Residential Page, The Bell Ingram Blog Spot News

A Victorian Highland Retreat at a Fraction of London Prices

A Victorian Highland Retreat at a Fraction of London Prices

Bell Ingram has brought to market Druimard House, a striking six-bedroom Victorian residence on the Isle of Mull, listed at offers over £895,000. With two fully operational holiday cottages included, the property showcases just how far buyers’ budgets can stretch when they look beyond the capital.

Dating back to 1876 and set within 1.25 acres of mature grounds, Druimard House combines period elegance with modern comfort. Inside, buyers will find original fireplaces, an art studio, and even an infra-red sauna, while the landscaped gardens provide space and tranquillity rarely achievable in city living.

The sale also includes two beautifully styled cottages: The Potting Shed and The Old Little Theatre, the latter recognised in The Sunday Times’ 50 Best Summer Cottages in the UK. Already popular with guests, they offer immediate income potential for anyone considering a hospitality business or lifestyle change.

What makes Druimard House stand out, however, is not just its character but its value. While the average property price on Mull sits around £270,000, the average London home now costs £670,000 meaning many one- or two-bedroom flats in the capital exceed the asking price of this expansive country home with two thriving rental cottages.

“Druimard House demonstrates how far your money can stretch when you look beyond the city,” said Andrew Fuller, Estate Agent at Bell Ingram “For less than the cost of many three-bedroom London terraces, buyers can own a Victorian country house with additional income-generating cottages, plus a lifestyle defined by peace, space, and natural beauty.”

Druimard House invites buyers to exchange crowded commutes for coastal walks, high-rises for Highland horizons, and city pace for island peace – all without compromising on quality or opportunity.

For more information about Druimard House contact Andrew Fuller on 01631 566 122 or email andrew.fuller@bellingram.co.uk.

 

Residential Page, The Bell Ingram Blog Spot News

Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity to Own A Living Local Nature Reserve

Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity to Own A Living Local Nature Reserve

A rare opportunity has emerged for nature lovers, conservationists, and forward-thinking investors: Gillingshill Reservoir, a treasured Local Nature Reserve in Fife, is now for sale for offers over £30,000.

Steeped in history and teeming with life, Gillingshill began its journey in the Victorian era as a vital water supply for local communities. After more than a century of service, it was designated a Local Nature Reserve in 2005 and opened to the public the following year. Today, it stands as a thriving sanctuary for wildlife and a much-loved green space for the community.

Brought to market by rural estate agents, Bell Ingram, Gillingshill extends to approximately 7.24 hectares (17.89 acres), and the site is a tapestry of habitats divided into three distinct zones. The upper section holds the serene expanse of the reservoir itself; the central area offers tranquil woodland walks; and the lower grounds are alive with regenerating scrub, young trees, and grassland. Flowing through it all, the Dreel Burn weaves the habitats together, enriching biodiversity and creating a haven for resident and migratory species alike.

Spring and summer bring a spectacular burst of colour, with golden gorse in full bloom and willow lining the burn, sheltering nesting birds. Waterfowl, swans, and other wildlife are regular visitors thanks to careful habitat management and maintained water levels. A network of well-kept footpaths, starting from the on-site car park, allows visitors to explore the landscape and enjoy sights such as the picturesque reservoir overflow.

While no residential development or holiday accommodation will be permitted, the new owner will have the privilege – and responsibility – of becoming the custodian of this unique natural asset. A Management Agreement with Fife Council will ensure the ongoing protection of the site’s rich biodiversity while safeguarding its role as a community space.

The purchaser will also take on the legal responsibilities of reservoir ownership under the Reservoirs (Scotland) Act 2011, including regular inspections. The most recent safety reports are available in the sales pack, with the next 10-year inspection due in 2028.

“Gillingshill Reservoir is more than just land – it’s a living, breathing ecosystem,” said Carl Warden, Head of Estate Agency at Bell Ingram. “This sale offers an extraordinary chance to take on the stewardship of a rare and beautiful place, ensuring its wildlife, habitats, and heritage are preserved for generations to come.”

