A historic castle which has been owned by the same family for centuries has just gone on the market. With US President Donald Trump and popstar Taylor Swift both apparently interested in buying, there could be stiff competition to buy Ripley Castle near Harrogate.
The castle has been home of the Ingilby family since the 14th century – but Sir Thomas and Lady Ingilby have now listed the huge estate for £21 million. If it sells for this price, it could become the most expensive property ever sold in the UK outside of London.
Ripley Castle has significant history, having played a key role during Guy Fawkes’ gunpowder plot in 1605. Interestingly, nine of the eleven known conspirators were related to the Ingilby family, and the BBC drama portraying the plot, Gunpowder, was filmed at the venue in 2017.
The estate offers more than just the charm of the Grade I listed building. It boasts three reception rooms, eleven bedrooms, and six bathrooms, providing ample space for any potential owner. Surrounding this magnificent structure is 445 acres of land which includes various amenities such as a lake, pub, helipad, and car park. Notably, the estate has been divided for sale, encompassing nine lots available for individual or collective purchase.
Sir Thomas Ingilby explained the dedication of his family to maintaining the estate: ‘There are days when we are very positive about it, there are other days when we are sad for what we will miss. I’ve been looking after the place for over 50 years, so this has been my whole life. I don’t want to be carried out of here feet first, I’ve got things I want to do.’
Lady Ingilby also shared her sentiments on the matter: ‘I hope the new owner does appreciate the history, because the history of the Ingilbys is the history of England. But nothing stands still; they must do what they like with it, as long as they just love it and take care of it.’
The couple, who have invested about £2.5 million on renovations over the last five years, are now considering retirement. They have plans to enjoy leisurely travels after the sale is finalized, marking the end of an era for the Ingilby family.
Retiring couples often reflect on the memories associated with their long-held properties, and Lady Ingilby noted this sentiment eloquently. ‘Some of the events we’ve hosted here have been incredibly moving... There are evenings when we walk around the gardens by the lake, and deer come down to drink, surrounded by the scent of flowers. It feels like something out of a fairytale.’
Overall, Ripley Castle not only serves as a home but as living history, marking over 700 years of the Ingilby legacy. The sale opens up the possibility for the new owners to create their own stories of grandeur and heritage within its walls.