The Illawalla, Edwardian mansion in Skippool, Lancashire, England
This Edwardian mansion in Skippool featured Yorkshire stone details and red-tiled roofs with extensive reception rooms and bedrooms. A tower rose from the structure, with the entrance hall connecting directly to a large dining room where the building's finest interiors were displayed.
Built in 1902, this structure was Europe's largest bungalow-style residence when completed. During World War II it served multiple purposes, functioning as both a transit camp and housing for pregnant evacuees seeking safety from bombing.
The name references Australia and the owner's origins, reflecting the era's connection to distant lands. Visitors could once admire decorative wall details featuring native wading birds that connected the interior to the surrounding landscape.
The property was once set within spacious grounds as part of the larger Skippool area near Wyre. Today only the historical record remains as the original building was demolished in 1996 to make way for residential development.
The building was featured as a filming location for the 1977 movie Valentino and later operated as a nightclub before its demolition. This unusual second life as a film set and entertainment venue gave it a role beyond typical residential use.
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