Country house for sale in Doulting, Shepton Mallet BA4

The Old Bell House, Doulting

Property Description: This light-filled, family house is set back from the road, in the historically rich village of Doulting which dates from the 8th century when King Ing of Wessex gave the local estate to Glastonbury Abbey. Formerly the school house, with attached school mistress' house, this distinguished property has fabulous far reaching views over the fields beyond. Set in a conservation area, this versatile home offers plenty of space and the potential to create a separate annexe/holiday let or, with a simple adaptation, space for two families to live together retaining their independence.

As you enter the main elegant hall from the south-facing covered entrance, it is immediately clear how versatile this property is. The house flows easily from room to room making it the perfect home for entertaining should you choose.

The kitchen has been hand-built by Ebbtide (a local artisan craftsman) and opens up into a dining area with Villager multi-fuel stove. The kitchen has everything you would expect in terms of equipment with an American style fridge freezer; Neff fan oven; built-in microwave and induction hob, and dishwasher. Off the back of the kitchen is a room that is currently an artists studio but could also be used as a back kitchen or work from home space. It has fitted units, a sink and two roof lights.

There are two bright and airy, good-sized reception rooms both share a wood burning stove (multi fuel). The main sitting room has views out to the garden. A much loved bar area can be found off the second reception room and kitchen.

There is a well thought-out utility room with a large sink and plumbing for a washing machine and space for a tumble drier, as well as plenty of storage cupboards. The downstairs cloakroom and second stairs are both off the back lobby which leads out to the terrace.

Two staircases lead to the first floor, one at each end of the house. The main bedroom has bespoke built-in wardrobes. The en-suite shower, with more bespoke joinery, has the most lovely rural views over the private garden and the fields beyond, offering a special view first thing in the morning.

There are three further double bedrooms as well as two additional smaller rooms which could easily be used as dressing rooms. There are currently three further bathrooms which could be altered easily to create an additional en-suite at the top of the second staircase. There is enormous scope to adapt the current accommodation to create a home that exactly suits your needs, or it can be enjoyed exactly as is.

Outside: Outside there is an extensive area made up of a private west-facing lawned garden and secluded terrace. To the South there is off-street parking for at least 4 cars on the old school yard.
There is a network of footpaths and byways following the old routes with the ability to do some fabulous circular walks from the door. The village school and popular local pub are just within a few minutes walk along a path close to the house.

Location: Doulting is a village set back off the A361 between the up-and-coming Shepton Mallet (1.5m) and fabulously, fashionable Frome (9.9m). It was part of the Whitstone Hundred and has historic ties back to the Romans and before, including The Fosse way. It is probably most famous for its historic quarry which produced the stone for Wells cathedral, Glastonbury Abbey and many other buildings in the area. The stone is Oolitic limestone and had a fabulous rich yellow colour. The River Sheppey has its source here with a spring called St Aldhelm’s Well which is attributed with healing powers. There is a notable tithe barn in the village which dates back to the 15th century. The East Somerset Steam Railway runs just to the south of the village, and terminates at the Mendip Vale railway station with its local café. There is a fantastic network of footpaths lacing through the area. Public houses of note nearby are Strode Arms, Cranmore; The Talbot in Mells as well as many restaurants and leisure facilities in Frome.

The most immediate metropolis is Shepton Mallet - a vibrant and historic market town which also has a heritage dating back to Roman times. The River Sheppey runs through the town and the Mendip Hills, which as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (aonb) lies to the north. The town has a wealth of retail outlets including independent boutiques, cafes, and bars. The Charlton House Hotel & Spa is nearby with its award-winning restaurant in an elegant country house. Many cultural events are held throughout the year including the Lantern Festival, The Snowdrop Festival, and the annual Carnival. The iconic town of Glastonbury is only six miles away, and the energetic cities of Bristol and Bath, easily accessed via the A37, are both under an hour away with excellent rail links to London. Castle Cary provides the closest rail links and is only 7 miles away. The A303 and the M4 are easily accessible and there are air links via Bristol Airport. The historic city of Wells is approximately 5 miles away and has four supermarkets including a Waitrose, a cinema, a leisure centre, numerous coffee shops, pubs and restaurants. The Fabulous Newt in Somerset is about 8 miles away. The property is well placed for good private schools including All Hallows, Downside and Millfield as well as Wells Cathedral School.

Directions: = BA4 4QE / What3Words = pianists.clearly.compelled

Council Tax: Band F (correct at time of marketing). To check council tax for this property, please refer to

Local Authority: Somerset Council Services: Mains water, drainage and electricity

Tenure: This property is freehold and is sold with vacant possession upon completion.

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