Member Article

Grade II listed St Clare’s Abbey in Darlington brought to market for first time

St Clare’s Abbey in Darlington is being brought to market for the first time in its 160 year history, by the Specialist Markets team at Leeds-based CBRE.

The Grade II listed building and its 6 acre grounds, located on Carmel North Road one mile west of Darlington town centre, is seeking offers in excess of £1.5m.

The Abbey was built in 1856-7 and designed by Joseph and Charles Hansom in the Victorian Gothic Revival style they were famous for. Joseph Hansom was a York born-architect of significant reputation in the middle 18th century.

The Abbey is constructed of red brick under multi pitched slate roofs extending in parts to 3 floors. The design was based on cloistered quadrangles and this original layout still exists, offering potential for small communal gardens as part of a residential development.

The main building is set within grounds extending to 6 acres benefitting from an impressive brick wall surrounding the boundary on 3 sides. The Abbey sits near to the northern boundary of the site with approximately 1.5 acres of developable land to the rear and side. Internally the building retains many original features which could be incorporated into a successful conversion of the property.

Sam Frankland, of CBRE, said: “St Clare’s Abbey is a unique instruction, unlikely to be repeated in my career. It is a delight to walk around this property and the potential is self-evident.

“With careful consideration for the history and architecture of this building, I believe a developer can create an outstanding development and secure the future of the Abbey for another 150 years.”

St Clare’s Abbey is offered for sale on a freehold basis with vacant possession.