Contents of Historic Cumbrian Boarding School Head to Online Auction

The contents of a former 127-year-old boarding school in Cumbria are being offered for sale through an online auction organised by BPI Asset Advisory.

The sale features the contents of Lime House School in Dalston, which closed ahead of the 2026 to 2027 academic year after its leaders concluded that pupil numbers were too low to support normal operations. Established in 1899, the independent school educated children from primary age through to sixth form and built a reputation for strong academic results over more than a century.

Acting on behalf of the Liquidators of Genwise Limited, BPI Asset Advisory is selling the assets, with bidding closing on Monday 9th November 2026. The lots are located in Wakefield, West Yorkshire.

Among the highlights are two signed oil paintings by Frank T Carter, titled A View in the Lake and Autumn by the River. Both are oil on canvas, presented in ornate gilt frames and expected to attract interest from collectors in the North West and North East.

Carter (1853–1934), who was born in Warkworth, Northumberland, was known for his landscape paintings depicting the Lake District and northern countryside. His work is held in several public galleries, including the Laing, the Shipley and South Shields.

Andrew Cromack, Director at BPI Asset Advisory, commented: “The two Frank T Carter paintings are a real highlight of this sale. Carter’s landscapes have a loyal following, particularly in the North of England, and it’s not often that works like these come up through a sale of this kind. We’d encourage collectors and art lovers to take a look before bidding closes, as we expect plenty of interest.”

Beyond the artwork, the auction offers a varied selection of vehicles, grounds maintenance machinery, catering equipment and general school contents. Vehicles include a 2017 Ford Tourneo Custom minibus and two Ford Transit minibuses, alongside a 2022 Kubota GR2120 ride-on tractor, Kubota B2350D compact tractor, Wessex finishing mower and a selection of Wessex and Ifor Williams trailers.

Other lots include commercial stacked washer dryers, Moffat Blue Seal gas range ovens, a Giorik combination oven, musical instruments, science and sports equipment, and tools.

Viewing is available by appointment, with loading assistance also offered. Interested buyers are encouraged to register in advance.

The online auction closes on Monday 9th November 2026. For viewing appointments, contact [email protected].

Find full sale details and bidding information here.