UK: Castle on Scottish island back on market for £750,000

A castle on the Isle of Rum in the United Kingdom has been put up for sale again after a previous bid fell through following a dispute between a millionaire businessman and a Scottish government minister.

Kinloch Castle, a Victorian-era hunting lodge now owned by the government agency NatureScot, is on the market for offers over £750,000. The building is currently empty and in need of significant repair.

Two years ago, businessman Jeremy Hosking withdrew his interest in buying the castle. He blamed then-biodiversity minister and Scottish Greens co-leader Lorna Slater for halting the sale after the Isle of Rum Community Trust raised concerns.

Rum, with around 40 residents, is the largest of the Small Isles south of Skye.

Research by the government’s Rural and Environment Science and Analytical Services (RESAS) found that most islanders supported selling the castle to be redeveloped and brought back into use. However, the study also showed that some wanted it transferred into community ownership or allowed to decline under managed conditions.

The report noted that conditions suggested by islanders included ensuring the community is involved in the property’s future and that the new owner respects land access rights.

Chris Donald of NatureScot said: “Through this study, islanders made it clear that the most important aspect of any sale is a long-term commitment to contribute to the community and nature on the island.

“We are therefore asking prospective buyers to set out, alongside their offer, how they plan to use the castle and grounds and how they will support the nature, sustainability, culture and economy of the Isle of Rum.”

He added: “For the right buyer, this offers a rare opportunity to be part of Scotland’s heritage by restoring an iconic building and grounds which are of historical and cultural importance to the Isle of Rum and beyond.

“We look forward to hearing from prospective buyers and will, of course, be keeping island residents directly informed of progress.”

Kinloch Castle was built between 1897 and 1900 for industrialist George Bullough and designed by London architects Leeming and Leeming. It was taken over by the Nature Conservancy Council, the predecessor of NatureScot, in 1957.

Over the years, there have been various plans for the building, including proposals to turn it into a hostel or a museum.

Mr Hosking, who had tried to buy the castle in 2023, later said his plans had been “completely crushed”. He also claimed his attempts to speak to Ms Slater went unanswered.

The Isle of Rum Community Trust previously raised concerns about his bid, citing a lack of detail on his intentions for the building.

The Scottish government said community consultation and involvement would remain central to any decision about the castle’s future.

(BBC)

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