If you thought medieval castles only belonged in fairy tales or on the hillsides of southern Europe, think again. One British art dealer spent 15 remarkable years transforming a 19th-century boathouse into a medieval dream home—now selling for a jaw-dropping price that has everyone talking.
From Humble Boathouse to Majestic Medieval Castle
At first glance, you’d be forgiven for mistaking this property for a Mediterranean hideaway or an Italian villa framed by turquoise waters. In reality, it stands proudly on the banks of the River Dart, in the heart of Devon, southwest England—a spot known as much for its sailing, kayaking and paddleboarding as for its rolling green landscapes.
The story of this extraordinary home begins in 1993, when British art dealer David Southwick and his wife acquired what was, at the time, a nautically inclined property. Back then, the site featured a classic 1960s dwelling, but that didn’t fit the couple’s ambitions for something truly memorable. After demolishing the unremarkable post-war house, they made a bold decision: only the historic boat shed, dating back to the 1850s, would remain.
Drawing Inspiration from Italy
Southwick’s vision didn’t materialize overnight. Instead, it was informed by inspiration gathered 80 kilometers south of Rome, during a visit to the Italian town of Ninfa—famous for its atmospheric ruins and evocative beauty. Wandering among crumbling towers and echoing stonework, Southwick conceived the idea of his own “abandoned” medieval castle, transplanted to English soil.
The transformation from humble boathouse to mini-medieval fortress would take fifteen years. Each step was carefully considered, and the results are nothing short of spectacular—so much so that, upon its completion in 2008, many mistook the new building for a genuine relic from a bygone era.
A Labor of Love—and of Engineering
The property now spans approximately 400 square meters across five levels—a feat that required not just artistic flair but plenty of engineering muscle as well. At one point, works descended as far as 19.5 meters below sea level, ensuring the home was not just beautiful but built to last for generations. And while the castle might look like it’s stood watch over the Dart for centuries, it’s also equipped with all the comforts of modern living.
- Private beach
- Indoor swimming pool
- Four bedrooms
- Two bathrooms
- Three reception rooms
- Private jetty
- Terraced gardens
The home’s amenities make it perfect for everything from peaceful family living to the most Instagram-worthy garden party (dragons and jesters optional, but encouraged).
A Price Tag as Grand as the Dream
After all that dedication—and a dash of Mediterranean daydreaming—the Southwicks have decided to move on to new adventures, this time settling in Italy for good. As a result, their castle by the Dart is now up for grabs. Marketed by Savills, the property is currently listed for £5 million, or around €5.9 million.
It might not be exactly what you’d expect from “an Italian property in the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean,” but anyone seeking character, history (or at least a mighty good illusion of it), and waterside tranquility will be wowed. Achieving the aesthetic of a centuries-old relic, whilst being finished just before the last economic crash, is no small feat. For Southwick, the bet paid off handsomely.
Whether you’re in the market for a castle or just enjoy the idea of upcycling at the next level, this home proves one thing: with time, passion, and a love for ruins (the inspiring, romantic kind), any dream is possible. Now the only question is—who will write the next chapter for this riverside legend?
Based in New York, Josh is the creative mind behind Lanco Handmade Furniture.
Passionate about timeless design and fine craftsmanship, he transforms high-quality materials into pieces that are both functional and artful.
With a keen eye for detail and a love for natural textures, Josh creates furniture meant to bring warmth, character, and lasting beauty to any space.
