Sleeps 8 | 4 bedrooms | 3 bathrooms | Two wood-burning stoves | Raised garden decking | Walks towards Golden Cap

Overview of The Old Post Office

The Old Post Office is a beautifully restored country cottage in Morcombelake, a small West Dorset village surrounded by rolling countryside near the Jurassic Coast. Its traditional appearance, welcoming interiors and established gardens make it an attractive holiday home for families who want to explore the beaches like nearby Charmouth and walking routes between Bridport and Lyme Regis. See all of our large holiday cottages near Charmouth here.

The cottage has two separate reception rooms, providing plenty of space for eight guests. The living room is furnished with two comfortable sofas, a Smart TV and wood-burning stove, creating a cosy setting for evenings together. A second wood burner is found in the dining room, where a large table seats the whole group.

The kitchen is equipped for preparing family meals, with an electric oven and hob, dishwasher, tall fridge-freezer and Nespresso Vertuo coffee machine. A washing machine and tumble dryer are also provided, making the accommodation practical for families planning several beach days or longer countryside walks.

Four bedrooms accommodate eight guests across two floors. A double bedroom is situated downstairs, with a shower room on the same level. Upstairs are a king-size bedroom, another double and a super-king that can be arranged as two single beds when requested. Two additional bathrooms upstairs bring the total to three.

Outside, the cottage has gardens to the front and rear, with a raised deck accessed by steps from the kitchen. The decking has a dining table and seating for eight, making it a lovely place to enjoy meals during warmer weather. The surrounding greenery provides a peaceful setting for relaxing between outings.

Morcombelake is particularly convenient for walkers. Footpaths and quiet country lanes begin nearby, with the National Trust countryside around Golden Cap accessible on foot. Golden Cap is the highest point on England's south coast and offers spectacular views across Lyme Bay.

For beach days, Seatown is approximately 2.5 miles away, while Charmouth and Lyme Regis provide excellent opportunities for fossil hunting, swimming and exploring the coastline. Local farm shops, pubs and tearooms are also within easy reach, giving families plenty of options for days out without travelling far.

The Old Post Office at a Glance

Who Is The Old Post Office Best For?

The Old Post Office is particularly suitable for large families who want a traditional countryside base close to the Jurassic Coast. Its two reception rooms provide separate places for relaxing and eating, while the garden and decking offer additional space when the weather is warm.

For two families sharing, the bedroom arrangement requires some consideration. Two couples can occupy the king-size and one of the double bedrooms, while children use the flexible twin and remaining double. This works best when two children are comfortable sharing a double bed, as the property has only two separate single beds when the zip-and-link room is configured as twins.

Multi-generational families may appreciate the ground-floor double bedroom and shower room. These can be useful for grandparents who prefer not to climb stairs to reach their bedroom. However, the cottage is not confirmed as wheelchair accessible, and guests with mobility concerns should check the access statement before booking.

For groups of adult friends, the property is particularly well suited to three couples and two individual guests. The super-king bedroom can be arranged as twins, while the remaining three bedrooms provide conventional double beds. The three bathrooms also make sharing easier when everyone is preparing for a day out.

Why Choose The Old Post Office for a Large Family or Group Holiday?

• Traditional cottage with two wood burners: The separate living and dining rooms each have a wood-burning stove, creating welcoming spaces for family evenings and meals together.
• Four bedrooms and three bathrooms: A ground-floor double, two further doubles and a flexible super-king or twin provide accommodation for eight, with bathrooms on both floors.
• Raised decking for outdoor dining: The rear garden has an elevated dining area with a table and chairs for eight, offering somewhere for everyone to enjoy meals outside.
• Walks towards Golden Cap: Country lanes and local footpaths connect Morcombelake with the surrounding National Trust countryside and the dramatic Jurassic Coast landscape.
• Beaches within a short drive: Seatown is approximately 2.5 miles away, while Charmouth and Lyme Regis offer fossil hunting, seaside attractions and coastal walks.
• Convenient village facilities: Felicity's Farm Shop, local stores and tearooms are less than a mile away, with country pubs in nearby Chideock and private parking for three cars at the cottage.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How many people can stay at The Old Post Office?

The Old Post Office sleeps eight guests in four bedrooms. There is one king-size bedroom, one super-king that can be arranged as twins and two double bedrooms. The cottage has three bathrooms.

