Words by Andrew Cronan
What better way to say ‘I love you’ than by building a castle for your beloved?
Glandyfi, an enchanting fortress sat atop a beautifully wooded hillside, is 19th Century castle singing with romantic charm, with a passionate history woven into its walls. Words by Ruth Bloomfield
It was built as a labour of love by an unknown architect for George Jefferies in 1814, as a wedding gift to his betrothed, Miss Justina Scott. The couple moved into this magnificent property in 1818 and stayed there well into their old age, bringing up their nine children in its expansive grounds and gardens.
Boasting far-reaching views that stretch for miles across the tranquil Dovey Estuary and the Mountains of Snowdonia National Park, this breath-taking gothic love letter of stone and slate retains many of its original features, with mullion windows, square, round and octagonal towers, and impressive chimneys to complete its grand silhouette.
Glandyfi Castle is currently for sale through Strutt & Parker, making it one of the most romantic properties on our books.
This former medieval fortress holds great historical significance, having seen and even featured in some of England’s most tumultuous wars, including a six-month siege in the Second Baron’s War, the War of the Roses and the English Civil War. However, it also holds a special place in English history for romantics.
In 1575, Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester, transformed the fortress into a spectacular palace in an attempt to win the heart of Queen Elizabeth I. Sparing no expense in his bid to capture the Queen’s heart, Dudley entertained Elizabeth in a lavish 19-day affair at the castle, wooing her with pageants, fireworks, hunting parties, mystery plays and sumptuous banquets.
Alas, Leicester’s passions were not reciprocated in the fashion he had hoped for, as the Queen still refused to take his hand. It remains a beautiful testament to his unrequited love for her, however, and is a beautiful bastion of British history.
Once occupied by one of Britain’s great Romantic poets, Wentworth Place in Hampstead, London, is the beautiful Georgian Villa where John Keats is known to have penned some of his most prestigious works.
Keats was resident at the property for two years from 1818 until his untimely passing in September 1820. However, it was through those last years that Keats was inspired by the tranquillity of the orchard gardens.Indeed, his courting of Fanny Brawne from the neighbouring house led Keats to be his most productive.
Today the property is a Writers’ House Museum, dedicated to preserving Keats’ life and legacy. A lovely testament to the years he spent crafting Romantic poetry on the property is the plum tree in the grounds, under which Keats is said to have written “Ode to a Nightingale” one summer’s day.
Saunter down the East Devon coastline and you’ll stumble upon this magnificent Georgian estate, graced with the kind of elegance one would expect from a distinguished 19th Century home designed to host the most opulent society members.
The ‘Marriage House’, as it is sometimes known, was built in 1833 by Robert Newman as a gift for his new bride. It continues to stand in all its glory, with panoramic views over its impressive parkland. The couple’s legacy is quite literally infused in the structure, with their initials appearing entwined in stonework throughout the estate, along with their family motto, Ubi amor ibi fides, or "Where there is love there is trust", intricately carved over the front door.
For sale through Strutt & Parker, this vast and timeless estate is now searching for a new owner to add a loving chapter to its story.
A dramatically sprawling landmark in the Derbyshire Dales, Chatsworth House is a stately home owned by the Cavendish family since 1549. It is the sumptuous backdrop to two adaptations of Jane Austin’s Price and Prejudice, along with numerous period dramas including The Duchess and current Netflix series, The Crown.
Set on the east bank of the River Dent, this grand Elizabethan estate is surrounded by luxurious country gardens, backed by a tree-covered hillside and rolling moorland. A central courtyard belies the heart of the property, encompassed by four corner towers; inside, the house harbours centuries of family history, including paintings, furniture, Neoclassical sculptures and other distinguished artefacts.
Chatsworth House and gardens are open for public visits throughout the year, providing lovers with a beautiful backdrop for a romantic walk.
Explore our full range of luxurious properties to help you find the most romantic home for you and your loved ones.
