Home is notwhere the heart is. It's not your safe space. Or bachelor pad. It's also not an identikit new build or some mock-Tudor atrocity. There's only one way to truly reside in style and that's by owning your very own Game of Thrones-inspired, Medieval brute of a castle. Now that's living.
We've scaled the length and breadth of Britain to bring you some of the most audacious homes from yesteryear. You'll find the tapestry wallhangings and suits of armour that you've always dreamed of (well, if you dream exclusively in Medieval fantasy, like us), but if you still have one eye on the contemporary, we have a few tricks up our sleeve that'll turn your castle into a kick-asstle.
Check out the gallery below:
Caverswall Castle, Caverswall, Stoke-on-Trent
£3m
Throw out your CCTV, forget advanced security systems, all you need is a moat. Oh yes, nothing stops the bad guys like a ring of water around your property. Fortunately, Caverswall Castle is up for sale, which is one of the few remaining moated castles in England. When you're bored with laughing at the foolish trespassers trying to navigate your impenetrable defence, take a stroll around the gorgeous gardens, grounds and lakes. Inside, the 16-bedroom property includes a drawing room, library, dining room, billiard room, chapel room (just in case), an old dungeon (if religion doesn't work) and more. sothebysrealty.com
The Round Tower, Cirencester, Gloucestershire
£2.5m
We wouldn't want to contradict ourselves but even the best castles can be a bit – you know, old. Enter (stage left) this unique subterranean property. We're talking seriously contemporary living: underfloor heating, zoned entertainment system and a swimming pool with a Grade II-listed turret standing proudly erect above it all. Four beds and baths, a bespoke kitchen and full-height sliding glazed doors opening out onto a private courtyard, this unique home is an uncompromising blend of style and history. After all, the modern-day ruler needs a media room in his turret, no? sothebysrealty.co.uk
Craigrook Castle, Midlothian
£6m
The problem with castles is they can be a bit, well, remote. Not a problem with Midlothian, an elegant 16th century castle which is only three miles outside of Edinburgh. The property features extensive grounds which give rise to beautiful views across the city, and your own four acres to run around in. Up for sale freehold for the first time in almost 300 years, this is a rare combination of ancient heritage and modern convenience. You can enjoy the full princely experience, with turrets, open fireplaces and wood panelling, all within reach of the local shops for when you need to nip out for a pint of milk. sothebysrealty.co.uk
Earlshall Castle, Leuchars, St Andrews
Offers above £5m
Just down the road from the Home of Golf is Earlshall Castle – and it's quite the looker, in a rustic sort of way. Naturally, you'll want to divide your time between some of the best golf courses in the world and your not-so-humble abode but this characterful ten-bedroom home may keep you off the links more than you imagine. It doesn't conform to traditional castle design but it's all the better for it with history and intrigue hidden among the various wings to the house. Don't forget the 34-acres, three cottages and a world-famous walled garden, which are yours to explore. savills.com
Tower of Lethendy, Perthshire
£4.6m
This Scottish castle was reportedly desired by pop princess Taylor Swift before her relationship with Calvin Harris went south (along with Swift herself). The stronghold boasts eight bedrooms, seven bathrooms, an 18-hole golf course, heated swimming pool and tennis courts so you won't lack for leisure activities. The manor house was built way back in 1570 but then a good castle never goes out of style. savills.com
Castle Hill House, Rotherfield, East Sussex
£4.95m
What did Henry VIII do when he fancied a swim? Well, probably nothing because he didn't have a pool. You can trump him on that one, though, with this outstanding Tudor-style country house, which comes complete with outdoor swimming pool and (for the more adventurous) three lakes. If your aquatic needs still aren't met, you can always indulge in one of the property's seven bathrooms before taking it easy in one of the and this is only the main house. Rotherfield also has two staff cottages and, for the real king of the castle, an enormous multi-level treehouse nestled in the woodland of the property's 39 acres. sothebysrealty.co.uk
