Kingsdon, Somerton, Somerset, TA11

Thurston, originally a hay barn built in the early 1800s, is a characterful barn conversion constructed of Blue Lias stone under a Welsh slate roof. It is located in a desirable village, full of amenities and has been recently renovated to a very high standard by the current owners, yet retains much of its period charm. Large painted wooden doors enter into the dramatic entrance hall of this semi-detached property, with exposed beams and engineered wooden flooring throughout. There is a conveniently located cloakroom beyond. An impressive sitting room, with multi fired burner, stone feature wall, exposed beams and Farrow and Ball painted walls throughout gives the room a sense of splendour. With dual aspect double-glazed windows and French doors out to the gravelled terrace and gardens, this is an ideal space for indoor/outdoor entertaining. Next to the sitting room is a comfortable TV room/snug, perfect for a cosy night in but again with French doors leading to the gardens for those warmer days. The Kitchen/Dining room is an exceptional space and the central hub of the house, with wooden floors, a range of wall and base units under granite worktops which incorporate a 4-door electric Aga with hotplate, wine fridge and Siemens warming drawer. A central island under an oak worktop is the ideal space to gather for informal drinks and conversation. There is also a large area with extensive painted fitted shelving, space for a large table and chairs and a sitting area for relaxing. Just off the kitchen is a capacious utility room with double Belfast sink with under cupboard, as well as space and connection for a fridge/freezer, dishwasher, washing machine and tumble dryer. Again, there are exposed beams throughout and French doors providing further access to the outside. An impressive feature staircase rises up to a galleried landing with newly fitted carpets and exposed beams off which the four excellent double bedrooms, some with views of the church beyond, can be found. Worth a special mention is the sensational principal bedroom with a free-standing bath, sink and copious amount of storage within a dressing area. This gives the property a very modern feel with a real sense of style, yet still with the practicality of everyday living. Bedroom 2 has an ensuite shower room with a large waterfall shower, basin with storage and WC. The family bathroom has a freestanding bath, basin with under cupboard, bidet and WC. There is a large loft space which, subject to any necessary planning consents, could have the potential to offer two further bedrooms. All things considered, Thurston has been completely rejuvenated throughout to offer a fabulous blend of contemporary living in a beautiful, historic building and what is now a very special place to live. OUTSIDE: The property is approached from the village lane via a timber gate where there is gravelled parking for several cars. To the side of the property is a double garage with up and over door and mezzanine level within, ideal for storage. Significant work has gone into the gardens with the use of some clever landscaping and planting to provide year round colour and interest. They have been thoughtfully planted with a variety shrubs, plants and bushes along with fruit trees that include pear and crab apple. There are numerous seating areas from where these charming gardens can be enjoyed, including various terraces, ideal for a spot of al fresco dining. The upper terrace has a recently installed pergola adorned with pyracantha and an old rose giving further vertical structure to the gardens. Stone walls, well stocked borders, lawned areas and an ornamental pond further serve to provide structure and intrigue to this beautifully presented garden. To the very rear is a separate gravelled area and wooden gates, providing a second entrance and more parking if required. All things considered, this is a beautiful garden that perfectly complements the equally striking interiors. LOCATION: Set within a conservation area, Kingsdon is a desirable and sought after village which benefits from a community run village shop, beautiful 300 year old thatched pub (Kingsdon Inn), village hall, allotments, wonderful cricket ground and charming All Saints Church. The World Horse Welfare's Glenda Spooner Farm Rescue and Rehoming Centre is on the outskirts of the village and a beautiful village green and children's playground is at its centre. The nearest towns are Somerton and Castle Cary, both of which provide a larger variety of shops. Recreational and cultural facilities can be found in Yeovil and the beautiful Abbey town of Sherborne. Kingsdon is approximately 2 miles from the A303 to the south which provides a route to London/Home Counties along the M3 and M5 route (J23). Mainline stations are at Castle Cary with services to London Paddington (1hr 40mins) and London Waterloo (2hrs 35mins), and a branch line service to Bath or Bristol. Services are also available to the south via either Yeovil, Sherborne and Taunton. EDUCATION: Village school in Charlton Mackrell 2 miles and in Kenton Mandeville 6 miles. Nearby private schools Millfield School at Street 8 miles, Hazelgrove School 7 miles, Sherborne schools 12 miles SPORTING AND RECREATION: The area is well provided for with bridleways, quiet lanes and footpaths. Fishing and sailing (by permit) at Sutton Bingham Reservoir near Yeovil and the Jurassic coast is just over 20 miles away. Racing at Wincanton, Salisbury and Taunton. Numerous golf courses including Wheathill and Yeovil. Theatres in Bath, Yeovil, Bristol and Salisbury. The Newt Country Estate and Bruton are also just an easy drive.