Sherborne, DT9 3NU

Bethany, believed to date from the 1680s, is a charming Grade II listed, stone-built property, set beneath a tiled roof occupying a prime position within easy reach of Sherborne town centre. The property benefits from ample off-street gravel parking and enjoys a particularly convenient yet attractive setting. A notably light house, it retains a wealth of period features, including exposed beams, window seats, original shutters, whilst offering excellent scope for further enhancement and sympathetic modernisation. The kitchen/breakfast room is fitted with shaker-style units beneath wooden worktops and features a gas Aga, integrated Bosch dishwasher, and space and connection for a fridge/freezer. This is complemented by a large utility room with external access and a cloakroom beyond. The dining room sits conveniently between the kitchen and drawing room and benefits from French doors opening onto the terrace. The drawing room is a particularly attractive, light-filled space, centred around a woodburning stove set within a charming stone surround. There is also a useful study area with French doors leading out to a sunny terrace. Upstairs, there are three bedrooms, two of which are generous doubles, one with an ensuite bathroom as well as a Jack & Jill bathroom. All bedrooms enjoy views to the rear. The second floor comprises spacious vaulted attic rooms with exposed beams and Velux windows, along with a sink and WC. Subject to the necessary consents, this area offers excellent potential to create additional accommodation for a variety of uses. GARDEN The predominantly west-facing garden is enclosed by attractive stone walls and bordered by box hedging. A sunny terrace, ideal for al fresco dining, is accessed directly from both the dining and drawing rooms. During the summer months, the garden takes on a distinctly Mediterranean feel, reminiscent of the South of France. The rear of the property is adorned with wisteria believed to be over 100 years old, creating a beautiful seasonal display. The garden is thoughtfully planted with olive and fig trees, alongside rosemary, lavender, magnolia, winter jasmine and hydrangea. An attractive summer house provides additional outdoor enjoyment, while there is generous gravel parking for several vehicles. The property is approached via a shared driveway from Acreman Street, accessed through large wooden gates. With its central location, ample off-street parking, manageable garden, and potential for improvement, Bethany presents an exciting opportunity as a family home, a second residence, or a downsizing option, all within easy reach of the excellent amenities of this thriving market town. LOCATION Dominated by its ancient Abbey and school, Sherborne is arguably one of the most attractive towns in Dorset. Numerous musical and cultural events occur throughout the year and there is a superb range of traditional shops and boutiques. The two castles, one of which was home to Sir Walter Raleigh, reflect the historic nature of the town, the centre of which is designated a Conservation Area in which a policy of strict planning control operates to preserve its special character. West Dorset is well known for its unspoilt landscape and there are many pretty villages and countryside walks nearby. The Jurassic Coast is a mere twenty-five miles away at Weymouth. This stretch of coastline from Portland to Lyme Regis, with its spectacular cliffs, has been designated a World Heritage Site. Communications to this part of the country are excellent. From Sherborne there is a regular train service to Waterloo (approx. 2 hours 15 minutes); the station is within walking distance. The A303 - linking the M3 and the M5 - is dual carriageway almost all the way, thus putting London and the West Country within a reasonable drive. 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. The beautifully refurbished Sherborne House is a landmark destination for the arts. Water sports can be found at Sutton Bingham Reservoir (near Yeovil) or on the south coast, as well as racing at Wincanton, Salisbury, Bath or Exeter and golf at various courses including Yeovil, Sherborne and Dorchester. The Newt, now well renowned for its many first-class attractions, is situated in nearby Castle Cary. EDUCATION Local primary schools include Sherborne Abbey Primary and Sherborne Primary, both well regarded. The area also benefits from outstanding independent provision through the Sherborne Schools Group (Sherborne School, Sherborne Girls and Sherborne Prep). Other nearby options include Leweston, Hazlegrove, Perrott Hill, Port Regis, Milton Abbey, Bryanston and Millfield. AGENTS NOTE: This property has a shared access off the public highway.