Hall Hill House in Northumberland is a traditional ‘bastle’ or ‘Bastille’ house - a fortified home intended to withstand attacks from the Border Reivers during the late 13th century to the early 17th century.

The property, which has been owned by the Armstrong family since the 1400s, has been remodelled and refurbished over the years to create a spacious and elegant family home of great character, with modern additions such as solar panels and a biomass heating system.

Mr and Mrs Armstrong, the sellers, are parents of the esteemed comic actor, television presenter and singer, Alexander Armstrong.

Sam Gibson, a partner with Galbraith, said: “This is a superb property, and is one of the few remaining bastle houses in Northumberland, a real part of the history of the region, but beautifully updated. Its location, on the edge of the vibrant village of Longframlington and with majestic views over the Coquet Valley, is unbeatable.”

Hall Hill House has  a wealth of very attractive and practical accommodation including, on the ground floor, two well-proportioned reception rooms, both with feature fireplaces and south facing views, as well as a garden room, library/study, kitchen, walk-in larder, boot room, utility room, cloakroom, and log store.

On the first floor are five double bedrooms and three bathrooms.

Outside, a private driveway leads from the village playing field to an expansive gravel parking area. A wraparound garden, mainly laid to lawn, and a terrace offer ideal settings to enjoy the views. There is an established orchard and vegetable garden with polytunnel as well as a mix of outbuildings, including a Grannexe with potting shed, greenhouse and double garage.

In all the plot extends to about 4.15 acres.

Hall Hill House, Longframlington, is for sale through Galbraith for Offers Over £850,000.