Chance to buy a magnificent waterfront mansion in central York and bring it back to life

It was built for industrialist and former Lord Mayor of York William Cornwell around 1710 and acquired its name in 1746 when it is widely believed that Prince William, the Duke of Cumberland, stayed at the property following his victory at the Battle of Culloden.

The prince was given the freedom of York after stopping in the city on his way back to London.

The building extends to almost 6,000 sq ft and is expected to achieve offers of more than £1m. It boasts impressive and ornate original period features, including decorative plasterwork, moulded panelling and fireplaces that have survived the centuries.

Property investment and development specialist Helmsley Group has submitted a planning application to City of York Council for the conversion of the building back to residential use. In recent years it has been used as office space.

Subject to planning approval, the new owner will have the chance to sympathetically renovate the property and transform it back into a stunning four-storey home with three reception rooms, a main bedroom with dressing room and ensuite, six further bedrooms and two further bathrooms. Outside is a courtyard and private parking and the building also comes with an extensive basement area.

Louise Hirst, director of Prime Residential estate agency, which is marketing the property for sale on behalf of Helmsley Group, said: “Cumberland House offers an extremely rare opportunity for an ambitious individual or family to acquire one of York’s finest buildings and create one of the North of England’s best private homes. “Positioned in a fantastic location on the riverfront, Cumberland House is rightly considered to be of exceptional national architectural and historical importance, and we fully expect to receive interest from across the UK and overseas.”

Tom Riddolls, development surveyor at Helmsley Group, added: “By placing Cumberland House on the market alongside this residential conversion planning application, we are not only sensitively preserving its important architecture and heritage but enabling people to enjoy and benefit from the building for generations to come.

“As outlined in our vision for the regeneration of Coney Street and its neighbouring riverside, we are committed to striking the delicate balance between transformation and heritage protection when it comes to development within York, as a means of further enhancing the city’s unique and historic character.”

Interest in buying a home in York is still high and its top end properties continue to attract attention from hybrid workers in London as the train journey to the capital is around two hours.

For details on Cumberland House contact Helmsley Group, visit: www.helmsley.co.uk.