Westbury, Sherborne, DT9

Stone built under a tiled roof this detached property, constructed in 1982, sits in a wonderful position opposite the school playing fields and is approached on foot via a small paved path leading up past a rose bed, bordered with clipped hedging, to the front door. The ground floor provides some excellent living and entertaining space, with a reception room that has been cleverly extended in 1992 by the current owners. With a central, open fireplace and wood flooring, this room is wonderfully cosy in the winter yet, with two sets of French doors allowing larger gatherings to spill out onto the front terrace, is equally well suited for entertaining on warmer days. The kitchen is a notably bright room with a triple aspect and view across the driveway to the playing fields beyond. Along with space for a large table and chairs, there are a range of base units under a granite worktop along with a double oven with gas hob and extractor over, space and connection for a fridge and dishwasher. Direct access can be gained from here to the rear terrace via a set of sliding glazed doors. A study, utility room with a range of storage cupboards and space and connection for further white goods, a storage area and a separate cloakroom complete the picture on the ground floor.
Stairs then rise to the first floor landing off which the four bedrooms can be accessed, the principal of which is located at the front with a dual aspect and a Juliet balcony making the most of the outlook. There is a generous ensuite bathroom with basin, bathtub, separate shower cubicle and WC along with plenty of built in storage. The second double bedroom also has a Juliet balcony from which to take in the views across the playing fields along with plenty of built in cupboards. There is a further double bedroom, a single bedroom and family bathroom complete with basin, bathtub and WC. A large linen cupboard provides some useful storage.

OUTSIDE
The gardens here have been thoughtfully designed to make the most of the very private space. Set behind a stone wall adorned with the most impressive old wisteria, access to the property is via a timber gate that opens onto a large gravelled area providing parking for several cars. Climbing Hydrangeas, Passion Flowers and Roses provide the perfect first impression. There are an enormous variety of mature shrubs and plants here that surround a front terrace with space for a table and chairs. There are a variety of apple trees, Peonies, Orange Blossom, Garya Elliptica and numerous others that all help to provide year round colour and structure to this brilliantly conceived space.

The rear terrace is part paved and gravelled with an impressive stone wall interspersed with Plum, Apricot and Cherry trees, providing a sheltered sunny spot from which to perhaps enjoy a spot of al fresco dining. Water and electricity are available both front and rear.

The lasting impression of this house is of a tranquil haven that certainly makes the most of its fantastic position, with enviable open views and yet is just a short distance to the heart of this thriving Abbey town.

LOCATION
The property is located on Westbury, one of Sherborne’s most sought-after addresses. Dominated by its ancient Abbey and school, Sherborne is arguably the most attractive town 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 miles away at Weymouth. This stretch of coastline, from Portland to Lyme Regis, with its spectacular cliffs, has recently 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 in about 2 hours 15 minutes; the station is within walking distance. The A303 (linking with the M3) is a dual carriageway almost the whole way to the M3, thus putting London 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. Water sports can be found at Sutton Bingham Reservoir (near Yeovil) or on the south coast and racing at Wincanton, Salisbury, Bath or Exeter. Golf at various courses including Yeovil, Sherborne and Dorchester.

EDUCATION
The area is noted for its independent school with Leweston, Sherborne Boys, Sherborne Girls, Sherborne Prep, Perrott Hill, Hazlegrove and Millfield all within easy reach. The Gryphon secondary school is highly rated and very easily accessible.