Bellister Castle, a Grade-I listed property in Haltwhistle, Northumberland, has gone on the market for offers over £2 million, offering buyers the chance to own an eight-bedroom historic residence set within 4.5 acres.
The 12th-century castle stands on an elevated motte amid 1,200 acres of National Trust parkland and is built with stone from nearby Hadrian’s Wall. Its listing comes as interest grows in the gothic settings associated with this year’s Celebrity Traitors.
Spread across 4,778 sq ft, the property is surrounded by mature trees and lies within reach of the Lake District, rural Northumberland and the Scottish Borders. The sale also includes a two-bedroom lodge and courtyard outbuildings.
Bellister Castle was owned by the Blenkinsop family until 1697 before being substantially renovated and rebuilt by architect John Dobson in 1826. Its current owners have since restored the building while combining its historic character with modern accommodation.
Features include decorative plaster ceilings, wood panelling and a mahogany staircase. The estate agent handling the sale describes it as a fortified mansion in which “attention to detail is in every aspect”.
The property’s gardens sit among ancient woodland and neighbouring farms, with deer reported to roam the grounds. Its owners say the setting offers privacy while remaining accessible by road, rail and air.
Andrew Greening, who made the castle his family home with his wife Jacqueline, said there was “significant potential” for a new owner to create a rural retreat.
“Anyone who wishes to experience the majesty and excitement of waking up in a historic English Castle would not be disappointed,” he said.
Mr Greening added that the couple had enjoyed “returning the castle and lodge back to their former glory”, but said the farmhouse and stables could still be developed into “a secluded multi-generational haven”.
He said the building’s historic integrity had been carefully maintained alongside “very comfortable modern living”, while praising the privacy and calm of its Northumberland location.
