Lendal Tower, a 700-year-old Scheduled Ancient Monument in the centre of the historic City of York is being marketed for sale by Carter Jonas' York office.

Lendal Tower, located on the eastern banks of the River Ouse, was built in around 1300 and was part of a defensive system which controlled traffic on the river. To prevent boats from passing, a large chain could be raised across the river between Lendal Tower and Barker Tower, enabling tolls to be collected and allowing only authorised ships to pass.

In 1677, Lendal Tower was leased for 500 years to the York Waterworks Company. Originally used as a pumping station to supply water to the city, the tower later became used as the company’s headquarters. They installed a Pickering lift as well as ornate wood panelling and decorative ceiling plasterwork; the entire top floor of the tower was given over to a grand boardroom with panoramic views over York and the river.

Today, Lendal Tower is being sold with two adjoining Grade II listed Georgian houses, currently arranged as three apartments. The tower itself has permission for conversion to a two-bedroom home.

Edward Stoyle, the agent handling the sale at Carter Jonas, commented: “It’s not every day that we have the opportunity of marketing such a well-known piece of York’s history. I’m certain this sale will generate a great deal of interest, but buyers with a residential conversion of the tower in mind will need deep pockets and plenty of patience, taking into account its ancient monument status. That said, the resulting building could potentially be the most unique home in York.”

Lendal Tower is being marketed for offers in excess of £650,000. The property will be open to view on Saturday 19 September.