Ripley Castle, a historic landmark nestled near Harrogate, has been placed on the market by its long-time owners, Sir Thomas and Lady Ingilby. This monumental estate, a fixture in the Ingilby family since the 14th century, carries a price tag of £21 million, potentially making it the most expensive property ever sold outside of London. The sale represents not just a change in ownership, but the closing of a chapter in a family history interwoven with the very fabric of England. From its involvement in the Gunpowder Plot of 1605, where nine of the conspirators were related to the Ingilbys, to its modern-day role as a filming location for the BBC drama “Gunpowder,” Ripley Castle stands as a testament to centuries of British history.
The sprawling estate encompasses a Grade I listed castle boasting three reception rooms, eleven bedrooms, and six bathrooms. Beyond the castle walls, the 445-acre grounds offer a diverse range of features, including a picturesque lake, a traditional pub, a modern helipad, ample parking, and a quaint village shop. Further enhancing its appeal, the estate also boasts a cricket pitch, a comfortable hotel, a charming tea room, a well-stocked gift shop, and a popular wedding venue. Recognizing the potential for varied interests, the estate has been thoughtfully divided into nine lots, offering prospective buyers the flexibility to purchase individually or acquire the entire property.
The history of Ripley Castle is as captivating as its architecture. Legend has it that the estate was gifted to the Ingilby family in the 1300s after an ancestor saved the King from a charging wild boar during a royal hunting expedition. This rich heritage, coupled with the family’s dedication to preserving the castle’s legacy, resonates in every corner of the estate. Sir Thomas Ingilby, who inherited the castle at the tender age of 18, has devoted over 50 years to its upkeep, alongside his wife, Lady Emma. Their combined efforts have ensured that Ripley Castle remains a vibrant and thriving piece of history.
The decision to sell, while tinged with sadness, is a pragmatic one. Sir Thomas, reflecting on a lifetime spent caring for the castle, expressed a desire to pursue other interests while he is still able. This sentiment echoes the couple’s commitment to leaving the estate in impeccable condition, safeguarding its heritage for generations to come. The Ingilbys have spared no expense in maintaining and improving the castle, investing a reported £2.5 million in renovations over the past five years. This dedication has transformed Ripley Castle from a historical artifact into a luxurious and comfortable residence, befitting its stature and history.
Lady Ingilby’s hopes for the future owner underscore the profound connection the family feels to the estate. While acknowledging the inevitability of change, she expressed a heartfelt wish that the new custodian will appreciate the historical significance of Ripley Castle and continue to cherish and protect it. The sale, therefore, is not simply a transaction of property, but a passing of the torch, entrusting the future of this historical treasure to a new caretaker. The Ingilbys’ legacy will undoubtedly live on within the walls of Ripley Castle, a testament to their dedication and stewardship.
The sale of Ripley Castle has generated considerable interest, with rumors swirling about potential high-profile buyers, including US President Donald Trump and popstar Taylor Swift. While these rumors remain unconfirmed, they highlight the unique appeal of this historical property. Regardless of who ultimately acquires Ripley Castle, it is certain that the estate will continue to captivate and inspire, serving as a living embodiment of British history and a testament to the enduring legacy of the Ingilby family. The sale marks a new chapter in Ripley Castle’s long and illustrious history, offering a unique opportunity for the next generation of stewards to protect and preserve this magnificent estate for centuries to come.
