Published: 21/08/2025 By Mark Lewis
Symonds & Sampson trialled a new venue for their August property auction when they took over The Vitality Stadium home to Bournemouth AFC. 30 lots were offered throughout Dorset and Somerset raising £4,500,000 for their clients.Meredith Wallis, Head of Auctions, said “We have been building a reputation in the Bournemouth area and sold a record amount of lots in the region last year. Moving the auction was the next logical step and we were delighted with the response from our clients and buyers. A near record number tuned in to watch the sale with some people in America, Australia and throughout Europe.
“There seemed to be a story behind every lot with either local connections, sentimental reasons for sale or purchase, and people who have fallen in love with our beautiful region. It made for a very good atmosphere and there was a lot of emotion in the room.”
Auctioneer Mark Lewis felt that the range of lots drew people in. “We certainly had the weird and wonderful on offer, including redundant Wessex Water booster sites, old pumping stations, investments, commercial premises, and properties to renovate. The most popular lot was a disused water tower – 113 people downloaded the legals and 82 people registered to bid – the reserve was quickly exceeded and the gavel fell at 575% above guide.”
Other notable prices:
Agricultural land at £14,000 - £20,000 per acre.
Building plots at 32% above guide.
Investment in Swanage at a 7% return.
Renovations at up to 64% above guide.
You can see the full results here, and view our forthcoming auctions here. Symonds & Sampson welcome lots for their October, November and December auctions. Please contact our experts (below) for more information.
