A FORMER vicarage in Penzance described as one of the town’s “most important and majestic houses” is up for sale by instruction of the Diocese of Truro.

Constructed in 1701, the Grade II* listed building at 24, Chapel Street was attached to the nearby Church of St Mary and last came onto the market in 1896.

The house boasts three storeys with upper floor sea views, and the grand interior displays beautiful details including moulded ceilings, panelled walls, Tuscan columns and a turning staircase rising through the centre of the property.

However, it has lain empty for two years, replaced as the home for the vicar of Penzance by more modern and practical clergy accommodation.

A diocesan spokesperson said the vicarage came from “a generation of large grand clergy residences that are no longer appropriate for modern parish ministry”.

While the diocese had been keen to explore other potential uses, including with Cornwall Council and housing associations, "the building’s listed status, the complexity and cost of any conversion, and the tight restrictions on modernisation in a conservation area have proven too challenging for the parish, diocese and other partners”, leading the property to be offered for sale.

“The house is an important asset to the town and the church, and decisions on its future are not made lightly,” said the spokesperson, adding that proceeds would be used to support ministry in the diocese.

Andrew Chilcott, director of agents Lillicrap Chilcott, said it was “unusual” to see a historic house on the market with so many original features intact. “It's a lovely opportunity for someone who wants to restore a fine period house in an excellent location and become its next custodian.”

The Old Vicarage will be sold by formal tender on April 9 at a guide price in excess of £850,000. Interested parties should email [email protected]