At one time, those looking out of the windows of Keiss Harbour House would have witnessed scenes of a bustling harbour, one where boats laden with herring, crabs and other shellfish would have visited to land their catches.
Today, it’s still a popular port with those harvesting the sea but you may be more likely to find leisure craft and yachts moored here.
What hasn’t changed since the harbour was built in the 1830s is the grand building which dominates the harbour, Keiss Harbour House, a stunning home steeped in local history and part of the original fishing harbour built by nationally renowned engineer, James Bremner.
The A-listed building, which enjoys dramatic sea views from all its rooms, as been lovingly and sympathetically restored by the current owners to provide a house with a contemporary design throughout.
The attention to detail and dramatic location of this delightful and unusual house, located on the edge of the village of Keiss which sits between Wick and John O’Groats, can be fully appreciated only by stepping across the threshold.
The house is used by the present owners as a holiday home – a purpose that suits it well as it has five bedrooms which can currently sleep 12 people, and large reception rooms which make it ideal for entertaining groups of friends or family gatherings.
However, it would work equally well for those in the market for a spacious family home, and would be ideal for those looking for a change of lifestyle that didn’t cost an arm and a leg, as the property is on the market at offers over £275,000, for which you get a lot of house for your money.
The accommodation is laid out over three floors and the main access to the house is on the second floor where the main reception rooms are located – designed to make sure these rooms enjoy spectacular views. There’s a spacious hall with a lovely open fire and seating area, all with an open aspect over the harbour and sea.
The fully-equipped open plan kitchen, also with sea views, leads off the hall, as does the cloak area and shower room/WC. The spectacular Great Hall living and dining room is accessed by twin doors off the hall and provides an impressive double-height space with an open fire and wood-burning stove.
The first floor is accessed from the entrance hall by a timber staircase with glass balustrade. First floor accommodation comprises five bedrooms, all with sea views, a steam room/shower room, bathroom and laundry area while on the ground floor there are six vaulted cellars, which have their own access on the ground level and currently used for storage.
The house comes with double glazing and underfloor heating, while all white goods will be included in the asking price. Other items of furniture and furnishings may be available to buy via separate negotiation.
Outside, the house is reached via a track leading from the public road, and which provides off-road parking. Grass banking and stone steps down the side of the property are included in the curtilage.
Keiss, which is around a 10 minute drive from both Wick and John O’Groats, is the ideal location for fans of outdoor pursuits with surfing and golf available nearby and a number of sandy beaches, fishing and historical and archaeological attractions all within easy reach. Keiss Primary School, shop and village pub are a five minute walk away from Harbour House.
Contact: Anderson, Shaw & Gilbert on 01463 253911.