For further information and to request the brochure please contact Carl Warden on 01738 621 121, or email carl.warden@bellingram.co.uk 

Farm & Estate Sales Page, Property Case Studies

Case Study: North Barns & Coltrannie Farms, Bankfoot

Case Study: North Barns & Coltrannie Farms, Bankfoot

Client: Private Landowner
Sector: Residential Estate Agency / Rural Property Sales
Location: Bankfoot, Perthshire

Challenge:
North Barns and Coltrannie Farms, located on either side of the A9 just north of Bankfoot, had been managed as a single farming operation despite being held under separate ownerships within the same family. The client, who had lived on the property since childhood, had decided to retire and instructed Bell Ingram to handle the sale. A key challenge involved the recent compulsory purchase of land to accommodate a new bridge over the dualled A9 – a structure designed to maintain safe access between the two holdings for agricultural machinery.

This added complexity to the preparation of sale and title plans, requiring careful interpretation of boundary changes and accurate documentation to support marketing and registration.

Solution:
Working closely with colleagues in our Forfar office, the Residential Agency team in Perth prepared the farms for market to coincide with the 2024 Royal Highland Show – a strategic decision to ensure visibility during a peak sales period.

One of the main challenges was producing precise sale plans due to the land adjustments linked to the Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO). Our in-house GIS team played a critical role in resolving this, meticulously mapping the revised boundaries and creating both the marketing plans and Land Registry-compliant Title Plans for submission to The Keeper. This ensured full legal accuracy and gave prospective buyers a clear understanding of the offering.

Outcome:
Marketing commenced two weeks prior to the Highland Show to maximise exposure. Despite the presence of a public footpath on the property, which made viewings harder to track, strong buyer interest led to a closing date being set just four weeks later.

Acceptable offers were received for both farms, with local buyers securing each holding. As neither required the traditional four-bedroom farmhouse included in the offering, it remained on the market separately and was successfully sold a few months later.

The coordinated efforts of our agency and GIS teams helped secure positive outcomes for the client while reinforcing Bell Ingram’s long-standing reputation in the Angus and Perthshire farming communities. Many of our agents come from agricultural backgrounds and understand the unique needs of farm sales – bringing a level of insight and trust that continues to make a difference for clients.

Press Release Archive News

Bringing the Spirit of the Canadian Rockies to the Scottish Highlands – Rare Pioneer Log Home for Sale

Bringing the Spirit of the Canadian Rockies to the Scottish Highlands – Rare Pioneer Log Home for Sale

An extraordinary four-bedroom, handcrafted Canadian log home nestled in the scenic Highlands has come to market.

Located in Daviot and only a short commute from Inverness, this remarkable property, available for offers over £950,000, brings an authentic piece of the Canadian Rockies to Scotland – a rare find for those seeking a unique blend of natural beauty and unparalleled craftsmanship.

Blackcroft Lodge was meticulously constructed by the renowned Pioneer Log Homes of British Columbia, using sustainably sourced Western Red Cedar and a traditional hand-scribing technique. Hand-scribing, a hallmark of high-quality log home construction, involves expertly fitting each log by hand to create a seamless, snug structure. This level of artistry is seldom found in the UK and makes Blackcroft Lodge a true gem in the Highlands.

Set across three floors, the home showcases breathtaking woodwork and spacious interiors, each room radiating the warmth and character of the handcrafted logs. Floor-to-ceiling windows bathe the spaces in natural light, while the intricate joinery of the pillars and beams highlights the artistry that went into each log’s unique texture and pattern. Complemented by tasteful décor, the craftsmanship is evident in every corner, creating a welcoming, yet awe-inspiring atmosphere.

Blackcroft Lodge provides expansive living areas perfect for a family home or a potential bed and breakfast. Additional space in the basement allows for further development – ideal for a home gym, cinema, or additional guest accommodations. Modern conveniences such as high-quality copper-clad double glazing and underfloor heating on two floors enhance comfort, with a central wood-burning stove providing eco-friendly warmth and the option for an additional oil or gas heating system if desired.

The home’s layout offers an inviting blend of indoor and outdoor spaces, with French doors leading to a wraparound balcony overlooking open countryside. The kitchen, with its high-gloss cream units and solid oak work surfaces, seamlessly blends practicality with elegance, while the dining area provides sweeping views of the Scottish landscape.

Perched on over an acre of elevated land, Blackcroft Lodge is surrounded by fenced, secure gardens and offers ample parking. This tranquil setting, combined with the lodge’s intricate design and rare craftsmanship, brings the essence of Canada’s wilderness to the heart of Scotland’s Highlands.

