THE search is on find a partner to breathe new life into a derelict Barrow building.

English Heritage has launched a search for a partner to help bring the Grade II-listed Furness Abbey Tavern building back into use.

The Grade II-listed Furness Abbey Tavern building was originally constructed as a manor house before it was extended and converted to a hotel run by the railway company which transported visitors to Furness Abbey.

In the 1950s British Rail demolished two wings. Following the closure of the tavern, the building was acquired by English Heritage in 2014.

English Heritage, which is the charity responsible for Furness Abbey, is working with property specialists Fleurets to conduct the search for a partner to bring the building back into meaningful use.

With an area of approximately 500 square metres the tavern was previously configured as five letting rooms, a bar servery, trade kitchen and toilets, alongside an area previously dedicated as private owner’s accommodation.

English Heritage’s property manager for Cumbria, Juliet Fellows-Smith, said the building has 'huge potential' for those willing to bring the site into the next phase of its history.

“We’ve recently launched our search for a partner to help us breathe new life into the Furness Abbey Tavern building," she said.

“We’re looking for someone who is interested in taking on the opportunities presented by this unique building on a long or short lease and can commit to delivering the investment needed to help it thrive during the next phase of its history.

“The building has huge potential and I would encourage anyone with an interest to make contact with our agents to book a viewing.”