Horror enthusiasts and lovers of unique stays could soon have the chance to book an unforgettable getaway in a former morgue in Staffordshire. Eerie pictures reveal the current state of the derelict building, which was recently sold at auction and is now slated for a remarkable transformation into a high-end holiday home.
From Embalming Room to En-suite
The Morgue, located in Cheddleton, Staffordshire, was purchased at auction in 2023 for a striking £137,000. This sum more than doubled its guide price of £55,000, demonstrating significant interest in the unusual property. Auctioneers had cautioned that the dilapidated, single-storey structure required a complete renovation or potential demolition, but this did not deter the intrepid buyer.
The building originally formed part of the historic North Staffordshire Asylum and ceased operations as a mortuary approximately two decades ago. It is a Grade II listed building, adding a layer of heritage significance to the ambitious conversion project. The nearly half-acre site also includes access to a neighbouring chapel.
A Glimpse Inside the Derelict Building
Recent photographs paint a vivid picture of the property's condition. The exterior is engulfed by overgrown vegetation and weeds, while the interior rooms are cluttered with debris. Images show deteriorating walls, discoloured tiles, gaps in the ceiling panels, and abandoned items including a bathtub, desk, and old heating equipment.
Most notably, the building still contains its original embalming room, a chilling reminder of its past purpose. Despite its current state, the new owner sees immense potential in its unique character.
Plans for a Sympathetic Conversion
Planning permission and listed building consent are currently being sought from Staffordshire Moorlands District Council to change the building's use from a morgue. The proposed plans indicate a sympathetic conversion into a luxury two-bedroom holiday let.
The redesign aims to incorporate two bathrooms, a modern kitchen, and a comfortable living space. A planning submission to the council stated that the works would be 'sympathetic to character and appearance' of the historic building. The applicant emphasised the heritage benefits, stating, "There are strong heritage benefits to the restoration and reuse of the building which is currently deteriorating."
Helen Bingley, who managed the sale for John Pye Auctions, commented on the property's potential: "It's going to make an amazing project for someone and has huge potential. There is quite a market for historical buildings of this nature that people are interested in staying in overnight."
She added that other unusual buildings like observatories, water towers, and former windmills have also proven to be popular at auction. The morgue's location is convenient for exploring the local area, being just one mile from Cheddleton Village and ten miles from Stoke-on-Trent.
