Rimpton, Yeovil, Somerset, BA22

So wonderfully idyllic is the look and setting of this property that it almost defines the term ‘chocolate box’ cottage. With soft Hamstone elevations adorned with a rich variety of climbing roses, clematis and wisteria under a thatched roof and with origins stretching back to the early 18th century, there is a treasure trove of original features to discover and explore in this justifiably Grade II listed house, noted for its Architectural and Historical Importance. However, thanks to an extensive and sympathetic programme of works that were carried out in c. 2013, this wonderfully characterful cottage has been cleverly configured to offer some seamlessly flowing space across three floors.
The charm of this property is immediately apparent on entering the central hall, complete with flagstone flooring and exposed beams, providing a glimpse of a bygone era. The comfortable sitting room, located at the front of the property, retains those lovely window seats below leaded light windows, a panelled and pierced screen, a beautiful fireplace housing a wood burner and further exposed beams. Of particular note is the large kitchen that stretches the whole depth of the property providing enough space for a large table and chairs for entertaining. The original old stove is an interesting feature and focal point, whilst a series of cream painted base units under a granite worktop offer useful storage and workspace for the demands of the more modern cook. There is a two-oven electric AGA, built in shelving and a pantry cupboard providing further storage solutions. Conveniently, a glazed door opens out to the front driveway and a further door from the hallway to the rear terrace. A walk-through pantry area, where there is space and connection for a fridge freezer, leads through to a plant room with water tank, softener and consumer unit.
Stairs rise to the first floor where, beyond an original oak door with Suffolk latch handles, the principal bedroom can be found, which is full of space and light thanks to its dual aspect. There is a fabulous, panelled ensuite bathroom with built-in vanity unit under a marble top. Two further excellent double bedrooms also have ensuite shower rooms for convenience and privacy. The loft, accessed via stairs from the first floor landing, is a large open and versatile space currently being used for storage but perhaps with further potential to explore.

OUTSIDE:
The house is approached via a five-bar gate which opens into a gravelled driveway offering parking for several cars. To the rear is a sheltered and private terraced area, ideal for al fresco dining, with lavender providing a heady scent in the summer. Much of the garden is laid to lawn surrounded by well stocked beds filled with a variety of shrubs and plants. Well established trees such as silver birch and magnolia provide vertical form, whilst an attractive pond offers a haven for wildlife. The front garden, approached via a wooden pedestrian gate from the road, has a typical cottage garden feel, with a paved path flanked by box hedging that leads up to the front door.
Along with a variety of smaller outbuildings, including a very functional utility room, a large timber shed under a tiled roof sits at the rear of the property, further enhancing the storage options and could even be converted into a home office, subject to any necessary planning consents.

LOCATION:
The countryside on the Dorset/Somerset border must be some of the most beautiful in the South West, gently undulating unspoilt farmland broken up by valleys and woodland. Rimpton is a small village tucked away from main roads in an area of strict planning control, preserving its special character and consists mainly of period stone houses and cottages, some dating from mediaeval times when the village was in the hands of the Bishop of Winchester. It is well known for the beauty of its houses and its setting.

The ancient Abbey town of Sherborne has a good range of shops and boutiques and is well known for its beauty and high-quality schools. Many national retailers are represented in the larger commercial centre of Yeovil. Communications to this part of the world are excellent with the A303, a dual carriageway, most of the way to the M3 towards London. To the west, the M5 is joined at Taunton for access to Bristol, the Midlands and the north. There are mainline railway stations at Sherborne and Templecombe, both serving London Waterloo in a little over two hours. Alternatively, there is an inner-city service from Castle Cary to London Paddington.

EDUCATION:
The area is particularly well known for its schools. Millfield and Millfield Prep are at Street, Hazlegrove is at Sparkford and the Sherborne, Bruton and Taunton schools are all within easy reach.

SPORTING AND RECREATION:
The area is well provided for with bridleways, quiet lanes and footpaths. Fishing and sailing (by permit) at Sutton Bingham Reservoir near Yeovil and the Jurassic coast is just over 30 miles away. Racing at Wincanton, Salisbury and Taunton. Numerous golf courses including Sherborne and Yeovil. Theatres in Bath, Yeovil, Bristol and Salisbury. The cultural hub that is The Sherborne in Sherborne town and The Newt in Somerset, now well renowned for its many first-class attractions, are also nearby.