CASTLE’S GHOST IS A ‘BLOODY’ BRUCIE BONUS
EARLSHALL Castle in St Andrews is renowned as one of the best-kept 16th century houses in Scotland, but it has a couple of other highly unusual features too: a world-famous topiary garden… and a resident ghost!
Sir William Bruce began building the castle in 1546, in 1561 he received Mary Queen of Scots there. But although Sir William was its first occupier, he definitely wasn’t the most notorious – that was his descendent Sir Andrew Bruce, who earned himself the name “Bloody Bruce” by hacking off the hands and head of Covenanter Richard Cameron after defeating him at the battle of Airds Moss in 1680.
Legend has it that the ghost of Bloody Bruce haunts the castle, and his footsteps can be heard still on its spiral stairs.
In addition to a spirited former resident, the new owner of Earlshall will be taking on a unique home, with 10 bedrooms, eight reception rooms – including the magnificent 50-foot Long Gallery, with its heraldic painted ceiling – two dressing rooms and six bathrooms.
Set in 34 acres of parkland, it also includes three cottages in the grounds.
Laid out by Scottish architect Robert Lorimer, the topiary lawn is Earlshall’s best known feature and now over 125 years old. Listed walled gardens are divided by yew and holly hedges and feature the topiary lawn, orchard, rose terrace, bowling green, yew walk and secret garden.
■ Earlshall is listed with Savills, price on application. savills.com