My wife and I bought the Old Rectory, with its grounds and other buildings in 1977. It’s in a beautiful location, no neighbours to disturb, in ten acres of ancient woodlands. A few years ago we were voted no. 1 party venue by The Observer.
As there are several buildings, we are able to accommodate quite a lot of people (about 32). The Rectory itself is a very handsome building architecturally and it’s Grade II listed. The front part of it is Georgian (1832), but the back part is much older, dating back to the13th century. We think that the other two main buildings, the Coach House and the former village hall, also date from 1832. There’s a set of old photographs from the 1920s on our facebook page.
It was a bit of luck getting the former village hall, because this is a big barn which we use for the wedding ceremonies, but it’s also got excellent acoustics and we’ve had lots of concerts in it, ranging from string quartets to loud rock bands. There’s also a stage, and we’ve put on quite a few plays, both semi-professional productions from touring companies, but also the plays that children have made up while they’ve stayed here. (We’ve also got a big dressing up box for that.)
The Old Rectory is 20 minutes from the sea, so it’s very convenient for surfers. But it’s also good for walking. The SouthwestCoastal Path is very beautiful, and Dartmoor’s not that faraway. We’re right on the border with Cornwall, and it’s easy to get to picturesque places like Padstow and Port Isaac.
I think the best thing about having the Rectory is its versatility – it means we get all kinds of guests, adding their tiny part to the house’s history. For families, it’s a perfect place, and the kind of house that makes memories. And there’s a great atmosphere for weddings and parties. Some families come back year after year. It’s great to share our love of the place with them.
The Old Rectory is more than a holiday house, it’s our home: we’re keen to share it with people who will appreciate its magic like we do. If you think it’s the place for your wedding, birthday party, anniversary or family holiday, give us a ring on 07765 243 804 or e-mail: tonylangham1@btinternet.com