A
piece of literary history is up for grabs in North Yorkshire, where the former home of Lewis Carroll, author of "Alice in Wonderland," has hit the market for $2.17 million. The Georgian-era abode, known as Ripon Old Hall, was a seasonal residence of Carroll's father, a church official at nearby Ripon Cathedral.
Carroll, whose real name was Charles Dodgson, spent his school vacations from Oxford University at the property in the 1850s. It's likely that he drew inspiration for his beloved characters from the whimsical interiors of Ripon Cathedral, which features intricate wooden carvings and fantastical creatures.
Ripon Old Hall itself boasts stunning architectural details, including raised wood paneling, marble floors, and stately fireplaces. The home's original oak staircase is adorned with carved foliage garlands, and one upstairs bedroom features fluted, Greek-style columns within the wall paneling.
The property's upper hall ceiling depicts a vivid scene from Greek mythology, the Judgement of Paris. French doors connect a reception room to the garden, while a separate studio apartment offers its own kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom.
Ripon Old Hall sits in the shadow of Ripon Cathedral, where Carroll likely drew inspiration for his fantastical characters, including a golden queen, a wide-eyed headless cat, and a mythical gryphon pursuing a rabbit down a hole. The property's walled gardens include a "breakfast garden" perfect for hosting a mad tea party.
"This is an incredibly rare opportunity to own a slice of history," said Ed Stoyle, director at Savills in York. "The 18th-century home offers a window into the changing architecture of the last 300 years."
