The picturesque Devon longhouse, listed Grade II*, which dates from the 14th, 15th and 17th centuries, had been owned by a Russian lady who lived there with her daughter, in some poverty it seems, for much of the last century. Both house and garden were in a sorry state when Viscount and Lady Hambleden bought it in 1993, since when the house which accommodates 10 people in considerable comfort has been renovated and restored throughout, without being too ?chintzy?, his Lordship insists. The gardens add colour and enchantment throughout the year.
But now the sun and ski slopes of California beckon for the 75 year old peer and his wife, and they are moving permanently to the States, where they have owned a ski hut for many years. Dunsaller, with four reception rooms, six bedrooms, five bathrooms, an annexe, and staff flat plus 16 acres of gardens, meadows and orchard, is on the market through Jackson-Stops & Staff (01392 214222) at a guide price of £2.25m.
