Secluded cottage in Durham, historic abode where Oliver Cromwell consumed mead and envisioned grand insurrections, now available for purchase.
Nestled in the heart of Barnard Castle, England, Blagraves stands as the town's oldest residence, constructed before 1482. With a rich and varied history, this Grade I-listed property has been listed for sale at £485,000 as of July 2025.
Originally owned by Richard III, Blagraves later became the Boar’s Head Inn, a place where Oliver Cromwell reportedly visited in the 17th century. In 1725, it was purchased by fishmonger William Tomlinson for £125 and one shilling, who added many features from the 17th and 18th centuries.
During the latter part of the 18th century, the attic of Blagraves served as a clandestine meeting point for followers of John Wesley, the Methodist movement leader. Over time, the building functioned as a ropemaker’s, baker’s, and shoemaker’s shop. After WWII, it became a museum called the ‘House of Mystery’.
The current incarnation of Blagraves is a mixed-use residence with three to four bedrooms, combining historic charm with modern usability. It features a charming courtyard garden, a spacious cellar once used as a brewery with a well, and 20th-century minstrel figures on its frontage. The ground floor has previously served as an antiques shop, café, and gallery.
Planning approval for a studio annexe at Blagrave is pending, making it a potential space for an artist's studio with accommodation upstairs. The ground floor could also be used as a potter's workshop.
For more information, visit Inigo's website. Lotte Brundle, the Digital Writer for the platform, joined in 2025 after working as a sub-editor for The Times and The Sunday Times.
As the second oldest building in Barnard Castle after its namesake, Blagraves offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of history. Its previous visitors include Richard III and Oliver Cromwell, making it a fascinating home for those who appreciate the past.
The historic residence of Blagraves, with its rich past and intriguing history, presents an opportunity for lifestyle investors seeking a unique property. Aside from being listed for sale at £485,000, it offers potential for home-and-garden enthusiasts, with a charming courtyard garden and a spacious cellar that could be transformed with a touch of modern investing in real-estate.
