This “stunning” historic home for sale was once used as a military base and is full of character features. 

Lantern Hall, at Pitt House in Chudleigh, dates back to the 1840s, being designed by architect Sir George Gilbert Scott. 

Pitt House is a Grade II* listed former country house which has been split into nine homes, including three houses and six apartments. 

The building was extended in the 1880s, and during World War II was used as a base for American military troops, later being used as a boys’ boarding school until the 1980s. 

lantern hall
The large living space. (Connells)

Lantern Hall is one of the three large houses in the former country home, and is made up of the original billiard room and part of the ballroom. 

A heavy oak panelled door with brass furnishings opens into the main hall, leading to the kitchen and breakfast room, which sits in the former ballroom and includes integrated appliances along with diamond-glazed panels that bear family crests. 

lantern hall
Period features include windows with family crests. (Connells)

Further into the home is the sitting and dining room, which was once the billiards room, and features a large lantern, after which the house was named. 

There are plenty of character features in this room, including a fireplace with a carved wooden mantel, decorative floor tiles, and a wooden coffered ceiling, plus an original door which has been converted into a drinks cabinet. 

lantern hall
The master bedroom, with an en-suite bathroom and walk-in wardrobe. (Connells)

Completing the ground floor, there is a downstairs cloakroom, while on the lower ground floor is an original stone archway leading to a library. 

The lower ground floor continues with three bedrooms, the principal of which features a stone archway, an arched ceiling, an en-suite bathroom, and a walk-in wardrobe. 

lantern hall
The mezzanine area, which could be used as a bedroom. (Connells )

Above the kitchen, there is a mezzanine area, which could be used as an additional bedroom and features built-in storage cupboards. 

On this level there is also a family bathroom which has been recently refurbished, and a utility room. 

lantern hall
The private garden. (Connells )

Outside, there is a private garden area laid to lawn, two garages, and further communal grounds which can be used if the owner contributes towards the cost of upkeep. 

The property is being sold by Connells for a price of £500,000. 

The agent commented: “Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Chudleigh, Lantern Hall at Pitt House stands as a testament to architectural grandeur and historical significance. 

“This impressive freehold home, part of a Grade II* listed former country house, boasts a rich tapestry of original features and details that hark back to its 1840s origins, designed by the renowned architect Sir George Gilbert Scott in partnership with William B. Moffatt.”