Ripley Castle, a historic estate located near Harrogate in North Yorkshire, has been placed on the market for the first time in almost 700 years, with an asking price of Rs 225 crore (£21 million).

The castle, spread across 445 acres, includes a lake, a pub, a helipad, a cricket pitch, and various other amenities, such as a hotel, tea room, gift shop, and wedding venue.

The property is being sold in nine separate lots, which can be purchased individually or as a whole.

The castle has remained in the Ingilby family since it was inherited in 1308/9 by Sir Thomas Ingilby, after he married heiress Edeline Thwenge.

Over the centuries, the estate has passed down through the family, with notable moments in its history, including Sir Thomas’s son saving King Edward III's life and being knighted for the act.

Sir Thomas Ingilby, who has cared for the property for over five decades alongside his wife, Lady Ingilby, explained that they are selling the estate to retire and pursue other interests.

Despite the bittersweet decision, Sir Thomas expressed pride in having safeguarded the estate's heritage for future generations.

The couple, who have four grandchildren, plans to travel once the sale process concludes.

Lady Ingilby reminisced about the beauty and serenity of the estate, describing moments spent walking around the gardens by the lake as 'something out of a fairy tale.'