Escape the rat race and enjoy a tranquil slice of life in Orkney, writes Susan Welsh
Working from home is a dream for many, as is owning a property that lets them escape the rat race. Newquoy Guest House, a former Victorian schoolhouse in Burness on the island of Sanday in Orkney, ticks both these boxes, and a lot more besides.
The property has been transformed into the world’s most northerly writers’ retreat, but along with buying a home and established business, the new owners will also be picking up a slice of Scottish history.
Only accessible by boat or plane, Newquoy comes with a famous literary history as it has been frequented by some of Scotland’s writing elite such as Scottish poet David Vedder, who penned Sir Walter Scott’s biography. He would often seek solace and inspiration within its walls, while legendary Orkney folklorist, Walter Traill Dennison, spent many days drawing on the sea views as inspiration for his tales.
Today, that literary and educational theme continues as some of the world’s top writers are often joined by musicians from London’s west-end circuit, looking to take a break from hectic city life. The property is also an established B&B, offering buyers the opportunity to continue or grow that revenue stream.
Joanne Stennett, of selling agent Bell Ingram, said: “There is a very special feeling in this property which offers buyers a chance to inherit a home, a business and a legacy. There are also a number of unique features.
“It is a great escape from the rat race as it’s only accessible by air or ferry. There is a fabulous beach at the bottom of the garden and the famous Northern Lights can be viewed from behind the double-glazed windows.
“The property features large windows throughout, which showcase its splendid views and light up the spacious rooms to create a warm and cosy atmosphere.
“With an established business and a fabulous history, the property offers up a huge amount of potential to the buyers; giving them the opportunity to write their very own chapter into the building’s rich history.”
Built in the late 1800s, Newquoy has been fully renovated and upgraded into a three-bedroomed home and is on the market for £250,000. The old schoolroom has been transformed into a spacious living area and working study – separated by the original Victorian partition folding doors.
There’s a lovely south-facing sun room, surrounded by breath-taking sea views from every angle while the large kitchen features superb floor and wall units in oak, complete with a Rayburn stove to provide central heating and hot water.
Upstairs, there’s a master bedroom with an en-suite bathroom, while two further double bedrooms boast stunning views out to the North Sea. All rooms, both upstairs and downstairs, are very spacious and the large windows flood the space with light. High ceilings and some original Victorian features add to the charming mix of old and new.
Paul Harrison, current owner of Newquoy, said: “We’ve had visitors from all over the world stay at our property. It has such a calmness about it, words can’t describe.
“Over the past three and half years, we have created so many memories and hope that the next owners will have as much enjoyment from the property as we have. It isn’t just a property; it is a piece of history and being part of that has been a real honour.”
Newquoy is situated in Burness, a small hamlet on Sanday and within walking distance of a sandy beach yet with easy access to the island amenities. To get here, visitors can catch a ferry or flight from Kirkwall or the Orkney mainland.
Contact: Bell Ingram on 01463 717799.