Medieval gatehouse in charity liquidation sale

One of Yorkshire's most historic properties is on the market after the charity that owned it was forced into liquidation.

Bolton Percy Gatehouse, near Tadcaster, a timber-framed, grade II* listed building dating from 15th century, is one of three historic British homes being sold off after the Vivat Trust went into liquidation.

Eddisons is marketing the properties, which have all been refurbished as holiday lets. They include the gatehouse, a 14th century manor house near Hereford and the 53 metre high, grade I listed Hadlow Tower, near Tonbridge in Kent - UKs tallest folly.

The Vivat Trust, a registered charity, was dedicated to rescuing neglected and dilapidated historic buildings throughout the UK. It restored them and gave them a viable new use as holiday properties. The trust’s directors called in insolvency firm Begbies Traynor last summer when the charity was hit by financial difficulties.

Tthe buildings owned by trust have been put up for sale and Eddisons is inviting offers for Bolton Percy Gatehouse and the other buildings, none of which has been given a guide price. Abdul Jambo, associate director at Eddisons, says: “Bolton Percy Gatehouse and the other properties are of such a unique and historic nature that we have rarely, if ever, seen anything comparable come to the open market. Because of this their values are likely to differ wildly depending on the potential buyers so we are letting the market decide and are looking to receive offers from anyone interested in owning an incredibly special piece of British history.”

The gatehouse was converted into a modernised, two-bedroom house after restoration by the Vivat Trust in 2010. It originally formed the defensive entrance to the village rectory and a courtyard of medieval buildings. The rectory and outbuildings were rebuilt in 1698 and were demolished in the 19th century. The gatehouse escaped in tact.

The historic home now includes a kitchen, bathroom, a two-bedroom suite and a sitting and dining area. It also has its own private garden.

Further information on all the former Vivat Trust properties is available at www.eddisons.com/property