Bembridge Harbour-front land has boatbuilding past

A unique boatyard with spectacular views of one of the Isle of Wight’s harbours has just come onto the market.

The Old Mill Quay at St Helens (UK) is unusual for its panoramic views of picturesque Bembridge Harbour and nearby downland.

The sale is a rare opportunity to buy property on the harbour. It is the last remaining parcel of freehold land likely to come onto the market – the remainder of the harbour is owned by one company.

The yard and wharf have been used for boatbuilding and associated activities, particularly for the island’s fishing community, for the past 60 years.

It was run until recently by well-known island boatbuilder Ken Stratton who died last year. He converted part of the building to a lounge with the stunning views of the popular harbour.

The buildings, on the site of a former tidal watermill, extend to some 1,930 sq ft (179 sq metres). The plot is some 5,382 sq ft (500 sq metres). Berthing for vessels is alongside the wharf.

The property is close to a marina and sailing club at the head of the harbour, which is on the north east coast of the island.

Estate Agent Jeremy Gully, of Gully Howard, who has known the boatyard since the days when he was himself a fishermen, said: “This is a really unusual property in a really enviable position. It could be used for a variety of uses and we anticipate a lot of interest.”