Nethercoombe House Featured

About this self-catering holiday accommodation...

Welcome to Nethercoombe, a truly characterful and historic home on the Isle of Portland, Dorset. Named after the nearby Nethercoombe Portland Stone quarry from which the house itself was built, this impressive property dates back to the late 19th century, with construction completed in 1901. Rich in heritage and full of original features, Nethercoombe offers guests the rare opportunity to stay in a home that reflects Portland’s deep connection to stone quarrying and maritime history.

Set across generously proportioned rooms, the house comfortably accommodates up to 7 guests, making it ideal for families, groups of friends, or adventure-seekers exploring the Jurassic Coast. The imposing interiors showcase period charm, high ceilings, and a sense of space rarely found in modern homes, while still offering the comfort needed for a relaxing stay.

Nethercoombe is perfectly located for outdoor enthusiasts. With excellent access to local rock climbing, coastal walking routes, and watersports, it’s an outstanding base for those looking to explore Portland’s dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and rugged landscapes. Whether you’re hiking along the South West Coast Path, climbing world-famous Portland limestone, or heading out on the water, adventure is right on your doorstep.

Conveniently situated near Easton Square, the property sits directly on a bus route, making local travel easy and stress-free. Regular connections provide straightforward access to Weymouth, its harbour, sandy beach, shops, restaurants, and transport links beyond — ideal if you’d prefer to leave the car behind.

Combining historic charm, generous space, and an unbeatable location, Nethercoombe is a unique Portland holiday home offering both character and convenience. Whether you’re drawn by history, nature, or adventure, this remarkable house provides the perfect base for an unforgettable stay on Dorset’s spectacular coast.

The black and white entrance hall has an impressive staircase to the split-level first floor and the two main reception rooms on the ground floor. To the rear is a generous kitchen diner – featuring a c1940s Aga, electric induction hob, dishwasher, fridge and butler sink – a utility room with freezer and washing machine and separate WC with original Cardinal pan and wooden seat. There’s also a snug room, giving rear access to the property.

Three double bedrooms – two with marble fireplaces and original, inset tiles (the third has a cast iron fireplace) all benefit from tall Victorian ceilings, original doors and ceramic fittings. Whilst the servant bells are original and still present – sadly the bell box in the kitchen has long-gone – and there are no longer resident staff on-hand! The fourth, single, room, has the arched door which is quite distinct from the front of the property as it opens to the stone balcony from which Mr Allen, JP and former Mayor, would stand and give speeches to members of the public in Easton Gardens. A photograph of Mr Allen and his Portland Reave Stick – used when becoming Mayor to bang on the Council Office doors, are visible in the display cabinet in the hall. Photographs in the main reception room show Easton Gardens in its Victorian splendour prior to the railings being removed during the second world war.

“The pig with one ear” was a phrase told to the current owner; The Sampson family owned a number of properties in Easton – notably No 32 to the left of Nethercoombe. Stepping from the Victorian tiled hallway through the inner-lobby to the kitchen, there is a boarded door frame, which used to connect the property to number 32. It is understood that staff who may have worked in the property, resided in No 32 and were able to enter and leave the property via this doorway, without being seen by anyone in Easton Square. “The Pig with one ear” is a reference to the asymmetric design and the Sampsons’ original intent to rebuild No 32 with a mirror image bay window to the left of the front door and continue the balcony across the front of the property – making an even more imposing double-fronted property. This work was never commissioned or undertaken; the Sampsons sold the property to their quarry Foreman, Mr Herbert Percival Allen and are believed to have moved to Pennsylvania Castle, now a private hire wedding venue, above the stunning Church Ope Cove, a short walk from Easton. Mr Allen lived at the property with his wife and daughter, eventually passing it to his daughter, Ellen Lano Allen (known locally as the very well respected scholar and former Grammar School Latin teacher, “Miss Allen” – but to her close friends and family as “Nellie”). No 32 was eventually sold in the 1960s and is no longer accessible from Nethercoombe – for many years and to date it remains a lovely family run art gallery and framing business.

Portland and Nethercoombe have plenty of fascinating history – we look forward to welcoming you and to you exploring the immediate and local curiosities, quarries and stunning views that Portland has to offer.