Zitan, Townhead Street, Thornhill, Dumfries and Galloway, DG3

Stunning converted church in pretty village setting.

Description

Occupying a prominent position within the picturesque village of Thornhill, Zitan is a remarkable conversion of a Victorian red sandstone church, thoughtfully reimagined as a substantial family home extending to over 4,000 sq ft. The conversion has been undertaken with great sensitivity, preserving the building's architectural integrity and wealth of period detail while creating an exceptional contemporary home of considerable character, scale and individuality.

The heart of the home is the spectacular former nave, an extraordinary double-height living and entertaining space extending to over 40 feet in length. Original Gothic windows, exposed sandstone walls, hardwood flooring and timber detailing create an unforgettable setting while flooding the interior with natural light. A twin staircase rises from the centre of the room, creating a dramatic focal point and leading to a galleried first floor which overlooks the principal reception space below. The scale of the accommodation allows for multiple living and entertaining areas, perfectly suited to both family life and larger gatherings. Despite its impressive proportions, the property retains a warm and inviting atmosphere, enhanced by the rich materials and craftsmanship of the original building. Particularly noteworthy is the beautifully preserved stained-glass rose window, which forms a stunning backdrop to the first-floor study and library area. Framed by original timber panelling and Gothic detailing, this unique space provides an exceptional home office, reading room or creative workspace and serves as a striking reminder of the property's ecclesiastical heritage. The kitchen and dining area provide a practical yet stylish hub for everyday living. Modern shaker cabinetry, generous preparation space and quality appliances are complemented by exposed stonework and a traditional fireplace, successfully balancing contemporary convenience with period character.

The accommodation extends to five bedrooms arranged across two levels. The principal suite enjoys a peaceful position within the upper floor and is distinguished by exposed timber roof arches which elegantly frame the room. A luxurious en suite bathroom, featuring a freestanding bath and separate shower enclosure, provides a refined and contemporary complement to the historic surroundings. Further bedrooms are well proportioned and several incorporate original church windows, creating bright and characterful spaces. Additional bath and shower rooms are finished to a high standard and continue the successful combination of old and new evident throughout the property. Externally, the property benefits from a private gravelled courtyard providing a low-maintenance outdoor area.

Location

Occupying a central position within the popular village of Thornhill, Zitan enjoys access to an excellent range of amenities including independent shops, cafés, restaurants, a medical centre, post office and leisure facilities. Educational provision is available locally at Wallace Hall Primary School and Wallace Hall Academy, which serves pupils from nursery through to secondary level. A wider selection of shopping, professional services and leisure facilities is available in Dumfries (approximately 15 miles).

The surrounding Nith Valley is renowned for its scenic beauty and offers excellent opportunities for walking, cycling, fishing and golf. The internationally recognised 7stanes mountain biking trails and the magnificent Drumlanrig Castle and Estate (approximately five miles), with its woodland walks, gardens and visitor attractions, are among the area's most notable attractions.

Thornhill is well placed for travel throughout Scotland and northern England, with convenient access to the M74 motorway network at at Abington (approximately 22 miles) for northbound travel and at Gretna Green (approximately 39 miles) for southbound travel, while rail services are available from Dumfries (approximately 15 miles). Glasgow is approximately 63 miles, Edinburgh approximately 72 miles and Carlisle approximately 47 miles.

Square Footage: 4,049 sq ft



Additional Info

Water - Mains
Electricity - Mains
Drainage - Mains
Air source Heating

EPC – The property has been given an Energy Efficiency Rating of 44 under EPC guidelines with an estimated cost of electricity over three years of £27,462 or approximately £9,000 per annum. A solar system was installed and connected to the grid on 12 December 2022 and since installation the total electricity imported from the grid was 10.348 MWh and 1.576MWh was exported to the grid. The property is registered under the Smart Export Guarantee Payment Scheme.

Due to its Air Source heating and Solar System, the property has been given an Environmental Impact Rating of 85. In the year to 22 May 2026 the total usage was 3.525 MWh at a cost including standing charges of £1,042. The actual electricity costs are significantly lower than the current Energy Efficiency Rating implies, and data can be provided on request.