Hill End, Hardington Mandeville, Yeovil, Somerset, BA22

White Thorn is an attractive detached period house, set on the edge of the sought-after village of Hardington Mandeville, in a wonderful position overlooking the surrounding Somerset and Dorset countryside. Believed to date from the 17th century, the property originally served as a village public house before being converted into a private residence. A later extension was added in the 1950s, with further accommodation created by the current owners in 2007, resulting in a well-proportioned family home offering a pleasing combination of period character, generous living space and far-reaching rural views.

The ground floor offers a well-balanced arrangement of living spaces, with large floor-to-ceiling windows in both the sitting room and dining room framing wonderful views across the surrounding countryside. The sitting room has an attractive fireplace which provides a natural focal point, whilst the dining room offers ample space for a large dining table and has doors opening directly onto the terrace, making it particularly well suited to entertaining. Both rooms enjoy a lovely outlook, with the changing seasons providing a constantly shifting backdrop. The family room has a more casual and laid-back atmosphere, with exposed beams, a wood-burning stove and a charming window seat, creating a comfortable space for everyday family life. The kitchen/breakfast room features Shaker-style cabinetry and granite work surfaces, with an Aga adding a traditional country feel. A separate pantry provides valuable additional storage and preparation space, incorporating a further electric cooker and hob. The adjoining utility room is well proportioned and provides a practical space for everyday household tasks, whilst a cloakroom completes the ground floor accommodation.

The first floor is accessed via a spacious landing, leading to four bedrooms and the family shower room. The principal bedroom is particularly appealing, benefitting from excellent natural light, along with a separate dressing room. The generous and well-appointed en-suite bathroom features a roll-top bath and waterfall shower. Three further bedrooms provide flexible accommodation ideal for family living, guest rooms or a study.

White Thorn is a well-presented period property offering versatility, established gardens and far-reaching countryside views and would appeal to those seeking a characterful country property in a lovely rural setting.

OUTSIDE AND GARDEN
The property is approached over a tarmac driveway, which provides extensive parking and turning space for several vehicles. To one side, the kitchen garden has been thoughtfully laid out with raised beds growing a large amount of vegetables such as asparagus and herbs, alongside a greenhouse and established fruit trees, including pear and plum as well as a mature Magnolia tree. The detached double garage has two separate doors and is complemented by an adjoining workshop, with its own pedestrian entrance, providing useful space for storage, hobbies or practical projects. The principal gardens extend around the house and are arranged to make the most of the property's exceptional setting. Generous lawns are interspersed with established shrubs and well-stocked flower borders, rose beds, clematis and a rockery which provide further interest and seasonal colour, whilst a working well adds an unusual feature to the grounds. The far-reaching views across the surrounding countryside provide an attractive backdrop throughout the year. Immediately adjoining the house, a substantial paved terrace, partly sheltered by a pergola, offers an excellent area for outdoor dining and entertaining. With direct access from the dining room, it provides a natural extension of the living space during the warmer months. Set within the gardens, the detached summer house enjoys a particularly favourable south-facing position, with lovely open views across the countryside. Connected to electricity and Wi-Fi, it is well suited to use as a home office or studio, although it would equally make a peaceful spot from which to enjoy the garden and surrounding landscape.

LOCATION
White Thorn is situated on the edge of the popular village of Hardington Mandeville on the Somerset/Dorset border, which is host to a pub, The Royal Oak, a shop with Post Office and a church, along with a gardening club, amateur dramatics group and WI, amongst others. The village hall and community playing field provide a variety of activities for all ages. Many people who move here stay for many years, such is the attraction of the village community. Surrounded by magnificent rolling countryside, this is a beautiful part of the country yet remains extremely accessible due to the A30, A303 and good rail links from Yeovil Junction on the Exeter to Waterloo line. In addition, the M5 is within easy reach at Taunton and the village therefore enjoys the best of both worlds, being secluded yet accessible. The regional centre of Yeovil is within easy reach and has the full range of facilities whilst alternatives include Crewkerne, a typical Somerset market town and Sherborne, dominated by its Abbey and historic schools.

SPORTING AND RECREATION
There are numerous golf courses within easy motoring distance including Sherborne and Yeovil. Racing at Wincanton, Salisbury, Bath and Exeter. Water sports on the Dorset coast (about 40 minutes) or on Sutton Bingham Reservoir nearby. Riding and walking on an extensive network of bridleways and footpaths including the Macmillan and Monarch’s Way routes. Theatres at Bath, Taunton, Salisbury and Bournemouth. The Newt country estate and Hauser and Wirth in Bruton provide further cultural opportunities.

EDUCATION
The area offers an excellent choice of educational facilities, with a primary schools in East and West Coker, a range of state secondary schools nearby and a selection of well-regarded independent schools, including Sherborne Schools Group, Hazlegrove, Perrott Hill, Millfield and King’s Bruton.