THERE are properties that are steeped in so much history that owners not only have a responsibility to look after them for themselves, but also to safeguard them for future generations. Whitewalls – a Grade II-listed 15th Century bastle – is exactly that kind of property.
Owners Aidan and Carol Haile have relished the opportunity to improve the property while enjoying all it has to offer. Aidan, 54, and Carol, 49, took on Whitewalls just two years ago, updating it to create a spacious family home with an ideal mix of contemporary fittings and original features. Retired bank manager Aidan explained what first attracted them to the delightful Northumberland property, which is set in around five acres of land and nestled in the West Allen Valley, south-west of Hexham. “The first thing that caught us was its location – the views from all around the house are simply wonderful,” he said. “Another major attraction was that the property is completely private and secluded, but is far from remote as it is just one mile from the A686.” When the pair moved in they decided to give it an interior overhaul. The bathroom and kitchen were replaced, the utility room refitted and new carpets laid. They also made sure that it was fit for modern living by installing central heating as well as updating the plumbing and electrics. Aidan said: “We have done a lot as it was tired and needed updating.” But in their revamp the pair have been careful to stay true to the property’s history, making the most of period features such as an impressive 15th Century stone arch in the dining room. “The arch used to be the original entrance to the property – it is a lovely talking point when you have guests in the dining room,” says Aidan. There is also an entrance hall that doubles as a library – with a range of floor-to-ceiling shelving – a drawing room with a large marble fireplace and a garden room with natural wood flooring and breathtaking views over the West Allen Valley. The property also includes a family room and breakfasting kitchen fitted with oak-fronted units and enough worktop space for Aidan and Carol’s passion for side-by-side cooking. To the ground floor are utility room and cloakroom. The first floor has the master bedroom with dressing area and en suite shower room, three further bedrooms and a family bathroom. Formal gardens surround the property, including lawns, terracing and a raised patio area. The property also includes a large garage, a range of outbuildings and a driveway with ample parking for a number of vehicles. Aidan and Carol have enjoyed the challenge of modernising Whitewalls and are now hankering for their next project. They may, however, be hard pressed to find a property with quite so much history. Aidan gave an insight as to what it is like living in a property more than 500 years old. He said: “It’s certainly charming. You can feel the history around you. The previous owners did a lot of research into the property and we will make sure to pass the history on to its next owners.” Whitewalls, Ninebanks, is for sale through Foster Maddison at a guide price of £695,000, tel: (01434) 605441. | 
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