FINDING a period property with original features and lots of space is a rare occurrence, yet this superb five-bedroom character house has plenty of both - and great views, too.

It has two reception rooms, a roomy 29' kitchen/dining room, a ground floor annexe and four first-floor double bedrooms.

The Old Stores is a truly interesting home, having played an important role in the history of Bransgore village; it is thought that the original property dates back to the mid-1800s and was the blacksmith's house and forge, then subsequently the village shop.

Today the property enjoys a delightful rural outlook over paddocks and fields.

The living room has an oak-beamed ceiling and large oak squared archway leading to a family room with log burner and solid oak mantel.

The kitchen/dining room is rather special, with windows overlooking the garden and two sets of French doors. It is has a cottage-style' range of units with solid oak work surfaces, a butler sink with stone tiled splash-back, range-style cooker and island breakfast bar, again with solid oak work surface over and cupboards under, a tiled floor and space for large table.

But perhaps the most unusual feature of the dining area is the original well, which is set into the floor with an iron rack and glass screen over for safety and display purposes.

A well-equipped utility room was the original kitchen and could still be used as one, perhaps in conjunction with the annexe.

Bedroom five is currently the annexe's bedroom and has a door to a further annexe room with windows, door to front (independent access), radiators, power and telephone points, ceiling light point, which is being used as the annexe living room.

Bedroom one is en suite and has a superb view over fields and bedrooms two and three, have feature fireplaces Bedroom four and even the family bathroom have lovely views.

Outside to the front is a small garden and a drive for off-road parking adjoins the detached thatched garage.

Another drive to the left offers extensive parking and gates give access to the courtyard area where there is more parking, ideal for a boat or caravan.

The pretty main garden has lawned areas, a raised deck with small pond and water feature, a spacious, paved area, various shrubs and trees and a garden shed. There is a superb rural outlook over paddocks/fields.

Pettengells (01425) 629100