AlfordCastle Cary, Somerset, BA7 7FS

Hornblotton Mill is a truly beautiful family home set on the edge of the Alford estate just a stone's throw away from the pretty market town of Castle Cary. Dating back to the C15th & C16th it was substantially enlarged in 1583 and has been recently renovated to the highest standards. The house blends authentic historical charm with modern luxury and imaginative contemporary design.  This 4000 sq. ft. property has recently been rewired, replumbed and fully equipped with bespoke features throughout, whilst retaining its original rustic charm. The property also features a beautifully designed one-bedroom annexe, providing flexible accommodation perfect for friends, family, office or as a rental opportunity. The house nestles within stunning gardens that extend to approximately one acre, with the River Brue meandering along the Southern boundary,

The house sits entirely within its own grounds and is accessed via a long private driveway that runs beneath a canopy of mature trees and culminates at a pair of electronically operated traditional estate gates. From the North side of the property, the front door opens to a medieval cross passage that provides direct access to the stunning gardens whilst also connecting the sitting room and drawing room on either side. Antiquated elm beams and piers line the ceilings and doorways and hint at a varied and rich history. The drawing room features an Inglenook fireplace situated beneath an aged elm lintel, which, accompanied by a 12KW Fireline widescreen wood burner, lends the room extraordinary charm. To the left of this entrance hall is a magnificent sitting room complete with a Bath Stone fireplace, mirroring that of the portico to All Saints Church, Alford. This room is also enriched with exposed aged elm beams, original flagstone flooring and a stunning original Tudor elm plank and muntin screen. Two large oak-framed windows allow natural light to flood into the room. Both reception rooms feature original blue lias flagstone floors, modern but traditionally styled radiators and window seats from which to appreciate stunning views of the gardens.

To the far end of the sitting room, an illuminated and enchanting Tudor spiral stone and timber staircase rises to bedrooms three and four on the first floor. Adjacent to the sitting room lies a cloakroom/shower room and a utility room. Whilst the latter is currently used as a utility room, it is a fully functional fitted kitchen, with both appliances and Carrera marble worktops. 

A few small steps from the drawing room lead to an inner hall which transitions seamlessly into the kitchen, the real heart of the house. Immaculately finished and complete with state-of-the-art Miele appliances and sleek Carrera marble worktops,  this space truly impresses. A pretty kitchen island includes a double Belfast sink and breakfast bar.  Stone windowsills reflect a natural stone floor gently warmed by underfloor heating. The dining area is light and airy, the open plan design is perfect for entertaining, and the room flows elegantly via fully retractable, glazed panelled doors to a matching stone terrace offering uninterrupted views of the stunning landscape to the West.

The first floor is accessed either via a very discreet lift in the main entrance hall or by the spiral staircase off the sitting room. The impressive principal bedroom suite features an open-plan layout with a partially partitioned wall that screens a refined and luxurious en-suite bathroom. The space is beautifully appointed with twin sinks, a stand-alone roll-top bath, a spacious marble tiled shower and a dressing area. Stylish oak flooring spans the room, whilst the generous oak framed windows and balcony offer superb views over the garden. There are three additional bedrooms, one of which comes with an equally impressive en-suite bathroom, and another with a magnificent Bath stone fireplace. All these rooms feature solid oak flooring and are finished with French grey paint. An exposed wattle and daub wall along the landing area is an inspired touch. Loft hatches allow easy access to the attic which has been designed perfectly as an extensive storage facility. Further storage includes a wine cellar which sits in the Eastern eaves. Completing the first floor is a stylish, contemporary-styled family bathroom.

Of note is the versatility of the house in that it could divided into two separate self-contained accommodations, each with 2 bedrooms. The principal bedroom and bedroom 1 would be accessed via the lift, and bedrooms 3 and 4 accessed via the staircase – each half having its own dedicated reception room and kitchen.

Annexe / Office

Set in the courtyard of the property is an exceptional 1-bed annexe furnished with an array of modern features. Renovated approximately two years ago and with no expense spared, the annexe showcases a Klover biomass pellet stove, hand-ground and polished concrete flooring, underfloor heating and fully glazed panelled windows with automatic blackout blinds. The green oak structure and larch-clad ceilings lend the building a spacious, Scandinavian feel and the space is perfect for use as an entertainment/party house. As well as the principal bedroom, the annexe comes with a state-of-the-art wet room and a small mezzanine floor directly above the kitchen – this has the potential to provide a secondary sleeping area for guests or storage space. Adjacent to the annex is a modern, glass-panelled carport capable of housing 2 large vehicles, together with EV charger. These two spaces are separated by folding glass panels that open fully to create further entertainment space. Electronically operated outside blinds can be employed to shelter the two parking bays, or create an enclosed ‘party barn'

Outside

The gardens are a tour de force and exceptionally beautiful. Immediately adjacent to the kitchen is a charming, raised stone terrace sheltered by glass panels, which allow unobstructed views of the picturesque surroundings. Well-manicured lawns sweep away from the house to the South and West and cascade into the tranquil River Brue, sheltered by a woodland of mature trees. The south side of the house is lined with a pretty gravelled pathway and clipped box hedging sits in the shade of a bed of climbing roses. Undoubtedly the jewel in the crown of this property is the meandering river Brue that flows from the mill pond along the southern boundary of the gardens. A wooden pontoon floating deck offers the perfect tranquil escape to relax, and enjoy watching the extensive wildlife. Further afield are two wood storage-sheds for logs and garden tools and machinery, with two bays and three bays respectively

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