A historic Norfolk farming estate which dates back to the 16th century and has been in the same family for more than 80 years is now on the market with a guide price of £24.25m.

Gawdy Hall, near Harleston, sits in the heart of the Waveney Valley and is described by selling agents Savills as a “significant farming estate in a beautifully private location with an extensive residential portfolio”.

The property – which includes 1,510ac of productive arable land, 117ac of mature parkland and approximately 79ac of ancient woodland – is offered for sale as a whole or in seven lots.

The farming operation also includes 4,500t of modern grain storage, a range of general purpose buildings and a purpose built spray store.

Meanwhile the residential portfolio of 15 houses and cottages together with commercial buildings, including poultry sheds, provide additional income of £174,376 per annum with potential to significantly increase.

There is also potential – subject to planning – for the creation of a new principal house on the site of the former Gawdy Hall where a number of the original ancillary buildings, coach house and walled garden remain.

Christopher Miles, from the rural agency team at Savills in Norfolk, which is marketing the estate, said the trustees and family had made a decision to sell following the proposed retirement of David Green – the long standing managing director of Gawdy Hall Estate Co. Ltd.

“Gawdy Hall Estate is a very special place indeed,” he added.

“It has been beautifully managed by the current owners and run as a highly productive and well equipped farming unit, whilst maintaining its estate feel, enhanced by the sweeping entrance drives, ancient woodland and well maintained parkland and grounds.”