Shillingstone, Dorset

A truly unique Grade II period home in this magical village, built approximately 300 years ago as a farmhouse for the Portman estate, the property has been extended and improved over the intervening time. The farmhouse retains its period charms whilst offering practical comfort in addition to flexible and versatile accommodation, offering spacious and light rooms that invite relaxation and conviviality, showcasing exposed timber beams and period features throughout.

The property lends itself equally to one generous home, or utilising one portion as a spacious and impressive ANNEX for either multi-generational living or as additional B&B/Holiday income. To this end, there are no less than FIVE PRINCIPAL RECEPTION ROOMS on the ground floor, each offering a multitude of uses, though sharing the same sense of bright spaciousness as evidenced throughout the property. Entrance is gained via a porch to the hallway which in turn leads to all principal rooms, plus a CLOAKROOM with W.C and wash hand basin. There is a generous and comfortable SITTING ROOM, whilst the adjacent generous DINING ROOM boasts an inglenook fireplace with stone mantle and wood burner, and is able to accommodate a sizable table and chairs with room to spare.

Conveniently situated near to the Dining Room is the FARMHOUSE style KITCHEN with abundant worktops, floor and wall mounted cupboards, sink with drainer, electric double oven and grill, with space for further white goods. Beyond this room is the expansive UTILITY ROOM, which contains additional worktops, storage, sink, and space and plumbing for further white goods. The final reception room in this ‘wing’ is a flexibly configured space, and is currently utilised as SNUG, though would work equally well as a HOME OFFICE or even a ground-level BEDROOM. The second wing seamlessly blends with farmhouse described thus far, though as stated, the possibility for a truly impressive separate home or studio is a very real option in an age where flexibility and lifestyle are paramount. The generous RECEPTION ROOM boasts a charming bay window overlooking the front of the property, and a door connecting the aforementioned snug. The downstairs SHOWER ROOM includes a shower cubicle, W.C and wash hand basin, with the adjacent room housing the boiler, plus another CLOAKROOM with further W.C. and wash hand basin.

The truly impressive oak framed KITCHEN/GARDEN ROOM is a wonderfully open space and incudes vaulted ceilings, Karndean floors, underfloor heating and exceptional insulation, offering ample space for a full sofa suite plus a dining table and chairs. This room overlooks the generous rear garden, with breathtaking rural views of Hambeldon Hill. It also benefits from a large open plan KITCHEN AREA, which includes an eye-level double oven/grill, is replete with worktop space and storage units, and has space for a full range of white goods.

Upstairs on the first floor THREE generously sized bedrooms await, each with its own unique charm and character. The PRINCIPAL BEDROOM enjoys a large DRESSING ROOM, plus ENSUITE BATHROOM with bath with shower over, W.C and wash hand basin. BEDROOMS TWO and THREE, both double rooms, each have their own ENSUITES with bath with shower over, W.C and wash hand basin, with an additional FAMILY BATHROOM with bath, and wash hand basin and separate W.C nearby. Again, given the need to often work from home, this floor includes a dedicated OFFICE. The final room, BEDROOM FOUR (also a double room) is situated on the second floor, and includes its own DRESSING ROOM/STUDY.

Outside
The exterior of the farmhouse is equally appealing, set amidst a large garden that invites outdoor enjoyment and tranquillity. A notable addition is the ample private parking and large TANDEM GARAGE, plus two attached STOREROOMS with power. The views surrounding the property are enchanting, with Hambeldon Hill providing a stunning backdrop to this idyllic setting. Bordered by brick and flint walls and hedging, there is an additional area set aside as an expansive vegetable and fruit garden.

Location
Forming part of the illustrious Blackmore Vale, Shillingstone is situated on the River Stour between Sturminster Newton and Blandford Forum, forming a most popular location in the heart of the North Dorset countryside, allowing convenient commuting to both towns and beyond. Amenities in the village include a charming tearoom, Co-op supermarket, garage, Inn, Church, good bus links and Primary School. Nearby there are the independent schools of Clayesmore, Bryanston, Milton Abbey and Sherborne. Additionally, Shillingstone is a paradise for walkers and cyclists with the nearby North Dorset Trailway and a stunning network of walking and cycling trails all accessible by foot from the house, allowing exploration of the beautiful Blackmore Vale.

Directions
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