The Raby Hunt put on the market for £750,000 after closure

The Raby Hunt restaurant with rooms near Darlington has been put on the market following its closure.

The venue, which was the first restaurant in the north-east to be awarded two Michelin stars, held its final service on 27 January.

Chef-patron James Close has closed the business after 14 years to take up a new position as culinary director at the nearby five-AA-red-star Rockliffe Hall hotel.

Now the Raby Hunt, which is owned by Close's parents Russell and Helene, is being marketed by Christie & Co on a freehold basis for £750,000.

The price includes all the fixtures and fittings, the business name, intellectual property, and social media following of the restaurant.

It is also being advertised to let and the family is understood to have received early interest from potential tenants.

Christie & Co said the property would be able to trade immediately without need for investment.

Russell and Helene Close said: "The reason we've opted to offer the restaurant to let as well as for sale, is that we have absolute faith that in the hands of a capable and experienced chef/operator, this premises can retain its reputation for being a go-to for diners, both locally and from further afield.

"James established this premises as a destination restaurant, and we have lots of other, superb eateries in the area."

They said the letting accommodation side of the business had "huge growth potential" due to its proximity to the Yorkshire Dales National Park and the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The leasehold is being advertised at price/rent on application. Prospective tenants are encouraged to contact David Cash at Christie & Co for more detail.