Derelict Dunskey Castle hits the market for just over $200,000

A cliffside castle that has stood derelict for centuries has hit the market in Scotland.

The ruined tower house of Dunskey Castle is perched on the edge of a rocky cliff on the outskirts of the village of Portpatrick. 

The worn and weathered former fortress dates back to the mid-16th century and is said to have been the site of an earlier stronghold, Adair Castle.

Historic details in the listing state Adair Castle was destroyed around the year 1500 by local, ancient families the McCullochs of Myrton and Cardoness.

Despite its destruction, and the passing of 525 years, some of the castle remains.

“The structure includes the massive central tower house, a three-storey tower built for the Adairs of Kinhilt – the same family that owned the Castle of St John in Stranraer,” the listing reads.

“The tower measures 30m by 14m with a sheer end wall projecting to the rocky cliff edge. There are also the remnants of the vaulted cellar, a watch tower and a long wing to the north of the main tower. “

The castle stands within eight acres of its own land which can be reached from the coastal footpath that runs behind it. 

The impressive historic site remains popular with tourists.

Tourists can access the ruins across the castle’s former moat, though entering the interior of the property is not allowed.

First and foremost, the property is not structurally sound.

“The castle has been derelict since around 1700 (it was described by Symson as ‘wholly ruinous’, in 1684),” the listing reads. 

“But enough of its magnificent stone structure, with its 5ft thick walls, remains standing, to provide a sense of the grandeur of the fortifications and original layout.”

Visitors are advised to stay on the coastal footpath. 

Secondly, it’s also private property. It is part of the Dunskey Estate which is owned by the Orr Ewing Family.

As well as being popular with tourists, the castle has appeared in a number of films, including Kidnapped, the 1951 version based on Robert Louis Stevenson’s novel, the 1952 film Hunted, starring Dirk Bogarde and the 1992 thriller Double X: The Name of the Game starring Norman Wisdom.

Dunskey Castle is on the market with Strutt and Parker who are seeking offers over £100,000 ($204,000).

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