The Old Stone House Swanage

The Old Stone House is in Swanage town centre. It's an old stone building, obviously. It used to be a police station a long time ago. The kitchen is the old cell, which is a bit of a talking point. We had it all refurbished a couple of years ago. Tried to keep the original bits like the beams and fireplaces.

It sleeps seven. There are three bedrooms and two bathrooms. It's got a 4 Star rating. It's clean and comfortable, and the rooms are a good size. The stairs are stone and quite steep in places, which is just how old houses are.

You're right in the town, so the shops and cafes are a two minute walk. The steam train station is close too. That takes you to Corfe Castle, which is nice. The beach is about a ten minute walk down the hill. It's a sandy beach, good for families.

If you like walking, you're on the doorstep of the coastal path. Ballard Down is right there. On a clear day from the top floor you can see across to the Isle of Wight. Studland beach and nature reserve are a short drive away, maybe ten minutes. The National Trust looks after it. For a longer day out, Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door are about half an hour's drive.

Outside, there's an enclosed garden. It gets the evening sun. There's also a summer house where you can store bikes if you bring them.

Inside, there's a washing machine, a dishwasher, WiFi, and parking for one car on the driveway. Bedding and towels are included. We can take up to two dogs. There's a cot and a highchair if you need them.

Useful links: National Trust Purbeck and Dorset AONB.