Iconic Grade II Listed Tynemouth Watchtower goes up for sale for £500,000 - see inside
The seven-storey building was originally owned by the War Office and has been described as 'one of the most unique residential homes in the country'
An incredible property has gone on the market in North Tyneside in an opportunity to own one of the most historic and unusual homes in the region.
The Tynemouth Watchtower stands at seven stories tall, looking over the edge of Longsands beach with breath-taking views of the coast from Tynemouth Castle and Priory all the way up to the Cheviots. Built towards the end of the First World War, this building was originally owned by the War Office and played a vital role in defending the region's coastline as a strategic lookout and command tower for the Tyne Turrets.
Made of reinforced steel and concrete, the watchtower on Percy Gardens has a distinctive curved front which means each room inside is semi-circular in shape, with just one room on each floor. Up on the seventh floor there would originally have been a gun installed, and today this highest floor has been converted to an observatory room with a terrace for unrivalled sea views.
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The sixth floor below was once the original lookout and is now the living room, with panoramic windows offering more stunning views, while the lower floors house three bedrooms, a bathroom, and a kitchen on the ground floor which leads out into the tower's private yard. Each room has unique features from wood panelling to exposed beams and ornate pillars that offer a glimpse into the building's fascinating history.
The watchtower was sold by the Ministry of Defence after World War Two in 1967 as a private residence, and is now back on the market for the first time in 23 years after being sold again in 2000. With the full listing available to view on Rightmove, the selling price has been set to offers over £500,000.
Michael Mortimer, managing director of Hive Estates, said: "It's not every day that you get to introduce such a unique and historical property to potential homeowners - we're extremely excited to market this one. The Tynemouth Watchtower isn't just a house; it tells an important narrative and is part of the North East’s history in two World Wars.
"For those looking to make a statement with their next property purchase, or simply seeking a home with character and history, the watch tower is an unmissable opportunity," he added. Anyone interested in hearing more about the property or arranging a viewing can contact Hive Estates on 0191 261 8500 or visit the agents' website.
Take a look inside one of the most unique homes on the North East coast in the photo gallery from Hive Estates below.
The tower is situated at the edge of the picturesque Longsands beach
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It would certainly make for a very interesting housewarming party for its new owner!
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The watchtower once played a key role defending the coast in both World Wars
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Each of the seven floors houses one room in a unique semi-circular shape
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