Summary:
Priory Cottage is located in the heart of Dunster, one of England’s prettiest medieval villages within Exmoor National Park. The cottage is in a Grade II listed building named Parham House. Dating back to the 1700s, it was formerly the old village general store. Today, this cosy haven is the perfect place to retreat from everyday life and settle into the gentle rhythm of the countryside. Enjoy the best of the coast and country, with strolls along the beach and hikes out on the moor.
The Space:
Tucked away in a peaceful village within Exmoor National Park, Priory Cottage gives you access to some of the finest scenery in the region. You’re in a unique position, with the rugged countryside at your fingertips as well as the north Somerset coastline just a 10-minute drive away. Find expansive sandy beaches, moorland studded with wild ponies, deep valley views, historic woodland and magnificent castles all on the doorstep. Hikers, nature enthusiasts and adventurers will all be in their element.
Dating back to the 1700s, you can expect charm and character in abundance. From traditional stone walls to exposed wooden beams - much care and consideration have been taken to retain many of the property’s period features. Fresh, contemporary elements are perfectly paired with the old, giving the cottage a warm and welcoming feel. After long days out exploring, retreat to your cosy living room to warm your toes by the fire and rustle up a delicious home-cooked meal in the farmhouse kitchen.
Spanning three floors, the cottage sleeps five guests in total. The king-size master bedroom is on the first floor, boasting pretty views out over the trees as well as ample storage space so you can unpack and make yourselves at home. Along the corridor is a family bathroom with a spacious corner bath and shower. Up on the top floor, find the second bedroom with both a double bed and a single bed. Plus an ensuite bathroom with a shower. A travel cot is also available at your convenience.
Guest Access:
Guests have access to the whole cottage.
The Neighborhood:
Priory Cottage is located in the heart of Dunster, one of England’s prettiest medieval villages set within Exmoor National Park. It is known to date back to 700AD and was first mentioned in the Doomsday Book. Today it is now known as the jewel of Exmoor’s crown. With over 200 listed buildings, the village maintains its historic charm.
There is so much to explore in this small village. Find the National Trust’s Dunster Castle, dating back to the 11th century: with beautiful Grade II listed parkland, a river, a Victorian reservoir, a water mill and wildlife (including otters, kingfishers and salmon). Enjoy a peaceful afternoon tea at the Watermill Tea Room or pick up a bite to eat from the Tenants’ Hall pop-up cafè.
Other attractions include the Old Yarn Market, located on the high street, which was once a hub for the Exmoor wool trade. Dunster Railway station operates a 20-mile railway route from Bristol Channel to the Quantock Hills with stunning views over meadows, hills and countryside. There are ample walks too, including Lover’s Bridge, the Church Gardens and the pretty Tall Trees Trail.
The cottage has a very unique location, with both the countryside and coast at its fingertips. Exmoor National Park can be explored straight from the door, marking the start of the 630-mile South West Coast footpath. It is home to a beautiful collection of fauna and flora, as well as Red Deer and the Exmoor Pony. Plus, the Somerset coast is just a 10-minute drive away boasting expansive beaches and holiday attractions. Find more local tips and tricks in our Guest Guide, which is available upon booking.
Getting Around:
Due to the remote nature of Exmoor National Park, we would recommend bringing a car for your stay. There is private parking for one car on the driveway, plus roadside parking is available nearby as well as 2 pay and display car parks.
Other Things to Note:
Please note, the second bedroom with an ensuite bathroom is on the third floor which is accessed via a narrow staircase. It therefore may not be suitable for those with mobility limitations and those with young children should take extra care.
Whilst we welcome dogs please be aware there is no enclosed outside space. However, there is a grassed area which is a 2 minute walk away (turn right out of the property and walk up St George’s Street, turn right at the church onto Priory Green and pass under a couple of brick archways. The grassed area is outside The Memorial Garden). We do provide a torch at the property if people are doing this later in the evening.
We ask very kindly to please keep your beloved dogs downstairs and off the furniture. Thank you.
We provide an initial amount of logs, kindling and firefighters. If this is all used you can buy more from one of the local stores - the nearby Tesco is only a 5 minute drive.
