After a decade of living between New York City and Central America, the Montgomery family decided to settle back in the UK. “Our decision to continue with a Steiner education for the children and a family connection eventually led us to South Devon,” says owner Jennie. “With our son a committed young surfer after a stint in Costa Rica, it seemed to make sense to opt to live near the sea rather than in the middle of the country.” And so, a forever home was found at The Lost Music Hall.
“The house is nestled into a pretty hidden valley in lush South Devon. It is close to Totnes and the children’s school and yet, as you meander down tiny lanes to get here, it is utterly secluded and quiet,” Jennie states. “As you turn into the gate you arrive in a secret paradise of green with the little river Ambrook gurgling through the meadows and woods.”
The house itself has a long and interesting history, built by Arthur Graham and renowned architect Thomas Henry Lyon in a chapel-like structure at the beginning of the 20th century. “When we arrived at The Lost Music Hall we met historian Angela Dodd-Crompton, who had researched and pieced together information about the house and estate as, until her work, nothing much was known about its creation or of Arthur Graham and his life - particularly as he had requested that all his personal papers be destroyed on his death,” remembers Jennie. “She told us that Arthur Graham appears to have been as much a socialite as a recluse and The Lost Music Hall hosted as many lavish parties as it provided solace and a space for contemplation.”
Jennie ends by commenting on the extensive hidden grounds that have been harked as Devon’s answer to Cornwall's Lost Gardens of Heligan, saying, “We are so lucky to have discovered this magical garden and there are so many beautiful flowers that have been planted over the years. My daughter and I have such a lovely time going to pick flowers for our guests."
