A STUNNING grade II listed building in West Cumbria, which has traded in the hospitality sector, is applying to the council to revert back to a residence.

Camerton Hall, in Camerton, near Seaton, is a Georgian manor house, set in 6.56 acres and until recently, in addition to a residence, has been a luxury wedding venue and offered afternoon teas in a private function venue.

On October 12, Richard Cole, one of the present owners, submitted a change of use application to Allerdale council to convert the three ground floor rooms back to its original use as a single private dwelling.

This will be done by removing the mixed business/hospitality use.

Richard and Faith Cole, have been at the property for the last 12 years.

Mr Cole said: "We were coming up to full retirement and have decided to sell.

"We have thoroughly enjoyed living at Camerton Hall.

"But the virus has killed the business. We are looking forward to moving out now.

"We are about to exchange contracts this week."

The property went on the market in August this year, with a guide price of £1.2m.

The hall was built on the site of a stone house dating back to the 15th century and had a pele tower.

There are links to Thomas Curwen, known as Black Tom, whose life-size effigy lies in St Peter's Church at Camerton, which is also a grade II listed building. The church is quite close to the hall.

The Cooke family came in to possession of the property in 1719 and in 1833 the family rebuilt the hall where it stands today.

An extension was added in the early 20th century.

The stately hall has been maintained to an incredibly high standard by the owners and has retained period features throughout.

These include high ceilings, plenty of Art Nouveau features and marble fireplaces.

The ground floor has five reception rooms, which include a grand banqueting hall, a billiard room, drawing room, sitting room and bar/lounge.

There are two kitchens, two utility rooms, nine bedrooms, play room and several bathrooms.

Outside are landscaped gardens and a walled kitchen garden.

The consultation period will run until November 12.

The application can be found on the Allerdale council planning portal under FUL/2020/0217.