A Grade II listed antique property that served the bristol community for more than 50 years has hit the market for £325,000.
The rare building, situated on Colston Street just yards from the historic Christmas Steps, dates back to the 17th century and was once a former merchant house where traders conducted business after unloading their cargo at the bottom of the steps. It later became a butcher shop.
The family-run business was owned by Tara Potter’s parents in the late 60s. Her father Brian Potter later took full ownership of the business which he ran as an antique and coin shop until his death earlier this year aged 92.
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She said the loss of her father is “a real wrench” and having to sell the historical building is “heartbreaking”.
“It's not nice having to sell the place your parents loved so much and I just wish that I could keep it going but I can't afford to. He [her father] was part of the fixtures and fittings and was quite the character,” she added.
The property has an 18th-century curved window on the shop front, a basement shop level and living accommodation on the three floors above which feature three bedrooms, a kitchen and a bathroom. According to the Rightmove listing: “To the rear is a charming walled garden with views across the city centre. There is scope for a variety of different potential uses for the building, subject to consent.”
It continues: “Set amongst an eclectic mix of independent and specialist retailers as well as a number of food and drink outlets, the property is ideally positioned for everything that Bristol city centre has to offer.”
Ms Potter said she does not believe the business is something that she is able to continue running but is determined to remain open until its final closure on November 17 when it will be auctioned online at 6.00 pm.
“I just want somebody to buy it and give it some love because it deserves it. It's a superb building and a real part of history. It’s the end of an era and it's time to hand it over to the next custodians,” she added.
Customers are still able to visit the store to buy vintage items, commemoratives and cabinets.
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