Melbury Osmond, Dorset

Tucked away in the picturesque and historic village of Melbury Osmond—immortalised as "Great Hintock" in several of Thomas Hardy’s novels and referenced in the Domesday Book—Sterndale Cottage is a beautiful 17th-century Grade II listed home which offers privacy, charm, and timeless character.

Set behind shallow steps, the cottage makes a striking first impression with its original stone façade, framed by colourful flower beds and climbing plants. This is a home rich in heritage, yet offering a unique blend of period features and modern comfort.

Inside, the ENTRANCE HALLWAY leads to a well-proportioned ground floor SHOWER ROOM, complete with a walk-in shower, W.C., wash basin, and thoughtfully designed storage. Adjacent to the shower room is a generous FOURTH BEDROOM, which could easily be another reception room and considered for a variety of uses.

The SITTING ROOM is full of character, with its impressive inglenook fireplace featuring a bressummer beam and bread oven—a true focal point. A dual aspect floods the room with light, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that continues seamlessly into the adjoining dining area.

The KITCHEN/DINING ROOM is a welcoming, sociable space with engaging views over the garden and village beyond. Country-style cabinetry pairs beautifully with timber worktops and tiled floors, while the electric range cooker, Belfast sink, and ample storage (including room for white goods and fridge/freezer) provide practical functionality.

Upstairs, the FIRST FLOOR offers three comfortable bedrooms and a family bathroom. The PRINCIPAL BEDROOM is notably spacious, enjoying a dual aspect with lovely views of both the garden and surrounding countryside. BEDROOMS TWO & THREE provide one good size double room and the other a single room: one overlooking the village, the other the garden. The FAMILY BATHROOM serves all three rooms and includes an inviting roll-top bath, wall-mounted basin, W.C., and inset storage cabinet.

Outside
To the rear of the cottage lies a beautifully tended south-westerly facing garden, bathed in sunlight throughout the afternoon and into the early evening. Generously sized and predominantly laid to lawn, the space is framed by mature flower beds, established shrubs, and a mix of hedging that offers both colour and privacy year-round.

A stone patio area adjoins the cottage, making it the perfect spot for outside dining or relaxing with a book, accompanied by nothing but the gentle sounds of nature. The garden offers a true sense of seclusion, ideal for those seeking a quiet retreat from the bustle of modern life.

To one side, a useful storeroom—complete with power and lighting—provides practical space for gardening equipment or hobby use, while a charming stone outhouse adds character and further storage.

PLEASE NOTE: The separate traditionally built garage may be available to rent separately from the Ilchester Estate

Location
Melbury Osmond is a picturesque and charming village situated in West Dorset, approximately 9 miles southwest of Sherborne and 15 miles northwest of the County Town of Dorchester. The Grade I listed church, St Osmonds, lies at the centre of this thriving village from which beautiful countryside can be explored and enjoyed, and in nearby Yetminster is a reputable Primary School, Post Office, Public House and Village Store. There are mainline train links to London and Bristol from the nearby town of Yeovil.

Directions
Use what3words.com to navigate to the exact spot. Search using: monday.digestion.kept