A Norman Castle with a 900-year history, contested by English and Scottish sovereigns, is on the market for a staggering £7,250,000 – complete with its very own museum.
Tucked away in the splendour of the Lake District, Appleby Castle stands as a symbol of England’s medieval architectural achievements and tumultuous past.
This colossal 20,000 sq ft Grade-I listed castle, set within an impressive 25-acre estate, proudly presents 22 bedrooms and 19 bathrooms, ideal for anyone aspiring to live like nobility.
Originating from the Norman era with its initial construction circling around 1100 AD, the fortress subsequently became a prize in the tug-of-war between England and Scotland.
It was captured by Scotland’s William the Lion in 1174, only for it to return to English hands under King Richard I.
Suffering partial devastation at the hands of a Royalist force in the 1660s during the bloody English Civil War, the castle saw rejuvenation thanks to Lady Anne Clifford who sought to revive its former magnificence.
Today’s proprietress Sally Nightingale has lovingly restored the castle over the past quarter-century.
Now equipped for contemporary aristocracy, it features a gym, sauna, tennis court, hot tub, ample private parking for numerous vehicles, and even a well-stocked library, not to mention its own museum.
As described by Sotheby’s International Realty in their listing: “[It’s] one of the UK’s most historic castles.
“The building features sandstone walls beneath a pitched slate and lead roof [and] the 12th-century motte and bailey castle also comes complete with a Norman keep, a 13th-century round tower, three cottages, offices, a tennis court and fishing rights on the River Eden at its foot.
“The historic castle has plenty of room for hosting parties or, as is currently the case, for paid accommodation.
“The castle also features a 15th-century dining room with soaring ceilings, as well as a Great Hall from the same period; a second Great Hall dates back to the 12th century.
“It has many period features, the main building also features plenty of modern amenities, including a gym, a hot tub and sauna room, a games room as well as plenty of store rooms.
“Owned by the Kings of England and Scotland, tucked in the breathtaking landscape of the Lake District, Appleby Castle is a unique relic from medieval England.”