Sustonica, the first global sustainability standard for holiday lets.
Our aim is to create lasting holiday memories and we intend to do so both responsibly and sustainably.
To deliver on this we've set out a number of environmental and social pledges which help to focus our efforts;
you can read more about them in our Impact Report.
This is why we've partnered with Sustonica, the first global certification for holiday lets,
to support our owners to be more sustainable.
The Sustonica certification focuses on four key areas: energy conservation, water conservation,
waste reduction and promoting inclusiveness. They are on a mission to become the most widely
recognised sustainability standard for holiday rentals and a catalyst to reduce emissions of holiday
lets and influence guests to reduce their own household consumption too.
Properties that display the Sustonica badge have successfully passed the criteria,
which align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the Global Sustainable Tourism Council standards,
and their owner has made a commitment to look after our planet as well as you.
"It was lovely to meet the host and his son, who were friendly and welcoming, and very helpful regarding local amenities and points of interest."
The cottage was warm and comfortable - great to have two bathrooms in a two-bed property.
It was fantastic to be able to charge our car at the property!
Great location close to Bishop’s Castle market place, and 5 minutes from open countryside.
Reviewed by Jane4.7★Feb 2025
"It was a great place to stay."
Quite snug so best for no more than 3 adults comfortably. The underfloor heating kept us very warm even on icy cold days and the views from the sitting room are great. It had everything we needed although there wasn't a good space for outside boots and shoes (although they could easily be left outside under cover).
Reviewed by Jill5.0★Dec 2024
"Lovely property in a great location to explore Bishops Castle and beyond"
Reviewed by Michael5.0★Sep 2024
"Great place to stay ."
Owner was spot on nothing was to much truble. located in a beautiful aarea the entrance could be a little tight if others parked on the street opposite . But all in all would definitely go back again
Reviewed by Peter5.0★Aug 2024
"Situated conveniently for exploring the Welsh border country and Shropshire."
Dr.Penney is approachable and affable.
Reviewed by Pauline5.0★May 2024
"A most enjoyable few day."
Superb location albeit with road closures that meant a difficult detour.
Host was attentive and helpful.
Reviewed by Peter Maurice4.1★Mar 2024
"Very small dining area, even for two adults."
Lots of noise transmitted from other first floor occupants of the building. The noise being transmitted through the ceiling.
The underfloor heating made our accommodation warm and comfortable.
Reviewed by Michael2.8★Mar 2024
"This is the second time we've stayed at The Schoolhouse Bakehouse (and the first holiday property, in 30 years, we've returned to!"
) The owner, and his son, were friendly and welcoming and the apartment was clean and comfortable. The living room and bedrooms are light and spacious but the dining area is very cramped. It was fine for two of us - we just moved two of the chairs out of the way - but it would be a tight, claustrophobic squeeze for four adults!! The weather was hot so we enjoyed the shady outside seating, which can be used even when raining due to being sheltered by upstairs' balcony. One annoying issue was that both smoke alarms were set off EVERY time the oven door was opened even though nothing was burning. This wasn't too much of a problem, as it stopped reasonably quickly with all the windows and the door open, but I expect would be worse in colder weather: a good excuse not to cook but to visit the many pubs, takeaways and cafés within easy walking distance?! There are a butchers and two well stocked small supermarkets at the bottom of the town: a CoOp and a large Spar at the garage.They provided all we needed for the week (but it was quite a hike back up the steep hill!) Around the town there are some lovely walks of varying lengths and difficulty; maps and leaflets are helpfully provided. We had another relaxing holiday at The Schoolhouse Bakehouse and wouldn't hesitate to recommend it.
Reviewed by Chris4.4★Sep 2023
"Cleaning of bathrooms needs to be greatly improved."
