Somerleigh Road, Dorchester, DT1 1PD
The Old Rectory, originally designed by John Hicks in 1850 as the rectory for Holy Trinity Church, is a striking Gothic-style building with mock Tudor timbering. It holds historical significance as the workplace of Dorset poet Thomas Hardy, who worked as Hicks’ assistant for seven years. Over time, The Old Rectory has evolved, serving as both a school of nursing and one of Dorchester's premier health clubs.
Now, it is home to eight unique apartments, and the penthouse is a standout. This top-floor residence is incredibly light and spacious, featuring four roof lights, one of which fully retracts at the touch of a button, bathing the interior in natural light.
The penthouse has its own private entrance, leading up to the top floor and a welcoming entrance hall. The heart of the home is the open-plan sitting room, dining area, and kitchen. The kitchen is thoughtfully designed with plenty of storage, including wall-mounted and base units, all topped with Pietra™ quartz countertops. The centrepiece of the kitchen is the island, placed beneath a sliding roof light that floods the area with sunlight. High-quality appliances include an AEG™ induction hob, oven, microwave oven, dishwasher, washing machine, and fridge/freezer. The dining area easily accommodates a large table, perfect for entertaining, while the sitting room provides a light and airy space to relax.
Adjacent to the kitchen is a spacious utility room with additional storage, work surfaces, a fitted water softener, and AEG™ washer and dryer, offering both practicality and style.
The principal bedroom suite is a private retreat, accessed through its own reception area, which could be used as a seating area, dressing room, or study. The bedroom features ample wardrobe space and an ensuite shower room with a modern shower, WC, and hand-wash basin.
Bedroom two is another bright double room with fitted wardrobes and an ensuite bathroom, complete with a bath, separate shower cubicle, WC, and hand-wash basin. Bedroom three is equally spacious and features wardrobe space, with a nearby shower room that includes a shower cubicle, WC, and hand-wash basin. All three bathrooms are fitted with quality sanitaryware, polished chrome taps, thermostatic showers, and ceramic tiling.
This luxurious penthouse perfectly blends contemporary living with historical charm. Full of character, it offers ample storage and a peaceful location, right in the heart of Dorchester.
Outside, the property benefits from two allocated private parking spaces, along with two additional visitor spaces for The Old Rectory.
Location - Situated just steps from Dorchester's vibrant town centre and the picturesque Borough Gardens, The Old Rectory offers the best of both worlds
We are advised by the seller of the following lease information:
Lease: 125 years (116 years remaining)
Ground Rent: £350 per annum
Service Charge: £5,735.65
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Listed by
Nest Associates - James
Disclaimer: Property descriptions, images, and related information displayed on this page are aggregated from publicly available sources across the web and presented for informational purposes only. While we strive for accuracy, home.co.uk cannot guarantee that all details are current or complete. This information is provided as a guide only and should not replace professional property advice. We strongly recommend contacting Nest Associates - James directly to verify availability, arrange viewings, and obtain comprehensive property documentation.
Added 18 Mar 2026
Dorchester
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Homemove is a trading name of HM Haus Group Ltd (Company No. 13873779, registered in England & Wales). Homemove Mortgages Ltd (Company No. 15947693) is an Appointed Representative of TMG Direct Limited, trading as TMG Mortgage Network, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN 786245). Homemove Mortgages Ltd is entered on the FCA Register as an Appointed Representative (FRN 1022429). You can check registrations at NewRegister or by calling 0800 111 6768.