An old blacksmith's forge and cottage on the peninsula will go under the hammer next week.

The Grade II listed buildings, opposite the Freston Boot at the top of the hill, is being auctioned online by Goldings, with a guide price of between £200,000 and £225,000.

Approval for planning permission to turn the 400-year-old site at Freston, which is currently derelict, into two new homes has already been approved by Babergh planning.

The owner, Robert Driver from Shotley, was looking to convert the old forge, wheelwright's workshop and the Grade II former blacksmiths' cottage, into one three-bedroom house and a four-bedroom home, which included parking for six cars, and a garage were also granted permission.

Originally dating back to the 17th century, the whole plot was once owned by the Berners family and sold in 1937 to Oxford University, although Fred Lummis, the blacksmiths at the time was allowed to stay on as the tenant.

The auctioneers claim an abundance of period features, including the fire-pit in the forge and heavy timbers, provides a satisfying development opportunity.

The lot is offered with comfortable rear garden space for creative landscaping. An experienced property professional may consider there to be an opportunity for planning enhancement.

Given its location, it is within the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and proximity to the historic Freston Tower, St Peter's Church and Freston Boot, the site is of significant interest.

A footpath runs down to the river Orwell and is close to the small beach area, with views towards Shotley, Felixstowe, Orwell Bridge and across to Levington.

Ideally, the 17th century buildings would be used as a forge to train apprentices and that was explored but proved unworkable.

The auction, which was due to take place at Milsoms Hotel, Kesgrave, will now take place online and will be live streamed from 2pm, on Wednesday, December 9.

Other properties being offered in the auction include a cottage in Capel St Mary, a large Georgian building in Hadleigh (which is reputed to be haunted) and duplex in Manningtree.