The historic Grade II listed Meadowcroft, in Elwick Road, Hartlepool, has gone up for sale for £895,000.

The property, which was built in 1895, is currently the home of Paul Hopper and his wife Julie, who run the Mayfair Centre, in Seaton Carew.

It is believed the land where the house stands was bought in 1889 by a man called John Wood, from William Alexander Wooler, who had Wooler Road named after him, before the house was built in 1895.

It is thought it was then taken over by the Rickinson family, who were involved in wine and spirit transportation.

In 1948 the house was divided in two, with one side named Meadowside and the other Meadowcroft.

Bosses at Manners and Harrison estate agents have described the house as "of almost stately proportions" and the Mail has been given an exclusive look around the property.

Mr Hopper, 51, who has two children and two grandchildren, said: "We think it is a marvellous family home and our children have grown up and moved on to their own lives so it is a little large for me and my wife.

"I think we have been privileged to have the opportunity to live in such a unique home, but it is too big for us."

The impressive house boasts five to six bedrooms and three reception rooms and is spread on three floors.

The entrance hall has some stunning examples of stained-glass windows depicting the signs of the zodiac and a feature staircase that winds around the hall.

There is also a little over four acres of land including a paddock and wooded area.

Mr Hopper added: "It is convenient for all the facilities in the town, but it is so secluded and quiet you could be in a different world. You don't have to live right out in the countryside to get the countryside, you can live in the town."