A minuscule detached property in the picturesque Derbyshire market town of Wirksworth has been listed for a staggering £225,000, igniting a fierce debate about value and affordability in the UK's regional housing markets.
Measuring just 506 square feet, the one-bedroom home, marketed by estate agents Bricks & Mortar, has been described by some potential buyers as being 'essentially a shed'. The listing went live around November 27, 2025, and has since captured significant public attention.
A Closer Look at the Compact Property
The residence features a combined living and kitchen area that comes equipped with standard appliances. The main accommodation includes a double bedroom with an adjoining bathroom.
A unique feature of the home is an additional sleeping space, which is reached by a steep spiral staircase. This upper area, however, has such limited headroom that occupants cannot stand up straight, further emphasising the compact nature of the living quarters.
Market Reaction and Estate Agent Defence
The asking price has provoked strong reactions online. One house hunter who saw the listing quipped about the state of the UK housing market, questioning paying over £220,000 for what they perceived as a garden shed.
However, the estate agency has been quick to highlight the property's appealing attributes in its defence. These include a new wood burner, a private gated garden with potential for parking spaces, and the home's prime location close to scenic countryside walks.
The agents are promoting it as an ideal 'lock up and leave' second home or a holiday rental opportunity, pointing to its renovated interiors and convenient position in the sought-after town.
Wirksworth House Prices in Context
To understand this listing, it's crucial to look at the local property landscape. According to Rightmove, the average house price in Wirksworth is £287,631, which represents a 10% increase from the 2022 peak of £262,306.
Detached properties, like this one, command a higher premium, averaging around £341,563. Terraced homes are generally more affordable, fetching prices closer to £236,000. For broader context, the average UK house price stood at £271,531 as of September 2025, according to government data.
While the £225,000 price tag for such a petite home is surprising, it reflects the robust demand in Wirksworth. The town boasts a vibrant local atmosphere with parks, community events, and the annual Wirksworth Arts Festival.
Its desirable location attracts not only permanent residents but also buyers seeking second homes or holiday lets with easy access to the Peak District and other countryside attractions. This combination of desirability, amenities, and historical price growth helps explain why even a very small property can command a surprisingly high price.