Rural property experts, Bell Ingram are managing the sale. Estate Agent Joanne Stennett comments, “This is a truly unique property. The craftsmanship is breathtaking, especially in the carefully crafted pillars and beams that showcase the natural beauty of each individual log. Blackcroft Lodge is not just a home; it’s a work of art that complements its serene rural landscape.”

For more information or to arrange a viewing, please contact Joanne Stennett at Bell Ingram on 01463 717799.

Farm & Estate Sales Page, Press Release Archive News

‘Serene Hideaway Island’ for sale in one of Scotland’s most stunning Sea Lochs

‘Serene Hideaway Island’ for sale in one of Scotland’s most stunning Sea Lochs

A private island with exceptional natural beauty and ecological richness has come to the market in the West Highlands, one of Scotland’s most picturesque regions.

The sale of Eilean Mor, a breathtaking 29.98-acre (12.14-hectare) island in Loch Sunart offers nature enthusiasts a rare opportunity to own their own serene hideaway island.

Accessible only by boat or a scenic low-tide causeway, Eilean Mor provides an immersive experience into Scotland’s unspoiled wilderness. With diverse terrain and stunning views of the Inner Hebrides, the island’s pristine environment is a sanctuary for native wildlife, including vibrant seabird populations and diverse marine life, offering visitors a glimpse into the thriving ecosystems of the Inner Hebrides.

Located in Loch Stunart, a sea loch off the Ardnamurchan peninsular, Eilean Mor presents a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts with herons and seals regular visitors to the loch shores. Rarer species such as golden and white tailed eagles are also known to frequent the shores.

The shores of Loch Sunart are also home to some of the finest temperate oakwoods in the British Isles. These are remnants of an extensive band of coastal woodland that once stretched down the Atlantic coast of Europe from Norway and Scotland as far as Spain and Portugal. The woodland at Sunart’s shores are home to some of Europe’s best collections of lichens, mosses and liverworts.

While currently uninhabited, Eilean Mor has a storied past that intertwines with the local heritage of the surrounding Highlands. The island, held by the same family for generations, now awaits new stewardship and invites fresh opportunity and exploration.

This property does not currently hold planning permissions, offering a blank canvas for prospective buyers who dream of a secluded retreat that captures Scotland’s authentic natural beauty and heritage.

Eilean Mor is brought to the market with rural property experts, Bell Ingram for offers over £325,000. Commenting on the sale, Estate Agent, Andrew Fuller says: “For interested parties, Eilean Mor represents more than just an investment; it is a unique chance to own a piece of Scotland’s wild beauty, a serene hideaway, and a historic landmark to be cherished and preserved for generations to come.”

The Bell Ingram Blog Spot News

Embrace the charm of Dervaig: Exceptional properties offering lifestyle and  business potential on the Isle of Mull

Embrace the charm of Dervaig: Exceptional properties offering lifestyle and  business potential on the Isle of Mull

Nestled on the scenic north side of the Isle of Mull, the village of Dervaig offers an enticing blend of natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and a slower, more fulfilling pace of life. Here, Bell Ingram presents two exceptional properties that invite buyers to embrace a lifestyle of endless possibilities: Druimard House and The Old Byre and Visitor Centre. These unique offerings are not only ideal family homes but also versatile spaces that can fulfil a range of lifestyle or business ambitions.

Druimard House and The Old Little Theatre: Victorian charm with modern comforts

(Offers Over £950,000)

Druimard House stands as a testament to the elegance of Victorian architecture. Once a country hotel, this stately residence now serves as a warm and inviting family home with four spacious en-suite bedrooms, making it ideal for a bed and breakfast or a boutique guesthouse. There’s even potential to convert the upper floor for additional family or guest accommodation, enhancing its appeal for buyers interested in a hospitality venture.

Connected to Druimard House, the charming “Potting Shed” annex has been thoughtfully reimagined as a high-quality holiday let. Its interior is a tasteful blend of modern and traditional design, creating an inviting retreat for visitors seeking to explore the magical landscapes of Mull. This annex has already captured the hearts of guests as a beloved vacation rental.

Also set within the property grounds is The Old Little Theatre, a detached cottage that pays homage to its origins as Mull’s first theatre. This quaint, self-contained building is now a beautifully furnished couple’s retreat, designed with a mix of traditional and contemporary finishes. Private seating areas outside provide a peaceful spot to enjoy views across the valley, while wildlife sightings and picturesque scenery create an unforgettable experience for guests seeking relaxation.

