About a lane-mile from Porlock, a magnificent house dating from the 19th cent., hugely enlarged by generations of the wealthy as a hunting lodge.
Exquisitely positioned with a superb wooded backdrop looking out over the sea as the coast circles gently round to the small picturesque harbour of Porlock Weir.
Twelve acres of grounds and gardens surround the house, full of mature trees, huge lawns (croquet, play area), small stream and rhododendrons, all managed as a wildlife habitat.
Wisteria cascades from the verandah, with the pebbly beach (excellent surfing for experts) only 250 yards' walk away across two fields.Inside, a wonderful mix of comfort, elegance and space.
Curving drive to heavy oak front door to slate-floored porch (for boots/coats).
Inner hall opening to beamed living room with leather chairs and handsome fireplace (woodburner).
Off this room, a wood-panelled bar (glasses provided, bring your bottles), a rather splendid loo and two more living rooms, one suiting youngsters with TV/DVD, children's snooker table, table football, and one elegant with French windows to the terrace (barbecue), TV and terrific views - just right for evening drinks.
Dining room with big bay window and same brilliant views.
Large, functional kitchen with efficient commercial gas cooker, domestic gas cooker, two dishwashers, washer-drier, microwave, freezer, commercial fridge and access to large terrace.Lovely sweeping staircase up to the first floor and eight bedrooms - four double (two with 5' beds, one with 6' bed), four twin, all with either en suite shower-room (suite) or bathroom (suite).More stairs (stairgates) up to the second floor and seven more bedrooms, all with either en suite bathroom (suite) or shower-room (suite), many with terrific views - four double (three with 5' beds), a twin, a single, and a room with three singles.Professional catering available.
The friendly owners live on site and are happy to advise on the best walks.
Pretty pub, 1 mile.
Damages Deposit £500.
Arrival after 4pm.
Groups with more children than adults not permitted.
A superb family house.
Porlock Vale: stunningly beautiful, romantic area with some of the best and most varied landscape of the Exmoor National Park, extending from Dunkery Beacon (highest point) to the sea and encompassing many picture-postcard villages, the largest being Porlock at the seaward end.
Wonderful walking and pony-trekking.
