PayhemburyHoniton, Devon, EX14 3HZ

Offered with no onward chain and believed to have been constructed during the latter half of the 15th century, Luton Barton House began life as a traditional open Hall House, a rare survival from the earliest period of domestic architecture in the region. Two smoke-blackened roof trusses remain as compelling evidence of its medieval origins, from a time when an open hearth formed the heart of the home.

Over the centuries, the house has been adapted and extended, with the insertion of fireplaces and upper floors thought to date from the late 16th or early 17th century.

The principal reception rooms are rich in period detail. The sitting room is centred around an impressive inglenook fireplace with a substantial stone lintel, reputedly reclaimed from Dunkeswell Abbey, supported by Beerstone jambs. The dining room is equally notable, featuring an exceptionally rare moulded cross-beam ceiling and a further inglenook fireplace with a chamfered bressummer beam.

Elsewhere within the house are the remains of a possible 17th-century bread oven, an Elizabethan window recess within the kitchen and exposed cruck framing to the first floor. The property is constructed of traditional cob and rubble elevations, finished in lime render, which provides excellent thermal performance throughout the year.

The roof, thatch and structural timbers to the upper floors were comprehensively rebuilt approximately 35 years ago. The thatched roof is protected by a Thatch Alert system incorporating heat sensors, automatic fire suppression within the loft space and a comprehensive fire and smoke detection network.

Gardens & Grounds

The house is approached through wrought-iron entrance gates opening onto a gravelled driveway, bordered by areas of lawn and a number of mature trees. The principal gardens lie to the rear of the property and extend to approximately 0.6 acre in total.

A right of way along a track to the side of the house provides access to a paved and brick courtyard, enclosed by double timber gates and offering generous parking. Arranged around the courtyard are a log store, implement store and a well-equipped workshop, together with a greenhouse and seating area.

To the east of the house is a further lawned area with an orchard and several attractive specimen trees. Beyond this lies a substantial detached studio building, an impressive and versatile space featuring a covered veranda, window shutters and a wood-burning stove, suitable for a variety of uses including studio, home office or leisure space.

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