Belinda B.

Belinda & Peter have a beautiful property and Scoles Manor is a charming residence. The views from the property are stunning and the gardens and duck pond feel like something from a story book. Belinda, Peter and the family are very kind and friendly and we enjoyed looking after their home keeping it warm and lived in during the winter.

Belinda is a wonderful person and I thoroughly enjoyed my time here!

Scoles is a beautiful old farmhouse with one of the most iconic views in Purbeck, Dorset. This 11th-century grade 2 listed building is around 30 acres and comprises several buildings - the primary manor house, a small bothy, two holiday let apartments, and one apartment where the owners live. Peter and Belinda (the owners) are always super friendly, kind, and happy to help. They also have a big family who regularly come to help and support them. Technically, this was not a regular house-sit, where you have the space to yourself. At Scoles, you share it with the owners and holiday-let guests. The lack of privacy was challenging for me, but there's always plenty to do and keep you occupied, and the owners are very supportive. The responsibilities include looking after the main house; watering a beautifully large and mature garden daily; managing the waste bins; feeding the ducks and letting them out/putting them to bed; and being on-call for any emergencies the holiday let guests might have. Most weeks are relatively quiet without too many emergencies/call-outs, and where there are it's usually for things like plumbing, power, IT, etc nothing overly challenging. Scoles has been having guests return for nearly 30 years, so it's a special place for many families. Peter and Belinda are undoubtedly very popular locally, too, and enjoy hosting the many friends and family who visit regularly. They are dog friendly, too, with a dedicated paddock. Purbeck has been one of my favourite locations, with lovely walks everywhere. Scoles is truly a magical place, I would recommend it to anyone, you won't be disappointed.