2. Is The Old Post Office suitable for two families sharing?

Yes. It can accommodate two families, particularly when children are comfortable sharing a double bed. The flexible super-king bedroom can provide two individual singles, and the dining table seats eight guests.

3. Is there a bedroom and bathroom downstairs?

Yes. There is a ground-floor double bedroom with a 4ft 6in bed and a separate shower room. This arrangement may be convenient for guests who prefer their sleeping accommodation and bathroom on the same floor.

4. Does The Old Post Office have a garden?

Yes. The cottage has gardens at the front and rear. The rear garden includes raised decking with an outdoor dining table and eight chairs, reached by steps from the kitchen.

5. Can guests walk to Golden Cap?

Yes. Walking routes through the surrounding countryside provide access towards Golden Cap and its National Trust-managed landscape. The trails include hills and uneven ground, so suitable walking footwear is recommended.

6. Are dogs welcome at The Old Post Office?

One well-behaved small or medium-sized dog aged at least one year is welcome. Dogs are permitted in communal areas but not bedrooms. A charge of £30 per week applies.

Bedrooms & Bathrooms at The Old Post Office

The Old Post Office has four bedrooms accommodating eight guests. One double bedroom is situated on the ground floor, with the remaining three upstairs.

The accommodation includes a king-size, two doubles and a zip-and-link super-king that can be arranged as two separate single beds. This provides flexibility for couples, families and groups containing individual guests.

There are three bathrooms: a ground-floor shower room, a first-floor family shower room and a separate first-floor bathroom with a bath. The king-size bedroom has Jack and Jill access to the family shower room.

Group Accommodation Layout

Bedroom 1: Ground-Floor Double

Bedroom 1 is situated on the ground floor and contains a four-foot-six-inch double bed.

Its position provides a useful alternative to the three upstairs bedrooms, particularly for grandparents or other guests who would prefer not to climb stairs to reach their sleeping accommodation.

A separate shower room is also available on the ground floor, containing a shower, washbasin and WC.

This arrangement can be convenient for multi-generational families, although the property should not be assumed to offer step-free or wheelchair-accessible accommodation.

Bedroom 2: First-Floor King-Size with Bathroom Access

Bedroom 2 contains a king-size bed and is situated on the first floor.

A distinctive feature is its Jack and Jill access to the family shower room, which has a large walk-in shower, washbasin and WC.

This arrangement provides convenient access to bathroom facilities from the bedroom, although the bathroom is shared rather than a private en-suite.

For a group containing several couples, the king-size bed and nearby shower room make Bedroom 2 a natural choice for parents or adult relatives.

Bedroom 3: Flexible Super-King or Twin

Bedroom 3 has a six-foot zip-and-link super-king bed.

When requested at the time of booking, the bed can be separated into two full-size three-foot singles.

This flexibility is particularly useful when two families are sharing and children require individual beds.

The room can also accommodate a couple who would prefer a large double bed, or two adult friends who want separate sleeping arrangements.

Guests have access to the first-floor family shower room and separate bathroom with bath.

Bedroom 4: First-Floor Double

Bedroom 4 contains a conventional four-foot-six-inch double bed.

It offers another separate bedroom for a couple, adult relatives or children who are comfortable sharing.

Its position on the first floor places it near the other upstairs bedrooms and bathrooms.

For families with several generations, this room provides an additional option when allocating sleeping space between adults and children.

How Does the Layout Work for a Group of 8?

For three couples and two individual friends, the sleeping arrangement is particularly straightforward.

Each couple can occupy one of the three fixed double bedrooms, while the two individual guests use the zip-and-link bedroom configured as twins.

This provides a separate sleeping space for each person who needs one, together with three bathrooms across the cottage.

For two families comprising four adults and four children, the parents could use two of the double bedrooms, while two children occupy the flexible twin.

The remaining two children would need to share the third double bed. This is a practical arrangement when siblings are happy to sleep together, but less suitable if all four children require individual beds.

For a multi-generational holiday, grandparents could occupy Bedroom 1 downstairs, with their own sleeping accommodation close to the ground-floor shower room.

Parents and children can use the three first-floor bedrooms. The separate dining room provides a comfortable place for everyone to eat together, while the lounge allows the group to relax after dinner.

For eight adults travelling as four couples, Bedroom 3 can remain configured as a super-king, giving the house four double bedrooms.

Guests should remember that the king-size bedroom's Jack and Jill bathroom is shared, so bathroom access and privacy may need to be considered when allocating rooms.

The three bathrooms help accommodate a full party, with both showering and bathing facilities available.

