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Scottish Sun
2 days ago
- Business
- Scottish Sun
World's tallest Victorian Gothic tower transformed into 4-bed home with stunning panoramic views hits the market in UK
The property has been given a £4.2 million revamp, and even has its own lift LIVE THE HIGH LIFE World's tallest Victorian Gothic tower transformed into 4-bed home with stunning panoramic views hits the market in UK Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) THE world's tallest Victorian Gothic tower, with five floors and a roof terrace, has been transformed into a breathtaking four bed home. Ever wanted to live out your Disney princess fantasy? Well now you can, as the former castle has hit the UK market. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 7 One lucky homeowner can call this stunning tower their home Credit: Rightmove/Fine & Country, Tunbridge Wells 7 The gorgeous abode has four bedrooms and four bathrooms Credit: Rightmove/Fine & Country, Tunbridge Wells 7 The tower has been transformed in to a modern family home Credit: Rightmove/Fine & Country, Tunbridge Wells Hadlow Tower, a Grade I listed 175ft property sits six feet taller than Nelson's Column, and was once part of a Romantic Gothic style 18th century castle. It was built by wealthy merchant Walter Barton May in 1838 so he could spy on his estranged wife who left him for a local farmer. The tower was then used as a look out during World War Two, but was saved by Royal painter Bernard Hailstone. During a ferocious storm in 1987, the tower was severely damaged, and fell in to disrepair before it was restored in 2013 with the help of a £4.2 million grant provided by English Heritage and the Heritage Lottery Fund. Read more property stories HOME HACKS Struggling to sell your house? Boost your property price by £80k with 5 features buyers want, from as little as 55p Situated in the quaint village of Hadlow, in Tonbridge, Kent, the unique abode can be accessed via a triple-arched Gothic Entrance on the village high street. The castle can be found at the end of a long, winding, private countryside road, next to six additional buildings which have also now be converted into private properties. 7 The gorgeous property has undergone a £4.2 million restoration Credit: Rightmove/Fine & Country, Tunbridge Wells The owners of these properties, as well as the owner of the tower have access to the communal former castle grounds, including sweeping lawns and a magnificent lake. Hadlow Tower, which is listed on Rightmove for an eye-watering £2,780,000 includes many original Gothic features, including orante mouldings and arched windows. However, the interior has been transformed in to a modern family home, that even has a lift. There's a cinema room, four bathrooms, a private garden and a castellated parapet, with astounding 360 degree views. This European castle was the inspiration for Disney The master bedroom, known as the Rapunzel Room, has its own roof terrace. The 3.45acre grounds boast a croquet lawn and an ornamental boating lake. Although the tower is tucked away, at the end of the lane is the bustling Hadlow high street, featuring a variety of shops, pubs, a library and a hairdressers. In nearby Tonbridge, there are also a number of great schools, and you can catch a train that will arrive in London in just 30-40 minutes. 5 Tips to Get on The Property Ladder Saving for your first property is tough, but it is possible. Here are a few steps for first-time buyers. 1. Cut back on luxuries and start saving Consistent monthly saving is the best way to accumulate enough money to get on the ladder, for a deposit and purchase fees. To do this, you need to take a look at your monthly outgoings and think about what can be cut out - holidays, new clothes, weekly takeaway. Using a savings calculator can help you to establish how long you will need to save for a deposit. Based on your income, you can figure out a realistic amount to save each month. 2. Have a realistic property search Set a budget for the property price you would like to buy, and think realistically about the location and size of your property. While we all may want that house with a view or extra bedroom, can you afford it? 3. Research Help To Buy and Shared Ownership schemes The government has introduced a few ways to help first-time-buyers get on the property ladder and they're great for those on lower incomes or to buy a property in more expensive areas like London. 4. Consider buying with another person Investing with somebody else you know is a sure way to get onto the property ladder. You only need to save half the amount you would otherwise, so you can work towards getting your property sooner. You can invest with a friend, family or partner. Naturally, it is a big step and a huge commitment so be open and honest about what you expect from living together — if you haven't already. 5. Talk to a mortgage broker and get your documents in order A mortgage broker can tell you exactly how much you can borrow for a mortgage, what you will need to pay monthly and in upfront costs. The owner of the property said: "This has been a very exciting and unique home that I have been privileged and proud to own for the past few years. "I and my family have thoroughly enjoyed our time here, including the peaceful and tranquil environment, but my business is taking my abroad so I feel it is time to hand the baton over to new custodians who will appreciate the uniqueness of this amazing place in such an incredible setting." James Mackenzie, head of Strutt & Parker's National Country House Department described the tower as "historically fascinating". He said: "Hadlow Tower had £4.5million invested into it so it is both historically fascinating and brand new. "It has the best of everything with incredible craftsmanship and every modern benefit. "This tower is a masterpiece and we've already had dozens of enquiries about it including foreign buyers." 7 It is the tallest Gothic tower in the UK Credit: Rightmove/Fine & Country, Tunbridge Wells 7 It is situated in the borough of Tonbridge Credit: Rightmove/Fine & Country, Tunbridge Wells
