The Property
The Old School House is a highly individual period property occupying a remarkably private position at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac in the Derbyshire village of Pleasley. Dating from 1875, the property formed part of the former village school commissioned by Sir Harry Verney and his wife, Lady Parthenope Verney, sister of Florence Nightingale. Today, it stands as a characterful and beautifully maintained home, thoughtfully extended over time and set within mature landscaped gardens extending to approximately 0.24 acres.

Approached through timber gates and enclosed grounds, the house immediately conveys a sense of history and permanence. Ivy-clad stone elevations, leaded windows and mature planting create an attractive first impression, while beyond the façade lies accommodation that has been carefully enhanced to balance the building’s Victorian origins with the expectations of modern living. Period features including decorative cornicing, ceiling roses, exposed timbers and oak flooring sit comfortably alongside high-quality contemporary finishes, resulting in a home that feels both authentic and enduring.

At the centre of the house is a generous reception hall, a space of unusual scale that serves as the focal point of the accommodation and establishes the character found throughout the property. To one side, the sitting room is a welcoming and well-proportioned reception space. Decorative plasterwork, oak flooring and a substantial fireplace with stove create a warm focal point, while windows to two elevations and glazed doors opening onto the terrace ensure the room remains filled with natural light throughout the day. Double doors allow the space to be opened to the hall when entertaining or separated for quieter occasions.

The kitchen and dining accommodation have been thoughtfully designed to create a sociable and highly functional living environment. Extending to more than 25 feet in length, the kitchen features bespoke painted cabinetry, granite work surfaces, a substantial central island with seating, integrated wine storage and a range cooker beneath a traditional mantle. Stone flooring, exposed ceiling beams and extensive glazing reinforce the character of the original building while providing a bright and practical setting for everyday life. Beyond, the dining room enjoys a particularly attractive relationship with the gardens. Framed by leaded windows and exposed timbers, the room opens directly onto the terrace through wide glazed doors, creating a natural extension of the living accommodation during the warmer months and providing an ideal setting for both formal dining and relaxed family gatherings.

The first floor continues the property’s distinctive character. Exposed structural timbers, vaulted ceilings and leaded windows create a series of bedrooms that feel individual and full of personality. The principal bedroom enjoys a peaceful outlook over the gardens, while two further bedrooms provide flexible accommodation for family members, guests or those seeking dedicated workspace.

Serving the bedrooms is a beautifully appointed family bathroom finished in natural travertine stone. Incorporating both a bath and shower with premium chrome fittings, the room sits beneath the vaulted roofline and exposed timbers, creating a space that is both practical and characterful.

The Old School House offers a rare opportunity to acquire a property of genuine historical significance, combining period architecture, mature gardens and a remarkably private setting within one of the area’s most convenient village locations.

Externally
The grounds are a significant attraction, extending to approximately 0.24 acres and creating a setting that feels both established and remarkably private. Occupying an elevated position at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac, the property is approached through timber gates which open onto a generous gravelled driveway, providing ample parking for several vehicles.

Thoughtfully landscaped over many years, the gardens unfold as a series of distinct outdoor spaces, each offering its own character and outlook. Directly adjoining the house, a substantial stone terrace enclosed by decorative balustrading provides an excellent setting for outdoor dining and entertaining, overlooking lawns framed by mature trees, established shrubs and seasonal planting.

The mature gardens wrap around the house and provide a wonderful sense of seclusion, with carefully positioned seating areas allowing enjoyment of the grounds throughout the day. Stone walls, climbing plants and established boundaries enhance the feeling of privacy, while the elevated position affords attractive views across the surrounding area.

Particularly noteworthy is the enclosed courtyard garden, a sheltered and highly private space enclosed by a substantial stone wall and accessed through an attractive arched gateway. Beautifully sheltered and rich in character, it provides an ideal setting for quiet relaxation or al fresco dining during the warmer months.

The property also benefits from previous planning permission for the construction of a detached single-storey bungalow within the grounds, presenting potential future opportunities, subject to any necessary consents.