May’s Unusual Auction Properties of the Month

The UK auction market is brimming with opportunities for those seeking truly one-of-a-kind properties and investments. Here, we explore some of the more unusual lots that are available throughout May 2023.

From ancient cottages to old clerical buildings and more besides, these properties represent some of the most unique finds in the country.

Former Church, Wigton

(For Sale with Your Move Auctions)

Advertised as a plot/land for sale for development, this former church has a great amount to offer as a structure – having previously been granted planning permission in 2013 for conversion into a four-storey museum. While the consent has now lapsed, it is clear that the property has significant potential.

With stained glass windows and original fixtures still in situ, the building requires a significant amount of renovation, but, once permission for change of use is granted, the possibilities for this large and exciting structure are endless.

The property is located just around the corner from bustling King Street in Wigton (Cumbria), which is lined with shops, eateries, pubs and a range of other amenities. Wigton Station is less than ten minutes’ walk away, and the area features a number of local schools, as well as access to the beautiful Solway Coast and the stunning Lake District National Park.

The lot will be sold via the modern method of auction by Your Move Auctions with no date for the closing of bidding currently displayed. The property’s Guide Price stands at £90,000.

Grade II Listed House and Annexe, Long Sutton

(For Sale with Savills Auctions)

Ashwell House dates back to the late 17th Century and sits in a large plot with excellent off-road parking. The lot also includes a two-bed annexe building – named the Coach House – which is held on a separate title. Both properties would benefit from a little refurbishment.

With five substantial bedrooms, a bathroom and separate shower room, two reception rooms, a dining room, breakfast room, garden room, kitchen with pantry and a utility room, the main house also features a cellar and beautiful featured gardens.

Just over five minutes’ walk from the lovely Lincolnshire market town of Long Sutton, the property benefits from its position in a highly desirable neighbourhood – as well as the open spaces of West Street park and the myriad eateries, pubs and shops on nearby Markey Place.

The property sits just two minutes’ drive from the A17, and the area is ideal for local schools.

The lot remains available following Savills Auctions’ March 2023 auction, with a Guide Price of £355,000.

Grade II Listed Lakeside Cottage, Boncath

(For Sale with John Francis Auctions)

This two-bed fairytale cottage sits in woodland, with the astonishing Ffynone Waterfall just over five minutes’ walk away.

The property currently consists of a dining room, a kitchen, a very generous sitting room and lounge, a good-sized family bathroom, two well-proportioned bedrooms (one with en-suite) and a loft,

With a full schedule of improvements required throughout, the lot has a huge amount of potential – not least due to its incredible views and its proximity to the Pembrokeshire town of Boncath, which sits just over five minutes’ drive away.

The amenities of Newport are accessible in a little over 20 minutes by car.

The lot will be taken to auction by John Francis Auctions on 17th May 2023, with a Guide Price of £235,000-£250,000.

Mediaeval Terraced Cottage, Andover

(For Sale with Pattinson Auctions)

Featuring three comfortably-sized bedrooms, a well-appointed family bathroom, a spacious living room, a kitchen with separate generous dining room, a downstairs WC and a lovely terraced courtyard garden, this unique property also boasts loft storage and a substantial basement.

Dating way back to the fifteenth century, this lot is a rare Wealden “Hall House” – a timber-framed property native to the south of England, initially owned by mediaeval yeomen.

Many of the property’s period features remain, including an astonishing fireplace, stonework with ancient carved graffiti, impressive plasterwork and exposed beams.

Positioned within a minute’s walk of the Chantry shopping centre, with Andover Leisure Centre only two minutes away and Vigo Park and the Acre Path accessible in just over five minutes, the property enjoys an excellent central position within the lovely ancient town. The train station is just a fifteen minute walk away.  This property is approximately 50 minutes from Southampton.

The lot will be taken to auction by Pattinson Auctions on 17th May 2023, with a Guide Price of £250,000 and the seller is open to cash offers.

Stone Cottage in 8.5 Acres of Land, Tintagel

(For Sale with Kivells Auctions)

A romantic stone cottage set in ancient woodland just three minutes’ drive from Trebarwith Beach, this property enjoys seclusion and peace – but sits a very short distance from the pubs and shops of Tintagel (Cornwall).

The local area is internationally famed for its connection to Arthurian myth, with nearby Tintagel Castle named as Arthur’s birthplace in some ancient texts.

Having formerly served as a B&B, the property is in a state of disrepair and requires an extensive programme of works to bring it to its full potential. However, within its impressive 8.5 acres of land, it boasts south-facing gardens.

The building includes four double bedrooms (all of which as dual-aspect), a triple-aspect living room, a long kitchen with separate dining room, a snug and a good-sized bathroom.

The lot will be taken to auction by Kivells Auctions on 24th May 2023, with a Guide Price of £375,000.