For the first time in its storied 700-year history, the magnificent Ripley Castle Estate, a renowned English country estate on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, is being offered for sale. A landmark of historical and architectural significance, the estate is presented by Carter Jonas, the exclusive UK affiliate of Christie’s International Real Estate.
This offering is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for prospective buyers to acquire a property deeply woven into England’s past. The origins of the estate date back to the early 1300s when Edeline Thweng’s dowry granted it to Sir Thomas Ingilby. Since then, it has remained under the stewardship of the Ingilby family for generations.
Spanning approximately 445 acres, the estate features the Grade I-listed Ripley Castle, ornamental gardens, expansive parkland, and agricultural land. The castle itself is a stunning centerpiece, displaying a blend of medieval, Tudor, and 18th-century architecture that reflects centuries of craftsmanship.
Steeped in History and Architectural Grandeur
Ripley Castle is an architectural marvel, showcasing elements from as early as the 13th century. Key highlights include:
The Gatehouse (1450): A grand entrance leading to the estate’s impressive Carriage Lawn.
The Old Tower (three-story structure): Notable for its oak flooring salvaged from the HMS Rose, an 18th-century frigate, and a hidden priest hole discovered in 1963.
The Knight’s Chamber: A rare Tudor-era room, featuring an original oak ceiling and wagon roof, one of only three surviving examples in England.
The Drawing Rooms: Overlooking the lake and deer park, these exquisite rooms capture the essence of country estate living.
The Cantilever Staircase: Positioned beneath one of Britain’s finest armorial stained-glass windows, it is an architectural masterpiece.
Beyond the main castle, the estate includes the Castle Apartment, which offers three reception rooms, 11 bedrooms, and six bathrooms, along with a one-bedroom apartment housed in the medieval gatehouse.
Meticulously Maintained Grounds and Gardens
The estate’s four-acre gardens are a horticultural delight. They feature:
Listed pavilions, such as The Garden Room and The Orangery—home to rare palm trees and exotic plants.
The Old Squash Court and adjoining bothies, which are traditional estate shelters.
Walled gardens, rich in vibrant herbaceous borders and a thriving kitchen garden.
The grounds also serve as a venue for community events, including lakeside concerts and the Ripley Agricultural Show.
Historic and Cultural Significance of the Property
Over the centuries, Ripley Castle has played a role in some of England’s defining moments. King James VI of Scotland stayed at the estate en route to his coronation as James I of England. During the English Civil War, Oliver Cromwell demanded lodging at the castle after the Battle of Marston Moor. A family legend recounts that “Trooper Jane” Ingilby stood guard over Cromwell in the library with two pistols to protect her family.
Sir Thomas Ingilby, the current owner, reflects on this rich legacy of stewardship, saying, “Ripley Castle is not only an iconic estate, but it has also been a wonderful family home. It is a welcoming and magical place. Castles and living in one often belong to fairy tales, and Ripley Castle exemplifies the essence of such stories. However, without relying on make-believe, it stands on its own.”
He further added, “For seven hundred years, my family has served as custodians of this magnificent place, which is an extraordinarily long time. As I reflect on this legacy, I feel genuinely excited about the next stage of its development.”
To prepare for this transition, Sir Thomas has undertaken significant conservation efforts, including re-roofing the castle and restoring three historic pavilions.
A Versatile Estate with Commercial Potential
Ripley Castle Estate is not just a private residence—it has also operated successfully as a wedding and events venue. Additional estate assets of the property include:
The Boars Head Hotel: A historic coaching inn with 23 en suite bedrooms, a bar, a restaurant, and an annual revenue of $1.7 million.
Ripley Village Store: A Grade II-listed shop and ice cream parlor with adjoining eight-bedroom residence.
Sporting Rights: Extending across 1,800 acres, currently leased for game shooting.
Estate Offices and Studios: Offering commercial and artistic spaces.
The estate is available for purchase as a whole or in separate lots, providing flexible opportunities for buyers.
