Property description

Early nineteenth century Grade II listed detached house with symmetrical front, comprising three bedrooms, with master suite, five reception rooms and a detached two bedroom, two reception room annexe, and lovely gardens largely laid to lawn.This stunning Georgian home occupies an enviable location in the heart of the Somerset countryside, just under 15 miles from the historic city centre of Bath. It was purchased by the current owners a little over fourteen years ago and has since undergone a substantial programme of renovation, which has transformed it into an exceptionally stylish and comfortable family home that also retains a wealth of beautiful period features. “When we initially purchased the house it was in fairly good condition but it wasn’t at all to our taste,” says Thorney, “so we essentially stripped it right back and almost started from scratch. We did everything to bring it right up to modern standards and we really went to town on the fixtures and fittings, but the works were carried out in an extremely sympathetic way so it still has lots of wonderful Georgian character.”“The renovation was a real challenge,” continues Thorney, “and initially we thought we would complete the work, live in the house for a while and then move on, but it turned out to be so fabulous that we ended up staying for fourteen years. It has such a warm and welcoming feeling throughout, and I’d describe it as a real haven; if I could pick it up and take it with me I wouldn’t hesitate.”“The wonderfully open-plan kitchen and dining area that also flows straight into the family room is the part of the house that we tend to spend the majority of our time in,” says Thorney. “It’s the real heart of the home and it’s also a fabulous space to entertain in.”This exceptional home is enveloped by beautifully landscaped grounds. “The garden is large,” says Thorney, “but we have designed it to be very low maintenance. We have rolling lawns edged with pretty borders of shrubs and flowers, a patio area and various natural stone pathways, and the entire space has a boundary of attractive laurel hedging. It’s an extremely peaceful garden and it also has a really nice feeling of privacy.” “As you come in through the gates and approach the house along the sweeping driveway you can fully appreciate how beautiful it is,” says Thorney. “It’s so picturesque that on a number of occasions artists have asked to paint it.” “From the house, a natural stone path leads to very attractive outbuilding,” says Thorney. “It comprises two large rooms and a shower room on the ground floor, and two big bedrooms on the first floor. We currently use it as a gym and an office, but it would be ideal as guest accommodation.” “Moving from Old Down House will not be easy,” says Thorney. “We all absolutely love it here and it’s a house that holds a lot of very happy memories. However, our circumstances have changed and so the time has come for us to move on, but I hope whoever is lucky enough to own it next will be every bit as happy here as we have been.”

Property Features :

• Grade II Listed detached property
• Four reception rooms
• Three Bedrooms: master with en suite
• Two further bedrooms with Jack and Jill shower room
• Detached two bedroom annexe
• Four bay car port and garage
• Electric gates
• EPC Rating: Exempt Grade II listed