When I first saw Arradoul House, my impression was that it looked like something straight out of a storybook.
It also would not look out of place in some historical TV drama with its vibrant red door and unusual shape.
So it was no surprise to discover while reading through the schedule that the house dates back to around 1748. And while it is principally from the Georgian era, there have also been some Victorian extensions.
The house is situated in the semi-rural hamlet of Arradoul, in the heart of the Banffshire countryside, while also being a short distance from the coastal town of Buckie.
Originally built as a manse, it has had a range of uses over the years including a bed and breakfast establishment and a nursing home.
More recently, it has been used as a spacious family home, with the current owners making a number of improvements over the years.
But while they have managed to bring the house up to date, they have taken special care to ensure it retains many of its original features, thus not losing any of its charm or character.
Traditional features such as sash and casement windows, split panelled doors, high ceilings with original cornicing and servant bells are sure to appeal to those looking for a house that stands out from the crowd.
Arradoul House would be perfect for a growing family, but equally ideal for those looking for a business opportunity, such as running a B&B or a guesthouse.
There is certainly enough room for everyone, with rooms spanning two-and-a-half storeys and offering something for everyone.
One room sure to impress is the elegant drawing room, which is exceptionally bright and airy thanks to a bay style corner window and double French doors leading to the rear garden.
A Belgian marble fireplace suitable for an open fire and set on a slate hearth takes centre-stage in this room and reminds you of the vast history attached to the house.
A substantial wooden fire surround with multi-fuel stove set on a stone hearth can also be found in the lovely sitting room, which also has two windows and two built-in cupboards. It is a lovely cosy room, great for spending winter nights in.
In the kitchen, the perfect mix of tradition and modern has been created. Fitted with a range of based and wall mounted units in an oak effect finish, it offers lots of storage and work space.
An oil-fired Aga adds a touch of tradition to the room and the combination of tiled floors and a fitted carpet in the dining area gives it a modern touch. There is plenty of room for free-standing furniture.
But if you want a separate dining room, there is a room made just for that. It is currently used as a games room and dining room and features original ceiling coving and handcrafted storage cupboards.
A feature that might appeal to some budding chefs is that this house actually comes with a second kitchen, that is again fitted with oak effect finished units and a five-ring gas hob.
A sweeping staircase with pitch pine banister takes you to the first floor where you will find the gorgeous master bedroom.
This exceptionally large room has a west facing window and a bay window with south, east and west views. There is also a wooden fire surround with cast iron fireplace and an en-suite bathroom.
Luxury is definitely the word to describe this bathroom, especially as it features a Jacuzzi bath, marble and tiled splash back to the bath and shower wall as well as a wooden fire surround with beautiful cast-iron fireplace suitable for an open fire.
There are also a further four good-sized bedrooms and a shower room.
Another nice feature of this house is the former maids’ quarters in the attic area. It is presently used as another bedroom but could also be used for other purposes, including a study or gym.
There is also a second attic room which is currently used as a twin room.
Looking around this house, you might think that it would definitely be out of your price range – but for many people, you’d be wrong.
Arradoul House is on the market for offers around £470,000 – a price you’d be hard-stretched to match in Aberdeen’s city centre.
The price not only covers this beautiful grand home but the stunning grounds that surround it.
The current owners have greatly improved the two acres of landscaped gardens, which screen the house from the A98 with an area of mature woodland.
A unique feature is a beautifully well-tended maze of Victorian box hedging.
There is also a sheltered decking area, great for barbecues and al fresco dining as well as a sweeping driveway, great for off-road parking.
A number of outbuildings are also included in the sale.
Arradoul House is set back from the main A98 road, with two stone pillars adorned by lions at the entrance. The towns of Buckie and Fochabers are only a short dive while Banff is within easy commuting distance.
Contact: Stewart & Watson on 01888 563777.