Doulting, Doulting, Somerset, BA4

An attractive and beautifully presented detached period home, in the sought-after village of Doulting. Rowan Cottage is rich in character and offers extended, well-balanced accommodation, complemented by delightful landscaped gardens, extensive gated parking and a detached garage, all set within grounds extending to approximately a quarter of an acre. EPC rating F.

With original parts dating back to the 17th century, Rowan Cottage is a wonderfully appealing home offering traditional features alongside more contemporary comforts. Natural stonework, exposed timbers, mullion window and traditional wooden latch doors contribute to its individual character, while the layout provides a pleasing balance between everyday family living and entertaining.

From the front porch you enter directly into an impressive sitting room, a welcoming space with an exposed ceiling beam, attractive bay window with seating and a substantial stone fireplace housing a wood-burning stove. A staircase rises to the first floor, with a storage cupboard beneath and the timber detailing adding warmth to the room. There is ample space for soft furnishings, making this an inviting place to relax throughout the year. Adjoining the sitting room is a separate dining room, well suited to more formal occasions and family gatherings. A recessed window provides natural light, while its position between the sitting room and kitchen creates a natural connection between the principal living areas. Beyond the dining room is a useful study, providing a dedicated space for working from home or pursuing hobbies.

The kitchen/breakfast room is undoubtedly one of the highlights of the accommodation. Measuring approximately 17’9” x 15’5” at its widest points, it has been thoughtfully arranged with an extensive range of painted cabinetry, contrasting granite work surfaces and a central island incorporating a gas hob with an extractor above. The kitchen includes a traditional Belfast sink, integrated cooking appliances, a dishwasher and terracotta tiled flooring which complements the cottage’s character. A substantial stone fireplace with a gas-fired stove creates an attractive focal point. There is also a comfortable breakfast area with fitted bench seating, making this a sociable room equally suited to cooking, dining and spending time together.

A separate utility room provides additional practical space away from the main kitchen, while a ground-floor cloakroom completes the downstairs accommodation.

On the first floor are four bedrooms, each with its own character and outlook. The principal bedroom is a comfortable triple-aspect double room with an en-suite shower room and an excellent range of quality fitted furniture, including wardrobes, cupboards and a dressing table, providing extensive storage without compromising the available floor space.

The remaining three bedrooms offer flexibility for family members, guests or additional home-working arrangements. These rooms are served by a family bathroom fitted with a bath, WC and wash basin, together with attractive tiling.

Throughout, Rowan Cottage has a real sense of comfort and individuality, with the charm of an older property combined with the convenience and versatility required for modern living (including Full Fibre broadband).

OUTSIDE
The grounds are a defining feature of the property, extending in total to approximately a quarter of an acre and having been beautifully maintained and thoughtfully landscaped to create a series of attractive outdoor spaces.

The property is approached through a five-bar gate opening onto an extensive driveway, providing secure off-road parking for numerous vehicles. This leads to a substantial detached stone-built garage, larger than a conventional double garage and currently accommodating three vehicles. With a double vehicular entrance and separate pedestrian door, it offers excellent space for motoring enthusiasts, storage or workshop use. The garage also provides considerable scope for conversion into ancillary accommodation, subject to gaining the necessary consents.
The house itself has a pretty natural stone exterior, softened by established climbing plants and mature greenery. Traditional stone boundary walls, neatly maintained hedging and carefully chosen planting provide an attractive setting, while a gated pedestrian entrance opens onto the front of the cottage.

To the rear, the gardens are a real pleasure, with an extensive expanse of neatly kept lawn stretching away from the house. Enclosed by established hedges and stone walls, the garden enjoys a good degree of privacy and features an attractive variety of shrubs, ornamental trees and colourful herbaceous borders. A planted archway adds interest and structure, drawing the eye through the garden and creating a further sense of depth.

Closer to the house is a delightful paved terrace, offering a sheltered setting for outdoor dining and entertaining. Surrounded by established planting and seasonal flowers, this is an inviting space from which to enjoy the garden, with a further section of lawn to one side.

The pretty village of Doulting is steeped in history and is home to a variety of interesting and most attractive properties, a recreation field, a 12th Century church and an excellent primary school, St. Aldhelm's C of E. Located on the eastern outskirts of the historic market town of Shepton Mallet (1.5 miles) and close to both the Cathedral City of Wells (8 miles) and the vibrant town of Frome (10 miles). Both the City of Bristol and the picturesque City of Bath, a World Heritage Site, are located just 17 miles away and easily accessible. 

Nearby Shepton Mallet offers a range of local amenities and shopping facilities including a large supermarket, a lido, gyms, a choice of pubs and restaurants, dentists and doctors, a Grade I Listed church and both primary and secondary state schools. There are also many highly-regarded independent schools (Prep & Senior) within easy reach, such as All Hallows Prep School, Downside School, Wells Cathedral School and Millfield School. For those travelling by train, Castle Cary station (which has direct services to London Paddington) is situated only six miles away.