By Nathan Pynn
Horror fans could have the chance to enjoy the ultimate spooky holiday – in an abandoned morgue.
The derelict mortuary – complete with original embalming room – was snapped up at auction in 2023.
Auctioneers warned buyers that the dilapidated building was in need of full refurbishment or even demolition.
Despite its condition, The Morgue, in Cheddleton, Staffs., sold for $137,000 – more than twice its $55,000 guide price.
The morgue was once part of the North Staffordshire Asylum and was last used around 20 years ago.
Pictures show the Grade-II listed building surrounded by overgrown shrubs and weeds while the rooms are piled high with rubbish.
An abandoned bathtub, desk and heating unit can all be spied in the photographs.
The brave buyer has access to the nearly half-an-acre plot, which is located next to a chapel.
Further photographs reveal crumbling walls, stained tiles and holes in the ceiling panels.
The creepy property is now set to be turned into a luxury two-bedroom holiday let.
Planning permission and listed building consent are being sought to change the building’s use from a morgue.
Plans show the single-story building being transformed to feature two bathrooms, kitchen and a lounge area.
A planning application to Staffordshire Moorlands District Council said the work would be “sympathetic to character and appearance” of the building.
The applicant said: “There are strong heritage benefits to the restoration and reuse of the building, which is currently deteriorating.”
Helen Bingley, who handled the sale for John Pye Auctions, said: “It’s going to make an amazing project for someone and has huge potential.
“There is quite a market for historical buildings of this nature that people are interested in staying in overnight.
“Other unusual buildings we have had for sale in the past include an observatory, water tower, a former army barracks and windmill, all have proved to be attention grabbers at auction.”
The morgue is just one mile from Cheddleton Village and 10 miles from Stoke-on-Trent.
