In the rolling hills of East Sussex's High Weald National Landscape, a storybook castle has come onto the market – and it's every bit as enchanting as it looks. Complete with a turret, a portcullis (that heavy grid-like gate that drops dramatically in fantasy films) and, yes, even a moat, it has all the hallmarks of a medieval fortress. The surprising part? It was built just 26 years ago.
Commissioning your own medieval-style castle might seem like an eccentric undertaking, but considering that High Weald is home to 30 small manor houses and several other castles, it doesn't seem like such an unusual accommodation to choose. Besides, who hasn't dreamed of living in a castle at some point?
If that dream has never left you – and your budget stretches far enough – now's your chance. The current owner has decided to sell it.
At first glance, you'd be forgiven for thinking Braylsham Castle is centuries old. Set on its own moated island, the eight-bedroom home was meticulously built using reclaimed timber and stone, with an incredible attention to detail that gives it an authentic, time-worn appearance. Behind the historic façade, however, lies a home designed for modern living.
Entrance to the property is via a walled courtyard, accessed by a suitably theatrical working drawbridge over the moat, through an arch flanked by castellated towers.
At the heart of the home is the impressive Great Hall. With its vaulted ceiling, exposed beams, handmade stained glass windows, York stone flooring and a dreamy fireplace, it's a a space made for entertaining. A grand banqueting table seats up to 25 people, while large oak double doors open directly onto the courtyard and gardens, allowing indoor and outdoor entertaining to flow seamlessly.
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A stone spiral staircase leads to the square tower, home to the principal bedroom suite, bathroom and an additional single bedroom or dressing room. At the top, a rooftop terrace enjoys sweeping views across the lake and surrounding countryside.
The Elizabethan-inspired timber-framed wing, also accessed via a stone spiral staircase, is arranged over three floors and even includes a spacious cellar. On the ground floor is a generous country kitchen complete with an Aga, a walk-in pantry, a cosy snug and a guest bedroom with an ensuite bathroom.
Upstairs, the dual-aspect drawing room is filled with natural light thanks to its floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the lake. Exposed beams and another impressive inglenook fireplace add to its character, while two further bedrooms on this floor each benefit from their own ensuite.
Outside, the property is completed by a large south-facing garden, a barn and a detached stable with several paddocks, making the property particularly appealing for equestrian buyers. In total, the castle comprises a sprawling 3,854 sq ft of floor space set on 10.18 acres of land – a home truly fit for modern-day royalty.
'It is incredibly rare to be able to own and live in your own castle,' says Simon Biddulph, head of Kent & East Sussex rural sales at Knight Frank.
'Most castles are 300 to 400 years old, which comes with its own challenges. However, Braylsham Castle is only 26 years old, giving you all the charm and character of a historic castle alongside practical modern benefits, including insulated walls and double-glazed windows.'
Braylsham Castle is on the market with Knight Frank for a guide price of £2.25 million.
Take a regal tour below:
