In 2017, Richard Stein, 71, and Sally Lovell, 63, left their London lives behind to move to Harbour Island, a nine-acre private island off the coast of Argyll, Scotland. After a decade of island living, they are now selling their renovated home for £1.25 million and returning south.
From Clerkenwell to Crinan
Stein, a former litigator, and Lovell, a former BBC employee, had initially toured the west coast of Scotland in a camper van in 2015. The following year, they discovered Harbour Island, a short boat ride from Crinan. Despite Lovell's initial reluctance, they fell in love with the island after just five minutes and decided to move there.
Renovating a Remote Retreat
The couple faced logistical challenges in renovating the 1950s bungalow. They needed a 13-tonne digger to excavate rock for an extension, which had to be transported by a fish farm's boat from 40 minutes away. All their possessions were ferried from London to Crinan by removal van, then barged to the island.
Life on the Island
The couple settled into a rhythm of building work, gardening, and trips to the mainland for supplies and social events. They enjoyed the wildlife, including ducks, geese, oystercatchers, and seals. Lovell noted the extraordinary light and beauty of Argyll, which attracts many artists.
The Decision to Return
Despite the idyllic setting, the couple began to miss London's culture, food, and social scene. Stein said, "Until last year I would have said I never wanted to live in London again but last spring I spent a week there and realised I missed the food, the culture, the socialising, the shops and the buzz." Family considerations, including new grandchildren and ageing parents, also influenced their decision.
Lovell reflected, "When we moved I thought that we'd always live here. We completely fell in love with the island and with Argyll and we poured our heart and soul into it. But you don't have a crystal ball, you don't realise how your priorities will change."
