Rewilding company puts historic Scottish castle and estate on market

One of the earliest Z-plan castles in the North-East of Scotland, with a rich historical lineage, has launched to the market “as part of a significant environmental investment opportunity”.

Beldorney Estate’s current owner, Highlands Rewilding, is seeking buyers or investors “who share its vision to deliver rewilding at scale by investing in the estate which is being managed for the twin purposes of nature recovery and community prosperity”, and is one of three sales.

The estate is one of three sales (Image: Strutt & Parker) Beldorney Castle, dating back to the 16th century, was originally built after George Gordon, a member of a powerful Scottish clan that was instrumental in the construction of many estates and castles in the region, acquired the land from the Earl of Huntly in 1545. By the time of his death in 1575, the castle was completed.

agent Strutt & Parker said: “Over the years, it has seen various improvements, including the addition of two wings in 1679 and the replacement of the original entrance. A further remodelling in 1713, under Alexander Gordon, introduced features such as coved ceilings and bolection-moulded chimney pieces, enhancing the castle’s grand interior.

“Today, the castle has undergone careful restoration and upgrades, preserving its architectural integrity while integrating modern amenities. Its spacious rooms include grand reception areas, multiple bedrooms and elegant living spaces fully-equipped for modern-day life. It comes complete with two stone cottages, a farmhouse, and several outbuildings.”

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Its land, spanning 886 acres, is currently managed with a focus on natural capital uplift, aiming to generate income through the provision of ecosystem services.

Goals include increasing biodiversity and carbon sequestration through measures such as removing Sitka spruce regeneration, restoring soils, regenerating grasslands, expanding wetland areas, and growing woodland.

The sale of Beldorney Estate is part of a wider opportunity to invest in 3,000 acres across Scotland which includes North Bunloit at offers over £2.2m and Tayvallich at offers over £3.96m.

Robert McCulloch, head of Strutt & Parker’s Estates & Farm Agency Department in Scotland, said: “The chance to own a Scottish castle will carry an undeniable allure with buyers, offering a blend of history, prestige, and architectural beauty. However, its diverse landscape and location on the River Deveron provide much more than just scenic value – they present a meaningful opportunity to contribute to nature recovery and support community development.

“Although the sale is open to a broad range of potential buyers, preference will be given to those who align with Highlands Rewilding’s vision for the estate’s future and are willing to enter into a long-term management agreement to allow Highlands Rewilding to continue to manage the land. It is a rare chance to invest in a property with both historical and ecological significance.”

Beldorney Estate is available via Strutt & Parker, a subsidiary of the international banking group BNP Paribas, for offers over £5m.