A STUNNING Gothic mansion straight out of a horror film has gone on the market for £2.15million – and it has an eerie past to go with its hauntingly good looks.
The Grade II-listed property in Gwynedd, Wales, is dramatic both in architecture and setting, and has some amazing surprises in store for the lucky buyer.
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It occupies a cliff-top plot overlooking the Mawddach estuary at Barmouth, while the peaks of Snowdonia and the Cader Idris Range stand behind.
But while the property has been fitted with luxurious modern features, including a cinema and outdoor kitchen, it has a chilling history.
It was once a prison – and unfortunate inmates were rowed in by boat before being taken in shackles through a stone tunnel at water level.
After being dealt with in a courtroom, they were held in one of two cells. Both of the holding spaces have been transformed into a wine cellar and pantry by modern owners.
Creepily, the site also had two dungeons, which have been filled in.
The former cells are the only two rooms of the astonishing property without a view over the water or mountains.
HOUSE ABOUT THAT
Academics at Aberystwyth University dated one of the walls in the boot room to medieval times, and said it was likely built when Henry II was king.
And the building’s central feature, a clock tower, was added in the Victorian era.
Two stone gargoyles keep watch at the front of the house.
Agents at Strutt and Parker say the property is “iconic” – but that it’s “first and foremost a family home”.
“The main reception rooms are filled with light, with wonderful high ceilings,” they said.
“In particular, the drawing room has different sea views from three windows.
“The veranda wraps around the ground floor, a wonderful place from which to enjoy morning coffee with spectacular sunrises.”
ROOM WITH A VIEW
Outside, the owner will discover a private slipway into the estuary.
From the terrace, they’ll be able to spot dolphins and seals swimming in the bay.
Snowdonia National Park is just 500 metres from the front door.
It’s not the only home currently on sale that’s hiding a secret.
At the other end of the scale is London’s cheapest flat, which will go under the hammer for just £20,000 this week.
But whoever wins should beware. The leasehold has just over a year left – and there’s no guarantee a homeowner with such a short time remaining will be able to renew it.
A Harry Potter-inspired flat is on sale for £315,000 in Edinburgh.
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Every room has received a spellbinding makeover, with rooms transformed to resemble a Gryffindor dorm, a carriage on the Hogwarts Express and the grounds of the magical school.
And an unassuming family home available for £260,000 comes with its own indoor swimming pool.
The detached property in Lincoln, East Midlands also features a room kitted out with a massage table.
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