Bathroom Layout

The ground-floor shower room is particularly useful for guests occupying Bedroom 1.

Upstairs, the separate bath and shower rooms provide flexibility when several guests are getting ready at the same time.

The family shower room can be accessed from the king-size bedroom, but it should be treated as shared accommodation rather than a dedicated private en-suite.

Facilities & Information at The Old Post Office

The Old Post Office combines the character of a restored country cottage with the practical facilities needed for a family holiday. Its separate lounge and dining room, well-equipped kitchen and established gardens provide room for eight guests to enjoy time together.

The property is particularly appealing for holidays outside the main summer season, with two wood-burning stoves and central heating providing a welcoming setting after long countryside walks.

Separate Living Room with Wood Burner

The living room is furnished with two sofas and has a wood-burning stove.

A Smart TV provides access to television services through online apps, while a DVD player offers another option for entertainment.

The room is a comfortable place for families to relax after exploring the Jurassic Coast, with the stove creating a cosy setting on cooler evenings.

Because the dining room is separate, the lounge can be used for television, reading or conversation without disturbing guests who are eating or enjoying other activities.

This separation is particularly useful for two families sharing the cottage.

Dining Room Seating Eight

The dining room contains a substantial table with eight chairs, allowing everyone to enjoy meals together.

A second wood-burning stove gives the room its own character and makes it particularly inviting during autumn and winter holidays.

The separate layout allows guests to enjoy longer meals or play board games without needing to clear the table for other activities in the lounge.

For large families, the dining room provides a central gathering place where everyone can sit together comfortably.

Kitchen with Nespresso Coffee Machine

The kitchen has an electric oven and hob, tall fridge-freezer and microwave.

A dishwasher makes clearing up after family meals more convenient, while the Nespresso Vertuo machine provides coffee-making facilities.

The kitchen also contains a washing machine and tumble dryer, reducing the need to pack large amounts of clothing for longer stays.

A rear door connects the kitchen with the garden and raised decking.

This allows meals and refreshments to be taken outside without passing through the rest of the accommodation.

Gardens to the Front and Rear

The Old Post Office has garden areas at both the front and rear of the cottage.

The established greenery complements the traditional exterior and provides a pleasant setting for spending time outdoors.

Guests can enjoy the garden after returning from local walks, while children have opportunities to spend time outside under appropriate supervision.

The property's countryside location makes the outdoor space particularly attractive during warmer months.

The garden also provides a change of scene for guests who want a quieter afternoon at the cottage rather than another excursion.

Raised Decking with Outdoor Dining for Eight

A raised deck occupies part of the rear garden.

It is furnished with a dining table and chairs for eight, allowing the whole group to enjoy meals or refreshments outside.

Steps from the kitchen provide access to the decking.

This makes it particularly convenient for outdoor dining, with the kitchen close enough for guests to carry food and drinks outside.

The steps and raised position should be considered by guests with mobility difficulties and families with young children.

Two Wood-Burning Stoves

Both the living room and dining room have wood-burning stoves.

This is an attractive feature for holidays during autumn, winter and early spring, when families may spend more time inside after exploring the countryside.

The separate stoves also give each reception room its own focal point.

They complement the gas central heating provided throughout the cottage, making it comfortable for year-round stays.

Guests should follow the property's guidance when operating the stoves and supervise younger children around hot surfaces.

Laundry Facilities for Family Holidays

The kitchen contains both a washing machine and tumble dryer.

These facilities are particularly useful when several guests are staying together, especially after beach trips, muddy walks or fossil-hunting outings.

Families travelling with younger children may appreciate being able to wash clothing during the week rather than bringing additional luggage.

The drying facilities are also convenient during the cooler months when outdoor drying may be impractical.

Private Parking for Three Cars

The Old Post Office has private parking for three cars.

This is useful for extended families and groups arriving from different locations.

Guests should pay attention to the arrival and parking instructions, particularly when travelling in larger vehicles or arriving after dark.

The property's location near the A35 also provides convenient road access to Charmouth, Bridport, Lyme Regis and the surrounding Dorset countryside.

Countryside Walks from the Cottage

Footpaths and lanes are accessible from Morcombelake, allowing guests to explore the surrounding countryside without needing to drive to every walking route.

The National Trust landscape around Golden Cap is particularly attractive, with woodland, open hillsides and coastal viewpoints.

Routes vary in difficulty, from shorter countryside walks to more demanding climbs towards the highest point on England's south coast.

