Hillgate
Parsons Hill | Porlock | Minehead | Somerset | TA24 8QP
HILLGATE
A truly special country residence set in approximately 1.5 acres of private gardens and woodland, offering panoramic coastal and countryside views, versatile living accommodation, and potential for multigenerational use or income generation.
KEY FEATURES
Setting & Approach
Tucked away on the wooded slopes of Porlock Hill, Hillgate is reached by a long private track and bridleway serving just two other homes. As the tree-lined route opens up, you are met with an extraordinary outlook—broad, sweeping views of the Exmoor coastline and rolling countryside, framed by nature and complete seclusion.
A Home of Distinction
Thoughtfully restored and beautifully maintained, the home’s accommodation spans three spacious floors, each with its own terrace or balcony to fully embrace its elevated setting. Warmth and charm radiate throughout the property, and oilfired central heating is complemented by underfloor heating in the kitchen/family room, sitting room, dining room and utility room, adding a discreet touch of luxury.
From the reception hall, with its panelled walls and tiled flooring, you step into the heart of the home: a superb open-plan kitchen and living area. Triple-aspect views bring the outdoors in, while glazed doors open to a covered terrace—perfect for entertaining, morning coffee, or evening sunsets.
The kitchen is a perfect blend of style and functionality. Slate worktops, an electric Aga, Belfast-style double bowl sink, bespoke dresser, and an island unit with breakfast bar all add to the classic country charm. There’s also a walk-in larder, offering additional cool storage and slate flooring throughout—warmed by the underfloor heating beneath your feet.
Practical Living
To one side of the kitchen is a well-equipped utility room, with timber-effect surfaces, plumbing for appliances, a Grant oil-fired boiler, and a Belfast sink— ideal for muddy boots or pets. A side door opens to the covered terrace, and a cloakroom with slate flooring and WC is conveniently placed nearby with underfloor heating.
Reception Rooms with Character
Two additional reception rooms provide warm, elegant spaces for both everyday living and special occasions. The sitting room features a dual aspect, square bay window, and French doors opening to the garden, with a stone fireplace and woodburner offering a cozy focal point. The dining room, also with a bay window, has a Victorian-style fireplace and built-in cabinetry, perfectly suited t o formal dinners or festive gatherings. Both rooms benefit from underfloor heating.
SELLER INSIGHT
When we first came to view Hillgate, it was the view that stopped us in our tracks – before we even reached the front door. From its elevated position, the house looks out across the Bristol Channel, right over to the coast of Wales. Hills and woodland surround the property, giving it that rare ‘bit of everything’ feeling – sea, countryside, and total peace.
“Then we stepped inside – and were stunned. The interiors had been completely redone before we arrived, and everything felt fresh and beautifully considered. Over time, we have added our own touches too –redesigning the front garden, redoing all the balconies, and watching the trees and shrubs mature on the hillside grounds. There is even a lovely summerhouse for quiet moments.
“The top floor – the crowning glory – is our favourite space. With a huge picture window and balcony, it offers a view we have never tired of. The light is spectacular. Below, the open-plan kitchen and living area is the heart of the home – bright, welcoming, and where the family always gathers. Entertaining here is a dream, especially with the separate dining room.
“This five-bedroom, three-storey house has held so many happy memories – from big family Christmases to simple summer evenings watching the sunset. It is secluded, peaceful, and yet just a few minutes’ drive – or a short walk – into Porlock village, where you will find everything you need, from shops and cafes to the post office and a great local pub.
“Hillgate has been a joy to live in – easy to maintain, full of character, and surrounded by natural beauty. We shall miss everything about this place. Now it is time for someone else to fall in love with it, just as we did.”*
* These comments are the personal views of the current owner and are included as an insight into life at the property. They have not been independently verified, should not be relied on without verification and do not necessarily reflect the views of the agent.
KEY FEATURES
First Floor
Staircase rises to the first floor landing, where a corner window frames breathtaking views over the valley and beyond. The principal bedroom suite enjoys a double aspect, direct access to a private balcony, and excellent wardrobe space. The en-suite includes a tiled shower, pedestal wash basin, WC, chrome towel rail and recessed lighting.
