The Burrows, approached from a narrow gravel driveway off County Road 287 between Oxford and Pontotoc, looks much like any of the other rolling hills prevalent in that area. Passersby would never know that this particular hill is the rooftop of an underground home.

Sherry and Harvey Shirley built The Burrows in 2006 as a residence and B&B. Tired of the high maintenance of an older home, they looked for something that was energy efficient and maintenancefree and believe they have found it in their underground home. Imagine having only to mow your roof once in awhile compared to the exterior maintenance of a century-old home, and you’ll see why Sherry is ecstatic about her new residence.

Sherry has interspersed antiques with more modern touches, a combination that appears to work quite well. The flooring throughout is stained and scored concrete, and there are other interesting touches, such as the baths that feature colored chips of glass inlaid into the concrete lavatories.

The two rooms that house the B&B open onto a common porch, shared by the guests and the Shirleys. It is only a few steps to the main living area where a full homemade breakfast is served each morning. Each of the bedrooms is moderate with a queen bed, plush
linens, cozy chairs, hot tub, and private bath.

Sherry offers snacks on arrival and will prepare picnic lunches for her guest attending Ole Miss football games. She will also cater small receptions or luncheons and gives English tea parties for girls ages 6-12 where the children are allowed to choose a party frock from Sherry’s collection.

Sherry believes one of the reasons guests choose to stay at The Burrows is that “guests are looking for unique accommodations and are curious about the idea of living underground.”