A right royal retreat
A modern-day castle near Kildary in Invergordon.
IT’S a fairytale castle with turrets, spiral stairways, galleries, and crow-stepped gables.
It even has an imposing, wood-panelled Grand Hall complete with minstrels’ galleries, a striking chandelier, heraldic banners and a magnificent fireplace. But while White Rose Tower oozes medieval charm it was built less than 30 years ago. And it boasts the best of the 21st Century, including a fully functioning rotating observatory with a rolling roof.
This expansive five bed roomed home, with three reception rooms and three bathrooms, is near the village of Kildary in Invergordon. Modelled on a late medieval Scottish tower house, it was lovingly designed and created by its owners in the 1990s before being extended in 2012. And the stunning result is testimony to their vision. White Rose Tower dramatically looms into view on approach from its stone chipped driveway. Its main entrance, tall double doors constructed from wood, opens directly into the Grand Hall.
This magnificent room is breathtaking in scale, measuring 44ft by 17ft (13m by 5m), and has hand-crafted woodwork, traditional panelling, hidden doors, and magnificent exposed roof beams, as well as an impressive fireplace.
Off the Grand Hall is a cloak room and new kitchen area whose fit is not yet complete. But it features a
striking turreted dining area and an electric Rayburn.
A solid wood spiral staircase leads up to the gallery – overlooking the Hall – and to the master bedroom suite; a romantic retreat with arrow-slit vertical windows and a cosy, wood-burning stove.
It also enjoys a contemporary en suite featuring a free-standing bath, wash hand basin, walk in shower and heated towel rail. On the upper level is a sitting room with a host of characterful features including a large fireplace, and wood panelling as well as doors leading to the gallery.
The decor at White Rose Tower reflects the medieval period, dressed with fine rugs, statement lighting, and four-poster and half tester beds. The sitting room displays a host of fascinating antiquated weaponry. Outside, the idyllic location more than matches the dreamy interior.
Surrounded by mature woodland, the gardens are laid to lawn and interspersed with a variety of colourful shrubs and flowers. There is also a large timber garage/workshop as well as a workshop/store. Having been cherished for many years by its owners the tower is now on the market with Strutt & Parker, offers over £450,000.
Director Kevin Maley told in10: “White Rose Tower has a distinctive appearance and a host of architectural features. “The substantial extention has more than doubled the footprint of the original house.
“With its medieval looks and more period features than you could swing a sword at, this enchanting property has something for everybody.”