Penn Lane, Hardington Mandeville, Somerset, BA22

Approached through electric powered timber gates that open into a gravelled driveway, Penn House makes a striking first impression. Sitting in an elevated position, the modest 1930s house that originally presided over these wonderful views to rolling countryside, has been transformed, through a significant programme of works, into something more appropriate for its prestigious location. With predominantly stone and brick elevations under a tiled roof, the property is entered via a cast stone portico into a welcoming entrance hall off which the main reception rooms can be found. The inviting breakfast room features a wood burner, built in dresser and ample space for family dining. It flows seamlessly through to the beautifully appointed kitchen, with stone flooring, a range of wall and base units under a granite worktop with breakfast bar, integrated Siemens dishwasher, Britannia range cooker with five ring gas hob over, integrated fridge and double Belfast sink. A utility room provides further space and connection for a washing machine and freezer and leads on through to a shower room with cubicle, basin and WC.

The dining room is conveniently positioned just off the kitchen and a conservatory extends the living space, bringing the outside in, making the most of those views. A large studio space, with access to the gardens and vaulted ceiling giving a wonderful sense of light and space, could also fashion itself as the ideal play room or teenage hangout, as required. The sitting room is perfectly proportioned and thanks to its quadruple aspect, enjoys plenty of light, with large floor to ceiling sash windows and French doors allowing guests to spill out onto the terrace. A particularly cosy snug, with wood panelled walls, a range of beautiful book cases and an open fire creating a unique atmosphere, is the perfect spot for those winter nights in.

Stairs rise to the first floor galleried landing off which four bedrooms can be found. The principal bedroom is very generously proportioned with its vaulted ceiling, triple aspect, numerous wardrobes and French doors leading out onto a private balcony. A large ensuite bathroom with bath tub, shower cubicle, twin basins, bidet and WC further enhances the set up. There are two double bedrooms, with built in wardrobes, a further single bedroom to the front and a family bathroom. Access can be gained from the landing to a large boarded loft.

OUTBUILDINGS AND GROUNDS

A stable block with three stables and a tack room sits opposite a timber framed car port for two cars. An enormously versatile, light and well insulated double garage/workshop adjoining this provides some exciting options and would be ideal for classic car enthusiasts, thanks in part to the vehicle inspection pit. It equally would work well as a games room and has been known to host the odd party. A wood burner provides some comfort on cooler evenings.

As well as a large paddock for livestock, the gardens are a real delight, having been well tended over the years. The excavation of a large pond is a haven for wildlife, planted with a great range of native species, whilst also enhancing the views. There is even a deck from which to launch a small boat. Another feature worth noting is the idyllic log cabin, doubling as a potting shed, that sits behind a low level picket fence with cottage garden and is the perfect quiet refuge. The vegetable garden, with fruit cage, greenhouse and watering system from a private bore hole, is well stocked, as are the plentiful borders that complement this established garden. Mature trees and shrubs provide a profusion of year round colour and interest. A large terrace at the rear of the property, ideal for BBQs, al fresco dining and evening sun downers completes the picture at this enormously impressive property. Total land holding of c. 4.5 acres.