A remarkable piece of Welsh industrial heritage, held by the same family for nearly a century, is poised to change hands next month as the Lerry Mills site in Ceredigion goes under the hammer. This unique seven-acre property, located in the village of Talybont near Aberystwyth, will be offered as a single lot in an online, live-streamed auction conducted by SDL Property Auctions on February 26th, carrying a guide price of £450,000.
A Site Steeped in Centuries of History
The Lerry Mills complex represents a fascinating timeline of Welsh industry. Its origins date back to the 1600s when it operated as a lead smeltery, refinery, and coin-stamping mill, made economically viable by the unusually high silver content found in local lead deposits. Following a mid-18th century recession, the site was reconstructed in the 1800s as a water-powered woollen mill, which continued producing tweed suit fabric until its closure in 1980.
Property Features and Restoration Potential
The extensive site encompasses historic woodland, valuable river frontage, and fishing rights on the River Leri. The property includes a collection of cottages, a shop, and several former industrial buildings. At its heart lies an original six-bedroom house that was later converted into five weavers' cottages and a retail space.
While the buildings require significant renovation, auctioneers highlight their potential for restoration and future residential use. Several original mill structures remain standing, including a spinning room, wool shed, washing shed, and dye shed, all serving as tangible reminders of the site's industrial past.
Natural Beauty and Historical Significance
Nestled in a wooded valley of renowned natural beauty, bisected by the River Leri, Lerry Mills occupies a particularly picturesque setting within Ceredigion. Andrew Parker, partner and auctioneer at SDL Property Auctions, emphasised the site's significance, stating: "Lerry Mills is a remarkable example of how industry, landscape and community were historically intertwined in rural Wales. Sites with this depth of history, natural beauty, and of such a substantial size, rarely come to market."
Future Possibilities for the Historic Site
Subject to obtaining necessary planning consents, the auctioneers suggest the buildings could be restored for various purposes, including heritage preservation, cultural uses, or alternative developments. The location's popularity with visitors to Ceredigion adds to its appeal for potential restoration projects.
"There is clear potential here for a thoughtful future for Lerry Mills that respects and preserves the site's legacy," added Mr Parker, highlighting the opportunity for sympathetic development that honours the property's rich historical narrative while creating new possibilities for this substantial Welsh landmark.
