Located in the secluded hamlet of Fontmell Parva, the idyllic Keeper’s Cottage stands in an enviable rural location with far reaching views of the surrounding countryside. Built in 1871 of stone under a clay tiled roof with ornate finials, eaves and tall chimneys, it formed part of the Fontmell Parva Estate. Newly renovated in 2019, the main house is made up of a kitchen, three reception rooms, including large living area with a stone open fireplace and a light airy conservatory, and three double bedrooms and two and a half baths. The original, detached barn has been redesigned to a two-bedroom annex with shower room, making it a perfect space for teenagers or a grandparent that may desire additional privacy during your stay. There is a good-sized garden with fire pit area and an outdoor dining terrace with gas barbeque.
The bridleway in front of the cottage provides immediate access to the adjoining, unspoilt countryside, ready to explore on foot, or by bike. Lightly wooded and to the east is the Cranborne Chase stretching towards Salisbury, and the Blackmore Vale lies to the west.
The neighbouring village of Child Okeford is only 1.5 miles away and has all the essential amenities; a post office, village shop, doctor’s surgery and two pubs. The town of Blandford Forum is close by with a good range of shops and leisure facilities. It is just a 40-minute drive to the historic cathedral city of Salisbury and the world heritage site of Stonehenge, one of the world’s most famous pre-historic monuments. Other pursuits to enjoy nearby include racing at Wincanton and Taunton, a round of golf at Rushmore Golf Club, or enjoy sailing and water sports on the south coast at Poole and Weymouth Bay.
There are a number of excellent independent schools in close proximity to Keeper’s Cottage, including Hanford, Clayesmore, Bryanston and Sherborne, making it a perfect home base for visiting children and special family gatherings.
Keeper’s Cottage is easily accessible from London by road via M3 and A303 and the mainline train stations at Gillingham, Tisbury and Salisbury offer regular services to Waterloo (90/150 mins).