Ember | Luxury Self-Catering House | Upton Scudamore, Wiltshire

Ember

Upton Scudamore, Warminster, Wiltshire, UK

In 1852, a wealthy rector commissioned a four-storey house in the Gothic style. Nearly two centuries on, this former rectory in Wiltshire still bears ornate stone arches, tessellated floors and a coat of arms over its entrance. Yet today, Ember's historic grandeur is forged with modern, family-focused design, offering a large luxury self-catering escape with a hot tub, cinema room and heated indoor swimming pool.

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Introduction

Set on the edge of the picturesque Wiltshire village, Upton Scudamore, this sprawling retreat is designed for restorative gatherings. When its current owners first arrived, Ember was a flicker of its former flame. So, they began a three-year journey to stoke every corner back to brilliance, marrying meticulous craftsmanship with contemporary enhancements. The home’s original chapel now invites candlelit dinners, surrounded by mullioned windows and exposed brick; its pool, gym and games room encourage playful connection; while outside, a fire pit encircled by log stools sets the scene for starlit evenings swirling generous pours.

Inside

Reclaimed oak floors, limestone tiles and restored casement windows with timber sashes all echo Ember's heritage. Yet, its owners – who spent years working in South Africa and Asia – have also enriched the interiors with a global spirit: think wooden sculptures, felted wall hangings and handwoven baskets. Each space exudes organic tactility and artisanal character, from the expansive sitting rooms to the bespoke kitchen, cinema snug and warren of nine earth-toned bedrooms, all framing pastoral views. Throughout, eco-conscious materials and a sustainable biomass heating system quietly underpin the home.

Outside

The gardens invite those of all ages to explore and play, rest and recharge. Level lawns stretch out for group games of football and badminton, or barefoot exercise. A vast courtyard chessboard and children’s playground, complete with a playhouse and swings, await the adventures of little ones. For quieter moments, you might unwind with a well-thumbed book in the cosy garden room or assemble at the shaded al fresco dining area to share local Wiltshire cheeses. Beyond, the countryside unfurls in gentle folds to be explored on foot or by bike, while the village of Upton Scudamore beckons with its cosy pub and historic church.

The Facts

  • SleepsUp to 18 guests
    From £6,995 per week, £5,250 per short break
  • Alternative group optionsUp to 8 or up to 12 guests
  • Bedrooms and bathroomsThere are nine bedrooms in total, spread across the first and second floors: six doubles, two zip-and-link rooms, and one twin. Three bedrooms have en suites, while the remaining five share three family bathrooms with baths and showers. Additionally, there are two WCs on the ground floor.
    View bedrooms
  • FeaturesIndoor heated swimming pool, hot tub, games room, gym, cinema room, and a children’s play area, which includes a trampoline, swings, football goals, and a climbing frame
  • PetsYes, two well behaved dogs are very welcome
    Each pet is charged at £60 per week or part thereof
  • Arrivals and departuresArrival Time: 4pmDeparture Time: 10am
  • FamilyYes, babies and children are very welcome.
  • PracticalitiesThere is parking for up to six cars. The kitchen is fully equipped with Miele appliances, including two ovens, two hobs, two dishwashers and a wine fridge, as well as a large fridge–freezer, a Ninja coffee machine and a microwave. The utility room features two Miele washing machines and a tumble dryer. Please note that there are level changes throughout the property and CCTV covering the exterior areas.
  • Homestay includesA luxury welcome hamper with a selection of local produce, WiFi internet, smart televisions with Sky TV, Sonos speakers, a coffee machine and Webber barbecueHouse book - your property and destination guideDiscover more
  • Private cateringWhether you're looking for a fully catered stay or a one-off meal for a special occasion, discover your bespoke catering options.
    Explore private dining
  • Other informationProperty terms and conditionsFrequently asked questionsView floor plan

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Outside, you might gather to share local Wiltshire cheeses with homemade chutney
A tin slipper bath looks over the countryside, part of the principle suite
Warm tones create a welcoming atmosphere

Prices & Availability

Warminster

On the edge of the Cranborne Chase and West Wiltshire Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Warminster is a lively market town where restaurants focusing on seasonal, local produce meet art studios, independent stores and Grade II-listed theatres.

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Warminster
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Getting there

  • On the Map Ember sits in the Wiltshire countryside, just 30 minutes from Bath and five minutes from Warminster.
  • By Car Approximately two hours from London and an hour from Bristol.
  • By Train Westbury (with a London line) is the nearest train station, 10 minutes away by car.
  • By Air Bristol airport is an hour's drive away.

 

From the owner

“Seeing this house for the first time sparked a desire to create a unique homestay where extended families could spend time together, and where conferences or retreats could unfold in tranquillity. The past three years have been a joy, watching the property return to life in a way that marries bold design with nature’s quiet soul – a place that inspires, restores and sparks the imagination.”

From the owner

We sought to amplify the heritage of this old rectory and its landscape, yet celebrate diversity. ‘Out of Africa’ reflects our ethos. Furnishing this home with sustainable, handcrafted pieces we have acquired over many years of working in South Africa and Asia pays homage to the cultures that have touched our lives. The home carries a warm and friendly atmosphere throughout, from the large, impressive spaces to the more intimate family areas.

Creating exceptional facilities and activities onsite has been a priority for us. The leisure suite includes a gym, an underground link to the large indoor swimming pool, a hot tub and a patio area. Another significant addition has been the installation of a biomass boiler, providing eco-friendly energy from which this home now comes alive. 

Our hope is that Ember becomes a place of warm gathering, connection and restoration for generations to come.

The Whitewood Family

Owner recommendations

Live like a local, discovering the best hidden gem restaurants, walks and attractions during your holiday in Warminster with an insider's perspective.

Bath

To See

Bath

In the World Heritage city of Bath, you can enjoy Britain´s only natural thermal waters as the Celts and Romans did over 2000 years ago. Summer brings pop-up supper spots and street performers and winter, superb Christmas markets.

Little Walcot, Frome

To Eat

Little Walcot, Frome

In the heart of Frome, Little Walcot is an all-day restaurant and café-bar. From home‑baked bread and hand‑rolled pasta to sustainable seafood and its celebrated Sunday roast, every dish highlights seasonal, thoughtfully sourced ingredients.

Frome

To Shop

Frome

A 15-minute drive from the house is the medieval town of Frome with its cobbled streets and thriving creative scene. Browse the flea market and explore independent stores offering baked goods, homewares, books, floristry and more.

Longleat, Warminster

To Do

Longleat, Warminster

Longleat offers families a day of discovery. Wander through the Elizabethan house, then head outside to watch lions, giraffes, and deer roam the safari park. Summer invites outdoor adventure, and winter sparkles with seasonal light displays.

Frequently Asked Questions

Whether you're curious about pet policies, the nearest walkable pubs, or wild swimming spots, we have the answers to common property-specific queries here. For everything else, visit our Frequently Asked Questions page.

Press

Below are a selection of features in which Unique Homestays has appeared. If you would like to feature the property in an editorial capacity, please contact the marketing team on +44 (0)1637 882014.

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Disclaimer: These particulars, whilst believed to be accurate, are set as a guideline so should not be relied upon as a statement of fact. The photographs show aspects of the property at the time they were taken and it should not be assumed that the property remains precisely as displayed. If there are points of particular importance that need clarifying before you book, please contact us.