Sofas in living rooms need to be cleaned and repaired….rip in the rear of large sofa and very soiled. Kitchen equipment sadly lacking ….no oven proof ovenware available, we had to buy some while there. Small plates and saucers missing. We should have been warned of tight corner and very low wall to enter the parking area, damaged front bumper of our car….. owner, who saw it happen said … a lot of people do that….he then removed a large rock from the low wall. We have stayed in a number of your properties and this has been the most disappointing. Will in future be looking at other letting companies in the future. The town of Bishops Castle was very pretty with some excellent pubs and restaurants.
Always appreciate constructive feedback and particularly during the holiday as I hope to address most issues as quickly as possible. I am on site every day. I will take these concerns and address them now; I have checked that there should be 6 sideplates and plenty of mugs ) and 2 Pyrex dishes. Unfortunately some had migrated to the upstairs apartment and not been returned; Apologies
The back of the larger sofa does have a small 3 inch tear in the fabric which is awaiting matching material to repair. We will strive to address the bathroom cleaning concerns.
Unfortunately NR is the first person to drive into the dry stone wall and indeed knock out the corner Keystone only few feet away from one of the housekeepers and me as he arrived. Perhaps he was unaware as he did not apologise for the damage.
Property Owner
Reviewed by Neil2.2★Aug 2023
"This is a lovely, well-equipped cottage and Adrian, the owner, was very helpful and on hand if needed."
Bishop's Castle is a nice little town with loads of facilities and beautiful countryside around.
Reviewed by Ruth5.0★Jun 2023
"Comfortable and very well equipped in pleasant location"
Reviewed by Michael5.0★May 2023
"Lovely apartment, very clean and tidy with everything we needed."
Adrian was very welcoming and friendly.
Lovely area with everything you need on the doorstep.
Thank you for a lovely stay, sure we will be back again.
Reviewed by Linda5.0★Apr 2023
"We really enjoyed our stay here and would recommend it our friends."
Reviewed by David5.0★Sep 2022
"We had the most wonderful relaxing stay."
We didn't want to leave. Adrian the owner was friendly and helpful. The accomadation had everything one needs. Lovely comfortable beds etc.
Lots of interesting little shops in the town just a short walk away. There's fish and chips, Indian, and Chinese takeaway which we sampled all.
Reviewed by Christine5.0★Aug 2022
"Fantastic location and wonderful accomodation."
Thank you for a lovely week
Reviewed by Matthew5.0★Aug 2022
"A very lovely, comfortable, extremely clean and well equipped cottage."
Although a small amount of traffic noise from the lane to the side of the cottage when sitting outside, the views over the countryside well made up for that. I would point out that no traffic noise was heard within the cottage, it was quiet and peaceful. Many thanks to Dr. Penney for being such a friendly and approachable owner and also for inviting us to pick sweet peas and apples from his beautiful private garden. Will certainly return without any hesitation whatsoever.
Reviewed by Valerie5.0★Aug 2022
"A great base for exploring the borders and mis-Wales."
The Bakehouse is well located, comfortable and has everything needed for a relaxed and enjoyable break. The owner, Adrian, welcomed us to the property and is a mine of useful information about the local area.
Bishops Castle is a gem, offering a great range of independent shops and a beautiful church. It is also well located for exploring the area for example the Royal Welsh Show at Builth Wells, Church Stretton, Shrewsbury, Ludlow, Mid Wales Arts Centre and Stokesay Castle.
Reviewed by Jo4.7★Jul 2022
"Great weekend at lovely location."
Property fantastic and very helpful owner. Would definitely recommend.
Reviewed by Leigh5.0★Jul 2022
"We had a great week at this property the owner was very helpful and friendly."
We will certainly stay there again.
Reviewed by Frances4.7★May 2022
"Great location, compact and comfortable apartment."
It was particularly useful to have an EV charger on site - wished more holiday homes had this facility.
Reviewed by Helen4.1★Apr 2022
"A nice property and a really friendly, helpful property owner."
We would definitely have no problems about booking this property again.
Thanks
Reviewed by Ian5.0★Sep 2021
"The property was comfortable and in a perfect location with walks and pubs on the doorstep."
Just on the edge of the town and you could see across to the hills from the kitchen window.
