The stunning UK island castle that's back on sale for £750,000

A historic castle located on a stunning island in the UK has gone back on the market two years after the previous sale collapsed. Kinloch Castle on the Isle of Rum is owned by Scottish government agency NatureScot, which also manages most of the island.

The Category-A listed Edwardian building has been placed on the market following research indicating that most island residents support its redevelopment and return to active use. Its estimated value, including the surrounding grounds and contents, is £750,000. Two years ago, businessman Jeremy Hosking decided to withdraw his bid for a castle, attributing his decision to actions taken by Lorna Slater, who was serving as Scotland's biodiversity minister and represented the Scottish Greens.

Slater had intervened in the sale process by placing it on hold, following concerns raised by the Isle of Rum Community Trust. Her move was seen by Hosking as a key factor in his decision to step away from the purchase.

The island, which has a population of about 40 people, is the largest of the Small Isles south of Skye.

A study by the Scottish government's RESAS found that most islanders support selling and redeveloping the castle so it can be used again. However, they want certain conditions met, such as keeping the community involved and ensuring the new owner respects land access rights.

A few islanders disagreed with the sale, suggesting the castle should either be handed over to the community or allowed to decay in a controlled way.

Chris Donald, of NatureScot, said: "Through this study, islanders made it clear that the most important aspect of any sale is a long-term commitment to contribute to the community and nature on the island.

"We are therefore asking prospective buyers to set out, alongside their offer, how they plan to use the castle and grounds and how they will support the nature, sustainability, culture and economy of the Isle of Rum."

Mr Donald added: "For the right buyer, this offers a rare opportunity to be part of Scotland's heritage by restoring an iconic building and grounds which are of historical and cultural importance to the Isle of Rum and beyond.

"We look forward to hearing from prospective buyers and will of course be keeping island residents directly informed of progress."

Kinloch Castle was built between 1897 and 1900 as a lavish hunting lodge for industrialist George Bullough. Designed by Leeming and Leeming-London architects known for commercial buildings-it's their only residential project.

After World War I, the castle fell into disrepair and was taken over in 1957 by the Nature Conservancy Council, now NatureScot. Over the years, it has needed major restoration. More recently, plans have been suggested to turn it into a 41-room hostel or a £13 million museum and visitor centre.