A rare opportunity to acquire a truly magnificent Grade II listed Tudor-style building occupying a prime position in the very centre of the popular Somerset town of Wiveliscombe. Located opposite the town library and adjoining established estate agency offices, the property enjoys exceptional prominence and visibility in a thriving market town serving a wide rural hinterland.
Known as The Courthouse, this iconic building dates back to 1881 and was originally constructed as a family home for the affluent brewer William Hancock II. The historic façade features decorative red tiles, carved wooden panels, mythical animals and stylised fruit, with the original date still visible, making this one of the town’s most recognisable landmark buildings.
Throughout the 20th century, the property has enjoyed a wide variety of uses including a British Restaurant during World War II, a bank branch (with the original vault still in situ), the town library, professional offices, and a dental surgery. More recently, it has been operated as a highly successful interiors store with a licensed restaurant and events space centred around a striking galleried atrium.
The ground floor benefits from impressive double-fronted shop windows, accessed via a recessed porch and inner lobby. Internally, the building is arranged around a dramatic open heavy timber stairwell that rises through all three floors, creating a light-filled central display space. The surrounding minstrel-style galleried landings are ideal for art display, exhibitions, or retail presentation.
The first floor provides five rooms used for retail purposes, extending to approximately 929 sq ft. The top floor offers a further five rooms, currently used for storage, totalling approximately 833 sq ft. There is also access to a large attic space via an inner lobby, measuring approximately 49 ft wide by 14 ft 5 in deep, with three dormer windows to the front. In addition, the basement contains a useful strong room of approximately 33 sq ft.
The property is offered for sale as a vacant freehold building, presenting outstanding potential for a variety of future uses. It would suit retail, gallery, exhibition space, café or restaurant use, subject to the necessary planning and listed building consents. There is also scope to convert the upper floors back to residential accommodation, again subject to the relevant permissions.
This is a unique opportunity to acquire a historic and versatile building of real architectural and commercial significance in one of Somerset’s most attractive market towns. Viewing is strictly by appointment and is strongly recommended.