For active families, this provides a useful alternative to beach days and town visits.

Family Equipment and Practical Facilities

A cot and highchair are provided.

The property accommodates a maximum of eight guests, including infants, with no more than two children under the age of two.

WiFi, electricity, gas central heating, bed linen and bath towels are included.

Mobile reception is generally fair to good, depending on the network.

The cottage also has an access statement available for guests who need more information about its layout.

Facilities Table

Category	Facilities
Main lounge	Two sofas and wood-burning stove
Television	Smart TV using online apps
Additional entertainment	DVD player
Dining room	Separate room with table seating eight
Second fireplace	Wood-burning stove in dining room
Kitchen	Electric oven and hob
Refrigeration	Tall fridge-freezer
Kitchen appliances	Dishwasher and microwave
Coffee facilities	Nespresso Vertuo machine
Bathrooms	Ground-floor shower, first-floor shower and separate bath
Laundry	Washing machine and tumble dryer
Heating	Gas central heating
Internet	WiFi
Gardens	Front and rear garden areas
Outdoor dining	Raised decking with table seating eight
Parking	Private spaces for three cars
Family equipment	Cot and highchair
Local walking	Country lanes and footpaths towards Golden Cap

Important Information

Information	Details
Maximum occupancy	8 guests, including infants
Maximum infants	2 children under two
Bedrooms	4
Bed configuration	King-size, super-king/twin and two doubles
Bathrooms	3
Property layout	Two storeys
Ground-floor bedroom	4ft 6in double
First-floor bedrooms	King-size, flexible super-king/twin and double
Flexible bedroom	Request twin configuration at booking
Jack and Jill bathroom	Shared first-floor family shower room accessible from Bedroom 2
Garden	Front and rear
Raised deck	Steps from kitchen
Outdoor dining	Table and chairs for eight
Dogs	One small or medium-sized dog aged at least one year
Pet charge	£30 per week
Dog arrangements	Communal areas only, not bedrooms
Parking	Private parking for three cars
Bed linen	Included
Bath towels	Included
Beach towels	Guests bring their own
Electricity	Included
Heating	Gas central heating included
WiFi	Available
Mobile reception	Fair to good depending on network
Family equipment	Cot and highchair
Nearest farm shop	Felicity's, less than one mile
Nearest pub	Five Bells Inn, approximately one mile
Seatown Beach	Approximately 2.5 miles
Charmouth Beach	Approximately 3.6 miles
Lyme Regis	Approximately 6 miles
Property code	POSTOF
Preferred changeover	Friday
Check-in	From 4pm
Check-out	By 10am
Booking duration	Weekly stays; short breaks not offered
Access statement	Available on request

Location & Things to Do Near The Old Post Office

The Old Post Office is situated in Morcombelake, a small village in the West Dorset countryside between Bridport and Lyme Regis. The location is particularly attractive for families who enjoy walking, fossil hunting and exploring the Jurassic Coast, with Golden Cap, Seatown and Charmouth all close by.

One of the main local attractions is Golden Cap, the highest point on England's south coast. Walking routes from Morcombelake lead through countryside and National Trust land towards this distinctive hill, where the summit offers panoramic views across Lyme Bay. The climb is rewarding but involves steep sections and uneven paths.

Felicity's Farm Shop is less than a mile from the cottage and sells local produce, groceries, cakes and takeaway refreshments. The village also has stores and tearooms, making it convenient to pick up supplies without travelling far.

Seatown Beach is approximately 2.5 miles away. This attractive shingle beach sits beneath the cliffs of Golden Cap and is home to The Anchor Inn, a popular place for food and drinks overlooking the sea.

Charmouth, approximately 3.6 miles away, is particularly well known for fossil hunting. The Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre provides exhibitions, information about the area's geology and guided fossil walks. Families can explore the beach and rock pools while learning about the Jurassic Coast's prehistoric history.

Lyme Regis is around six miles away and offers a wider selection of restaurants, independent shops and seaside attractions. The historic Cobb harbour, Lyme Regis Museum and sandy beach make it a popular destination for family days out.

Further along the coast, West Bay has a working harbour, dramatic golden cliffs and waterfront restaurants. Nearby Bridport is known for its independent shops and lively market.

The Old Post Office also offers convenient access to East Devon, including Seaton and the historic fishing village of Beer. Families can combine beach trips and countryside walks with relaxed afternoons enjoying the cottage garden.

Nearby Places