The best stately homes on the market

Oakley Hall, Market Drayton, Shropshire

Sitting in a beautiful part of the Shropshire countryside, the imposing Oakley Hall was built in 1710 for Sir John Chetwode, the high sheriff of Staffordshire at the time. Overlooking a lake and serene parkland, the classically constructed Grade II-listed Georgian country house provides luxurious and spacious accommodation, with eleven bedrooms, eight of which are en-suite. Boasting old stables with the potential to be reconverted for equestrian use, a hard tennis court and a 3.5 acre lake with fishing and boating opportunities, Oakley Hall provides a quiet escape within easy reach of London, Birmingham, Manchester and Liverpool international airports.

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£3,500,000; savills.com

Barholm Castle, Gatehouse of Fleet, Castle Douglas, Dumfries and Galloway

Many people dream of living in a castle one day, and the reasonably priced Barholm Castle could just make this a reality. Situated in southwest Scotland's unspoiled countryside, the four-bedroom residence is built on foundations rich with history. Originating in the 15th century, the pre-existing traditional Scottish tower house was rebuilt in 2005, and overlooks the beautiful Wigtown Bay. In 1566, this spot is reputed to have been the hiding place of the founder of the Presbyterian church of Scotland, John Knox, after he was exiled by Mary Queen of Scots. Featuring a beautiful greenhouse that doubles as a conservatory and colourful mature gardens, Barholm Castle provides a serene country escape.

£695,000; knightfrank.co.uk

Cainhoe Manor, Gravenhurst, Bedfordshire

Built in the 16th century, this Grade II-listed house is located in a picturesque rural setting with good commuter links to the capital. The residence is thought to have been a hunting lodge for King Henry VIII, and its renovations have thoughtfully married the old with the new. Among the four acres of land are Cainhoe Manor's gardens, designed and constructed by award-winning Chelsea Flower show designer Julie Toll. The six-bedroom residence is further enhanced by a newly refurbished outdoor swimming pool, a recently constructed pool house and two new stables.

£2,700,000; savills.com