Southay, East Lambrook, South Petherton, Somerset, TA13

Tucked away on the edge of the picturesque village of East Lambrook, Southay is a charming 18th century house set amidst ancient cider orchards, with far-reaching views towards Burrow Hill, long associated with Somerset’s cider-making heritage. Approached via a winding driveway through its own gardens, the house combines period character with modern comfort and is notably unlisted.
The impressive kitchen diner forms the heart of the home, where a capacious inglenook fireplace fitted with a Rayburn creates a warm focal point with space for a couple of cosy chairs. Original flagstone floors, a central island, fitted cabinetry and Bosch appliances ensure practicality, while mullioned windows frame views of the garden. The kitchen flows into the snug, a dual aspect room with contemporary parquet flooring with underfloor heating and wall to wall sliding doors opening onto the garden.
The sitting room is equally inviting, centred around a handsome, carved Hamstone fireplace with a Jøtul wood burner, complemented by exposed beams and window seats. Of particular versatility is the ground floor ancillary accommodation comprising a bedroom/study, kitchenette and shower room - ideal for guests, multi-generational living or income potential. A cloakroom and a well-appointed utility room with butler sink, marble surfaces and extensive storage complete the downstairs layout.
Upstairs, a bright landing enjoys a country outlook over the paddock to Burrow Hill. The triple aspect, principal bedroom features a vaulted ceiling, a fireplace flanked by stained glass feature windows, along with a dressing area and shower room. Four further double bedrooms, some dual aspect and with fitted storage, are served by a family bathroom and an additional en-suite. Throughout, the house retains a quintessentially vernacular style with exposed stonework, beams and latch doors, balanced by high ceilings and light, well-proportioned rooms.

GARDEN AND OUTBUILDINGS
The gardens are laid mainly to lawn, interspersed with mature trees and bordered by cottage-style planting, clipped hedging and climbing roses, wisteria and clematis. Gravel and paved terraces provide ideal spaces for outdoor dining and relaxation.
A longer side garden, with separate access and a polytunnel, offers scope for smallholding use, whether for poultry, livestock or a pony. Across the lane, the paddock includes a water trough and is currently let for alpaca grazing. Practical outbuildings include timber stables with power, brick double and single timber garages, an open barn and a selection of sheds. A shepherd’s hut (available by separate negotiation) and a summerhouse with decked terrace offer flexible spaces for studio use or home working.
This is a rare opportunity to acquire a charming 18th century house of great character and versatility, set within idyllic gardens on the edge of East Lambrook, enjoying far-reaching views across the timeless beauty of Somerset’s countryside.

LOCATION
A handful of villages surrounding South Petherton are well known for their beauty and the pretty hamlet of Southay near East Lambrook is no exception. East Lambrook has a public house, parish church and the well renowned East Lambrook Manor Gardens which are English Heritage Grade 1 listed gardens. The village is in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is made up of largely period houses built of the local honey coloured hamstone and the evocative apple orchards, prevalent in this part of Somerset, have been producing famous cider for centuries. The delightful village of South Petherton has a variety of traditional shops as does nearby Martock, whilst the larger centres of Yeovil, Sherborne and Taunton are within easy reach with the excellent communication links with the A303 (predominantly dual carriageway to the M3 and London) and M5 close at hand. Train links are from Taunton or Castle Cary to London Paddington or Crewkerne to London Waterloo.

SPORTING & 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 Long Sutton, Wheathill and Yeovil. Theatres in Bath, Yeovil, Bristol and Salisbury. The Newt Country Estate and Bruton are also just an easy drive.

EDUCATION
There are a number of highly regarded schools for children of all ages in the area, including the South Petherton Church of England infants and pre-school, a Montessori pre-school at Over Stratton, Kingsbury Episcopi Primary and South Petherton. Both prep and secondary independent schools at Millfield, Sherborne, Bruton and Taunton.