Nestled in the picturesque village of Mark, Highbridge, stands a delightful villa, an authentic Victorian former vicarage that whispers stories of the past while embracing the charm of its present. With its impressive seven bedrooms and five bathrooms, this spacious abode offers a slice of historic elegance amid nature’s embrace. This beautiful home, The Old Vicarage, is steeped in history and grandeur, a detached gem in the heart of a bustling Somerset village. Yet, while it nods to tradition, it doesn't shy away from modern comforts, having been painstakingly refurbished to a splendid standard by the current owners.
As we meander up the wide gravel driveway, framed by lush gardens that cover nearly an acre, the scene unfolds as if stepping into a storybook. Enter through the recently constructed portico, which only heightens the grand entrance of this Victorian villa. With a front door flanked by classic sash windows and original wooden shutters, the home tells tales with every creak of its floorboards and flicker of its fireplaces.
Inside, the main house greets you with a generous hallway, from where the principal rooms fan out like chapters in a beloved novel. The drawing room, dining room, and study each speak to a different audience, adorned with elegant details like panelled walls and high ceilings. Picture yourself in the study, perhaps, with a hot cup of tea, gazing out over the verdant garden. Or imagine the dining room filled with merriment during Sunday gatherings as sunlight spills in through its dual aspect windows.
A particular highlight awaits, the kitchen/breakfast room, magnificently appointed with cream cabinets and sleek granite surfaces. An Aga stands pride of place, calling to chefs both novice and skilled, while the conservatory beckons families to gather, with its underfloor warmth and serene garden views through automatic Velux windows.
Now, let us wander towards the elegance of the bedrooms—five double chambers await upstairs, each bearing its own style and grace. The master bedroom, a sanctuary of space, has views over the fields bathed in morning light. En suite bathrooms and a family shower room cater to household needs without compromising on luxury.
But, that’s not all; the adjoining cottage presents yet another narrative. Born from a stable block in the 1970s, it's recently had a makeover too, welcoming guests or family members with its cozy sitting room, kitchen/diner, and two additional double bedrooms.
Beyond the walls of this villa, the gardens extend an invitation to explore. With terraced areas perfect for alfresco dining, to fruit trees whispering the promise of fruitful yields. A stone outbuilding and woodshed stand as testament to the home's utility, with a double garage that harbors not just vehicles but dreams—transform it into a gym or a collector's haven, the choice is yours.
But let us not forget the canvas outside these gates—the village of Mark itself, a thriving locale rich in community spirit. Locals gather at the village shop or the ever-charming bakery, while one can partake in yoga sessions or football matches down at the village hall. For the adventure seekers, the proximity to the M5 and the Bristol Airport mean connectivity is always at hand.
Mark is one of the longest villages around, set alongside a central road yet blessed with sprawling countryside reaching out into horizons. Here, it is about community and connection, with local schooling options from Mark Primary to King of Wessex Academy providing educational opportunities for families settling in.
Even with all that buzzes around, the climate here is mild and inviting, providing the perfect balance between sunny days and brisk afternoons. Perfect for vineyard visits in the nearby areas or pumpkin picking come harvest.
Living in this villa means embracing not just a house but a lifestyle—the kind filled with evening walks to the local pub, weekends spent gardening amidst the fruit-laden trees, and summers hosting friends in the converted games room or out on the garden terrace. It's a lifestyle where history touches every corner, yet modernity ensures comfort.
For overseas buyers or expats, what could be better than stepping into this timeless narrative, rich with potential, warmth, and community spirit. So why wait? Answer the call of adventure, plant your roots in the soil of tradition while relishing life in this delightful home. Time and village wait for no one, and a story as compelling as The Old Vicarage's should not remain untold.
