Moresby Hall, Whitehaven, CA28

A rare opportunity to acquire an exceptional Grade I Listed mansion house occupying a convenient position on the west Cumbrian coast, set within beautifully landscaped grounds. Dating from 1620, the property has been extended to the rear and has most recently operated as a successful hotel.

Importantly, this is not simply a hotel opportunity. The property could also make an exceptional and highly individual family home, subject to the necessary consents. With its substantial accommodation, generous grounds, period features and impressive entertaining spaces, it offers the scale and flexibility to create a truly unique private residence.

The property is approached via a sweeping driveway, with attractive gardens surrounding the mansion to create a private and picturesque setting. To the side is a substantial summer house, which could provide an excellent entertaining space, home office, studio, gym or additional leisure area. A walled paddock to the eastern boundary provides further land and potential, subject to planning.

The main house retains a wealth of charm and character. A grand entrance hall and reception area leads to a newly installed bar on the right and a spacious dining room to the left. A commercial kitchen is also installed, while an original wooden staircase provides access to the upper floors.

Currently configured as a hotel, the property offers 13 generously proportioned en-suite guest bedrooms, including three impressive four-poster rooms. There is also potential to create a further two bedrooms on the top floor, potentially forming a substantial family suite, subject to the necessary consents.

Over the past three years, the restaurant, bar and many guest areas have been extensively refurbished, while a number of the bedrooms have also been updated. This provides a fantastic foundation for a purchaser looking to continue the existing hospitality use, explore an alternative commercial venture or, subject to the relevant permissions, transform the property into an impressive family residence.

EV charging facilities have been installed to the rear for hotel guests.

The whole site is held within two separate Land Registry title numbers, with the relevant title plans available within the property particulars.

Location

Whitehaven, with a resident population of approximately 25,000 with Workington, approximately 8 miles north, is one of the main population centres for West Cumbria.

Whitehaven is the predominant town in the Copeland Borough Council area (now Cumberland Council incorporating Carlisle and Allerdale) and is the nearest population centre to the Sellafield Nuclear Reprocessing Plant, the largest employment site in Cumbria, situated approximately 10 miles south. The town provides a good range of local amenities, plus the relatively recent town centre office development - Albion Square.

The subject property is located immediately off the A595, approximately two miles north of Whitehaven and 12 miles south-west of Cockermouth and close to the Lake District National Park.

Services

The property is connected to mains water, drainage, electricity and gas. Various meters and boilers serve the building currently.

Current Planning Use Class

Currently use class C1. Other uses may be possible subject to consents; contact the Local Authority for enquiries.

Application 4/26/2187/0L1 is at final stages, seeking five 3–4 bedroom houses to the rear (north) of the hall and three holiday lets in the existing barns (potential for a fourth).

Final comments and agreement are being addressed ahead of a decision. Latest information available on request.

Sale Price

The freehold property and business, Moresby Hall Country House Hotel Limited (Company Number 14810799), are offered for sale at £1.25 million.

The sale includes Title Number CU122208, fixtures and fittings, trade name, goodwill and stock. Plus the adjoining land to the rear, held under Title Number CU162234, and may offer future development potential, subject to planning.

Business Rates

The Valuation Office Agency website describes the property as Hotel and Premises with a 2026 List Rateable Value of £13,000.
The Small Business RHL Non-Domestic Rate multiplier for the 2026/27 rate year is 38.2p in the £.

Interested parties are advised to make their own enquiries with the local authority to confirm the rates payable.

Energy Performance Certificate

The property benefits from an EPC showing an Energy Rating of C-62.

VAT

We understand VAT is not payable on the purchase price.

Costs

Both parties will bear their own legal and professional costs involved in the transaction.

Viewings

Strictly by appointment with the joint agents, Carigiet Cowen and Grisdale’s, via prior arrangement.

Further Information

For further information, please contact:

Ben Blain
T:


Scott Freeman-Wooding
T:

Garden

Set within around 2 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, the property enjoys wonderful lawned gardens, attractive terraces and seating areas, an extensive timber-built summerhouse, and generous parking with a sweeping driveway, turning circle and large rear car park. The outside space is ideal for relaxing, entertaining guests or supporting a variety of commercial uses.

Parking - Driveway

Disclaimer

The illustrations and images within this brochure include a combination of artist's impressions, computer generated images and photographs of show homes and completed properties. They are intended for illustrative purposes only and may not relate to the specific property or house type featured. This brochure does not constitute or form part of any contract of sale. All measurements, floor plans and dimensions are provided as a guide only and may vary during the construction process. They should not be relied upon for the placement of furniture, appliances, carpets or other furnishings. Specifications, layouts, fixtures, fittings and finishes are subject to change. Prospective purchasers should confirm the exact specification, dimensions and finishes for their chosen property with the developer or sales representative before proceeding.