The Avenue, Sherborne, Dorset, DT9

Built in the 1890s, this lovely semi-detached three storey Victorian townhouse sits in an elevated position on The Avenue, one of the most sought-after residential streets in Sherborne and enjoys a southerly aspect with views to the wooded hills beyond. Prospect House presents all the typical period features of the time, including high ceilings, dado rails, decorative cornicing and sash windows. A traditional hallway with parquet flooring welcomes you into the property, off which you will find a large dining room with bay window, oak floor and glazed hatch into the kitchen. The elegant and spacious drawing room, also with parquet flooring, enjoys an open fire with French doors onto the terrace and views of the garden. Also opening onto the terrace is a delightful conservatory with ample space for a sofa, table and chairs, creating a warm space in which to relax and grow tender plants. Completing the downstairs accommodation are a pantry, utility room, cloakroom and store with doors linking the front drive to the rear garden.

The triple height stairwell, filtering down plenty of natural light, gives access to a galleried landing on the first floor with two large double bedrooms and a single, all with fitted wardrobes and wash hand basins. The large family bathroom comprises a bath, separate electric shower, basin, WC and airing cupboard. There are two further double bedrooms on the light and airy third floor and an attic room with potential to convert to a bathroom subject to the necessary consents.

OUTSIDE
The pretty garden provides an enclosed and private space in which to entertain and relax, comprising a terrace and lawn with brick paths leading down to the vegetable garden through an arch adorned with fragrant roses. There is a good collection of mature shrubs and trees, including a smoke bush, quince, apples, pears, fig and holly. At the front of the house, the car port and driveway give ample parking in addition to that available on the road. Prospect House offers a fantastic opportunity to put your own stamp on a large family house and create a comfortable home, complete with secure and private garden, lovely views and the enviable position of being able to walk into town.


LOCATION
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 and boutiques. The beautifully refurbished Sherborne House is a landmark destination for the arts. 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-five 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 (approx 2 hours 15 minutes); the station is within walking distance. The A303 - linking the M3 and the M5 - is dual carriageway almost all the way, thus putting London and the West Country 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, as well as racing at Wincanton, Salisbury, Bath or Exeter and golf at various courses including Yeovil, Sherborne and Dorchester.

EDUCATION
The area is noted for its independent schools with the Sherborne Schools Group, Leweston, Perrott Hill and Hazlegrove all within easy reach. The Gryphon secondary school is highly regarded and very easily accessible.