House hunters seeking a private rural retreat may find their dream property at the end of a quiet, tree lined sweeping driveway in Halkirk, Caithness.
Dorrery Lodge is a former shooting lodge once used as a secret picnic getaway for the late Queen Mother.
Built around 1904 by the Crown, the stunning, nine-bedroom property is set in nearly eight acres of grounds, and is steeped in history.
It’s pretty close, less than 20 miles away, from the Castle of Mey near Thurso. This castle was the Queen Mother’s much-loved home in Caithness.
Dorrery Lodge, which is on the market at offers over £475,000, is where the Queen Mother would often meet friends and fish on a nearby loch. The lodge is ideally placed for those who enjoying the sport of fishing as it is near to a number of first class salmon rivers including the River Thurso and River Halladale.
To add to the whole attractive package, the tower of Dorrery Lodge bears the Royal cipher of King Edward VII, while the property itself has retained many of its original period features throughout, including an original Edwardian Billiards room/library with a traditional full-size billiards table which comes as part of the sale.
Other desirable features include large windows offering superb panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, as well as an oil-fired AGA, original iron cast fireplaces and Victorian style bathrooms. The house is full of lovely features and interesting rooms such as the aforementioned billiards room which has triple aspect windows, original wood panelling, extensive book shelving and a grand wooden fire surround housing an open fire.
There is a large dining room which enjoys fine views over the gardens, while the drawing room, directly opposite the dining room, also overlooks the gardens and paddock. One end of this unusual room forms part of the turret and provides a bright reading corner.
Other rooms on the ground floor include a snug, galley-style utility room/butler’s pantry, an open-plan kitchen and a servants wing with office, walk-in pantry, utility room/laundry, three bedrooms and a bathroom.
In total, the house has nine bedrooms, all of them double sized and enjoying rural views with some featuring the original cast iron fireplaces. There are also three bathrooms. The family bathroom has a Victorian-style bath with over-bath shower, the original WC and sink and wood panelled walls. The other two bathrooms have white three piece suites.
The sale also includes a steading building that is available for development, as well as a gun room and deer larder.
Joanne Stennett, of Bell Ingram’s Inverness Office, said: “Dorrery Lodge is a truly unique and impressive property due to its royal connections and stunning period features.
“Its substantial grounds and spacious rooms mean it would be ideal for a large or growing family keen to attain a large amount of flexible space.
“The property offers the perfect setting for those seeking a quiet and private lifestyle, as the surrounding area offers plenty of seclusion. The Flow Country is also famed for its wildlife so any budding nature lover will be spoilt for choice.
“The close location to Halkirk and Thurso means that the buyer will never be far from local shopping facilities and with Inverness just a two hour drive away, it is also near to all the amenities of a bustling city.
“The fact the home has a royal connection as one of the Queen Mother’s favourite picnic spots also means it is of great historical significance, and would be a hugely intriguing place for entertaining guests.”
Contact: Bell Ingram on 01463 717799.