Higher Street, Norton Sub Hamdon, Stoke-Sub-Hamdon, Somerset, TA14

Approached via a paved pathway and adorned in an established wisteria, this attractive detached and contemporary style house, constructed from local Hamstone under a tiled roof in 1982, is set back from this quiet road and sits comfortably in the middle of a good sized garden. Entered via a stone built porch, a timber door opens into a large and welcoming hallway with tiled flooring and an impressive, bespoke built F Cuff & Sons staircase, with galleried landing and storage beneath. There is a conveniently positioned cloakroom with basin, WC and plenty of room for coats. The sitting room is very well-proportioned and notable for its great light thanks to the dual aspect and French doors that open out directly onto the rear terrace. The fireplace, crafted from local stone over a wood burner, provides the perfect focal point. The kitchen is a generous space that has been substantially extended in recent years and provides plenty of space to entertain and relax in equal measure. It forms the heart of the house and is finished to a very high standard with features that include a range of Mackintosh wall and base units from Spillers of Chard, a large central island with breakfast bars, an impressive Everhot cooker with electric hob and a fine timber mantle over, an integrated Miele microwave and Siemens dishwasher and two sinks, one with an insinkerator. The overall style here is contemporary with a great emphasis on light, enhanced with a beautiful riven slate tiled floor from Fired Earth. With space for a large kitchen table and an arrangement of sofas, three sets of French doors ensure this is the perfect property for those gatherings that seamlessly spill out onto the terrace on those warmer days. A separate utility with a large Belfast sink, space and connection for a washing machine and separate dryer, provides further access to the outside.

The large first floor landing provides enough space for a bureau or occasional seating area and access to four excellent sized double bedrooms, all neutrally decorated with matching timber doors and quality fittings. The rear of the property is west facing with wonderful views stretching across open countryside and fantastic sunsets. There is a family bathroom with bathtub and separate shower cubicle and the principal bedroom has a fantastic ensuite shower room as well as plenty of built in storage. Stairs rise again to the second floor where there is a further bedroom and study/office area, ideal perhaps for a teenager or guests. Further storage is provided in the eaves, whilst dormer windows provide useful additional headroom.

GARDENS AND OUTBUILDINGS

A tarmac driveway rises up to an area of parking for several cars. A large double garage with electric doors, power and water provides some very useful storage and potential workshop space. A Dab water technology system, housed here, ensures excellent water pressure throughout the property and an additional stone built store provides further storage solutions. Outside to the rear of the property is a large, paved terrace with raised beds filled with a variety of established plants including lavenders, salvias and various shrubs, all providing privacy, interest and shelter. Steps then lead up to a lawned area which is bordered with fencing, clipped hedges, further mature shrubs and flower beds. A selection of trees provides some vertical structure to the space. Gates at either side of the property provide access to the front. Access can be gained at the end of the garden directly onto a footpath negating the need to get into a car should you wish to explore the stunning surrounding countryside by foot.

LOCATION
Norton Sub Hamdon is one of Somerset’s premier villages, lying as it does at the foot of Ham Hill, from where the honey coloured Hamstone, for which the area is renowned, is quarried. The centre of the village is a Conservation Area in which planning controls are in force to preserve the special character of the village, thus it remains unspoilt with a blend of houses of differing periods. The village is small, however there is a real sense of community and it is of a sufficient size to support most amenities, including the thriving village shop and post office (run by volunteers), hair salon, tea room, village hall, Lord Nelson Inn, Castle Primary School and St Mary’s Church. The larger centres of Yeovil, South Petherton, Martock and the market town of Sherborne are all within easy reach and offer a range of traditional shops and high street stores with hospitals at South Petherton and Yeovil. Communications to this part of the world are excellent. The A303, which is within two miles (yet out of earshot) is dual carriageway most of the way to both London and the west country. Railway stations are at Yeovil and Crewkerne (Waterloo) and Castle Cary (Paddington).

SPORTING AND RECREATION
The area is well known for its beauty and there is a network of bridleways and footpaths which cross the countryside making it ideal for walking, cycling and riding. Water sports can be found at Sutton Bringham Reservoir (near Yeovil) or on the south coast and racing at Wincanton, Taunton, Bath or Exeter. Golf at various courses including Yeovil, Sherborne, Wheathill or Long Sutton.

EDUCATION
The area is particularly noted for the high quality of schools for children of all ages with Sherborne Prep, Perrott Hill, Hazlegrove Prep and Sherborne Boys’ and Sherborne Girls’ all within easy reach. Castle Primary and Norton sub Hamdon Primary Schools as well as The Gryphon and Beaminster secondary schools are highly rated and easily accessible.