Three further bedrooms on this floor—each with their own individual charm and views—are served by a stylish family bathroom, complete with a freestanding roll-top bath, WC, basin, recessed shower and part-panelled walls.
KEY FEATURES
Second Floor Annexe Suite
A cleverly designed top floor suite presents enormous versatility. With independent access via an external staircase, it functions beautifully as a guest suite, self-contained annexe, or potential holiday let (subject to consents).
This level features a bright triple-aspect study/living room, a balcony wit h stunning views, and a fifth bedroom with walk-in airing cupboard and open-plan en-suite bathroom—fitted with a bath, circular basin, WC, heated towel rail, twin Velux windows, and underfloor heating. A hallway with deep storage leads back to the gardens via the private staircase, giving this level added privacy and flexibility.
KEY FEATURES
Gardens & Grounds
The setting is truly idyllic. Approximately 1.5 acres of gardens and grounds wrap around the house, combining natural woodland with structured garden terraces. A gated gravel driveway leads to a generous parking and turning area, while a composite decked balcony adjoins the kitchen/family room, featuring glass balustrading and unspoiled views.
The gardens are mainly laid to lawn with mature borders and trees for shelter and privacy. Meandering paths, sunny terraces, and tucked-away seating areas invite quiet moments or larger gatherings. Outbuildings include a timberframed studio/workshop, shed, dog kennel, summer house and car port, all complementing the outdoor lifestyle this property promotes. Direct access from the property to exceptional countryside walks.
Additional Information
Tenure: Freehold
Council Tax Band: G
Services: Mains electricity, private water and drainage, oil-fired central heating
Underfloor Heating: Installed in the kitchen/family room, sitting room, dining room, utility, cloakroom
Directions
From Minehead, take the A39 to Porlock. Drive through the village, forking left at the Toll Road sign as you leave. Continue for half a mile up Porlock Hill, and look for the sign for Halsecombe on the left. Turn onto the private track, and on reaching a cottage, turn sharply back left—Hillgate lies at the end on the right.
Location
Nestled between dramatic moorland and the rolling sea, Porlock is one of Exmoor’s most cherished villages—rich in heritage, natural beauty, and community spirit. Framed by the stunning backdrop of Exmoor National Park, this thriving village offers a wonderful blend of charm and convenience, making it a highly desirable location for both permanent residence and a peaceful country retreat.
The village itself offers an exceptional range of local amenities for its size, including three welcoming pubs, two small supermarkets, an artisan bakery, a traditional butcher, and an array of boutique shops, galleries, and cafés that give the village its vibrant yet timeless atmosphere. A well-regarded primary school, village hall, recreation park and active sports clubs including tennis, cricket, football and bowls contribute to the strong sense of community and year-round appeal.
Porlock’s position within the Exmoor National Park offers unparalleled access to some of the South West’s most iconic landscapes—whether you’re hiking along the South West Coast Path, cycling quiet country lanes, or horse riding across windswept moorland. The nearby Porlock Weir, with its picturesque harbour and waterside inns, is just a short drive or walk away.
The nearby seaside resort town of Minehead, approximately 6 miles distant, offers a wider selection of shopping, leisure, and educational facilities, while the county town of Taunton, around 30 miles away, provides mainline rail services to London Paddington and direct access to the M5 motorway—making Porlock both wonderfully remote and surprisingly well connected.
WEBBERS PROPERTY SERVICES LIMITED. Trading As: Fine & Country Minehead and Exmoor
Registered in England & Wales.
Company No: 2908137. Registered Office Address: Bristol & West House, 39-41 Boutport Street, Barnstaple, Devon, EX31 1SA.
copyright © 2025 Fine & Country Ltd.
Council Tax Band: G Tenure: Freehold
£1,000,000
Agents notes: All measurements are approximate and for general guidance only and whilst every attempt has been made to ensure accuracy, they must not be relied on. The fixtures, fittings and appliances referred to have not been tested and therefore no guarantee can be given that they are in working order. Internal photographs are reproduced for general information and it must not be inferred that any item shown is included with the property. For a free valuation, contact the numbers listed on the brochure. Printed 18.06.2025
FINE & COUNTRY
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Fine & Country Minehead and Exmoor
9 Floyds Corner, Minehead, Somerset, TA24 5UW
01643 700210 | minehead@fineandcountry.com