River Valley House Dorset

River Valley House The South West

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Live in harmony with the country…
…WITH STYLE AND PANACHE

River Valley House is an exceptional property offering a magical stay in a beautiful setting. This truly remarkable house really is the place for a wonderful break for all the family. There are things to do for kids of all ages – from 5 to 95! With accommodation for 16-20 people, the house is set in 14 amazing acres in the beautiful Dorset countryside.

The house itself has a wonderfully elegant living room, rich with bespoke fabrics and wallpaper, two impressive fireplaces and set out to facilitate convivial conversation.  It also leads out to a large flagstone terrace with a outside seating and a fire pit.  For quiet relaxation, there’s a a study that looks out over the grounds and another warm and cosy fireplace. The kitchen is light and airy with a great family dining area. As well as the elegance of the house itself there is an indoor pool, a gym, sauna and steam room, conference facilities (with a 60 inch screen that makes a great home cinema!)

There’s even an organic garden where guests are welcome to pick their own fruit and vegetables.  We have a variety of catering options that we can discuss with you.

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Selected by Claire

Learn more about our handpicking process

From £6,900

for a weekend break

Or call to book 01242 352 747

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Guest Reviews

You describe River Valley House as being 'magical' and that's exactly how it felt.  Our family, from kids to very big kids, had such a wonderful and memorable time here.  Thank you so much Big House Experience for all your help in arranging such a memorable weekend.

Sue, Cornwall

Gallery

Highlights Bedroom Bathrooms Grounds Facilities Kitchen and Dining Living Spaces All
River Valley House Barn Bedroom 9
Bedroom
River Valley House Bridge To Tee Pee Island
Tee Pee Island
River Valley House Etrance Hall
Hallway
River Valley House Garden2
Kitchen Garden
River Valley House Grounds4
Gardens
River Valley House Sittingroom
Sitting Room
River Valley House Swimming Pool
Indoor Swimming Pool
List of rooms and floor plans (PDF)

The grounds are a paradise

The grounds are the sort of thing kids dream about! They can camp out on the tee pee island, with its rope bridges, swings and trampolines; row the boat down to mill; enjoy swimming in the natural pond (when it’s too nice to swim indoors); play croquet, badminton or table tennis; or simply relax by the river where you might spot an otter or do some fishing or, just enjoy the views. There is also an organic garden, a pizza oven and free range chickens – feel free to gather the eggs!

Explore the wonderful Dorset Countryside… ….AND THE ALLURING DEVON COAST

Situated just a couple of miles away from the market town of Bridport, River Valley House is perfectly placed for a true taste of Dorset. Bridport is a gateway town to the world famous Jurassic coast and prides itself on its rich mix of high quality foods and eclectic entertainment. Steeped in history, the town is a treasure trove for budding historians. It’s also something of a find for those who enjoy a good meal, with a wide range of restaurants including Indian, Thai, Mediterranean and good old English fish and chips!  There are markets twice a week – Wednesday and Saturday and a busy events calendar, It is a great area for walking or cycling as well as opportunities for shooting, canoeing and fishing. You’ll never be short of something to do!

A little further afield, River Valley House is also within easy reach of West Bay, setting for the haunting Broadchurch drama series, and the increasingly hip Lyme Regis, Weymouth and Chesil Beach; each offering fantastic foodie experiences.

What to expect

We’ve tried to think about everything to make your stay at River Valley House just perfect. In all of our country houses to rent, we provide all the essential features to cater for a large group. Here’s a list of all the practical provisions we have at the house.  If there’s anything you can’t see here but need, just ask as we’ll see what we can do.

