Baltersan Castle, a 16th-century Category A listed tower house in South Ayrshire, has been put on the market for £120,000. Sellers describe the property as “exceptional” and say it offers a chance to restore a significant historic building.
A historic tower house in Carrick
The L-plan tower house was commissioned in 1584 by John Kennedy of Pennyglen and his wife Margaret Cathcart. It remained associated with the Kennedy family until the 18th century, when it passed to Captain Hugh Arbuthnot. It is thought to have been abandoned in the mid-18th century.
The castle is currently roofless but retains its structural integrity and original architectural detail, including floor levels, window openings, fireplaces, staircases, and roof geometry.
Architectural features and restoration potential
The walls remain standing to five original levels, with features such as a rhomboidal oriel window, concealed recesses for sliding timber shutters, and a moulded inglenook seat. Other details include a secret chamber, hidden peep-holes, carved stone waterspouts, and gun loops.
Sellers Galbraith describe the castle as offering “potential for restoration as an extraordinary private residence”. They note that renovation works will need a conservation-led approach, and planning permission, building warrant approval, and other consents may be required.
Galbraith adds: “A substantial supporting research archive, together with the registered Baltersan tartan, certain Baltersan whisky-related assets and the Baltersan 1584 identity, may be available by separate negotiation. Further details are available from the Selling Agents.”
Grounds and setting
Baltersan Castle sits in around 0.75 acres of grounds, mostly informal, allowing the structure to be appreciated from multiple viewpoints. Its elevated position gives the tower house a commanding presence within the surrounding Carrick landscape.
