Lickleyhead Castle is an outstanding Scottish castle situated in northeast Scotland in the county of Aberdeenshire, not far from the town of Inverurie and in the quiet village of Auchleven. Grade A Listed by Historic Environment Scotland, the history of the castle spans several centuries and is associated with a number of prominent Scottish families, in particular, clans Leslie, Leith, Forbes, Duff and Lumsden. The oldest parts of the building date back to 1580, with additions made through the 17th and 18th centuries to give it its current L shape. Many original features are still intact and beautifully preserved, including wood panelling, ancient spiral staircases and stonework, with the Great Hall adding to the atmospheric, authentic feel of this hugely impressive property, which has been comprehensively updated and refurbished over the years. Reached via a long tree-lined drive, the castle sits amongst 11 or so acres of grounds, bisected by two pretty burns, and a traditional, separate three bedroom cottage is included in the sale.

Despite its distinguished heritage and grand scale, Lickleyhead Castle is at its heart a wonderfully welcoming and comfortable family home which has also been run as a successful exclusive use events venue and luxury holiday let.

At the core of the castle, the breathtaking Great Hall epitomises historic grandeur. With three generous windows, a dramatic open walk-in fireplace, butler’s pantry, and adjoining library, this remarkable space is ideally suited for large scale formal entertaining and big family gatherings. A particular highlight is the charming panelled sitting room, a characterful and atmospheric space centred around an original Adams fireplace. Rich in period detail, this elegant room provides a comfortable retreat and is ideally suited for both everyday living and entertaining. Adjacent rooms offer excellent flexibility and can be adapted to a variety of uses to suit the requirements of the new owner.


For relaxed daily living, the magnificent dining kitchen has plenty of space for a large table and boasts a striking cherry-red oil-fired AGA. The room is flooded with natural light from four windows, while a charming stone corner fireplace and elegant granite worktops complement the central island and Belfast sink. A traditional larder with adjoining utility space, complete with terracotta tiled flooring, offers additional storage and is plumbed for laundry appliances.

The dining room is elegant and inviting, with polished floorboards, twin windows and a striking fireplace.

Accessed via a discreet door beside the walled garden, the East Wing offers practical yet characterful accommodation. A well-appointed prep kitchen has a Hotpoint hob and electric oven, integrated dishwasher, space for a fridge/freezer, and a range of fitted wall and base cabinetry, ideal for catering or informal cooking.

An elegant carpeted staircase leads to the upper floors, where a series of individually styled bedrooms offer charm, comfort and unique architectural detail.

• The Bartholf Bedroom features a stone fireplace, exposed beams and a front-facing window, with stone steps leading to a private en suite shower room with twin wash basins.
• The Duff Room has three windows and an ornamental fireplace, with access to a beautifully appointed bathroom complete with roll-top bath and vanity unit.
• The Laird’s Suite, accessed via a private staircase, provides a sense of exclusivity. This distinguished bedroom includes a fireplace, dual windows, and an en suite with a striking Japanese-style bath framed by curved windows.
• The Maitland Room benefits from a dual-aspect and a luxurious bathroom featuring a roll-top bath and shower.
• The Forbes Room offers a unique handcrafted cabin bed and charming fireplace.
• The Gallery Bedroom Suite is full of character, with three porthole-style windows, an en suite plunge bath, and an adjacent shower room.
• A delightful Nursery Bedroom with three windows offers light-filled and versatile accommodation.
• The impressive Grande Luz Bedroom, complete with an attractive fireplace.

In total, the property offers eight bedrooms and eight bathrooms, five of which are en suite, ensuring exceptional flexibility for family living and guest accommodation.

Outside: The c.11 acres of grounds include a walled garden, two driveways, former ice house, rose garden, expanses of well-maintained lawn, sunken terrace, BBQ area, and decking area with room for a hot tub.

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