Darby House, Station Road, Stogumber, Taunton, Somerset, TA4

THE AGENT SAYS ,,,, A fine Grade II Listed detached 5 bedroomed property situated in a prominent position of this desirable village, offering excellent flexible family accommodation including a self-contained apartment and enjoying elevated views across stunning private gardens with glorious countryside beyond. THE PROPERTY Darby House is a substantial detached house and occupies a prominent position, set within the desirable village of Stogumber. It has an interesting history and was named after John Darby who lived there in the mid 1700’s. Since then, the property has changed hands several times and was run as a village shop Steam bakery, Antiques and Furnishings (the original shop front still remaining). The property is filled with immense charm and character and retains many original features of the Georgian era. Of particular note are the large sash windows, high ceilings and wonderful fireplaces. The property is exceptionally spacious with the added bonus of a separate self-contained apartment, which offers either additional living space for extended family, or could generate an additional income stream as Airb&b, or holiday let. In addition, there are stunning private gardens surrounding the rear of the house that have been created by the current owners. Benefitting from an elevated position wonderful views can be enjoyed out across the village towards glorious rolling hills and open countryside beyond. THE ACCOMMODATION The accommodation comprises the main entrance leading in through an attractive front door detailing pretty stained-glass window panels into the central hallway. Glazed double doors open into the shop featuring a full height double bay window with central front entrance doors. An open fireplace is featured at the far end. On the other side of the hall double doors open into the studio. A large sash window is to the right with an open fireplace central to the room. Both of these rooms include high ceilings and original detail of the Georgian era and could be used as principal reception rooms, if preferred. Following on from the hall a stained glass panelled door opens with steps leading down to the dining area with pretty French doors to the left opening out to a Mediterranean style area of garden. Attractive ornate wood panelling is a key feature of the area that extends across into the sitting room. A large carved stone surround fireplace housing a wood burning stove is central to this spacious room. Further interesting original features include built in shelving and an internal original arched panelled window. A bright garden room is off to the far side with full height windows on all sides and doorway leading out to the stunning private gardens. The kitchen is exceptionally light and has recently been redesigned incorporating a comprehensive range of wall and base units providing excellent storage. Natural oak worksurfaces follow along with a central ceramic sink. Integrated appliances include a dish washer, washing machine and a range electric cooker with ceramic hob, full width telescopic hood over. A door to the side opens into a pantry area with a further door leading down to a superb cellar. This offers extensive space and could be used as a games room, or entertaining room. The kitchen extends into a breakfast and family area with glazed door opening out to a partially enclosed veranda, which is a nice sheltered place to sit. To the side the rear lobby, with a separate WC, opens out to the private drive and garage beyond. On the first floor there is an attractive landing, with linen cupboard, which offers a generous space that could be used as a reading area. Off this the principal bedroom is exceptionally spacious and light with elevated views out across the gardens. There is ample hanging storage, either side of the chimney breast, which runs along the far wall. From the landing there are steps leading down to a large family bathroom, all well-appointed with a separate shower cubicle. A passage leads to a large double guest bedroom with an en suite shower room. Further stairs lead up to the 2nd floor from the landing to a superb apartment. Currently this includes a large sitting room with a central period wood surround fireplace housing a wood burning stove. A double aspect room, which enjoys elevated views out to the front and rear of the house making this an exceptionally sunny space. There are two double bedrooms and a shower room (currently undergoing refurbishment) with large walk-in shower. The kitchen is well equipped to include a range of base units with stainless steel sink, electric oven and space for a fridge/freezer and dishwasher/washing machine. There is room for a small breakfast table in front of a large sash window. Glazed French doors found along the hall allow independent access down the exterior stairs to the side of the garden with immediate access out of a pillared gate to the road. This offers separate access to the apartment and huge flexibility to the accommodation, which could be used for extended family, an income stream as a holiday let, or indeed become part of the main house. GARDENS AND GROUNDS Darby House has the benefit of a private drive to the right side of the house with parking available. In addition to a large double garage located at the end. The current owners who are keen gardeners have completely re designed the gardens, which lie to the rear and side of the house. Utilising this very protected and sunny position they have created a Mediterranean style garden, which leads immediately out from the main sitting room area. A small tiled pool taking centre stage to this tranquil and relaxing space. A wide variety of Mediterranean plants have been used to edge the design, which are covered in part by established mature ornamental trees offering dappled shade and sunlight. The garden follows along the pathways opening out to further areas of interest. To the far corner there is a greenhouse and from here a gravelled path leads to a raised area of the garden filled with an array of herbaceous plants giving colour and interest throughout the growing season. This split level runs alongside the lawn to the rear of the house. The main outside patio area is perfect for outside dining and entertaining with wonderful views out toward stunning countryside. A decked area can be found beyond and offers a quiet and sheltered seating space and also enjoys a southerly aspect. From here further pathways continue along the far side leading up to a covered potting and store area and access to the covered veranda with access back to the kitchen. This truly inspiring garden must be seen to be appreciated. SURROUNDING AREA The property is beautifully situated in the centre of the village of Stogumber occupying a slightly elevated situation with views over the village and open countryside beyond. The general locality is widely regarded, offering some of the most picturesque countryside within the county with the West Somerset coastline and Exmoor readily to hand. The village itself provides a popular primary school, good village pub, post office and general stores whilst the county town of Taunton is readily accessible some 14 miles away, where a wide range of shopping, recreational and scholastic facilities can be found including three noted public schools. The M5 may be joined at Taunton which also offers a fast rail link to London Paddington. Both Bristol and Exeter airports are also within easy striking distance. With Exmoor and the Quantock Hills within easy distance, with fantastic walking opportunities and a superb network of bridle ways and foot paths. LOCAL AUTHORITY Somerset West and Taunton Deane Tax Band C (Plus apartment rated Band A) ENERGY PERFORMANCE CERTIFICATE Exempt SERVICES Mains electricity, water and drainage. Oil fired central heating.