  • Luxury bed linen, towels and robes
  • Complimentary bathroom amenities
  • Dining table that can seat up to 20 guests
  • Wi-fi internet
  • Heated indoor swimming pool (10m x 5m)
  • Outdoor natural swimming pond
  • Beautiful peaceful setting with 14 acres of grounds to explore with a river meandering through it
  • Fourteen acres of stunning gardens and woodland - a children's paradise, with rope swings, a rowing boat and trampoline
  • Croquet and badminton
  • Media room with conference facilities
  • Gym with cardio and multi-gym equipment
  • 3 x Sky HD TVs in the property including a 3D plasma TV in the Barn
  • Sonos sound system integrated with main living areas
  • A kitchen garden where you're encouraged to pick your own fruit and vegetables (depending on the season)
  • BBQ and Pizza oven
  • A range of traditional board games and books
  • Cots and highchairs are available on request
  • A starter set of provisions, including: oil, English breakfast tea, coffee and brown and white sugar. Guests are encouraged to help themselves to fresh eggs from the hen house

Location

Nestled in a beautiful valley 2 miles outside the Dorset seaside town of Bridport.

House FAQs

  • Is the property close to a beach?

    Yes, the property is about 15 minutes' drive to West Bay. The very beautiful and popular Lyme Regis is only 35 minutes' drive away.

  • Are pets allowed?

    Yes, well-behaved dogs are welcome at River Valley House.

  • Is the outdoor pool open year-round?

    The outdoor swimming pool is open between May and September. In the winter months, you can still use the indoor heated swimming pool.

  • What are the check in and check out times?

    Check in is at 4pm on the day of your arrival at River Valley House, and check out is at 10am.

  • Will you hold a damage deposit during our stay?

    Yes, we ask to hold a cautionary deposit of £1,000 during your stay at River Valley House. This is requested just two weeks prior to your stay, and is returned shortly after, assuming no damage to the property or its contents (see our Booking T&Cs for more information).

  • Are there local places to eat you can recommend?

    Yes. We'd suggest the following pubs and restaurants are within a short drive of River Valley House:

     

    Tiger Inn, Bridport

    This fantastic town pub has a large selection of real ales and cider from the West Country and is a popular place to enjoy a game of darts or skittles. Hosts a beer festival at end of October.

     

    The George, Bridport

    This quaint, unassuming pub in the centre of the town serves modern pub food with local seasonal ingredients.

     

    The West Bay Inn, West Bay

    This family run 18th Century Dorset Inn, set in the picturesque harbour of West Bay. Lovely food with a really tempting menu of fresh, locally caught seafood dishes alongside a variety of meat and vegetarian options too.

     

    The Olive Tree, Bridport

    Widely known a one of the best fish restaurants in Dorset and in the UK – not bad for a little old market town!

     

    The Seaside Boarding House, Burton Bradstock

    Panoramic views across Lyme Bay and  freshly prepared locally sourced food.

     

    The Station Kitchen, West Bay

    The old station, platform and old railway carriage is the location for this lovely restaurant that delivers hearty, rustic dishes with a modern contemporary twist.

     

    Dorshi, Bridport

    Where East Asian meets Modern British, tucked away on Chancery Lane just off East Street sample some delightful dumplings and succulent sushi.

     

    The Stable, Bridport

    Enjoy pizza and cider in a relaxing atmosphere at one of Dorset’s most popular restaurants.

     

    For lunch on the beach:

     

    The Hive Beach Café in Burton Bradstock

    This busy café on the beach is ideal for coffee or lunch after a walk. Open for dinner in holiday season. Good quality food, especially seafood.

  • How many guests can sit at the dining table?

    There is a dining table at River Valley House that can seat 14 guests or extended to seat 20 guests comfortably.

  • Are there any house rules we need to be aware of?

    Yes, to ensure you have a wonderful and memorable stay at River Valley House, we ask that you understand the following important house rules:

    • No fireworks please
    • Not suitable for stag or hen parties

  • What is the nearest train station to River Valley House?

    The nearest train station is Crewkerne which is a 24 minute drive from River Valley House. From Crewkerne, you can reach London Paddington in 2.5 hours.

  • What's the nearest airport to River Valley House?

    River Valley House is a 1 hour 13 minutes drive from Bournemouth Airport and 1 hour and 38 minute drive from Bristol Airport.

  • Is the house suitable for children?

    Yes, children are very welcome at River Valley House. The following are provided for children:

    • Two cots available (please bring your own bedding)
    • Two high chairs available

  • How do I book?

    You can check availability and pricing for River Valley House, and place your booking request online, or by calling our team on 01242 352 747.

Check availability & prices

or call to book 01242 352 747