Silverlake, Sherborne, Dorset, DT9

Silverlake House is an impressive property built in the 1960s and meticulously designed by esteemed architects Richard Potter and Robert Hare. Further additions were added by the current owners throughout the years, making this a considerably spacious home. This fabulous residence sits majestically within its own substantial gardens and has views across the beautiful Dorset countryside. Now offering fantastic accommodation in the main house, the addition of an interlinking two-bedroom annexe, with separate access, provides enormous versatility of use.
When entering the hallway, one is greeted by an exceptional triple aspect sitting room, complete with an inviting open fireplace and breathtaking views overlooking the stunning gardens. Adjacent is a downstairs bedroom that could also be used as a study or snug and the dual aspect dining room also with wonderful views, is ideal for entertaining. There is a cloakroom with plenty of space for coats, a large utility room with double sink, floor to ceiling cupboards and space and connection for a washing machine, tumble dryer and fridge/freezer.
The heart of the home lies in the well-appointed expansive kitchen with a number of painted wall and base units and an impressive island under granite work surfaces. There is an Aga (navy), integrated Siemens dishwasher, space and connection for an American fridge/freezer and a larder conveniently lies just off the kitchen. The sizeable dining and generous sitting area with plenty of space for a table, chairs and sofas, is extremely light, providing the perfect backdrop for memorable meals and engaging conversations. Adjoining the kitchen is a fantastic, vaulted garden room with underfloor heating and a wood burner. The French doors out to the terraces and gardens also permit flexibility for indoor/outdoor dining.
Stairs rise to a spacious landing flanked by built in bookcases, leading to four delightful double bedrooms, one with ensuite shower room, each offering stunning views and ample storage. There is a smaller fifth bedroom which is currently used as a dressing room and two well-appointed bathrooms with separate shower cubicles. Following through doors from the main residence is a self-contained annexe with two bedrooms, a bathroom with separate WC, a kitchenette and a generous sitting room. The annexe has a separate access via attractive stone steps, ideal for dependant relatives, but equally could be incorporated into the main upstairs accommodation. The extensive insulated loft space above provides extra storage.

OUTSIDE
Silverlake House is approached via wooden gates up a sweeping driveway enhanced with Irish yew trees. At the rear of the property there is parking for several cars and a large garage block. The front of the house is adorned with a pergola overflowing with climbing campsis, banksia rose and wisteria, while the surrounding lawn features mixed hibiscus borders, boxed topiary and an array of mature trees including parrotia, lime, sycamore, hornbeam, silver birch, flowering cherry and large fig trees adding bursts of colour throughout the seasons. A vegetable garden at the back of the house offers an assortment of fresh produce, from leeks to raspberries, all meticulously cared for amidst the box hedging and views to the open fields beyond.

Towards the back of the property lies the formal garden enclosed by yew tree hedging, shaped bay trees, plenty of herbs, areas of roses and shaped topiary box trees adding a touch of natural beauty to the setting. There is a tennis court surrounded by an abundance of mature apple and specimen trees. The property supports solar panels (and a battery), which provide a welcome element of sustainability. Without a doubt, this property offers a lifestyle of comfort, practicality and elegance. It is a rare gem in an idyllic location, just moments away from the historic town of Sherborne. The total land holding extends to circa 2.2 acres.

LOCATION
Silverlake House is situated within easy reach of the plentiful amenities Sherborne has to offer. 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, boutiques and The Sherborne, the new premier hub for the arts, dining and events. The two castles – one of which was home to Sir Walter Raleigh – reflect the historic nature of the town, the centre of which is a designated 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 London Waterloo in about 2 hours 15 minutes; Sherborne station is within walking distance. The A303 (linking with the M3) is a dual carriageway thus putting London within easy reach.

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 schools 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.