The Irish Sun
16-07-2025
- The Irish Sun
Britain's most iconic seaside landmarks mapped from historic theme park rollercoasters to Art Deco lidos
BRITAIN'S most iconic seaside landmarks have been revealed. Historic England has compiled an interactive map celebrating 300 years of British coastal culture. 9 The Big One rollercoaster at Blackpool Pleasure Beach Image copyright English Heritage Credit: English Heritage 9 Bamburgh Castle, Bamburgh, Northumberland Credit: Frank & Julie Minshull 9 Promenade Shelter, Queen's Promenade, Blackpool, Lancashire Credit: Historic England They include Blackpool Pleasure Beach's Big Dipper, the Art Deco Jubilee Swimming Pool in Penzance, Cornwall, Southend-on-Sea's Pleasure Pier in Essex, and Bamburgh Castle in Northumberland. The public are being urged to submit photos, drawings, written information or audio recordings about the landmarks that hold special significance or memories to them. The Missing Pieces project includes piers, pavilions, arcades, bandstands, lidos, railway stations and lighthouses. Heritage Minister, Baroness Twycross, said: "Our seaside communities play a huge role in telling our national story. Read more "I encourage everyone to contribute to the Missing Pieces Project to preserve the history of our coastal towns and breathe new life into their future ." 9 Jubilee Pool, Penzance, Cornwall Credit: Paul Davis 9 De La Warr Pavillion, Bexhill-on-Sea, East Sussex Credit: Philip Sutters Duncan Wilson, chief executive, Historic England , said: 'Our seaside places hold a special place in our national story, yet the full richness of their heritage cannot be captured without the first-hand accounts, images and memories of those who've experienced them. 'I encourage people to contribute to the Missing Pieces Project, so we can all help ensure these treasured coastal landmarks are celebrated." The sites on the Most read in Travel 9 Eastbourne Pier, East Sussex Credit: Julian Osley 9 1-3 Marine Parade, Southend-on-Sea, Essex Credit: Charles Watson 9 The Royal Hotel, Deal, Kent Credit: Graeme Duckworth 9 Inclined Tramway (Upper Building), Saltburn Cliff Lift, Saltburn-on-Sea, Redcar and Cleveland Credit: Alan Marsh
Scottish Sun
16-07-2025
- Scottish Sun
Britain's most iconic seaside landmarks mapped from historic theme park rollercoasters to Art Deco lidos
Oh we do love to be beside the seaside - Brits urged to share their memories Seaside Attraction Britain's most iconic seaside landmarks mapped from historic theme park rollercoasters to Art Deco lidos Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) BRITAIN'S most iconic seaside landmarks have been revealed. Historic England has compiled an interactive map celebrating 300 years of British coastal culture. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 9 The Big One rollercoaster at Blackpool Pleasure Beach Image copyright English Heritage Credit: English Heritage 9 Bamburgh Castle, Bamburgh, Northumberland Credit: Frank & Julie Minshull 9 Promenade Shelter, Queen's Promenade, Blackpool, Lancashire Credit: Historic England They include Blackpool Pleasure Beach's Big Dipper, the Art Deco Jubilee Swimming Pool in Penzance, Cornwall, Southend-on-Sea's Pleasure Pier in Essex, and Bamburgh Castle in Northumberland. The public are being urged to submit photos, drawings, written information or audio recordings about the landmarks that hold special significance or memories to them. The Missing Pieces project includes piers, pavilions, arcades, bandstands, lidos, railway stations and lighthouses. Heritage Minister, Baroness Twycross, said: "Our seaside communities play a huge role in telling our national story. "I encourage everyone to contribute to the Missing Pieces Project to preserve the history of our coastal towns and breathe new life into their future." 9 Jubilee Pool, Penzance, Cornwall Credit: Paul Davis 9 De La Warr Pavillion, Bexhill-on-Sea, East Sussex Credit: Philip Sutters Duncan Wilson, chief executive, Historic England, said: 'Our seaside places hold a special place in our national story, yet the full richness of their heritage cannot be captured without the first-hand accounts, images and memories of those who've experienced them. 'I encourage people to contribute to the Missing Pieces Project, so we can all help ensure these treasured coastal landmarks are celebrated." The sites on the interactive map also include the De La Warr pavilion at Bexhill-on-Sea, East Sussex, and Peasholm Park in Scarborough, North Yorkshire. 9 Eastbourne Pier, East Sussex Credit: Julian Osley 9 1-3 Marine Parade, Southend-on-Sea, Essex Credit: Charles Watson 9 The Royal Hotel, Deal, Kent Credit: Graeme Duckworth
Daily Mirror
15-07-2025
- Daily Mirror
'Breath of fresh air' UK village with hidden 'grand' castle and stunning wildlife
