While the site of The Old Rectory may be traced back to the C17th, the present building dates from around 1837.

The house, set in extensive grounds, was owned by Charles Leatherland in the 1940s during his time as news editor of the Daily Herald .  He  became a prominent member of the Dunton community, serving as chairman of the Dunton Parish Invasion Committee from 1942.

From the end of the First World War, Mr Leatherland had enjoyed a distinguished career as a journalist.  As a lifelong supporter of the Labour Party he was to continue to hold several prominent posts in public life resulting in a life peerage in 1964.

Information on Charles Leatherland's life may be found on the website compiled by his grandson, David Richards, in particular the section,  "Dunton Days"  .

Today, the Old Rectory has found a new role as an attractive hotel.   

More details concerning The Old Rectory with present-day images may be accessed on the Old Rectory hotel website.