A Victorian castle in the Eden Valley could be yours for £2 million.
Augill Castle, which is currently a 12-bedroom hotel, was put on the market last year for £2.25m but has now had its asking price reduced.
Simon and Wendy Bennett have owned Augill Castle for 25 years, but want to retire.
The castle was built in the heyday of the 19th century gothic revival movement and an early cousin to the likes of Balmoral.
Simon says: “Although Augill Castle hasn’t seen battle, it has battlements, turrets and towers aplenty and has even had royal guests with Queen Victoria staying here on her way to Balmoral.
“We’ve really enjoyed our reign here however now would be the right time to abdicate from the throne, and hand over the castle’s keys to a new dynasty to take on the mantle.”
The main castle includes stunning staircases, vaulted ceilings, leaded mullions, turrets and towers but is also intimate enough to feel like home.
The castle includes a 46-cover restaurant called The Music Room, a conservatory bar, spacious library, and drawing rooms perfect for afternoon teas and events.
There is additional accommodation in the Victorian stables and Coach House which provides the option to run the whole property as a hotel, a mix of B&B and self-catering or to live like royalty in the main castle and let out the remaining buildings to guests.
Neil Thomson, of commercial real estate firm Colliers, is handling the the sale.
He said: “Augill Castle is a unique opportunity which could be tailored to a wide range of investor demands. It’s a boutique hotel with period features and grand grounds located at the sweet spot of the Eden Valley, between two of England’s greatest national parks.
“Simon and Wendy have looked after the property and it would be easy for new owners to come in and make the business their own, taking advantage of all the various elements the castle and the grounds have to offer.”
Augill Castle has won an array of awards over the years including, finalist in Cumbria Tourism’s Taste Awards, winning Visit England’s Guest Accommodation of the Year and a coveted César Award from The Good Hotel Guide.