The Old Byre and Visitor Centre: Rustic charm meets business potential

(Offers Over £695,000)

The Old Byre and Visitor Centre present an equally captivating opportunity. This historic property, currently a vibrant visitor centre and tearoom, offers remarkable potential for creative or entrepreneurial ventures. With a spacious, character-filled stone byre and a welcoming tearoom, the property has earned a loyal following among locals and tourists alike. The ground floor hosts a cozy gift shop, while the first floor showcases Mull’s local history and wildlife – an educational treat for visitors wanting to understand the island’s cultural landscape.

For prospective buyers, The Old Byre offers boundless possibilities. Whether you envision continuing its legacy as a hospitality venue, transforming it into an artisan studio, or even converting it into a unique residence, the property provides an adaptable space that can bring any vision to life. The location, close to Dervaig’s village centre yet surrounded by nature, makes it an excellent base for eco-tourism, an artist’s studio, or even an outdoor adventure hub.

Embrace a Unique Lifestyle on Mull

These two properties present a rare opportunity to join the welcoming Dervaig community, surrounded by some of Scotland’s most breathtaking landscapes. Both Druimard House and The Old Byre are perfect for those looking to escape the fast pace of urban life and embrace a rewarding lifestyle immersed in nature, culture, and potential for creative pursuits.

To learn more or schedule a viewing, please contact Bell Ingram’s Oban office today on 01631 566 122 today and take the first step

Our people

Andrew Fuller

Andrew Fuller

Senior Associate
Estate Agency
Tel: 01631 566 122

About: Andrew heads up the Estate Agency team in our Oban office and is focused on ensuring his clients have a first-class experience when they list their property with Bell Ingram. A resident of the Isle of Mull, Andrew is very well known across the West Coast of Scotland and has developed an excellent reputation for marketing prime residential property, including plots, crofts, island homes and lifestyle opportunities. Andrew joined Bell Ingram following almost 15 years managing several high-level private and commercial development projects in the United Arab Emirates. Interests: Residential Estate Agency, Rural Property Sales.

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    Press Release Archive News

    Aigas Golf Course and Holiday Cottages: A Unique Business Opportunity Combining Scenic Leisure and Potential Expansion

    Aigas Golf Course and Holiday Cottages: A Unique Business Opportunity Combining Scenic Leisure and Potential Expansion

    A rare and exciting opportunity has emerged for potential buyers seeking to acquire a beautifully maintained golf course with extensive holiday letting potential, nestled in the scenic Highlands of Scotland.

    Brought to market by Highland Estate Agents, Bell Ingram for offers over £1,500,000, Aigas Golf Course, established in 1993, presents a unique combination of recreational, hospitality, and agricultural opportunities.

    Situated amidst 30 acres of rolling parkland this well-established facility offers a turnkey operation for new proprietors with substantial potential for future growth.

    The nine-hole Aigas Golf Course is a meticulously landscaped, family-friendly course that has garnered loyal members over the years. Along with the manicured greens, the property includes a practice area and a clubhouse that features a well-equipped kitchen, office, rear lobby, and WCs (including a disabled-accessible WC). The clubhouse is a welcoming hub for golfers, offering light refreshments and snacks, making it an ideal spot for both members and visitors to relax post-round.

    The course is home to the Aigas Golf Club, an independently run organisation that utilises the course as its base during the golfing season. To ensure a smooth transition, the current owner is prepared to offer training and support to the new proprietor, providing an excellent opportunity for continued success.

    “We are delighted to bring Aigas Golf Course to the Highlands commercial property market,” says Estate Agent, Joanne Stennett. “This is a truly unique opportunity for buyers looking to invest in a versatile and thriving business. With its stunning natural surroundings and well-maintained facilities, this property offers immense potential for both leisure and hospitality ventures. A rare gem in the Highlands market.” 

    In addition to the golf course, Aigas boasts four self-catering cottages, offering a well-established stream of rental income from the tourism sector. Currently operating from March to November, there is ample opportunity to extend the rental period year-round and tap into the growing demand for winter breaks in the Highlands. All cottages are fully furnished and come with access to a laundry room and games room.

