Bridport, DT6 3SJ

Tucked away in arguably the most prominent position in this very picturesque village, a truly fantastic family home with a large kitchen, four beautiful bedrooms, an absolutely delightful garden of just under 3/4 acre, stunning views, a garage and ample parking. THE PROPERTY Hidden away near the heart of one of Dorset's most picturesque and peaceful villages, first glimpses of Lion House are most impressive with its most attractive stone and brick façade under a recently renovated pitched slate roof. Rather unusually for a house of this stature and age the house, which is not listed, has been cleverly extended over the years resulting in an incredible family home in arguably the best position in the village. On first entering this wonderful property there is a real sense of charm, space and light. It is most frequently entered via the double kitchen doors. The off-street parking for several cars is a rarity for this village. The family kitchen is absolutely fabulous and a very good size, especially for a property believed to date back to the 1800s. The kitchen incorporates a number of bespoke wall and base units, stripped wooden flooring and an electric Aga (cream). There is plenty of room for a large kitchen table and direct access to the paved terrace perfect for a morning cup of coffee or al fresco dining on a nice summer's day. It is an incredibly tranquil spot with the sound of birdsong echoing around the gardens with very little passing traffic. There are few better spots and few better villages. Entering the property through the seldom used front door, one is immediately greeted by a large hall with the original very pretty tiling. This leads perfectly into the most beautiful sitting room with a central fire place, open fire and double doors leading out to the terrace ideal for entertaining. Just off the hall is also a dining room again with a pretty marble fireplace, and a window seat. The house, a perfect juxtaposition of old and new, is immaculately presented throughout and has been meticulously looked after by the present owners. There is also a cloakroom on the ground floor and a large laundry room with a Belfast sink and plenty of room for a fridge or freezer along with a place to put coats and boots. It would also make an excellent dog room with direct access to the gardens. The bedrooms are situated on the first floor with four beautiful bedrooms and a large landing boasting stunning views over the village and countryside beyond. The principal bedroom is a very good size, again with stunning views and an en suite shower room and with ample fitted wardrobes. The main guest bedroom also has an en suite shower room. There is a separate family bathroom and large loft. The accommodation is ideal to suit most families' requirements but with the necessary planning permissions could also be extended into the loft to acquire more living accommodation. OUTSIDE The property is approached via a wooden gate with ample parking for 3 to 4 cars and even a garage which is very much the envy of the village. Beautiful stone steps cleverly designed by the current owners lead up to the most delightful gardens which have been lovingly nurtured over the years and cleverly landscaped, very well stocked and quite easily maintained. At the bottom level is a large wooden shed and a fantastic sitting area. There are few better spots to enjoy an evening gin and tonic and take in the breathtaking views in the most tranquil location. Further pathways lead up to a large expanse of lawn interspersed with well stocked islands of specimen trees including apple trees, cider trees and even a spring fed pond. The garden is a true utopia for pets and children with many places to sit and relax. The views get even better as one ambles up to the top of the garden where it is almost impossible not to smile and well worth the effort. The garden really is rather magical and a true hidden gem, with a number of trees ideal for climbing and many spots to have a fruit cage and kitchen garden. All in all, this is a truly magical property in an idyllic yet very convenient location. HISTORY Lion House was formerly a well-known public house known as the Red Lion Inn owned by Palmers brewery. It was then renamed Lion House. The building is in fact one of the oldest in the village as indicated by the remains of old stone mullions and its position within the heart of the community. The main body of the house was built well over 200 years ago, with low ceilings and probably a thatched roof. When adjoining properties were built, it would appear that the walls were raised in height to accommodate the slate roof. There are a number of small stone alcoves, both inside and outside, and there appears to have been an old bread oven and circular staircase built into the very thick old outside wall. There is also a stone-lined well with crystal clear water. Reference has been made to the building having been a small convent with some connection with a monastery in Cerne Abbas, although this has not been verified. LOCATION West Milton is a most picturesque village situated in the heart of rural West Dorset within a designated area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The World Heritage Jurassic Coast is just a short distance. The village of Powerstock is just 1.2 miles, with a church, a primary school and popular public house The Three Horseshoes, with another popular public house, the Marquis of Lorne Inn, in the hamlet of Nettlecombe, also 1.2 miles. The vibrant market town of Bridport is only a short drive away, and retains an excellent number of independent and high street shops, supermarkets including a Waitrose and a thriving street market on Saturdays and Wednesdays, restaurants, a cottage hospital, large medical centre, leisure centre, Arts Centre, two theatres, and a number of independent festivals involving the arts are held throughout the year.