Converted school house with annexe potential in West Lydford

Once the heart of village life, The Old School in West Lydford has been transformed into an exceptional country home that perfectly marries period architecture with contemporary refinement. Built in the 1800s from the region’s distinctive Blue Lias stone, this former schoolhouse now stands as a timeless sanctuary of character and style in one of Somerset’s most desirable rural settings.

A sense of heritage greets you from the moment you arrive. The cobbled driveway, stone-walled gardens and flagstone porch set an elegant tone, while the building’s hamstone mullions and double Roman tiled roof reflect the craftsmanship of a bygone era. Inside, the thoughtful conversion has created a home that is at once dramatic and welcoming. The original school hall forms a breathtaking living room, bathed in natural light from tall arched windows and crowned by a stunning Gothic feature window. An architectural staircase leads to a mezzanine level - an inspiring retreat for reading, working, or simply admiring the volume and serenity of the space below. Oak floors flow throughout, complemented by a handsome stone fireplace with wood-burning stove, creating an atmosphere of warmth and quiet sophistication.

The spacious kitchen and dining area at the rear of the house marries traditional design with modern practicality. Shaker-style cabinetry and granite worktops frame the double-aspect room, which opens through a stable door to the garden and extends into a beautifully bright sunroom - the perfect spot to enjoy morning coffee surrounded by greenery. A separate utility and boot room provide everyday convenience, while a ground-floor bedroom with en suite shower room offers ideal accommodation for guests or single-level living.

Upstairs, the principal bedroom enjoys lovely views over the south-facing garden, with double doors opening to a Juliet balcony and a well-appointed en suite shower room. The second bedroom, currently used as a study, is served by a luxurious bathroom featuring a freestanding roll-top bath - a tranquil space that speaks to the property’s sense of calm and comfort. Throughout, the rooms retain the character of the original building, with sloped ceilings, deep window sills, and a soft play of light that changes beautifully throughout the day.

Outside, the gardens are a haven of privacy and colour. Topiary and specimen shrubs frame cottage-style borders of English roses, hydrangeas and wisteria that burst into life through spring and summer. A decked terrace provides the perfect spot for outdoor dining or a quiet evening drink beside the raised pond. The property is entered through a five-bar gate, with generous parking and a detached double garage built in natural stone. This versatile outbuilding currently includes a utility area, cloakroom and upper floor, offering exciting potential for conversion to a guest suite, studio or home office, subject to permissions.

West Lydford itself is a quintessential Somerset village, known for its stone-built houses, peaceful lanes and friendly community. Everyday amenities can be found in nearby Keinton Mandeville, with a wider selection of boutiques, cafés and restaurants in Somerton and Castle Cary - both within easy reach. The cultural hubs of Bruton and The Newt in Somerset lie close by, while Bath, Bristol and Wells are all within an hour’s drive. Excellent road and rail connections make London and the South West readily accessible, with Castle Cary station offering direct trains to Paddington in under two hours.

For families, the area is exceptionally well served by schools, including Millfield, Hazlegrove, King’s Bruton, Wells Cathedral and Sherborne.

The Old School is more than a home - it is a piece of Somerset’s history, beautifully reimagined for modern country living.

***We expect this property to sell to a buyer looking in the £700,000 - £740,000 range. Best offers are invited.***

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By Design Homes Wells & Chew Valley is part of the wider By Design Homes network – a collective of experienced, premium estate agents delivering bespoke one-to-one service across the UK and internationally. Based here in the heart of The Mendips, I combine local knowledge and personal attention with the strength and reach of a national brand. For discreet, expert advice, please feel free to contact me (Mark Manning) directly.

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