Snooping around – in pictures

Wreck of the week: Wick, Caithness. On the market for £395,000, Hempriggs House is in dire need of some reworking – about £400,000 should be enough to fix up the 20 bedrooms and seven bathrooms. Although it may take a while, the rewards for restoring this former noble estate and its 87 acres will payoff. With its impressive views of fertile farmland, flagstone dykes and the rugged coastline, this is a beautiful place to live in, but it’s also extremely remote.
Savills, 0131 247 3700
Photograph: Tom Baker/Savills

In town: Winchester. Don’t be fooled by the humble facade of this terraced £355,000 house – it’s conveniently located within walking distance of Winchester town centre, and disguises a roomy and stylish interior, with four bedrooms and period fireplaces. For those who crave privacy, avoid the master chamber – you have to cross it to reach the third and fourth bedrooms in the attic.
Smiths Gore, 01962 857401
Photograph: Smiths Gore

Eco home: Sunbury-on-Thames. This “eco-friendly” house feels very futuristic. Located on a traffic-free island, the house is heated with solar panels. Assembled with Siberian larch cladding, the house is roomy with an open-plan kitchen and living room. Located in the London commuter belt, this is a good location for people working in the city, and the folding doors lead out to the balcony, with outstanding river views of the Thames. But at £650,000 it may feel a bit overpriced for a two bedroom bungalow.
Derek Light & Co, 0844 806 2026 Photograph: Derek Light & Co

In the country: Devon. Brimming with character, this Grade II listed period cottage has a former village schoolroom for its living room and French doors. Despite the third bedroom being downstairs, this is offset by the beautiful south-facing views of the surrounding countryside. Located in the thriving village of Dolton, near Winkleigh, you get a real sense of the countryside, and all for £285,000.
Jackson-Stops & Staff, 01271 377833.
Photograph: Jackson-Stops & Staff

Dream house: Limoges, France. Who says you can’t live like a king? Who says you can’t live like a King? In the medieval Chateau Lionheart in Limoges, you can indulge your delusional dreams of being an Arthurian hero- there’s even a round table! The whole estate is steeped in legend, with former king of England, Richard the Lionheart, allegedly being buried in the 500-acre grounds. But despite its history, the 17 bedroom chateau has been given a 21st-century boost with a private cinema, a concert hall and a professional kitchen. Modernity and antiquity all for nearly £18m.
Savills, 020 7016 3740 Photograph: Savills