Sun Street, Hitchin, SG5

Property Insight:

Merryfields was a well-known and much-loved presence in Hitchin’s historic town centre.  An independent, family-run shop, it specialised in selling maps, greetings cards and printed publications for over 60 years.  Located on Sun Street – one of Hitchin’s best known and most historic locations – the building is steeped in history.  Located close to the iconic Hitchin Priory and nestled amongst impressive Georgian buildings, Merryfields has a unique identity all of its own.

Set over three floors (inc loft room), the mixed-use property covers just under 2,900 sqft in total and provides an incredible opportunity for the right buyer - someone who isn’t fazed by the idea of a complete and extensive renovation project.

This former shop was once two separate units and still has two separate entrances on Sun Street.  Despite needing a lot of TLC, the property has an attractive frontage with character details, including two angled bay windows on the ground floor and sash windows on the first floor. 

Inside, the shop floor measures 34’ in width and extends back over 24’ at its furthest point, offering a generous amount of floor space and great potential for a variery of business uses.  Set behind the shop floor is a storage area, lobby and large office with access to the rear of the property, as well as exclusive access to a private internal courtyard.  Although in a poor state currently, this outside space could become a hidden gem of a sun trap once restored.  Beyond the office is a storeroom that also houses a WC (with an aesthetic that is more 1970s than Georgian).  A well-proportioned kitchen plus an additional room of a similar size both have direct outside access.

On the first floor is the living accommodation, in keeping with the traditional layout of a historic shop.  The entrance hall leads off to reception rooms which are currently in a state of total disrepair but have some lovely period features, including original beams which run across the ceilings and provide partial separation between the rooms – it’s easy to imagine how stunning the space could be once renovated.  There are five well-proportioned and versatile rooms in total, plus a shower room.  On the second floor is a large loft room measuring 13’ by 22’. 

Additionally, the property has a two-storey annexe with a separate entrance to the rear of the premises.  With an upstairs shower room and double bedroom, it’s another useful and versatile space.

It does take some imagination to see past the current state of the property but it has fantastic potential, and we’ve no doubt that the right buyer will restore it to its former glory in this historic spot.  Survey available upon request.

Location:

Hitchin continues to be one of Hertfordshire’s most desirable towns.  With excellent transport links (fast trains to London Kings Cross take just 28 minutes and Cambridge just 33 minutes), Hitchin often features as one of the best places to live in the UK.  The town centre offers a wide selection of independent shops, pubs and restaurants, as well as a market, and has a thriving local community.  Hitchin also benefits from several schools which are rated outstanding, including the historic and renowned Hitchin Girls’ and Hitchin Boys’ schools.

These particulars are intended to give a fair and reliable description of the property but no responsibility for any inaccuracy or error can be accepted and do not constitute an offer or contract. We have not tested any services or appliances (including central heating if fitted) referred to in these particulars and the purchasers are advised to satisfy themselves as to the working order and condition. If a property is unoccupied at any time there may be reconnection charges for any switched off/disconnected or drained services or appliances. All measurements are approximate. Please note that one of the bedrooms has had a carpet added virtually for buyers to see how the room would look finished.