A Lake District hotel is on the market for the first time in over 50 years as the owners plan to retire.

Offers in the region of £2.75m are being sought for Scafell Hotel, one of the Lake District’s famous country hotels, by real estate advisors Colliers.

Julian Troup, head of UK Hotels Agency, is handling the sale of the former 18th century coaching inn on behalf of Colliers where consideration could also be given to lease agreement on the property and business.

Acquired by the current owners in 1971, it is now more than 50 years since the renowned establishment was last made available for sale. The owners have now decided to sell the property ahead of retirement.

The hotel was built originally as a private residence for the artist Mary Barker who is one of the first women on record to scale nearby Scafell Pike alongside William Wordsworth’s sister Dorothy.

The property sits in around five acres of grounds with 23 en-suite bedrooms, a characterful 60-cover restaurant, lounges, and self-contained Riverside Bar with seating for 50 which is popular with locals and hotel residents. There is also ample parking on site.

Scafell Hotel is located in the village of Rosthwaite. Its backdrop of Lakeland fells including Great Gable, Dale Head, High Spy, Scafell Pike and Great End, provide a particular attraction to seasoned fell walkers, while its close proximity to the banks of the River Derwent appeal equally to those seeking a gentler stroll. It was often frequented by inventor and engineer Sir Barnes Wallis and his wife between the 1920s and 1970s, who used to spend their time in the fell.

There is scope for the establishment of four “glamping” pods within the paddock, as part of the inn’s substantial grounds which extends to almost five acres.

Julian Troup said: “Scafell Hotel is a very well-known Lakeland trading hospitality business that we believe will attract significant interest. Colliers has sold more than 50 hotels in the region and associated hospitality businesses since the beginning of 2021 and I am sure Scafell will soon be added to that list of successful sales.”

The property also boasts a self-contained one-bedroom owner or managers flat on the first floor, with a lounge, dining room, and ensuite bathroom as well as three staff bedrooms with a shared communal bathroom.