Step back in time and be king of the castle
IT was once embroiled in one of the most tumultuous episodes in Scotland’s history. But now, more than three centuries on from the first Jacobite rising, Bridge Castle is a peaceful place to set up home.
Originally built in the 15th century, the castle, near Bathgate, West Lothian, has been developed and extended by various owners through the ages into the sprawling mansion it is today.
Like many buildings of its kind, it has been both a stately home and hotel, before being divided into several more manageable apartments. But that is not to say the home lacks space.
The three-bedroom apartment on sale covers more than 2,000sq ft, with nods to its historical past littered throughout.
And for £370,000, it rivals many new-builds in terms of value.
The castle came into the ownership of William Livingstone, the 6th Lord Livingston, in 1588. The Livingstones, however, picked the wrong side in the Jacobite rising of 1715 and were forced to forfeit their land and titles.
Under the ownership of the Hope family, the castle was significantly altered and eventually enlarged into a more conventional Victorian mansion and later a hotel, which officially became a category B listed building in 1971.
Although it has the hallmarks of a centuries-old property, the home on offer boasts the sort of creature comforts unimaginable to its previous inhabitants.
Remote-controlled electric heating complements a log-burning stove, while both the main bathroom and en suite are fitted to the most modern standards.
Contemporary kitchen units blend with the arched ceiling and exposed stone of the kitchen, while flashes of traditional wood panelling remain throughout.
Estate agent Castlebrae said: ‘Bridge Castle House is set on a beautiful estate close to Bathgate, surrounded by the picturesque West Lothian countryside and within easy reach of the fantastic amenities the town has to offer.’
Bathgate’s bustling centre offers diverse services, and even more extensive shopping facilities are available in nearby Livingston.
Castlebrae added that with two country parks on its doorstep, Bathgate offers no shortage of outdoor pursuits – from hiking and cycling trails, horse riding and fly-fishing, to relaxed nature and wildlife watching.
The property has extensive mature grounds, with vast lawns and tranquil wooded areas. Despite the peaceful setting, it is less than 15 minutes from the M8 and M9 motorways, offering convenient access to both Edinburgh and Glasgow. It is also on the ‘right side’ of Edinburgh to reach the airport within 20 minutes.
For a family home with a lot of character and an easy city commute, look no further than Bridge Castle. n Offers over £370,000. Contact David Nelson at Castlebrae on 01506 676300.