Helmsley, in North Yorkshire, is a "brejson of fresh air" with a number of stunning features that make it a perfect UK day out - and it has been voted as one of the best market towns in the UK Tucked away in the Dales, between Pickering and Thirsk, lies the charming market town of Helmsley. This North Yorkshire gem, steeped in history, is a "breath of fresh air" and an ideal summer day trip destination that "everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime". Visit North Yorkshire stated: "One of North Yorkshire's most popular market towns (officially - it won the Great British High Street Award's best market town category), Helmsley is somewhere everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime. "Although if you go once, you are likely to go back time and time again - a visit to this picturesque place, which has so much going on, feels like a breath of fresh air." For those who love the great outdoors, there are numerous scenic walks nearby, including one that leads to the stunning Rievaulx Abbey. The abbey, one of the first Cistercian abbeys in England, was established around 1130 and its impressive arches still stand today. There are also fantastic cycling routes through the North York Moors National Park, which is essentially Helmsley's backyard, reports the Express. Visit Yorkshire added: "The Discovery Trail showcases local history on an easy loop, while cyclists can enjoy routes like the Helmsley to Rievaulx Abbey ride and the challenging North York Moors Cycleway, passing through heather landscapes and hidden valleys on quieter roads. "One of the highlights is the Cleveland Way, a renowned national trail that starts in Helmsley." Those who enjoy a dip will be pleased to know that "If you fancy taking a dip to cool off, the town's open-air pool is a refreshing option in the summer months." In the heart of the town lies Helmsley Castle, which English Heritage describes as a "formidable medieval fortress, an Elizabethan mansion, a besieged Civil War stronghold and a Georgian romantic ruin." The castle boasts impressive stonework defences, including the towering east tower that still dominates Helmsley's skyline. If the castle's charm wears off, the surrounding rolling parkland, teeming with wildflowers and wildlife, is sure to keep visitors entertained. According to English Heritage, "The castle's west range was converted into an Elizabethan mansion, and some of its fine timber panelling and plasterwork has been conserved. Displays explore life in the castle through five centuries of war and peace." A Trip Advisor reviewer raved about the site, saying: "Given the castle looks like a ruin, was very pleasantly surprised with what we found. Lots of rooms as well as ruins to visit, with very informative and well placed information boards dotted around giving the full history and many uses of this grand old castle. Situated in wonderful Helmsley right next to the stunning walled garden, I would highly recommend a visit." A stunning walled garden filled with blooming flowers and pristine lawns awaits visitors in the vicinity. The local guide said: "Take a trip back in time at the town's castle, admire the stunning blooms and floral arches at the walled garden, marvel at spectacular birds of prey displays at the nearby estate, or wander stunning National Trust sites just outside of town." Shopaholics will revel in the medley of independent stores and chic boutiques like Holme Lea Country Interiors alongside inviting cafés, bakeries, delis, pubs, and restaurants. For those wishing to prolong their visit, there's no shortage of charming options ranging from quaint cottages to opulent spa hotels.
BBC News
12-07-2025
- General
- BBC News
Mystery of Finchdale Priory sword found in tree
A sword found stuck in a tree trunk near a 13th Century priory could have been put there by a Harry Potter fan, volunteers have theorised.A walker heading for Finchale Priory in Durham from the city's bus station came across the ornate sword, embedded up to its hilt in a remains a mystery to English Heritage, which preserves the old Benedictine priory, and to Durham County Council, which owns the land the sword was found English Heritage volunteer speculated the model sword had been made by a Potter fan in a nod to the fantasy series. Walker Alan Finnegan said he stumbled across the "sword in the tree" on the way to the priory."It was on the other side of the river, up the steps towards the car park," he posted images of the mystery sword on social media, said he had discovered nothing concrete about the weapon's his appeals, people told him that the sword might not have been in the tree for a very long time. "I personally don't know much about the history but I've heard that it wasn't there for long, but with not much information on it, I'd say that it's a brilliant conversation starter," Mr Finnegan said."It makes people wonder about the history of the sword and where it has come from." The council confirmed the sword was on its land but said it did not know anything about it. It added the police had been informed, but no action needed to be taken as it was firmly lodged in the tree. Godric's sword? Finchdale Priory was founded in 1196 and became an outpost of Durham Cathedral, functioning as a holiday retreat for monks until the dissolution in Heritage spoke to its volunteers at the priory, who believe the sword must have been put there volunteer said: "I walked past the tree many times without noticing it and I only became aware of it when a visitor asked me what the story was behind it. "Following that, I was asked by some of the younger visitors where 'Godric's sword' was."In the Harry Potter book series, Godric's sword belonged to one of the founders of the Hogwarts houses, Gryffindor, and would only present itself to a worthy candidate."It's definitely not that sword, however, as it is described as having a handle that is encrusted with jewels," the volunteer said."My theory is that a Harry Potter fan made the sword and hammered it into the tree and then posted a pic on his or her social media asking 'is this Godric's sword?'" Follow BBC North East on X, Facebook, Nextdoor and Instagram.
