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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
National
Laura Pollock

Private Scottish island up for sale with ferry, farm and Highland cattle for £2m

A PRIVATE Scottish island with its own fold of pedigree Highland cattle and personal ferry has been put up for sale for £2 million.

Inchmarnock, located just off the west coast of the Isle of Bute in the Firth of Clyde, is being marketed as a 662-acre estate, including a working farm, historic buildings, and extensive coastal access.

Property manager Strutt and Parker has said the island offers a rare opportunity to acquire a large tract of land with farming infrastructure, development potential and significant natural heritage.

The island lies just five miles from Rothesay, 37 miles from Glasgow Airport and 46 miles from Glasgow.

It is said when there, there are views to the southern Cowal Peninsula, Knapdale and the northern part of the Kintyre Peninsula, Goatfell and the mountains of Arran, and, on aclear day, the coast of Ayrshire.

The listing includes The Port House, a four-bedroom home in Bute with views over to Inchmarnock and beyond to the Kintyre Peninsula.

The estate also includes a private harbour, slipway, and a purpose-built ferry – The Marnock – designed to transport vehicles and livestock to and from the island.

Scattered across Inchmarnock are several traditional stone farmhouses and redundant steadings which are currently uninhabited but described as having potential for residential or tourism-related redevelopment, subject to planning permission.

A particular feature of Inchmarnock is its many metres of drystone dykes which date from the 18th century. Unusually high in places to provide protection from the prevailing wind, the previous owner undertook an extensive programme of repair and maintenance of these dykes and they are impressive.

There is also an operational agricultural shed with cattle handling facilities, and the farm supports a fold of pedigree Highland cattle. The land comprises around 168 acres of pasture, 366 acres of rough grazing, and large areas of native woodland.

The island has a coastline of nearly five miles, combining rocky outcrops with shingle beaches, and supports wildfowling, woodcock shooting and other sporting pursuits. Its waters offer opportunities for sea fishing, kayaking, lobster potting, and other marine activities.

Inchmarnock is home to significant wildlife, including native plant species and a resident grey seal colony.

The entire estate is being offered for sale as a single lot.

The island is being marketed as a unique mix of “history, heritage, and opportunity” – with strong appeal to private buyers interested in rural estates, sustainable development or leisure ventures.

The buyer will also have the option to acquire a range of boats, farm machinery, and household contents.

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