Historic house up for sale

Most of the building is from the 17th and 18th Centuries

A historic Northampton landmark is going on sale after standing vacant for several years.

Delapre Abbey, built on the site of a 12th Century nunnery, opens its doors to prospective buyers on Wednesday.

Northampton Borough Council is now inviting sealed bids for the Grade II* listed building, most of which dates from the 17th and 18th Centuries.

Its park is the site of one of the 13th Century crosses erected to mark the resting places for the body of Queen Eleanor as it was transported to London for burial.

The building is Grade II* listed

It is also famed as the site of the Battle of Northampton in 1460 during the War of the Roses.

The abbey was bought by Northampton Borough Council after World War II and became home to its records office.

A spokeswoman for the council said it was important to find a buyer "sympathetic" to the building's historical significance.

Prospective buyers will have to submit their plans for the building, which will be checked to ensure they comply with conservation regulations.