Knarsdale and Asholme Moors, near Alston on the Cumbria-Northumberland border, have been in the ownership of the Featherstone Estate for over 300 years.

Also on the market as part of the package is the freehold of three tenanted farms, the freehold of a shooting lodge and two keeper's cottages.

The total of 15,000 acres of land together form the most successful grouse moor in the UK.

'Exciting shoots'

A spokesman for CSH Property Consultants, handling the sale, said there had been a lot of interest in the moors.

They said: "The moors provide exciting grouse shoots.

"Whoever takes over the lease will be asked to uphold the traditions of the moors."

It is estimated Knarsdale and Asholme could produce 7,000 brace in a season.

The moors are part of a site of special scientific interest, with English Nature helping in the upkeep the area's wildlife and geology.

Foot-and-mouth

Knarsdale is being offered for sale on a 999-year lease and Asholme on a 15-year lease.

Possession of the sporting rights and associated properties will be available from February 2003.

In the 2001 season, in spite of foot-and-mouth restrictions, the total bag for the moors was 4,833 brace, making them the most successful moors in the UK.