Shepherd sets closing date on sale of birthplace of Peter Pan in Dumfries
Shepherd Chartered Surveyors has set a closing date of 12:00 noon on Thursday 3rd October on the sale of Moat Brae visitor centre in Dumfries, the birthplace of Peter Pan.
A wonderfully designed and re-imagined house with ‘enchanted lands’ that lay claim as the genesis of J.M. Barrie’s classic story, Peter Pan, the Category B listed building was originally designed by Walter Newall as a private residential dwelling in 1823.
Such was its grandeur that at one time the property was known as ‘Number One Dumfries’.
During its use as a residential dwelling, the author and playwright J.M. Barrie is said to have befriended the children who resided here while he studied at the nearby Dumfries Academy. It is from these visits, and especially his time in the gardens, which he later alluded provided inspiration toward one of the world’s most famous children’s novels.
The building was subsequently used as a private nursing home for most of the 20th century before closing in 1997 and then falling into disrepair. In 2009, the property was saved from demolition and afterward re-opened as a visitor centre in 2019, following an extensive multi-million-pound redevelopment project.
Moat Brae visitor centre lies around 200 yards from Dumfries’ pedestrianised High Street and is therefore easily accessible yet retains a strong sense of seclusion from its woodland gardens.
Free public parking and public transport links are available within a short walking distance.
The imposing building of literary and architectural importance set in a large riverside plot, is a linked four storey property offering a mix of cellular and open-plan accommodation with modern access and welfare provision, while preserving outstanding architectural features such as a first-floor rotunda and domed skylight set above the main entrance hall.
In its current configuration, the accommodation includes a ground floor café and ground floor function suite, exhibition space over all four floors, as well as staff welfare facilities, customer toilets, kitchen, and plant room at basement level.
There is parking for up to five cars at the front of the property.
Fraser Carson, Associate at Shepherd, said: “The comprehensive refurbishment of this local landmark has ensured it remains a discernible feature of Dumfries’ historic town centre.
“The story attached to this building, its setting and exceptional condition offer a unique opportunity to create a new chapter as a national visitor attraction.
“Alternatively, the adaptable layout and first-rate accessibility provide scope for alternative uses that would allow the property to continue playing its part in supporting the local community.
Interested parties should contact the sole selling agent on 01387 264333.
ENDS
For further information please contact Fraser Carson on tel 01387 264333
