London, 13 January 2014, An early 19th century farmhouse in a secluded estate, next to the longest continuous stretch of Hadrian's Wall, is up for auction with agents Carter Jonas. The guide price is £700,000.

Underheugh Farm at Gilsland in Cumbria, is a former farmstead, 500m from Birdoswald Roman Fort. The river Irthing, renowned for its wild brown trout and grayling and a major tributary of the river Eden, lies on its southern boundary.

 

The two bedroom farmhouse, with many original features such as slab stone floors, stone sconces and quoin stones now needs renovating and updating. It has been unoccupied for the last 30 years. Subject to the necessary consent, there is scope for improvement and extension using the adjoining outbuildings, set around a courtyard, with former vegetable and flower gardens.

"This property is absolutely unique," said Helen Lancaster, from property consultancy Carter Jonas in Kendal. 'It is rare to find something that combines this level of solitude and development potential in such a beautiful and historic location.'

"The river banks and their immediate surroundings are designated a SSSI. There is a wonderful rare sandbank, home to over 70 pairs of sand martins, and the ancient woodland has Roe deer, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Blackcaps and Willow Warblers and other rare flora and fauna."

"It is has the potential to create a special home, rural business or unique retreat. We are giving people time to visit it and explore its potential ahead of a sale by auction in Spring next year."

Local amenities include a primary school at Gilsland and Lanercost and a Post Office and local amenities at Brampton. There is a good selection of secondary schools in the area and the larger villages/town of Hexham and Carlise are just 30 minutes away, as is Kielder Forest and Reservoir the largest of its type in Europe.

Appointment only open days are being organised by Carter Jonas for anyone interested in viewing the estate. The first is on Friday 17 January 2014 and then Friday 31 January.

Please contact Helen Lancaster at Carter Jonas Kendal, 01539 722592, for more details.

The estate is being sold by English Heritage in order to realise funds to support the upkeep and improvements of properties in its care.