Dolphin Lane, Melbourn, Royston, Cambridgeshire, SG8

Tucked away along a peaceful village lane, yet exceptionally well placed for access to Cambridge and London, this charming and beautifully extended home offers the perfect blend of period character and modern family living.

Set slightly elevated from the road, the property enjoys an attractive and imposing frontage, enhanced by a newly landscaped front garden and elegant Cambridge White brick retaining walls, immediately creating a strong sense of arrival and privacy.

Step inside and you are welcomed by a generous entrance hall, an ideal space to return to after countryside walks, with room for coats, boots and wellies neatly tucked away in the large cloaks cupboard. A ground-floor cloakroom adds further everyday practicality.

At the heart of the home lies a wonderfully versatile semi open-plan living and dining space, effortlessly combining character and comfort. A striking double-sided brick-built open fireplace creates a natural division between the spaces, while beautiful oak flooring flows throughout, uniting the rooms. Exposed beams add warmth and authenticity, and the excellent ceiling height enhances the feeling of space. With three windows drawing in natural light, the room is as inviting on bright summer days as it is on winter evenings beside a roaring fire.

Bi-fold doors open into a flexible garden room, allowing the accommodation to be opened up for entertaining or closed off for quieter moments. Recently laid Indian slate paving extends the living space outdoors, creating a seamless connection between inside and out. The adjacent spacious office and family room provide versatile space, perfect for home working, play areas, or a cosy, relaxed snug.

The kitchen enjoys pleasant views over the garden and is well equipped with integrated appliances and a generous corner larder, supported by a separate utility room to keep daily life organised and clutter free.

Upstairs, the dual-aspect principal bedroom provides a calm retreat, complete with a stylish en suite. Three further well-proportioned double bedrooms are served by a newly fitted family bathroom, making this a comfortable and practical home for family life.

Outside, the 0.21-acre plot offers a wonderful setting for outdoor living. The fully enclosed, private rear garden is mainly laid to lawn, framed by mature trees that burst into blossom in the spring, providing both beauty and privacy. There is ample space for children to play, summer gatherings and al fresco dining, while a recently installed substantial workshop adds excellent storage or hobby space. In addition, there is a bespoke timber storage for garden furniture, toys, a barbeque and firewood.

In addition, the property features an oversized garage, offering plenty of space for vehicles or extra storage.

The current owners have made significant improvements to the property, including the installation of a new Smart HIVE heating system, a recently upgraded boiler, and a modern Smart security and CCTV system, enhancing both comfort and peace of mind.

A home that perfectly balances village tranquillity, characterful charm and modern convenience, offering an enviable lifestyle within easy reach of city connections and exceptional village amenities.

Seller Insight
This delightful and attractive chocolate-box cottage, loved and owned by Dan and Kirsty for the past four years, is situated along a quiet lane with minimal passing traffic, in the peaceful and highly sought-after village of Melbourn. The property enjoys a tranquil setting whilst being surrounded by a wealth of outstanding amenities, including a sub 10-minute walk to the local station at Meldreth, and short drive to the mainline station at nearby Royston, with the added delight of being just a short distance from the historic city of Cambridge.

“We already lived in the village and had always admired this particular cottage, so we were thrilled when it became available. Originally formed from two cottages dating back to 1760, the property was significantly extended during the 1990s. The charm and character of the original building remain evident throughout, with exposed beams and timbers creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. A large stone fireplace provides a striking focal point and cleverly marks the division between the two original cottages.”.

“Since moving here, we have undertaken an extensive programme of improvements to enhance both the comfort and practicality of our life here, many of which are thoughtfully integrated and unseen. A new family bathroom has been installed and, by removing dated storage, the principal bedroom has been transformed into a bright and spacious retreat with delightful views over the garden. Oak flooring has been extended throughout, and the spacious kitchen/breakfast room now features a much-loved corner pantry.

Every project completed has been carried out with the utmost respect for the history and character of the property. Deceptively spacious, our cottage offers a flexible and adaptable layout, ideal for modern living. We have excellent spaces for home working, and our home is particularly well suited to entertaining. At Christmas and during family gatherings, additional reception rooms provide both sociable areas and quiet spaces for guests to relax.”

“The external areas have been given just as much care and attention. The garden is a wonderfully sunny space throughout the whole day, with mature fruit trees and is especially beautiful in springtime, when bluebells, daffodils and snowdrops carpet the lawn. Two Indian slate patio areas provide perfect settings for outdoor dining or quiet relaxation, and the garden hosts annual gatherings and parties for friends.”

“Surrounded by beautiful countryside and benefitting from incredible amenities, Melbourn itself enjoys a strong sense of community, alongside excellent schools and leisure facilities, making this a truly exceptional place to call home.”

Village Information
Melbourn is a charming and historic South Cambridgeshire village, situated approximately 10 miles south of Cambridge and around 3 miles north of Royston. The village lies along the route of the ancient Icknield Way, which forms its southern boundary and has since been bypassed, contributing to Melbourn’s peaceful village atmosphere.

At the heart of the village stands the Parish Church of All Saints, dating back to the 13th century, while the surrounding streets are characterised by an attractive mix of period cottages and established homes, giving Melbourn much of its enduring character.

The village offers an excellent range of everyday amenities, including a traditional butcher with delicatessen, a Co-op, doctors’ surgery and pharmacy. Leisure and community facilities are particularly strong, with the Community Hub, a swimming pool and gym, and a nearby golf course all contributing to the village’s vibrant community life.

Transport connections are excellent, with Meldreth mainline railway station within walking distance, and Royston station a few minutes in the car, both providing regular services to Cambridge and London King’s Cross. Educational provision is also highly regarded, with a well-regarded primary school within the village and Melbourn Village College close by.

Agents Notes
Tenure: Freehold
Year Built: 1760
EPC: Exempt - Grade II Listed
Local Authority: South Cambridgeshire
Council Tax Band: G


BUYERS INFORMATION
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