Highland Home with Royal Seal of Approval Hits the Market

HOUSE hunters seeking a quiet, private retreat may find their dream property in Dorrery Lodge – a former shooting lodge once used as a secret picnic getaway for the late Queen Mother.

Built circa 1904 by the Crown, the stunning, nine-bedroom property is set in 7.9 acres of grounds in the district of Halkirk, Caithness and is steeped in history.

Located less than 20 miles from the Royal residence at Castle of Mey near Thurso, the historic Highland home was a favourite spot of the late Queen Mother, who would meet friends at the lodge and even fished on a nearby loch. The lodge is ideally located for fishing on a number of first class salmon rivers including the Thurso and Halladale.

To add to the whole attractive package, the tower of Dorrery Lodge bears the Royal cipher of King Edward VII and the property 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 sale also includes a steading building that is available for development, as well as a gun room and deer larder.

Situated approximately seven miles from Halkirk and 12 miles from Thurso, Dorrery Lodge is currently on the market with Chartered Surveyors, Land and Estate Agents Bell Ingram for offers over £475,000.

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.”

Viewings are strictly by appointment only and can be arranged through Bell Ingram’s Inverness office on 01463 717 799.

Established 117 years ago, Bell Ingram has 130 professional staff across 11 UK offices including: farm, estate and forestry managers; chartered surveyors, estate agents, architects, planners, and building surveyors; and tourism, GIS mapping, and renewable energy specialists.