Deadline set for offers as 'prestigious' £4million Derbyshire castle remains up for grabs

Property experts predict Cromford's Willersley Castle will fetch up to £4million after it went on sale for the first time in 100 years.

The castle closed its doors as a hotel during the summer after owners took ‘the difficult decision’ not to re-open following the Covid-19 lockdown.

Owners Methodist Guild Holidays Ltd said it had held ‘an essential review of the business during tough trading conditions’ before making the decision.

A spokesperson for Methodist Guild Holidays Ltd said this week: “Our appointed agent is liaising with interested buyers, some of whom have spent time at the hotel undertaking surveys and investigating further according to their plans if they were to purchase Willersley Castle.

MORE: Pictures inside 'stunning' Derbyshire castle and former hotel on the market for £4million

"We have a set a deadline for offers to be submitted by mid-October.”

The castle, built for Sir Richard Arkwright, the industrialist who invented water-powered cotton mills, is being marketed by Dewitt’s commercial property advisers at £4m.

Grade II listed Willersley Castle stands in 60 acres with a gate lodge, stable block and swimming pool.

Marketing of the property by Dewitts states: “Thanks to this rich industrial heritage, the impressive architecture and interior of Willersley Castle still overflows with character and charm.

"Many original features remain, including Robert Adam fireplaces and the striking, dome-covered ‘Well Gallery’.”

Built for Sir Richard in 1786, the year he was knighted, Willersley Castle provided a prestigious ‘seat’ in which he could reside in his later years.

Thank you to all who support local journalism with a print subscription. The events of 2020 mean trusted, local journalism is more reliant than ever on your support. We couldn't do it without you. Please subscribe at www.localsubsplus.co.uk so we can keep campaigning on your behalf. Stay safe.