    The Coach House is a spacious three-bedroom, two-storey cottage located on the West wing of a Victorian courtyard. Overlooking a serene mill pond, it features a cozy living area with a log burning stove, making it a favourite among visitors.

    Pond View is a charming three-bedroom, first-floor cottage, accessed by a beautiful stone staircase. Offering stunning views over the golf course and surrounding countryside, it provides an idyllic retreat for guests.

    Old Dairy and Old Stable are two delightful ground-floor cottages on the East wing. Both are two-bedroom properties, with scenic views over the course and neighbouring forests. The cottages share access to a peaceful communal garden, BBQ area, and outdoor seating, ideal for relaxing on warm summer days.

    Adjacent to the holiday accommodation are several steadings and farm buildings. These buildings vary in construction and condition, but the traditional stone structures, in particular, may present excellent redevelopment potential with the necessary consents. Whether for expansion of the holiday accommodation or agricultural purposes, the buildings offer flexibility for the new owner’s vision.

    Aigas Golf Course is also complemented by approximately 26 acres of agricultural land, which offers opportunities for continued grass production or diversified agricultural activities. The land is well-fenced and benefits from river frontage, making it suitable for high-quality agricultural production.

    Farm & Estate Sales Page, Property Case Studies

    Large farm portfolio gains overseas interest

    Large farm portfolio gains overseas interest

    The Bonnyhill Farm Portfolio, located in and around Falkirk and Larbert in central Scotland, represents a significant agricultural asset with a combination of historical importance and operational value. Spanning approximately 513 hectares (1,269 acres), the portfolio included a working dairy, extensive agricultural land, farm buildings, and six residential properties. A noteworthy aspect of the portfolio is its inclusion within the Antonine Wall World Heritage Buffer Zone, adding an additional layer of cultural and historical significance.

    Market Offering: The portfolio was brought to market with a guiding price of offers over £8,450,000. Recognising the diverse nature of the assets within the portfolio, the property was segmented into six distinct areas of land, with each being offered as a separate lot. This strategic approach aimed to maximise buyer interest by providing flexibility to potential purchasers, whether they were interested in the entire portfolio or specific segments.

    Interest and Marketing: Given the scale and location of the Bonnyhill Farm Portfolio, it was anticipated that the sale would attract significant attention. This expectation was met, as interest was generated both locally and internationally. The appeal of the property was multifaceted: the operational dairy offered an ongoing business opportunity, while the agricultural land and residential properties provided potential for various agricultural and investment pursuits.

    Sales Process: Following a 12-week marketing period, which included extensive promotion and viewings, a closing date was set. The strategic decision to market the portfolio in separate lots proved successful, as it allowed for a more tailored approach to different buyer needs. Ultimately, the portfolio went under offer in two separate lots, ensuring the continuity of the dairy operation. The remaining agricultural land, which supports the dairy, was included in the second lot, maintaining the synergy between the land use and the ongoing business activities.

    The sale of the Bonnyhill Farm Portfolio is a case study in the successful marketing and sale of a large, multifaceted agricultural asset. The approach of offering the land in separate lots, coupled with targeted marketing that reached both local and international buyers, resulted in a positive outcome. The continued operation of the dairy, supported by the adjacent agricultural land, highlights the importance of strategic asset management in agricultural property transactions.

    Press Release Archive News

    Bell Ingram celebrates perfect score at Achilles Audit

    Bell Ingram celebrates perfect score at Achilles Audit

    Bell Ingram has achieved an outstanding 100% score in the recent Achilles Audit, a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence.

    The Achilles Audits are independent assessments that rigorously evaluate an organisation’s management systems to ensure they meet specific standards. These audits validate our capability, competence, and compliance as a supplier organisation, reinforcing our position as a trusted and reliable partner.

    Commenting on the success of the Achilles Audit, Bell Ingram’s Compliance Manager, Samantha McDonald says: “Bell Ingram is delighted to have maintained its 100% rating through Achilles. It demonstrates our continued commitment to maintaining the highest possible standards of health & safety and quality assurance. The results also reflect our commitment to sustainability and community welfare through our environmental and corporate social responsibility policies.

    “The results are a credit to our teams who consistently uphold these high standards throughout all the work we do.”

    Partner Geoff Brown added: “A fantastic result once again and testament to Sam’s hard work and that of the team. Well done everyone.”

    Read more about Achilles and the work they do here: achilles.com