Houlland Hse, Steading & Da Laggans, Baltasound, Unst, ZE2 9DZ

Houlland House and Steading and Da Laggans Cottage are are cared for by the National Trust for Scotland. The Trust are seeking new owners who can bring these properties to life while continuing to care for and preserve their architectural significance. The properties were originally part of the larger Gardie Estate and early census records shows Houlland House inhabited as far back as 1841. Both cottages are in need of complete renovation.

The Steading has earned its C listing due to its significance locally, representing an important part of the local history. It is unique to Unst with only one other similar steading on the island. It is of particular importance that all steps be taken to conserve the architectural integrity of the Steading.

Houlland House and Steading are in about 0.3 ha (0.74 acres) of grounds. In addition, an adjoining field of about 0.5 ha (1.23 acres) would also be separately available. A right of access would be granted over the land leading down to the Loch of Cliff shoreline.

Houlland House is a single-storey, stone-built house with a slate roof. A blockwork extension with a felt roof is located at the rear of the property. The property is vacant presently but provides an exciting opportunity for buyers to renovate the interiors to their liking. The accommodation comprises a living room, four bedrooms, a kitchen, and a bathroom. The property will require considerable renovation.

Houlland Steading is C(s) listed and is a quadrangular building of rubble construction with sandstone dressings. The slate roof was replaced in 1993 and the steading is in good condition. Whilst the Steading has been cleared of the majority of items, a small number of agricultural artifacts have been left in situ.

There are two additional outbuildings. The larger building extends to 51.60 m2 and the smaller building is 11.17 m2.

Da Laggans Cottage is a two storey dwelling with an attic, and a single-storey extension to the side. It has lain unoccupied since 1995 with some deterioration due to storm damage. The accommodation extends to a living room and kitchen on the ground floor and two bedrooms on the upper floor. The extension on the side which has now lost its roof. The Cottage is in need of complete renovation.

The area of land surrounding Houlland House and Steading is currently being refenced to clearly define the boundaries. The site plans are therefore indicative at this point

Health & Safety
Please note that care should be exercised when internally viewing the upper floor of Houlland Steading.

At Da Laggans Cottage there is an opening for a small water well within the boundary and care should be taken when walking in the grounds. Please also note that the upper floor of Da Laggans Cottage is in poor condition and extra care needs to be exercised if this floor is accessed.

Conservation Agreement
Due to the local significance of both properties, each sale will be covered by a Conservation Agreement with National Trust for Scotland. This will ensure that the successful purchaser renovates each of the properties with sensitivity. An essential part of the Agreement requires the new owner to have consent from National Trust for Scotland for any renovation works that are proposed.

The Agreement will include the requirement for Enhanced Historic Building Surveys if any structural changes are planned. All identified original elements will require to be retained and any changes are to be agreed in advance with NTS.

An Archaeological Watching Brief will require to be carried out on all ground disturbing activity. Full details of the Conservation Agreement are available on request.

Offers submitted for the properties should be accompanied by a written proposal for the use of the buildings.