The historic home of the former Salt Rock Grill in Somerset is up for sale with a price tag of $1.1 million.

And Watford Real Estate, which is handling the sale, said interest had already been expressed in the listed building, which has operated as a pub or restaurant for more than 100 years.

Isabella Hall, owner and president of Watford Real Estate, said the upcoming America’s Cup, which will be based in the West End, was an ideal opportunity for an entrepreneur to breathe new life into the old building — or for redevelopment into a family home.

She added: “It’s zoned residential 1, with commercial use. There is change of use permitted.

“Because of the America’s Cup, it would be great if new owners could keep the restaurant and perhaps build a little bed and breakfast to the side.”

The site, formerly the Loyalty Inn, which closed and put up for sale 1997, sits on a 0.62 acre site with views over the waters of Mangrove Bay.

Ms Hall said, although Salt Rock shut two years ago, her firm had only had the property listed for around six weeks.

She added: “There is a lot of interest, but it does require a substantial investment in upgrading it.

“The America’s Cup would be a great opportunity to kick-start a business, but locals would always use it — it was always a go-to for local people.

“The locals would very much like a restaurant in there, perhaps a simpler style of restaurant — maybe barbecue because there is a fantastic terrace with a view.

“It’s a great property and it’s sad to see it unused. A new lease of life is what it requires.”

The Royal Gazette reported in 2005 that Salt Rock Grill had been given planning permission to build seven new tourist units, a reception area, conference room and pool next to the existing property.

The property, owned by a family trust, can be viewed at www.watfordrealestate.bm.

For more information, or to view the property, e-mail contact@watfordrealestate.bm or phone 234-0020.