Ripley Castle, a historic estate located near Harrogate, Yorkshire, has been placed on the market for the first time in over 700 years, capturing the attention of history enthusiasts and would-be homeowners alike. The Grade I-listed property is offered at the price of £21 million and boasts 445 acres of land, including gardens, parks, and even commercial facilities.
The Ingilby family has been the proud custodian of Ripley Castle since the early 1300s, and the current owners, Sir Thomas and Lady Emma Ingilby, have expressed bittersweet sentiments about their decision to sell. "It's been half a century of responsibility and now we are ready for an irresponsible retirement," remarked Sir Thomas, whose family history intertwines with some of England's most significant events. Sir Thomas, at 69, and Lady Emma, 65, have decided to step away from the complex obligations of managing such a grand estate. "We've been working seven days a week for so long, and we're nearly 70. Now it's time for us to travel and be impulsive," he continued.
The roots of Ripley Castle can be traced back centuries to when it was acquired through the marriage of Sir Thomas Ingilby to Edeline Thweng. Since then, the estate has witnessed notable historical events, from royal visits to dramatic wartime scuffles. Among the fascinating tales of the castle is the story of 'Trooper Jane' Ingilby, who once held Oliver Cromwell at gunpoint during the English Civil War to protect her brother.
The current custodians have ensured the estate is kept pristine, undertaking extensive restoration efforts, including re-roofing to maintain its historical integrity, and hosting various commercial events. Lady Emma referred to their tenure at Ripley Castle as "a privilege," reflecting on the many beautiful moments they have experienced there: "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."
The castle's offering on the market includes three reception rooms, 11 bedrooms, six bathrooms, and space for commercial ventures such as weddings, events, and public access, attracting the interest of buyers from various sectors. The estate has been divided, allowing potential buyers to purchase individual lots or the entire property. According to Mark Granger of Carter Jonas Christie's International Real Estate, the estate offers significant potential for various projects, including agricultural, commercial, sports, or conservation endeavors.
Sir Thomas remarked on leaving the estate "in the best state possible and safeguarding the heritage for future generations." He pointed out how the family has ticked off their to-do lists throughout their time, ensuring the castle is ready for its next owners. He adds, "I hope the new owner appreciates the history here, because the history of the Ingilbys is the history of England. Nothing stands still; they must do what they like with it, as long as they just love it and take care of it."
Even with their plans to retire and explore the globe, these final days at Ripley Castle remain significant for the couple, with family weddings planned within its historic walls. "It feels rather lovely, as the family history here started with a marriage and now it will end with one," Sir Thomas stated poignantly, referencing their estate's historical significance.
They had already transitioned from living at the castle for two years, opting for downsizing to nearby normal-sized living quarters, where they could watch their son enjoy their once-family roots during the interim. Their decision came with the agreement of their children, who have chosen to forgo the responsibility of managing Ripley Castle.
Reflecting on the mixed emotions of these transformative years, Lady Emma adds, "It's been great fun living here, but it came with huge challenges, and that's one of the reasons we're selling, because we had a list of things to do to preserve it and we've done it. It’s time for another family to enjoy it." The couple hopes to enjoy their impending retirement filled with traveling and writing, perhaps penning down their historical family's legacy.
The sale not only encapsulates the end of the Ingilby family's stewardship of Ripley Castle, but also marks the beginning of its new chapter with whoever secures the estate. The castle, with its intertwining of family legacies, royal history, and rich architectural splendor, awaits the next guardian to carry forward its storied legacy.