In the picturesque village of Longstanton, a Cambridgeshire mansion, with roots tracing back to 1905, is poised for auction, presenting an enticing opportunity with a guide price ranging from £100,000 to £125,000.
This age-old property, located six miles north of Cambridge, is set within an expansive acre of land and comes adorned with numerous outbuildings.
However, the grandeur of its history stands in stark contrast to its current state of dereliction.
A Grand Past and a Series of Ownership Transitions
This once-stately residence, known as “Redlands,” was originally constructed for a seed merchant.
In 1910, it passed into the hands of a stockbroker who, tragically, faced financial ruin during the stock market crash of 1929.
At its zenith, Redlands boasted 16 rooms, featuring eight bedrooms along with quarters for servants.
The entrance, grand in itself, showcases stone steps leading to spacious reception areas, adorned with intricate mosaic flooring, colossal fireplaces, and an extensive cellar.
Auctioned Relic of a Bygone Era
Scheduled for auction through Cheffins Auctioneers in Cambridge on Wednesday, September 27, this property has not seen occupants since the 1950s.
Its subsequent use was relegated to agricultural storage until it succumbed to multiple fires, resulting in its current state of disrepair.
Today, only remnants of what was once a local marvel stand amid the overgrown garden.
A Storied Past and a Dream Deferred
After enduring a series of ownership changes, Redlands came under the possession of Mr. Keith Tyler, who inherited it from his father, the original purchaser in 1959 for a mere £900.
Mr. Tyler’s father harbored ambitions of renovating the property, amassing an extensive collection of building materials and various other items over the years.
However, time eventually overtook his ability to fulfill this dream, and he passed away in 2007 at the age of 100.
A Call for Restoration and Rebirth
Over time, Redlands suffered further misfortunes, including two more fires, the most devastating of which occurred in 1996, obliterating internal floors, most rooms, and what remained of the original roof.
Mr. Tyler’s hope is that someone with a passion for Redlands’ historical charm and potential will step forward to restore it to its former glory.
The property now lies concealed beneath dense overgrowth, but the promise of its revival remains.
An Exclusive Opportunity Awaits
Despite the need for substantial clearing and renovation, Redlands presents a captivating prospect for the right buyer.
Accessible via a private bridge, this secluded property is situated in a fairytale-like setting just outside Longstanton, a village offering essential amenities and services.
In addition to Redlands’ acreage, there is an adjoining two acres of land also up for auction.
Ian Kitson of Cheffins sees this as a remarkable opportunity, be it for the resurrection of its former splendor or the creation of something entirely new in a highly sought-after location.
A Historic Gem Awaits a New Chapter
Hidden from view, Redlands holds the promise of transformation and a future that preserves its historical significance.
The auction, scheduled for September 27 at 2 pm, will be conducted online via Cheffins, marking the beginning of the next chapter in the story of Redlands.
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