In for royal treat
100 years on by the Brownlee family who still farm its lands.
The approach to this place is the stuff of dreams. Its treelined avenue and intricate baroque gates open into a gravelled courtyard. Visitors are met with crowstepped gables and a large, wooden front door that ultimately opens into a welcoming hall.
Inside Nicholas and Yelena have created a captivating and comfortable interior, suitable for modern living but without compromise to its rich, period features.
Its expansive, dual aspect dining room oozes original details and offers lovely river and woodland views. This floor also houses a snug and a large kitchen.
From the ground floor a stone spiral staircase leads to the first floor which houses a master bedroom, a double bedroom and a bathroom as well as the recently renovated King’s room – a second drawing room also with spectacular views. Three further charming bedrooms are set on the second floor, along with a family bathroom, while a second set of spiral stairs leads up to a small turret room, currently used as a study and spare bedroom. This comes with a bothy, a garden studio and a garden shed, along with a coach house and pavilion and two paddocks.
But its owners are preparing to leave the castle they love and Illieston is on the market with Savills for offers over £950,000. Nicholas says: “We have decided to move closer to the children’s school in Clackmannanshire. It is very sad to leave this wonderful family home but it is always important to recognise that you are never an owner, only a custodian.” ▼ Rose gold geometric plaque, £22, from Next.
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Double bedding set, £55, from John Lewis. ▼ Tassel rug, £100, from River Island Home. ▼ Stacking mugs, £12, from JD Williams.
Wooden storage drawers, £8, George at Asda. ▼ Rose gold reflections wallpaper, £40 per roll, Graham and Brown.