The re-emergence of the ever more spectral Kinmel Hall in north Wales on the property market, sold two months ago for a mere £950,000, is a reminder that there are still many spectacular country houses that resist resuscitation efforts — often, big dreams (and not enough money) fizzle out.
Sometimes, all that’s needed is the right investor; Hopwood Hall near Manchester, for example, was at risk for many years, but has found hopeful salvation via an interested party in the US, which is now helping in its renovation while it remains in the ownership of Rochdale Borough Council. Its rehabilitation is envisioned as a community-orientated development.