The ex-landlady who inherited Tony Martin’s £2.5 million estate is now seeking buyers for the infamous farmhouse where Martin fatally shot a teenage intruder. Jacqueline Wadsley, to whom Martin left his entire estate, has listed 164 acres of farmland surrounding the dilapidated farmhouse for sale in two parcels, with a combined price tag of nearly £1.4 million. One lot comprises 109.6 acres priced at £918,000, while the other consists of a 54.47-acre plot valued at £460,000.

This decision comes shortly after Jacqueline and her husband, David, decided to scrap their plans to convert five barns on the property into ten new residences. David, who has been farming the land as a tenant, expressed that selling the property was a tough choice, emphasizing the importance of finding someone capable of properly managing the farm in the future.

Highlighting the potential of the land, David mentioned the opportunity for interested parties to acquire both the farmland and the buildings or opt for separate purchases. The couple aims to restore the property to its former grandeur, acknowledging that the stigma attached to it needs to fade for a new owner to fully appreciate the picturesque location.

Initially, the Wadsleys had applied to transform the rundown barns on Bleak House Farm into housing units, but the plans were halted due to concerns raised by the local council’s ecology officer about potential impacts on wildlife, including protected species like birds and bats. The council also flagged issues related to road infrastructure and traffic flow, suggesting a reduction in the number of proposed homes for a more balanced development.

Martin, who left his estate to Jacqueline upon his passing, had forged a close bond with her over the years, akin to a father-daughter relationship. The estate included the farm at Bleak House, with its total value disclosed in probate records. Despite criticisms regarding the inheritance, David clarified that Jacqueline had provided significant support to Martin during his final years.

Real estate agents promoting the sale described the property as an attractive investment opportunity, highlighting the quality of the farmland and woodland spread across the acreage. They emphasized the potential for neighboring farmers looking to expand their operations, praising the current state of the land’s cultivation and drainage systems.

For those interested in owning a piece of this historic property, the sale presents a chance to acquire prime farmland with a rich history, offering a blend of agricultural potential and natural beauty.