From Compact Castles to Contemporary Smart Living: Exploring January’s Top Property Picks

As we find ourselves on the precipice of spring, it’s a perfect time to look back at the most-viewed properties of the previous month. From the historic charm of a Grade II-listed compact Gothic castle in Dover to the majestic presence of a moated country house in Norfolk, each offers a unique combination of history, luxury and prime location that have captured the attention and imagination of property lovers browsing one of the UK’s largest property portals, Rightmove.

For those with a taste for history and a penchant for the unique, the Gate House in Dover presents a rare opportunity to invest in a property with holiday let potential, boasting convenient access to local attractions. Meanwhile, Stanfield Hall in Norfolk offers an expansive estate set in lush parkland, complete with an indoor swimming pool and a tennis court, representing the quintessential country lifestyle of the privileged few. For a more modern twist, a smart home in Nottinghamshire features cutting-edge technology and luxurious finishes, providing a glimpse into the future of residential living. Another most-viewed property, Bonnington Manse in South Lanarkshire impresses by combining period charm with modern comforts while a stylish apartment in Edinburgh’s West End, offers its occupiers urban living at its best. Join us as we dive into the details of these captivating properties, each offering its own story to tell and potential to inspire.

Grade II-listed property with turret and holiday let potential – Dover £120, 000

The Gate House is a Grade II listed property in Dover, Kent that presents an intriguing investment opportunity. This mini-Gothic castle, which comes complete with a majestic, single turret, was constructed in 1850 and is thought to have originally been the gatehouse for the Dover Castle Garrison’s officers’ quarters. Its unique historical features, including the turret, exposed beams and open fireplaces, make it a distinctive offering in the holiday rental market.

The property has an established rental base, securing bookings ranging from £318 to £740 per week, depending on the season. Its location, nestled part way up a hill near both Dover Castle and the town centre, offers easy access to local attractions and amenities. This includes landmarks such as the wartime tunnels, the Roman painted house and the famous white cliffs of Dover, in addition to being well-situated for trips to France and exploring the east Kent coastline. Local shops and a pub are within 0.5 miles and 0.3 miles respectively, adding to the convenience for guests. The Gate House is available on a leasehold basis, with a 99-year lease commencing on 26 April 1990, leaving 66 years remaining on the lease.

[ Note: The sale of The Gate House was to be via auction on 31 January 2024, however, the property remained for sale after this date. The listing on Rightmove now states that the agent has removed the property listing so it’s possible it eventually sold or is being marketed by another agent].

Grade-II listed country house with a moat in Norfolk – £5,000,000

Stanfield Hall is an impressive Grade II* listed country house situated within 35 acres of mature parkland grounds in Stanfield, Wymondham, Norfolk. Built in 1792, the partly moated residence showcases a rich tapestry of history, having been constructed on the medieval site of a moated manor with records dating back to 1216. The estate’s historical significance is further underscored by its past residents and events, which can be read about on the property listing.  The building’s architectural features include brick elevations in a Tudor style, a Gothic style stone staircase hall and a Cumberland slate roof alongside internal elements such as a vaulted entrance hall, stone fireplaces and a cantilevered stone staircase leading to an open gallery landing. The property offers generous living spaces, including light-filled drawing and sitting rooms with bay windows overlooking the terrace and grounds, a wood-panelled dining room and a modern kitchen with handcrafted units. Additional indoor amenities include an indoor swimming pool and gym.

The outdoor space features landscaped gardens, a pond, kitchen gardens and a tennis court, complemented by a two-bedroom cottage and extensive outbuildings, while its location offers convenient access to Norwich, Cambridge and London, with Wymondham nearby providing local amenities and transportation links. Stanfield Hall also benefits from renewable energy incentives and the listing mentions potential overage provisions for development, presenting a unique investment opportunity for property investors or developers interested in preserving its heritage while exploring its future potential.

A 19th-century detached stone villa in South Lanarkshire – £500,000

Bonnington Manse is a detached traditional stone villa in Lanark South Lanarkshire that offers a blend of historical charm and modern upgrades. Built in 1879, the property has undergone careful renovation by its current owners who have preserved its original features while incorporating contemporary comforts for family living. The renovation includes the use of colourful heritage paint on walls and woodwork, a formal lounge with original fire surround and open fire and a spacious dining room perfect for entertaining.

The residence is laid out over two floors, with a split-level staircase leading to five large double bedrooms on the upper floor, where the master and another bedroom offer views of the historic Clyde Valley/New Lanark Conservation Village. Original sash and case windows along with double glazing and traditional shutters, A-rated gas central heating and underfloor heating in selected areas are among the property’s notable features. Outside, Bonnington Manse boasts private gardens with lawned areas, a pea gravel walkway and a period sandstone staircase, all enclosed by mature vegetation and a stone wall while a driveway and garage at the rear offer ample parking.

A luxurious open-plan smart home in Nottinghamshire – £1,200,000

This modern detached house, located in Ravenshead, Nottinghamshire, epitomises luxury living with a range of advanced features tailored for comfort and security. The property, which boasts five spacious bedrooms, integrates smart home technology enabling control over security, heating, electric gates and entertainment systems directly from a smartphone. The ground level includes a hallway leading to an integrated garage and gym alongside an expansive open plan kitchen, fitted with top-of-the-range appliances, a living and dining area with a huge breakfast bar and light streaming into the room from the skylight and bi-fold doors that lead to the patio and perfectly manicured garden. The upper floors house the bedrooms, with the master and another bedroom featuring en-suite bathrooms, walk-in wardrobes and Juliet balconies.

The property is served by a large, tarmacked driveway with a turning circle, garage and a private south-facing garden, offering a practical outdoor space.

Situated in a popular village location surrounded by picturesque countryside, the house is close to various local amenities, leisure facilities and excellent schools.

2 bed apartment within one of Edinburgh’s landmark buildings – £560,000

Located in Edinburgh’s vibrant West End, Donaldson Drive offers an immaculate two-bedroom apartment within a period building, set amidst 16 acres of parkland. The residence gives exclusive access to The Playfair’s concierge service, the Club Room, Chapel Room and a beautiful internal courtyard. The apartment features an open-plan sitting/dining room and kitchen that features double-height original windows and high ceilings and is equipped with Siemens appliances set against Corian worktops. Notably, the property includes two bathrooms with high-end Villeroy & Boch and Hansgrohe fittings, smart home-enabled systems for blinds, lighting and zoned heating, alongside substantial storage options including a utility cupboard. Additional benefits include two allocated parking spaces in a secure underground car park, making it a highly desirable living space or investment opportunity in the heart of the city.

Furthermore, the location of Donaldson Drive in the West End places it within walking distance of Edinburgh’s main commercial and retail areas and numerous lifestyle amenities. The area is renowned for its fashionable boutiques, bars and restaurants, with the cosmopolitan area of Stockbridge nearby, accessible via the Water of Leith walkway. The apartment is also conveniently situated near local recreational facilities, prestigious state and private schools and efficient public transportation links, including the Haymarket train station and the tram network providing direct access to Edinburgh Airport.

Which of January’s most-viewed properties appeals to you the most?