The Sawmill Cafe & Farm Shop, Nether Wasdale, Seascale, CA20 1ET

The Sawmill Café and Farm Shop is a beautifully restored historic building. Originally a working sawmill dating back to the 1800s, the property has been sympathetically renovated to retain its industrial heritage while offering modern hospitality facilities.

The building incorporates original stonework, exposed beams, and metalwork, complemented by contemporary design elements such as a glass floor with views of the river flowing beneath.

Positioned on the banks of the River Irt, the property features a working waterwheel and millrace running through the heart of the building, creating a truly distinctive atmosphere.

Spacious seating inside (c.82 covers) with rustic charm, plus a covered veranda (seating for 24 guests) and landscaped garden for outdoor dining.

Guests can enjoy views of the river and surrounding countryside.

A well-stocked retail space offering locally sourced produce, artisan goods, gifts, and specialty items, supporting small Lake District producers.

Ancillary areas include: Fully equipped kitchen, customer restrooms, and storage areas designed for efficient operation.

The Sawmill Café and Farm Shop is set in the heart of Wasdale, one of the Lake District’s most iconic and breathtaking valleys. This area is renowned for its dramatic landscapes and natural wonders, including England’s highest mountain, Scafell Pike, and its deepest lake, Wastwater.

The valley includes charming hamlets such as Wasdale Head and Nether Wasdale, and is accessed primarily via the A595 coastal route through the village of Gosforth. Despite its rural feel, Wasdale is well connected to nearby attractions like Muncaster Castle, the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway, and the Cumbrian coast.

The Sawnill Cafe and Farm Shop enjoys an idyllic riverside position on the banks of the River Irt, complete with a working waterwheel and millrace that run through the building, creating a truly unique and picturesque setting.

Fixtures and fittings are included in the sale (excluding those personal to the Seller) subject to an inventory.

Irt Cottage is a charming stone-fronted detached property located next to the Sawmill Cafe.

Ideal for owner accommodation or as a profitable holiday let in a high-demand area.

The property comprises of:

Sitting Room: Features a woodburning stove, TV, and snug area for reading or board games.

Kitchen/Diner: Fully equipped with electric oven, hob, microwave, fridge/freezer, dishwasher, and washing machine.

Bedrooms: 2 doubles and 1 twin room, ideal for flexible sleeping arrangements.

Bathrooms: Ground-floor shower room and a family bathroom with bath and shower.

Utility Area: Convenient for storing outdoor gear and cleaning up after walks.

Asking Price: £585,000

The property benefits from well maintained and landscaped outdoor seating areas (c.40 customers), and offers much scope for expansion.

Ample on-site parking for visitors (approx 35 cars) with a public carpark nearby.

Set in the heart of the Lake District National Park, this exceptional package combines a thriving hospitality business with a charming holiday cottage, offering dual income streams and an enviable lifestyle in one of England’s most iconic destinations.

The Sawmill Café and Farm Shop is more than a business—it’s a destination, renowned for its character, quality, and community appeal. With scope to expand through weddings and private events, extended trading hours, enhanced dining options, and retail growth, the potential for increased revenue is significant.

Additional opportunities include developing glamping pods or lodges on the generous plot (STPP) and creating experiential offerings such as cookery classes or adventure packages.

Complemented by Irt Cottage, a traditional three-bedroom property ideal for owner accommodation or holiday letting, this opportunity provides flexibility and added income in a world-class location.

Perfect for owner-operators seeking a profitable venture with room to grow and a lifestyle few can match.

The Wasdale Sawmill is a highly profitable business with significant turnover and profit from limited trading hours. Figures and accounts supplied in confidence to serious parties.

At present the venue is shut for 5 - 6 weeks each year (January and early February) and is largely open only 6 days a week being closed on a Tuesday.

The trading hours are 9.00am to 4.30pm with the kitchen operating service from 9.30am to 3.00pm.

The Rateable Value is £19,250 with effect from 1 April 2026. Confirmation of actual business rates payable should be obtained from the Local Authority.

Premises Licence