USP Royal approval

Baberton House is an exceptional country property with 11 acres of garden, just six miles from Edinburgh’s Princes Street in the southern suburb of Juniper Green.

Most recently it served as the head offices of Cruden Group and while it could be sold to another company or be turned into a hotel, there is potential for it to be restored to residential use to make the most fabulous high-end home.

The A-listed house dates from 1623 and was built by James Murray, the king’s architect, for his own family.

It was extended in 1765 to full Georgian splendour, but many original Jacobean features remain.

Perhaps its biggest claim to fame is as a retreat for the exiled King of France, Charles X, who leased the house in 1830. It was also used as a Royal hunting lodge.

The house incorporates 17th century vaulted rooms, beautiful wood panelling and the King’s Room, the ceiling of which is ornamented with a fleur de lys pattern in honour of the French king.

It is approached via an impressively long drive and with seclusion assured by the grounds, which include a walled garden and many mature trees, the most noted of which is the famous Baberton sycamore.

It is a rare opportunity, whether commercial or residential. The price is not being made public, but it is unlikely to be a budget option.