A centuries-old historic property in Gwynedd, Wales, is currently up for auction with a starting bid of £17,000, presenting a unique opportunity for restoration enthusiasts. The property, known as Ty Du, is a "ruined shell" dating back approximately 400 years and is situated in the wooded foothills near Llanberis, close to Yr Wyddfa, also known as Snowdon.
The historical significance of Ty Du stretches back to the 13th Century. Records indicate it was once owned by the Goodman family of Ruthin. In 1650, Godfrey Goodman, the Bishop of Gloucester, was reportedly banished to the property by Oliver Cromwell due to his religious beliefs. Over subsequent centuries, the house also served as a residence for north Wales' strongest man and, in the 19th Century, for a poet named Dewi Arfon, according to Auction House.
The property's current state is described as a "ruined shell," notably lacking a roof, which is a significant factor in its low asking price amidst a soaring property market. The surrounding area is densely wooded, with ivy and moss covering the stone walls of the ruin.
The sale presents a notable contrast to typical property market trends, where homes in desirable locations often command much higher prices. The appeal of Ty Du lies in its historical character and potential for renovation, rather than its current condition.
