You’ve no right to purchase the freehold initially (enfranchisement) but the outgoing seller may have; it could be something that they take on prior to exchange if they’re desperate to sell.

Alternatively, you can make an application for the crown to disclaim their interest in the freehold. I haven’t done one in quite a while but last I did, Farrah & Co were the solicitors that acted on behalf of the crown. Be prepared to pay a sum for the freehold AND their costs. I’d consider reducing my offer in line with the same.

As your solicitor says, there is no drama and the risk is insurable but a lay person buying a home is not often in a position to assess the risk so your eventual buyer will be just as worried as you are now.

Thanks again all, given me more than enough to fill out an itinerary.

There is a filter on most (if not all) hotel booking sites to choose an all inclusive level of board

Thanks all

I had considered Balbianello but didn’t know it was a location for Star Wars which might’ve just sealed the deal (albeit Attack of the Clones). However, I half wanted somewhere I could make special arrangements (we’re going in the height of summer) and I’m pretty sure they wouldn’t (couldn’t?) accommodate a couple of random tourists. That’s why I was leaning more towards a lake-side hotel with great gardens/views as they may be more willing to help out a paying guest.