It's rumoured to be one of Britain's most haunted houses, but that's something for its next owners to ascertain because Windhouse, on Yell, is back on the market.
The ruined former Laird's house, set in walled grounds of around half an acre, enjoys an elevated position just outside the village of Mid Yell, with vistas over the surrounding countryside and to the head of the Whalefirth Voe.
A Grade C listed building believed to be built by the Neven family in the 18th century, Windhouse received restorative planning permission in 2001, which has now lapsed, but preparatory work was carried out a number of years ago to secure permission for a four bedroom property.
Understood to have been occupied until the 1920s, Windhouse comprises many original features including crowstep gable walls, a projecting porch with armorial panel and crenellated wings.
In 2003 the property was bought by Andrew Taylor and his partner Caron Reeves, from Cheshire, with plans to renovate which were not realised.
The Shetland ruin's ghostly reputation is derived from a 1800s folklore tale. The story dictates that every Christmas Eve a great noise and whirlwind shook the house and by the morning a death had taken place. The householder of the time was preparing to leave when a shipwrecked sailor appeared and faced a trow (troll) at midnight, before slaying the creature with an axe.
Spectral occupants are said to include a servant girl who mounts invisible steps, a man in a top hat, and a ghost dog.
Offers of over £25,000 are sought by Dowle Smith Rutherford Solicitors and Estate Agents.
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