Former stronghold of Clan Gordon can be yours for £1.23m
An Aberdeenshire castle which was once the stronghold of the Gordon clan has gone on the market for £1.23 million.
Craig Castle Estate, which boasts a Grade A listed castle as well as opportunities for grouse shooting and deer stalking, dates back to the early 13th century when, in around 1220, a previous castle of timber construction is documented to have stood to the south of Craig Castle. Little remains of the original castle today, apart from a mound and a stone dovecot.
The castle – which features internal and external heraldic images and is surrounded by gardens, policies and mature woodland in the glen of the Burn of Craig – is made up of a 16th century fortified tower house with 19th and 20th century additions. The whole estate totals 1,562-acres.
By the 15th century, the original timber castle was in a state of disrepair and the lands of Auchindoir were owned by the Irvines of Drum before they reverted to the Crown. In 1510, King James IV granted a charter of the lands in favour of Patrick Gordon, who commissioned the construction of Craig Castle. He was reputedly killed during the Battle of Flodden and the original castle was finished by his son William in 1548. The castle remained a Gordon stronghold for over three centuries.
The selling agent said the castle is in a “mixed condition”, adding that the original core is “in need of renovation” but that the “inhabitable accommodation” includes three reception rooms and nine bedrooms.
Diane Fleming, selling agent for Strutt & Parker, said: “Castle Craig Estate occupies a fairy tale setting in one of the most private and stunning landscapes of Scotland. The land is varied, from low pastures to open heather hill and woodland.
“The castle in particular will capture the imagination of those with vision and ambition, as well as those attracted to history and architecture.”
The estate, which can be sold as a package or split into five lots, includes two traditional cottages, a B-listed former mill with potential for development subject to the necessary planning consents, a block of mature coniferous woodland and open hill ground with mixed sporting and environment potential.
The 18th century wing is thought to have been designed by renowned architect William Adam.
There are two former grouse moors and the selling agent said a renewed management programme could provide renewed opportunities for grouse shooting.