The oldest house in Barnard Castle, County Durham, is being brought to the market by specialist business property adviser, Christie & Co.
The company has been instructed to sell the Grade I listed Blagraves House which dates back to the 15th century.
The mid terrace, four storey property currently trades as a restaurant and retains much of its original features, such as large open fireplaces and heavily beamed, crested ceilings.
The ground floor entrance leads to a lounge, while there is a courtyard beyond this which is home to a statue of Charles I. In turn, this leads to an oak panelled banqueting hall which is used for private parties.
The dining room is situated on the second floor and offers views of the Dales, while the property also boasts a rooftop garden which also has stunning views. Owners’ accommodation is included.
During Elizabeth I’s, the house was used as an inn known as the Boar’s head where a brewery was once housed within its extensive vaulted cellars.
It has a naturally sourced well and tradition describes it as having secret passageways that lead to the nearby historic monuments of Barnard Castle itself and Eggleston Abbey. Blagraves also has historic connections to King Richard III and Oliver Cromwell.
David Cash, Business Agent at Christie & Co who is handling the sale comments, “Blagraves House is a truly unique building and the sale presents a rare opportunity for someone to acquire a highly historic site of national importance.
“The current restaurant business is very well-established having been owned by the Marley family for 28 years, so this would suit an existing operator or a first-time buyer looking to take over a truly historic restaurant with lots of potential.”
Christie & Co is seeking offers in excess of £500,000 for the freehold of Blagraves House.