.
generous people. Everything I could
think of was here. It felt very much like home –
we had a lovely week , completely
restful, but with so much to do
and explore, the kids have
had the best time!”
house in a perfect setting –
thank you! We will be
recommending this fantastic place
and will definitely be back.”
were eggcellent, the chocolate was brilliant,
the wine for my mum and dad was wonderful
and our raspberry lemonade delicious.
We all loved it and want to come back again!”
location and coming back at the end
of the day to find ponies, foals
and sheep at the front door was
amazing!”