Bookings are now open for The Schoolhouse, an accessible, luxury five-bedroom self-catering holiday home in a restored former village school, set within Straloch Estate. This marks the culmination of an ambitious two-year renovation project by owner and former pupil Lucy Holt who has transformed this long-term derelict building into a stunning rural retreat.
Nestled in a remote Perthshire glen, the 3000-acre Highland estate is a true adventure playground for adults and kids alike, with river fishing, kayaking and rowing boats on the private loch, den building in the woods, campfire picnic teas on the loch island, and guided nature walks. There’s even the option to bundle into the Land Rover to reach a private bothy high in the hills for a chef-prepared Wild Picnic. Modern amenities such as a six-seater hydrotherapy hot tub have been installed at The Schoolhouse, offering the perfect space for post-walk relaxation or evening stargazing in the peaceful surroundings of the estate.
The 19th century listed property, formerly Straloch School had stood vacant since being mothballed in 2010. It was purchased in 2023 by the Holts from Perth and Kinross Council and has since undergone a comprehensive refurbishment. The restoration forms part of a wider programme of tourism investment across the family-run estate. Since opening to guests in 2015, Straloch has developed a reputation for well-designed accommodation within a distinctive landscape on the edge of the Cairngorms National Park.
A network of local contractors including project managers Galbraith Group, builders Meldrum Construction firm, and interior designer Tyrella Nash of Dunville Interiors joined forces to sympathetically restore the building and repurpose it for a new generation to enjoy. Two former classrooms have been converted into a spacious state-of-the-art kitchen and sitting room, with walk-in larder, and all mod cons for get-togethers of family and friends. The adjacent sitting room has a wood-burning stove and cosy velvet sofas and chairs to allow the whole group to coorie in for films and board games in the evenings. The refurbishment included a complete upgrade of sustainable services throughout the building, with energy-efficient systems such as an air source heat pump and two electric EV chargers, alongside contemporary appliances and integrated technology.
Original features and vintage finds layered with modern technology create a calming countryside retreat. Design features include reclaimed 1930’s cast-iron radiators salvaged from Scotland Yard, and a set of original desk and chairs from the former school, together with the original playground seesaw in the garden acknowledging the property’s rich history.
There are two bedrooms on the ground floor, one of which is wheelchair friendly and the other is en-suite. Upstairs in the former Headmistress’ house are three bedrooms and a further bathroom. Each designed with a lush palette inspired by the landscape of Perthshire and the Cairngorms, and toiletries from The Highland Soap Company.
The project also carries huge personal significance for Lucy Holt:
“It’s a building that means a great deal to our family, especially since I was a pupil at the school with my siblings. We wanted to bring it back into use in a way that respected its history, while making it work for how people want to stay today. It had been sitting empty for years, so seeing it restored and lived in again is incredibly rewarding. The support from former pupils and teachers has been heartening and we can’t wait to welcome our first visitors to experience the Schoolhouse.”
Set within the wider estate landscape, guests at The Schoolhouse have access to walking routes, loch fishing and open ground across the estate’s 3,000 acres. Located within easy reach of Pitlochry, the estate offers a balance of seclusion and accessibility, making it well suited to both short breaks and longer stays. The transformation of the former school marks the return of a previously redundant building into active use, supporting the continued development of the estate and contributing to the wider tourism offering in the region.
Prices start from £2,000 for a three-night stay during the off-season.Bookings are now live and can be made here.