St. Swithins Road, Sherborne

Hampden House is an elegant detached late Victorian residence dating from 1896, occupying a particularly central and highly convenient position within this sought-after Abbey town. Unlisted and therefore free from restrictive constraints, the house combines architectural character with excellent scope to adapt and enhance to suit individual requirements. It has remained in the same family ownership for an impressive 52 years, a testament to both its comfort and location.

The property retains a wealth of period detail including large sash and box bay windows, heavy original doors, attractive fireplaces and decorative cornicing. Panelling, exposed stonework and original Victorian tiling further enhance its sense of heritage. High ceilings and generous proportions throughout create a wonderfully light and airy atmosphere.

The entrance hall provides an inviting introduction and leads to a particularly appealing library, fitted with extensive bookcases and centred around a charming fireplace complete with its original integrated mirror above. This is a room of real character and warmth.

The dining room flows naturally into an impressive drawing room, a superbly proportioned space enjoying lovely views over the south facing garden through a large triple-paned Victorian double-glazed window. The kitchen is fitted with wooden units and includes a gas hob and integrated oven, with space for informal dining. Beyond, a bright and sunny orangery with stone flooring provides an excellent garden room or additional dining space. French doors open directly onto the terrace, creating a seamless connection between house and garden and an ideal setting for entertaining.

An impressive balustraded staircase rises to the first floor where four well-proportioned bedrooms can be found. The principal bedroom benefits from an ensuite WC while a further bedroom enjoys an ensuite bathroom. A spacious family bathroom serves the remaining accommodation. There is no doubt that this property is a rare gem, while now requiring some modernisation, seldom comes to market.

Outside
The property is approached via a gravel driveway providing parking for several vehicles and access to a double garage with electrically operated doors.

The south facing garden is both private and well screened, arranged with gravel terraces and areas of lawn that provide a variety of seating and entertaining spaces. Established planting includes evergreen shrubs, rock rose, juniper and a striking twisted hazel, while a rockery ensures colour and seasonal interest throughout the year. A garden shed is positioned towards the rear.

The house sits comfortably within the centre of its plot, and the garden offers excellent scope for further landscaping or enhancement should a purchaser wish. Altogether a most appealing period house combining elegant accommodation, attractive gardens and a wonderfully convenient position within this highly regarded Abbey town.

LOCATION
The property is located on St Swithin’s Road, situated between Newland and Long Street, Sherborne’s most desirable addresses. Dominated by its ancient Abbey and school, Sherborne is arguably the most attractive town in Dorset. Numerous musical and cultural events occur throughout the year and there is a superb range of traditional shops and boutiques. The beautifully refurbished Sherborne House is a landmark destination for the arts. 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 miles away at Weymouth. This stretch of coastline, from Portland to Lyme Regis, with its spectacular cliffs is designated a World Heritage Site.

Communications to this part of the country are excellent. From Sherborne there is a regular train service to Waterloo in about 2 hours 15 minutes; the station is within walking distance. The A303 (linking with the M3) is a dual carriageway almost the whole way to the M3, thus putting London 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, bicycling and riding. Water sports can be found at Sutton Bingham Reservoir (near Yeovil) or on the south coast and racing at Wincanton, Salisbury, Bath or Exeter. Golf at various courses including Yeovil, Sherborne and Dorchester. The Newt, now well renowned for its many first-class attractions, is also 25 minutes away.

EDUCATION
The area is noted for its independent schools with the Sherborne Schools Group, Leweston, Perrott Hill and Hazlegrove all within easy reach. The Gryphon secondary school is highly regarded and very easily accessible, as well as a good selection of primary schools.