Coldharbour, Sherborne, Dorset, DT9

Dating from 1886–87, Heathfield is an elegant semi-detached Victorian house offering over 2,400 sq ft of beautifully proportioned accommodation. Thoughtfully extended in 2017, the spacious house successfully blends its wealth of original character with a superb contemporary kitchen and family space, creating a home equally suited to modern family life and entertaining. High ceilings, large sash windows and an abundance of natural light create an exceptional sense of space throughout. A glazed entrance porch opens into a welcoming reception hall. To the front of the house, the beautifully proportioned sitting room centres around a handsome marble fireplace and enjoys a wide bay window with original sash windows, decorative picture rails and impressive ceiling heights, creating an elegant yet comfortable setting. At the heart of the house, the dual-aspect study retains a second original marble fireplace and offers excellent flexibility as a home office, formal dining room or playroom. A well-appointed ground floor shower room, complete with shower cubicle, wash basin and WC, provides additional convenience along with a further cloakroom off the utility.

Undoubtedly the heart of the home is the magnificent open-plan kitchen, dining and family room. Created as part of the 2017 extension, this superb space has been designed for modern living, featuring exceptional handmade English quarter sawn solid oak flooring from Bernard Dru, an extensive range of painted wall and base units beneath stone and timber work surfaces and a generous central island. A Rangemaster cooker with five-ring gas hob, integrated Bosch dishwasher, double bowl stainless steel sink and space for an American-style fridge freezer ensure the kitchen is as practical as it is stylish. There is ample room for both a large dining table and relaxed seating, while full-width bifold doors open onto the elevated south-facing terrace, creating a seamless connection between the house and garden. Adjoining the kitchen, the spacious utility room provides further fitted storage, additional work surfaces, a one-and-a-half bowl sink, space for laundry appliances and direct access to the garden.

The first floor offers three generous double bedrooms, all retaining their Victorian character with high ceilings and original decorative fireplaces. Two enjoy a southerly aspect over the garden, while the third overlooks the front of the property. The bright, dual-aspect family bathroom is fitted with a bath, separate shower, wash hand basin and WC. Two further double bedrooms occupy the second floor. One enjoys attractive southerly views and includes a wash basin, while the other is distinguished by its charming rounded front window. Subject to the necessary consents, one could readily be adapted to create an additional bathroom. Further storage cupboards and loft access complete this impressive family home.

GARDEN
The landscaped gardens at Heathfield have been thoughtfully enhanced by the current owners to create a series of inviting outdoor spaces. To the front, a gravel driveway provides parking for several vehicles, complemented by a neatly maintained lawn and established flower borders. The south-facing rear garden is a particular highlight, offering an excellent degree of privacy and seclusion. Immediately beyond the kitchen, an elevated timber terrace provides the perfect setting for outdoor dining and entertaining, enjoying an almost continental atmosphere overlooking the garden. Enclosed by attractive stone walls and timber fencing, the garden has been carefully designed with year-round interest in mind. Pleached hornbeam trees provide structure, while a gravel path leads through the lawn to a paved seating area and garden shed. Mature planting includes hydrangeas, roses, ornamental grasses, euphorbia, a pear tree and established yew hedging, creating a colourful and peaceful setting that feels both secluded and wonderfully established.

LOCATION
Dominated by its ancient Abbey and school, Sherborne is arguably one of the most attractive towns in Dorset. Numerous musical and cultural events occur throughout the year and there is a superb range of traditional shops and boutiques. The two castles, one of which was home to Sir Walter Raleigh, reflect the historic nature of the town, the centre of which is designated a Conservation Area in which a policy of strict planning control operates to preserve its special character. West Dorset is well known for its unspoilt landscape and there are many pretty villages and countryside walks nearby. The Jurassic Coast is a mere twenty-five miles away at Weymouth. This stretch of coastline from Portland to Lyme Regis, with its spectacular cliffs, has been designated a World Heritage Site. Communications to this part of the country are excellent. From Sherborne there is a regular train service to Waterloo (approx. 2 hours 15 minutes); the station is within walking distance. The A303 - linking the M3 and the M5 - is dual carriageway almost all the way, thus putting London and the West Country within a reasonable drive.

SPORTING AND RECREATION
The area is well known for its beauty and there is a network of bridleways and footpaths which cross the countryside making it ideal for walking, cycling and riding. The beautifully refurbished Sherborne House is a landmark destination for the arts. Water sports can be found at Sutton Bingham Reservoir (near Yeovil) or on the south coast, as well as racing at Wincanton, Salisbury, Bath or Exeter and golf at various courses including Yeovil, Sherborne and Dorchester. The Newt, now well renowned for its many first-class attractions, is situated in nearby Castle Cary.

EDUCATION
Local primary schools include Sherborne Abbey Primary and Sherborne Primary, both well regarded. The area also benefits from outstanding independent provision through the Sherborne Schools Group (Sherborne School, Sherborne Girls and Sherborne Prep). Other nearby options include Leweston, Hazlegrove, Perrott Hill, Port Regis, Milton Abbey, Bryanston and Millfield.