St Stephen’s Church for sale

Iconic Stockbridge landmark, St Stephen’s Church, designed and built in 1828 by William Playfair, is up for sale, through Culverwell’s Edinburgh office. The agent is seeking offers of more than £3m.

The venue is currently owned by Olivier Award-winning director and ballet choreographer Peter Schaufuss. The building contains the Ian McKellen Theatre and the Ashton Hall, where Schaufuss presented a new ballet version of Hamlet starring Sir Ian McKellen during the 2024 Fringe.

Schaufuss said “When I first saw Saint Stephen’s Church in 2014, purchasing it in 2017, my vision was to create a world-renowned arts venue.

“I am a creative person not a landlord – and that’s what I have become by default, so now it‘s time to hand it over to someone else to be custodian of this incredible building.”

The property, which has its own postcode, has a multitude of architectural and historical features not seen elsewhere and the sale provides a rare opportunity to own a genuine piece of Scottish history.

Located in the New Town, at the junction of St Stephen Street and St Vincent Street, it enjoys a prominent position within one of the city’s most desirable areas.

The Grade A-listed building is loved and admired by residents and visitors alike and one of the most photographed buildings in the city. The 162-feet-high clock tower has the longest clock pendulum in Europe, and Ashton Hall, the main venue, is one of the largest performing spaces in Scotland.

Since 2017, the venue has undergone continuous renovation to improve and upgrade the facilities. It is offering flexible performing, cultural and commercial spaces within one of Edinburgh’s most prestigious districts.

www.culverwell.co.uk

Photography: Edinburgh Business and Lifestyle