For sale in Bristol: Historic and unique property that once held prisoners goes under the hammer

A unique Victorian property with a fascinating history has been put up for sale in Bristol.

The property is located on Picton Street, the first purpose-built Georgian shopping street at the heart of the creative and artistic Montpelier.

The Old Gaol or Charley Box predates the Bristol police force which was formed in 1836. At the time, the Charley was given the powers to arrest and confine overnight anyone who disturbed the peace and, if necessary, transfer them to the magistrates the following morning.

At the time, the building was made up of a very small room for the Charley and two barrel-vaulted cells, one of which still has its iron-studded door, and two more vaulted rooms, with a squint in the dividing wall, below street level.

More recently, the Old Gaol has been used as a hairdressing salon, a studio, a café, a rental property and as a very popular Air BnB with a music studio below.

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There are many amenities within walking distance of the property including the Cabot Circus shopping centre and the city centre and it has good transport links.

The 770.2 sq. ft. property currently consists of a stylish appointed self-contained apartment on the ground floor made of a large open plan living area, a kitchen, bedroom and shower room.

The basement is full of potential and is described as a bathroom and an 8.80m by 4.50m bedroom. There is also steps leading up to the tranquil inner city courtyard garden which is a sun trap with well-established trees and shrubs.

The property will be sold over an online auction by Hollis Morgan Auctions on June 19 at 5.30pm and has a guide price of £325,000.

Bidders will need to complete the Online Bidding Form, upload their certified ID, receive an invitation to bid and pay the £6,200 security deposit by June 17 at 4pm to take part.

Scroll through to see photos of the property.