Mill Batch Cottage

Mill Batch Cottage is an 18th century holiday cottage on the edge of the village of Mark, situated in the heart of the famous Somerset Levels, and in the shadow of the Mendip Hills. It was originally built as a cattle barn sometime in the 1780s, but in 1819 was converted into a cottage by William Counsell – hence the inscription ‘WC 1819’ on the outside, and ‘WC’ above the old fireplace, which often amuse visitors! The property retains many of the original features; the low wooden beam over the front entrance, the oak beamed ceiling, and the original fireplace, now with a wood burner for extra cosiness. The name ‘Mill Batch’ (shared with the owner’s home, adjacent to the cottage) comes from the fact that the property is about fifty feet above sea level (high for the Somerset Levels!). This makes it the ideal place for a windmill, and one was built here in the early eighteenth century. The lane next to the property, Perry Road, leads to the hamlet of Perry – named after pear cider, which would have been made there. Cider apple trees still run alongside the property and in the orchard next door. Sheep often graze here, wandering amongst the dappled light. The garden of the cottage, though small, borders the owner’s much larger garden (1.4 acres). Both are packed with wildlife; a wide range of birds (more than 80 species), butterflies (20 species) and badgers, foxes and the occasional deer all visit the garden from time to time. Swallows nest in the barn in the farmyard next door, and they are very much welcomed as one of the first signs of summer! Shop ½ mile, pub ¼ mile.

Large beamed, double aspect living room with wood-burning stove in inglenook fireplace. Kitchen with tiled floor and sloping ceiling. Utility. Separate toilet. Fairly steep wooden stairs to first floor: Double bedroom with window shutter. Beamed twin bedroom with sloping ceiling. Single bedroom with floor level feature window. All bedrooms with exposed stone wall. Shower room with toilet.

• Wood-burning stove - initial fuel included, thereafter available at cost
• Electricity, full LPG central heating, bed linen and towels included
• Travel cot
• High chair
• TV
• DVD (small library)
• CD (small music library)
• Microwave
• Washing machine
• Dishwasher
• Fridge/freezer
• Wi-fi
• Enclosed garden with patio and furniture
• Parking (for 2 cars)
• Taxi service by prior arrangement with owners
• Pets free of charge
• No smoking