Reviewed by Jayne5.0★Sep 2021
"Very comfortable, hope to return quite soon."
Very well equipped in the kitchen area and box of games appreciated by grandson.
Reviewed by Beryl5.0★Aug 2021
"We thoroughly enjoyed our stay in The School Bakehouse Apartment."
Excellent facilities, very friendly owner Adrian who came to check if we had any questions or concerns. The kettle broke half way through the week and it was replaced with a new one within minutes! Thoroughly recommend the holiday and we will definitely be visiting again!
Reviewed by Vanessa5.0★Aug 2021
"Bishop's Castle is a fabulous location for relaxing and walking."
The apartment had everything we needed. Great to have the tennis court to use too. Adrian is a friendly and welcoming host.
Reviewed by Sue5.0★Jul 2021
"Beautiful countryside and walks in the Shropshire hills and great visits to Ludlow, Clun, Ironbridge etc."
Proprietor very helpful and friendly, would highly recommend.
Reviewed by Michael5.0★Jul 2021
"Host was very helpful and pleasant."
He checked on us several times to make sure we had everything we needed. Beautiful town and area. Would return to Shropshire for further exploration
Reviewed by Michael4.7★Jun 2021
"Lovely peaceful area for some not too strenuous walking in surrounding green hills ."
Interesting small town with very friendly locals -not a person passed us by without acknowledging us .
Apartment very central, parking a bonus,quiet ,warm and extremely comfortable after a day out and about in the countryside.
Communications with owner Dr Penney most convivial .
Hope to revisit in the not too distant future .
Reviewed by Gay4.7★May 2021
"Sykes were very helpful finding two adjacent properties for us as we had to social distance with our daughters who were visiting with us."
Adrian, the owner, could not have been more helpful and we enjoyed our stay very much, particularly the hot tub!
Reviewed by Lucy5.0★Apr 2021
"Cottage was clean and very well equipped."
One of the most well equipped we've ever been to. The owner called round several times to make sure everything was OK.
There is plenty to do in the area and lovely local walks. The information left for guests was clear and useful.
Reviewed by Linda5.0★Sep 2020
"We were warmly welcomed and thoroughy enjoyed using this well-equipped, comfortable and clean apartment for our week's holiday."
It is well-placed in Bishop's Castle for exploring and walking, set in glorious countryside, with centuries of history all around and quaint villages and towns. Twice, while walkng on hills we were able to see the Malverns in one direction, Breacon Beacons in another and also Snowdonia and Cader Idris to the West and north
Reviewed by Im4.7★Sep 2020
"Very cosy and well situated"
Reviewed by Martin5.0★Oct 2019
"Excellent accommodation in a lovely location"
Reviewed by Charles5.0★Sep 2019
"Overall the comfort and cleanliness was ok but the showers had mould around the bottom tiles."
The heating was difficult to control and despite unseasonably cold weather, the apartment was too hot. The owner was very friendly and helpful but also could not adjust the heating. On account of the poor weather, we cut the stay short by two days.
Reviewed by Alan3.8★Jun 2019
"The owner was extremely friendly and helpful."
Would definitely recommend it as a place to stay .
Reviewed by Karen5.0★Oct 2018
"Stayed in Bishops Castle, Shropshire."
A beautiful area. People really friendly. Places are hidden treasures, away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Reviewed by Peter5.0★Sep 2018
"Was a lovely stay lovely owner , facilities were great, comfy beds and friendly people local shops , definitely recommend the poppy House cafe lovely hot breakfast n lunch also hit chocolate mmmm kids loved it the cream tea was lush, chai shop was very pleasant the cardamon cake a must n Indian tea with Tahira, the art n museum was great to explore, felt at home with the late night chippy tea thank you Ali for your hospitality."
Definitely will be back for the book festival in Oct look forward to staying in the Bakehouse apartment with hot tub.
Thank you Adrian for the extra help providing a stool and extra log for the fire, had a few mild days but finally got to see some sunshine.
