The isles of Great Britain are well known for their rich history and magnificent properties. From castles created by Kings of olde to modern new properties crafted by homebuilders like Barratt Homes, Britain’s architectural landscape is a patchwork of cultural diversity. Read on to discover the oldest inhabited homes from each corner of the UK.

900 Years - Traquair House - Scotland

Traquair House is a stunning residence dating back to 1107, possibly even later. A unique piece of living history, Traquair has played host to many poignant figures throughout its existence including Mary Queen of Scots, whose bed can still be seen by visitors. In the 1700’s Traquair and its owners became embroiled in the troubled political times and a Jacobean plot, which almost led to the destruction of the estate.

860 Years – Saltford Manor House – Somerset, England

After a survey carried out by Country File, Saltford Manor in Somerset was named England’s oldest inhabited home. Boasting a window which dates back to Norman times, and 13th century paintings in one of the bedrooms, Saltford Manor is alive with relics from its past. Extensively added to in the medieval period, yet hardly changed by the Georgians or Victorians, the property is now decorated in a contemporary, minimalist style that many new homes would be proud of.

900 Years - Killyleagh – Northern Ireland

Killyleagh castle rises up from the landscape like a fairytale vision, and is quite probably Northern Ireland’s oldest home. The castle has been in the possession of the Hamilton’s for 400 years, since 1606, after they acquired it in a bitter dispute with the settling Scots. In 1849 - 1850 Sir Charles Lanyon was enlisted to help renovate the castle. This is when the turrets were added, along with other features such as intricate plaster work, which - according to the owners - have made the castle brighter and more habitable.

600 Years – Hafod-Y-Garegg - Wales

Hafod-Y-Garreg’s past remains shrouded in mystery. Now a welcoming guest house, the building appears to have been the only residence to survive in the battles of Owain Glyndw r against Henry IV when all surrounding buildings were destroyed. With almost no documents relating to its history, the owners are currently on a hunt to track down more information.