A Historic Scottish Castle Is for Sale at a Surprisingly Low Price

The magnificent Kilberry Castle, nestled on Scotland’s scenic west coast, is now available for purchase at the remarkable price of just £650,000 (around $900,000 USD). This stunning 15th-century structure comes with five main reception rooms, 10 principal bedrooms, four additional bedrooms, and four bathrooms. The sale also includes a charming three-bedroom cottage located nearby.

A Glimpse into the Castle’s Rich History

Kilberry Castle, located near the village of Kilberry, was constructed in the 15th century. The land has been managed by the Campbell family since 1550, and the castle has remained in the family ever since. Some historians speculate that the castle’s origins may date back even further, potentially built around 800 CE as a defensive fort to protect a church from Viking raids.

The castle’s turbulent history includes being attacked and burned down in 1513 by an English pirate, Captain Proby. A carved inscription above the front entrance commemorates the event, stating, “Plundered and burnt by Capt. Proby, an English pirate, 1513.”

During the Scottish Civil War (1643–1645), the castle faced yet another siege, this time by a royalist faction from nearby islands. In 1773, the castle was again set ablaze, this time during the tenure of Colin Campbell, who fought in the Battle of Culloden with the Argyll militia.

For many years, the castle remained in partial ruin until 1843, when John Campbell, the 9th Laird of Kilberry, undertook a major restoration, adding a tower and expanding the northern wing. The last significant renovation took place in 1873, led by John Campbell, the 10th Laird of Kilberry, using his wife’s dowry to fund the project.

One of the castle’s more quirky pieces of history is found on the top floor. In 1885, young Archie Campbell contracted scarlet fever and was confined to his room for months. To pass the time, his nurse pasted pages from the London Illustrated News across the walls, many of which were political cartoons from the era. One wall still remains mostly intact, preserving a snapshot of history.

Unique Features and Timeless Charm

Kilberry Castle boasts all the grandeur you’d expect from a historic Scottish residence. Spread over four floors, it includes a grand hallway, original open fireplaces, elegant dining rooms, and a drawing room offering breathtaking views of the sea. The library comes complete with custom bookshelves, and there’s even a billiards room for entertainment.

The grounds span 21 acres, providing ample space for a large walled garden, formal lawns, mature woodlands, three ancient fishing ponds, and a secluded beach. The property also includes a Victorian pet cemetery, a mausoleum, and a hidden coastal retreat.

Additionally, the sale includes a three-bedroom laundry cottage, located just west of the castle. With its coastal views, it could serve as the perfect holiday home.

In Need of Restoration

Despite its stunning features, Kilberry Castle has fallen into a state of disrepair. While still livable, the property requires significant restoration to return it to its former splendor. Tom-Steward Moore, a real estate agent from Knight Frank, remarked that the castle will need an owner with “deep pockets and a vivid imagination” to fully refurbish it. However, he believes it could become a spectacular residence once the work is complete.

A Rare Opportunity

Priced at £650,000, Kilberry Castle is more affordable than the average home in London, making it an attractive option for anyone with a passion for history and a desire to live like royalty. This castle offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to own a piece of Scotland’s rich heritage and create a truly unique and majestic home.

For history enthusiasts or those with dreams of castle life, Kilberry Castle presents a remarkable opportunity to step into the past while creating a future fit for a king or queen.