Hidden Gems: Unusual Cornwall Properties Snapped Up at Auction

A collection of unique properties and land across Cornwall has been sold at auction, with a former bomb shelter and a former ice-cream parlour among the eclectic mix that went under the hammer.

Torpoint Bomb Shelter Draws Attention

A former bomb shelter in Downderry, near Torpoint, sold for £30,000, exceeding its guide price of £25,000. Measuring 13m by 3m inside and featuring its own parking space, this unusual property caught the eye of bidders. James Lofthouse, Auction Appraiser, commented that the shelter’s coastal village location and sea views were key attractions. More details here.

Former Bank in St Austell Transformed

A substantial commercial premises in St Austell, once a bank and later a training centre, sold for £150,000. The Duke Street property has planning permission for six flats and a commercial unit, which pushed the final bid above the guide price of £140,000. Auctioneer David Henwood noted the strong interest in the building, indicating potential for residential development or other uses, subject to consents.

Land with a History

Land at Biscovellett, near St Austell, sold for £39,000, slightly above its £35,000 guide price. The 6.61-acre plot includes a former quarry, adding a layer of intrigue to this rural acquisition. View the property here.

Coastal Properties Find New Owners

A detached three-bedroom house in Carlyon Bay fetched £370,000. Though in need of some decoration, the property offers potential for enhancement. Meanwhile, in Carbis Bay, a three/four bedroom bungalow requiring renovation saw fierce bidding, ultimately selling for £120,305, far surpassing its guide price of £35,000. The property’s proximity to St Ives made it a desirable choice for potential developers.

Marazion Houses Exceed Expectations

Two properties in need of updating in Marazion sold for £266,500, significantly above their combined guide of £195,000. Located in Fore Street, these homes are a stone’s throw from St Michael’s Mount and could be transformed into a family home or lucrative holiday lets.

Redruth Investment Property

A mixed-use investment property in Redruth’s Fore Street sold for £111,000. Comprising two commercial units and a three-bedroom flat, the fully-let property provides an annual income of £12,000, offering the new owner an immediate return on investment.

Bude Ice-Cream Parlour Scooped Up

A shop previously used as an ice-cream parlour in Bude sold for £45,000, a substantial increase from its £25,000 guide price. Its location on The Crescent, near Bude Tourist Information Centre, added to its appeal for potential buyers.

Garage and Cottage Sales

A lock-up garage in Hayle hit its guide price of £10,000, while a detached single-storey cottage next to a playpark in Bodmin fetched £93,600, well above its £75,000 guide. The Old Cottage offers the new owner various possibilities for development.

Next Cornwall Property Auction in October

The next Clive Emson Auctioneers event will be held online, starting on 30 October and concluding on 1st November. Entries for lots close on 7th October, with the catalogue available from 11th October. For more information, visit Clive Emson Auctioneers.

Clive Emson Auctioneers holds eight auctions each year, offering specialist advice and services across southern England. The company is one of the top four auctioneers in the UK by volume and value of residential sales.

For a full list of properties sold and to see what’s coming up, check here.