Top of the shops: A piece of TV history goes on sale

The tourist attraction, which sells souvenirs, outdoor clothing and ice cream, became a star of the small screen in 1992.

Once known as Goathland stores, the Heartbeat set designers dressed it with Sixties signage, which is now a permament fixture.

During the 12 years of filming, the store was often used as a location. It saw fights, break-ins and even a bomb blast when the special effects crew blew out one of the front windows in a huge explosion.

The three-bedroom flat upstairs was used as district nurse Maggie Bolton’s home in series five of the hugely popular programme.

Owners Phil and Ros Hopkinson bought the property in 1993 two years after the series began and are selling up after 22 years behind the counter. They are leaving with a host of Heartbeat memories.

“We already owned a gift shop in the village and we wanted to expand. The shop was used for filming, although mainly it was just the outside.

“We got to know the cast and crew, and there have been a lot of famous faces through the door, including Alan Price and Frances de la Tour. We are still in touch with a few Heartbeat stars including David Lonsdale, who played David, and Bill Maynard, who was Greengrass.

“He used to come in for the diabetic ice-cream we sold. Derek Fowlds, who played Oscar Blaketon, popped in a couple of days ago,” said Phil.

Although the series ended in 2010, its popularity continues and attracts thousands of fans to the village.

“It was sold to 40 countries so we get visitors from all over the world, including Norway, Australia and Canada. They all ask the same question, ‘Why did they stop making Heartbeat?’” said Phil.

Aidensfield Stores, the three-bedroom accommodation above and a separate lock-up gift shop, White Rose Crafts, are on the market for £495,000 with York-based agent Barry Crux.

Rosie Crux said: “This is a hugely successful business in a fantastic location and is part of TV history. It is not only a thriving business but also provides a purchaser the chance to benefit from a unique lifestyle in the heart of North Yorkshire.”

There may also be an option to buy a share in the Ford Anglia panda car parked outside. Phil and Ros own half of it with their neighbour. It is used as a photo opportunity for visitors and has a charity collection bucket attached to it.

“It’s not the original one from Heartbeat but visitors love it and it has raised £23,000 for charity over the years,” says Phil.