The 700-year-old 'fairytale' castle you can actually own

A medieval castle straight out of a child’s picture book has hit the market in England. 

Nearly 700 years of exposure to the wind and rain has left Mettingham Castle in a state of ruin. 

But in its heyday, this would have been one of the grandest homes in this part of Suffolk. 

Mettingham Castle was built in the 14th century by the knight and nobleman Sir John de Norwich.

At the time, not everyone was allowed to build a fortress in their backyard. 

Sir John was granted permission from King Edward III to crenellate his manor house in 1342, as a reward for impressive military service abroad in France. 

When it was first built, it was a lavish estate with a moat, several towers and a gatehouse with a parapet. 

After Sir John’s death, Mettingham Castle was ransacked during the Peasants’ Revolt of 1381. 

It later spent chapters as a college for secular priests, a farmhouse and a private home. 

Around the 18th century, much of the castle was demolished to make way for a new residence, which was in turn remodelled in the 1880s.

The house that stands today was converted from a former dairy barn. 

While the castle may be a shadow of its former self, the ruins have fortunately been preserved thanks to a 2017 grant from Historic England. 

Now the one-of-a-kind property is seeking a new owner. 

The listing describes it as an “utterly singular” six-bedroom, three-bathroom home set in the “peaceful village” of Mettingham. 

The rustic interiors are filled with character features, from brick fireplaces to exposed wooden beams.

Teal joinery is a feature of many downstairs rooms and expansive beams bring in plenty of natural light. 

Outside is just over one hectare of gardens, paddocks and outbuildings, set against the backdrop of the castle ruins. 

The property is on the market for £1.4 million ($2.79 million). 

Those who would prefer to test it out first can rent it on Airbnb for around $2100 per night.