A Victorian castle in Cumbria is on the market for £1.75 million.
Augill Castle, in the Eden Valley is currently a 14-bedroom hotel and wedding venue, was put on the market in 2022 for £2.25m, then £2m in 2023 and has now had its asking price reduced again.
It is now being marketed by specialist business property adviser Christie & Co.
Built in the early 1800s in a neo-Gothic style, the Victorian property also has a bar and restaurant, library, drawing room and orangery, and historic features including a tower, a grand staircase and stone fireplaces.
The property has played host to thousands of guests over many generations, including Queen Victoria, according to local reports at the time.
To the north of the traditional market town of Kirkby Stephen, Augill Castle was acquired by Wendy and Simon Bennett in 1997.
Soon after their purchase, the property underwent an extensive programme of refurbishment and renovation work.
Wendy said: “Some of our guests already know we are selling, and to those for whom this is a surprise, this is a good thing.
“We had a dream to rescue this glorious Victorian building, create a unique place to bring up a family, and share that wonderful journey with guests. And that’s what we have done for almost 30 years.
“When we arrived, fresh-faced, in 1997, we took custody of the main castle and the grounds, within which were seven sets of lovely neighbours in the coach houses, gatehouse cottages and orangery.
“We all shared the drive, the views, and several cups of tea, and as they retired to sunnier climates, we gradually put the estate back together to create the venue we have now.
“After all this time, two children, a menagerie of animals, and most recently, Simon’s sad passing, we know it’s time to pass the mantle to someone else.
“That someone could be you, or someone you know! Whether a new owner wishes to acquire the whole venue, one or both of the coach houses, a gatehouse, or just the castle and orangery, we are open and flexible to various ways of making their dreams come true.”
Graham Wilkinson, agent at Christie & Co, said: “It is a significant property in a beautiful location, which will allow a new owner to create the business and lifestyle they wish within the walls of this fabulous historic building.
“Augill Castle offers potential purchasers an exciting choice of opportunities, from a country house hotel and a wedding venue to a private residential estate.”
