Historic Private Harbour in Scottish Highlands for Sale
A unique opportunity has arisen in the Scottish Highlands as Sandside Harbour, a historic private harbour built in the 1830s, is set to go under the hammer at auction. Located in Caithness, near Thurso, this picturesque harbour was constructed by Major William Innes of Sandside for trade and fishing purposes. With a guide price of £45,000, the auction is scheduled to take place at Savills Auctions later this month on September 25.
Features and Location
Sandside Harbour is a gem nestled in the north of Scotland, boasting stunning views overlooking Orkney to the north and Pentland Firth to the east. The harbour, spanning over four acres in size, is accessed via a private road, ensuring exclusivity and privacy for its potential new owner. The A-listed stone harbour is characterized by its distinctive design and immaculate stone-built harbour walls, showcasing the craftsmanship of its era.
In addition to the main harbour structure, Sandside Harbour also features a net store that is also A-listed, constructed with traditional stone architecture. The upper floor of the building houses a Bothy, offering opportunities for residential development. While the property is currently unoccupied, it presents a blank canvas for renovation and upgrading, subject to obtaining the necessary planning permissions.
Historical Significance and Usage
Over the years, Sandside Harbour has served as a hub for local small leisure boats and fishermen engaging in lobster and crab fishing activities. The harbour’s history is deeply intertwined with the local community, making it a significant landmark in the region. Its historical value adds to the appeal of owning such a unique piece of Scottish heritage, attracting interest from developers and private buyers alike.
Robin Howeson, the head of Savills Auctions, recognizes the rarity of this opportunity, emphasizing the historical and cultural significance of Sandside Harbour. He anticipates that developers and private buyers will be keen to invest in this piece of history, considering its potential for residential development and commercial use. The guide price has been set to attract a suitable buyer who appreciates the heritage and potential of this historic harbour.
Potential for Development and Investment
The expansive size of Sandside Harbour offers ample opportunities for development and investment. With its prime location and picturesque surroundings, the property could be transformed into a unique residential or commercial space, catering to a variety of needs. The traditional architecture of the harbour and net store presents a charming backdrop for potential renovations, blending modern amenities with historical charm.
Buyers interested in Sandside Harbour have the chance to become part of the local community, continuing the legacy of the harbour’s usage for leisure and fishing activities. The potential to convert the existing structures into additional accommodation opens up possibilities for creating a bespoke living or business space that pays homage to the heritage of the site. With careful planning and preservation of the historic elements, Sandside Harbour has the potential to become a sought-after destination in the Scottish Highlands.
In conclusion, the auction of Sandside Harbour presents a unique opportunity for buyers to own a piece of Scottish history and contribute to the preservation of a significant cultural landmark. The potential for development and investment in this historic property opens up a world of possibilities for creating a bespoke living or commercial space that honors the heritage of the site. As the auction date approaches, anticipation is high for the future of Sandside Harbour and the new chapter that awaits its next owner.