

The Manor
Style Aristocratic party pad
Setting Rural West Buckland
The Manor in Somerset dates back to the 13th century, but there’s nothing aged about its approach to celebrations: there’s space for up to 24, all the necessary technological flourishes, a dramatic banquet hall for decadent dinners, a pool table, and romantic rooms to retreat to, post-party. In quieter moments (or for al fresco events), the gorgeous grounds beckon – have a picnic on the lawns or a dip in the heated outdoor pool, admire the koi pond and the wild lake, or play a game of tennis on the courts. Whatever your desire – be it a private chef and a cocktail and canapé reception, or a walking tour of the scenic countryside – the owners will make it happen.
Need to know
- Rates information From £5,550 a night. Two-nights, from £11,000; week-long stays start at £18,000 The property can be booked for Christmas and New Year.
- Ideal for Holding a big bash, whether it’s a regal banquet or a chic wedding in the stunning grounds.
- Sleeps Up to 24 with space for four extra beds for children.
- Property style A stately 13th-century manor house with an impressive stone façade, gravel driveway, and Tudor touches.
- Grounds This stylish self-catering property’s seven and a half acres encompass landscaped lawns, a wild lake and koi pond, a tennis court and a heated outdoor pool. Fields and oak trees provide a romantically rural backdrop and there’s a paved rose garden.
- Minimum hire One-night stays can be arranged.
- Children More than welcome – up to four extra beds can be added (free) and there are a range of catering options to please even the fussiest of eaters. More...
- Booking process A third of the cost of the stay will be taken as a deposit, with the remainder due no later than six weeks before arrival. A Smith deposit will also be taken.
- Also Well-behaved pets can stay free with at least 24 hours’ notice. Dog bowls can be provided.
Floor plan
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There are 11 large, individually styled double rooms. All the beds have Egyptian cotton and all rooms are stocked with Bulgari products.
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Bedrooms
The Duke of Wellington suite has a wooden floor, a wooden four-poster and an ensuite bathroom with a tub fit for two. Linens are snowy white, furnishings are neutral, and the floors and furniture are glossy dark wood.
The Countess Weir room has a double bed, beamed ceilings and dark wood floors.
Lord Spencer’s Suite is decorated in bold ruby red, with beamed walls and ceilings, and a vast four-poster with a wooden frame and white curtains.
Charles’ Room is bright and airy, with a double bed, wooden floor and views of the grounds from the bay windows.
The Old Study is small but cosy, and has a double bed topped with a pale blue throw. -
Kitchen
The main kitchen has a black, oil-fired Aga with a fridge and a large wine-cooler. Perch on a stool by the central wooden island, or pull up a chair at the table that seats six. There is also a separate butler’s kitchen with conventional Bosch ovens, an American fridge-freezer, a washer/dryer and a dishwasher.
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Living room
The drawing room has a huge Inglenook fireplace and comfy leather sofas. It’s informal, relaxed and cosy, with plenty of seating. There is also a small TV lounge with contemporary sofas, freestanding lights and film posters.
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Dining room
The banquet hall is the heart of the house, and the perfect setting for an extravagant dinner party. Oak-panelled walls, original beams and a wood-burning stove create a dramatic, historic feel. This room seats 24, and looks stunning when lit with candles.
- Poolside The peaceful pool is set amid the flowering gardens and oak trees. Relax on one of the wooden day beds, which are equipped with comfy mattresses.
- Gardens The sprawling grounds include terraced, manicured lawns and a small wild lake.
- Private parking There is plenty of free parking for guests just outside the property.
- Other Spend some time in the games room, perfecting your chess moves and snooker skills.
Also worth knowing
- Weddings This property is suitable for weddings. More...
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Smith extra at The Manor
A luxurious hamper stocked with local goodies. Smith members can request early check-in or late check-out (subject to availability)
In the know
Eating and drinking
Guests can make the most of the Aga and cook their own meals; alternatively, owners Spencer and Fiona offer a mind-boggling array of catering options and menus, including a champagne reception with canapés, welcome suppers, barbecues, a shooting menu and mediaeval-style banquets.
Housekeeping
This is included in the hire fee; an additional daily clean can also be arranged (£15 a head).
Entertainment
The lounge is equipped with plasma TVs and a Bose sound system.
Provided
Bulgari bath products, dressing gowns and a stash of DVDs.
Packing tips
This is a party house – bring cocktail attire and some fancy dress to set the mood.


