Historic Ryde Hall With Film Connection Goes Up For Sale

A historic Ryde building with links to a classic British film is being offered for sale — but it needs significant work to bring it back into use.

The Vectis Hall was built in 1812 and is reputed to have been Ryde's first free school.

The building has since served a number of purposes, including as a community hall.

It also has a connection to the 1973 British film That'll Be The Day, starring Ringo Starr and David Essex, with dance scenes from the film shot inside the main hall.

However, the building has fallen into disrepair and now requires a major programme of refurbishment and upgrading.

The property includes a former caretaker or manager's flat, although its condition means it has not been inspected.

The ground floor contains an entrance vestibule, main hall, side hall with cloakrooms and a smaller side office.

The Vectis Hall is being marketed as having potential for a range of future uses, subject to planning permission and any other necessary consents.

Scaffolding has currently been erected around the building, with a temporary roof structure installed to protect it from the worst of the weather.

The auctioneer says prospective buyers will be able to purchase the scaffolding and temporary roof structure and leave them in place, or have them removed.

The property falls under the planning authority of Isle of Wight Council.

The sale represents an opportunity to give the historic building a new lease of life — although any new owner will face a significant restoration project.