Rare Beatrix Potter collection to go under auction in Cumbria
A rare collection of Beatrix Potter letters, illustrations and first-edition books is set to be sold at auction in Cumbria later this year.
The collection has been entered by the family of the world-famous author and illustrator. Auctioneers expect it to attract interest from collectors across the world because of its clear family history and connection to Potter.
When is the auction?
The sale will take place at Mitchells Auctioneers in Cockermouth from Wednesday, September 16 to Friday, September 18, 2026.
It will form part of a major three-day auction that also includes a private collection of paintings by Cumbrian artist Percy Kelly.
What is going up for auction?
The Beatrix Potter collection includes:
- Personal letters
- Original illustrations
- Rare memorabilia
- First editions of her books
The auction house has not yet published a full list of individual lots or estimates. More details are expected to be released when the illustrated catalogue becomes available closer to the sale.
Mitchells said the items have strong provenance, meaning their ownership history and links to Potter can be clearly traced. The auctioneer believes this will make the collection especially attractive to serious buyers.
Percy Kelly paintings also included
The same auction will feature a large group of works by Percy Kelly from the private collection of Joan David.
The paintings have never previously been offered on the open market. Mitchells expects strong demand and believes one of the works could set a new auction record for the artist.
The Cockermouth saleroom currently holds the record after Red Bridge Near Aspatria sold for £7,200 in September 2025.
How can people take part?
People will be able to attend and bid in person at Mitchells’ saleroom on Station Road in Cockermouth.
Those unable to travel can also take part online through The Saleroom or Easy Live Auction. Both services allow registered users to watch the auction and bid live using a phone, tablet or computer.
Buyers can also arrange telephone bidding or leave a commission bid in advance. A commission bid tells the auctioneer the highest amount someone is prepared to pay, with staff bidding on their behalf during the sale.
Public viewing dates and the full auction catalogue are expected to be confirmed nearer the time.
More Potter items could join the sale
Mitchells is inviting other owners of original Beatrix Potter material to consider adding their items to the auction.
Anyone with Potter letters, artwork, books or memorabilia can request a free valuation by contacting James Moore, the auction house’s head of antiques and fine art, on 01900 827800.
Owners of Percy Kelly paintings and illustrated letters are also being encouraged to come forward while entries remain open.
