Panoramic lake views, timeless character & contemporary comfort.
Bellhorse Cottage is an exceptional detached period home occupying an elevated position above Chew Valley Lake with breathtaking panoramic views across the lake and surrounding Somerset countryside. Believed to date from the 17th Century, the property has been extensively refurbished and thoughtfully extended to create a beautifully balanced home where period character blends seamlessly with contemporary design. The result is a light-filled residence of considerable charm, offering versatile family accommodation, modern energy efficiency and a wonderful connection to its spectacular setting.
Approached through iron gates, a wide gravel driveway provides generous parking and immediately establishes the property's sense of privacy and arrival. An impressive entrance atrium with vaulted ceiling and oak flooring welcomes you into the house and sets the tone for the quality of finish found throughout. Beyond lies the elegant sitting room, a particularly comfortable and inviting space featuring engineered oak flooring, bespoke alcove shelving and a wood-burning stove, creating a wonderful focal point for family life. Adjoining this space is a versatile study or fourth bedroom, ideal for home working, guest accommodation or a playroom.
Undoubtedly the heart of the home is the magnificent open-plan kitchen, dining and family room. Designed for both everyday living and entertaining, this impressive space combines stylish contemporary design with practical functionality. The bespoke handcrafted ash and beech kitchen is fitted with quartz worktops, integrated appliances, twin electric ovens, an induction hob, central island and breakfast bar, whilst a walk-in pantry provides excellent additional storage. The dining area enjoys picture windows framing the remarkable views across Chew Valley Lake, whilst French doors open directly onto the terrace and gardens beyond. The abundance of glazing, together with Velux rooflights and carefully considered lighting, creates a wonderfully bright and airy atmosphere throughout the day.
Beyond the kitchen, a second reception vestibule features a striking reclaimed timber ceiling and an attractive antique stained-glass window which captures natural light beautifully. This area leads to a practical utility and laundry room, cloak and boot storage area and a useful ground-floor shower room, ideally positioned for returning from the garden or countryside walks.
A striking open-tread oak staircase rises from the kitchen to a galleried landing flooded with natural light from overhead roof windows. The first-floor accommodation comprises three generous double bedrooms, all enjoying attractive countryside aspects. The principal suite is particularly impressive, featuring triple-aspect windows, vaulted ceilings and far-reaching views together with a stylish en-suite shower room. The remaining bedrooms are served by a well-appointed family bathroom. The principal bedroom is of sufficient size to allow the creation of a fifth bedroom if required, offering excellent flexibility for growing families.
Throughout the refurbishment, significant emphasis has been placed on energy efficiency and modern living. The property benefits from high-specification insulation, double glazing, an air source heat pump supplying underfloor heating and hot water, together with high-speed Truespeed fibre broadband and Cat 5 cabling to all rooms. Bellhorse Cottage successfully combines the charm of a historic village home with the efficiency and connectivity expected of a modern residence.
Outside, the beautifully landscaped gardens extend to approximately one-third of an acre and are a particular feature of the property. Carefully designed to complement the rural setting, they include sweeping lawns, mature planting, wildflower beds, a natural pond with waterfall, raised vegetable beds and a charming summer house. A substantial terrace provides the perfect vantage point from which to enjoy the ever-changing views across Chew Valley Lake and the surrounding hills, creating an idyllic setting for outdoor dining and entertaining.
View payable Stamp Duty for this property
What I most love about Bellhorse Cottage is the way it combines breathtaking views, period character and modern efficiency in equal measure. The panoramic outlook across Chew Valley Lake is truly spectacular and forms an ever-changing backdrop to daily life, whilst the beautifully designed kitchen and living spaces have been carefully arranged to make the very best of the setting.
David WildProperty agent