Business Details
Your Trusted Auction House in Cockermouth Since 1849
Mitchells Auction has served as a cornerstone of the rural community in West Cumbria since its founding in 1849. Established by Robinson Mitchell and incorporated in 1873, we are one of the UK's longest-standing businesses, offering auction and advisory services across livestock, land agency, and fine art sectors. Our livestock auction mart plays a pivotal role in Cumbria's agricultural economy, hosting renowned Herdwick sheep sales and providing a vital link in the food supply chain. Through our land agency division, we deliver professional rural property services, combining local expertise with a commitment to client satisfaction. Our antiques and fine art saleroom, located in Cockermouth, is recognised as Cumbria's leading venue for collectors and enthusiasts. As a shareholder-owned business, we maintain deep connections with the farming community, offering tailored advice on subsidies, grants, and property transactions.Our multidisciplinary approach ensures clients receive comprehensive solutions underpinned by 175 years of experience. The company's growth trajectory, evidenced by a doubling of turnover over the past decade, reflects our dedication to innovation while preserving traditional values. With offices at the Lakeland Livestock Centre and Station Road premises, we provide accessible, personalised service to clients across North and West Cumbria. Our team of qualified professionals combines sector-specific expertise with an understanding of regional market dynamics. This enduring commitment to excellence has earned us recognition as trusted advisors within the communities we serve.
Services
Livestock Auctions
Land Agency
Antiques Auctions
Valuation Services
Farm Advisory
Highlights and features
- We have over 170 years of experience in rural auction services
- Our multidisciplinary team provides integrated livestock, land, and art expertise
- We operate Cumbria's leading antiques and fine art saleroom
- Our local knowledge spans generations of Cumbrian farming families
- We combine traditional auction methods with modern professional services
What people say
Professional friendly service
Accurate valuation
Stress-free process
Exceptional staff support
Unrivalled local knowledge
Services
Livestock Auctions
Mitchells conducts regular livestock auctions at our Lakeland Livestock Centre, specialising in sheep and cattle sales. Our market provides farmers with access to UK-wide buyers, including breeders and abattoirs. The facility hosts renowned Herdwick sheep sales, maintaining traditional farming practices while ensuring competitive pricing for producers.
Land Agency
Our land agency division offers professional services for rural property transactions across Cumbria. We handle farm sales, agricultural land marketing, and property valuations, combining local expertise with comprehensive market knowledge. The team provides tailored advice on rural investments and estate management.
Antiques Auctions
Mitchells' antiques and fine art auctions take place at our Cockermouth saleroom, recognised as Cumbria's leading venue. We handle country sporting items, collectables, and decorative arts, offering traditional auction experiences. The division specialises in timed fine art sales and collector-focused events.
Valuation Services
We provide professional valuation services for agricultural properties, antiques, and fine art. Our experts combine market knowledge with sector-specific expertise to deliver accurate assessments. Services include property valuations for sales and specialist item appraisals for private clients.
Farm Advisory
Mitchells offers advisory services tailored to farming operations, including subsidy guidance and grant applications. Our team understands regional agricultural challenges, providing practical solutions for land management and business development to support Cumbrian farming families.
People
Stephen Revell
Non-Executive Director
Joined the board in 2019, Stephen has extensive corporate law experience and longstanding connections with Mitchells through property purchases and auction participation.
Andrew Nicholson
Non-Executive Director
Appointed in 2008, Andrew brings practical farming expertise from his Lorton Valley cattle and sheep operations, complemented by show ring success and breeding knowledge.
Ken
Non-Executive Director
Veterinary surgeon with 28 years' practice experience, providing animal welfare expertise to the board after relocating to Lorton in 2010.
Stuart
Non-Executive Director
Local architect with extensive experience in Cumbrian projects, having worked with Mitchells on their livestock centre relocation and continuing to support farming clients.
Elaine
Executive Director
Leadership expert with 20+ years' experience managing cross-functional teams, known for creating efficient operations and fostering positive workplace environments.
Questions
What auction services do you offer?
We provide livestock auctions, fine art and antiques auctions, and rural property sales through our land agency division.
How long have you operated in Cumbria?
Mitchells has served Cumbrian communities since 1849, making us one of the region's longest-established businesses.
Do you handle property valuations?
Yes, our land agency team offers professional property valuations and market appraisals across West Cumbria.
Can you assist with farm sales?
We specialise in agricultural property transactions, including land sales and farm advisory services.
Where are your auction venues?
Livestock auctions operate from Lakeland Livestock Centre, with fine art sales at our Cockermouth saleroom.