Reviewed by Perveen5.0★Aug 2018
"Get the arrival time correct"
Reviewed by Martin4.4★May 2018
"The Apartment is well situated to visit the town and use its facilities including many eating and drinking places."
The Apartment has good off-road car parking.
It is a modern and very compact conversion and is most comfortably furnished, and equipped to a very high standard. There is under floor heating, which was rather too hot under the bathroom tiles and the owner is aware of this and is addressing it. We were warm and comfortable during very cold March weather. My wife and I would strongly recommend it, especially for couples or a small family.
Reviewed by Keith5.0★Mar 2018
"An excellent property."
Nicely furnished and well-kept, the owner also offers a great welcome. Tennis court a particular hit with the kids. The whole family enjoyed the Bakehouse.
Reviewed by Trevor5.0★Aug 2016
"It was a lovely property."
Adrian Penney was extremely helpful. He provided lots of information for us on the local area and even provided a seat for my mother to use in the shower as she has difficulty walking and standing. Bishop's Castle was a lovely town and the weather was lovely. All in all, a great experience.
Two bedrooms with TVs: 1 x king-size with en-suite bath, walk-in shower, basin and WC, 1 x twin
Shower room with walk-in shower, basin and WC
Open-plan living space with kitchen, dining area and sitting area with woodburning stove
Shared utility
Oil underfloor central heating
Log burner
Electric oven and hob, microwave, slow cooker, fridge, shared use of washing machine
3 x TVs with Freeview, DVDs, CD, iPod docks, WiFi
Fuel, power and starter pack for woodburning stove inc. in rent
Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
Cot and highchair available
Off road parking for 2 cars
Free EV charging point available
Private front patio with furniture
Shared use of all year-round tennis court
Sorry, no pets and no smoking (including vapes and e-cigarettes)
Shop 0.2 miles, award-winning real ale pub/restaurant 0.1 miles
Note: Check-in 5pm, check-out at 10am
The property
The Schoolhouse Bakehouse, a well-presented single-storey property is situated in Bishop’s Castle, Shropshire.
Boasting 2.5 acres of grounds and located within walking distance from the centre of the historic market town of Bishop's Castle, The Schoolhouse Bakehouse offers a charming base from which to explore all that Shropshire has to offer.
After parking up, step inside to be welcomed by the open-plan living area with a woodburning stove, along with a kitchen and dining area, perfect for rustling up delicious feasts and tucking in over a bottle of fizz.
If the weather permits, why not head out to the private front patio, which is ideal for enjoying a relaxing drink after a busy day exploring the beautiful surrounding countryside, or after a game of tennis on the shared all-year-round court.
When sleep calls, retire to one of two bedrooms with TVs, comprising of a king-size with en-suite bathroom and a twin, serviced by an additional shower room, where you can complete your nightly routine before catching some rest.
The Schoolhouse Bakehouse is in a wonderful area from where walkers, cyclists and birdwatchers will enjoy Offa's Dyke, The Shropshire Way, the Clun and Kerry Forests and the South Shropshire Hills.
Those that are interested in the history and culture of the area should head to Stokesay Castle, the World Heritage Site of Ironbridge Gorge with its abundance of museums and the medieval towns of Ludlow and Shrewsbury.
Escape to The Schoolhouse Bakehouse for a memorable holiday in Shropshire.
Note: This property can be booked with Ref. 4140 together sleeping 8 guests.
The attractive market town of Bishop's Castle is surrounded by the South West Shropshire Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The ancient town offers a weekly market and an excellent variety of shops, pubs and places to eat. It is famous for its annual Real Ale Festival, Tandem Triathlon and regular festivals and fairs, including Party in the Park and the particularly popular, Michaelmas Fair. The town is ideally placed for walking and touring the Welsh Marches, rural Shropshire and North Herefordshire, while the fascinating and well-known towns of Montgomery, Ludlow and Shrewsbury are all within easy reach. You can also enjoy the numerous nearby attractions, including Powis Castle, the Severn Valley Railway and walks along Offa’s Dyke and The Shropshire Way.
