Henstridge: conservation village (church, PO/shop, two good pubs, noted Indian restaurant) on the Somerset/Dorset border, overlooking the beautiful Blackmore Vale. Sherborne (very attractive old, small town with superb medieval abbey, two castles - one built by Walter Raleigh, and famous public school), 6 miles. Mainline railway station, 2 miles. Golf, riding, and fishing within 5 miles, and many fine houses and gardens, including Stourhead (Nat. Trust) and Longleat, within easy reach.

... on the outskirts of Henstridge is Quiet Corner Farm. At the end of its 200 yard drive with cider apple orchards and paddocks on either side grazed by sheep and miniature Shetland ponies (bred by the owner), is a most attractive single-storey, mid 18th cent., stone built cottage. It nestles at the end of a large lawn and adjoins the owners’ converted barn, close to the former farmhouse. Lovely suntrap garden (barbecue, tables and chairs) shared with the owners and two adorable guinea pigs. The cottage has lots of character with beams, some exposed stone walls, leaded windows, wood doors and wooden floors with rugs. Hall, off which are the living (woodburner)/dining/kitchen (microwave, washer-drier) with high ceiling and an enormous exposed beam, overlooking the garden; a bathroom (suite with corner bath plus hand-shower and bath-shower); and two pretty, pink floral bedrooms a small single (Velux window) and a double looking into a garden room. No smoking.