Househunters can snap up Britain’s smallest castle as 19th Century Grade II building goes on the market for £425,000

An Englishman’s home is said to be his castle – and now househunters can snap up their own – as Britain’s smallest castle has gone on the market for £425,000.

The Grade II listed Gothic turret, which dates back to the 19th Century, looks out over picturesque Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire.

The Gazebo Tower, with just 880sq ft of living space, is part of the historic town’s town walls.

Described as a ‘local icon’ the Grade II listed building would be an amazing holiday home or AirBnB rental.

Built in 1833 it has far-reaching views of the local countryside and was originally a viewing tower or folly.

Agents Savills said on Rightmove: ‘An absolute one-off, this Grade II listed building is located in the heart of the town and would suit a host of would-be purchasers.

‘A dramatic stone staircase leads to the principal entrance and in turn to the fitted kitchen.

‘Equipped with a good range of units, it has a light and bright feel with plentiful dining space.

‘Stairs rise to the sitting room which affords breath-taking views over the River Wye and beyond, in good decorative order there is a useful storage cupboard with further stairs leading to the second floor and bedroom.

‘Served by a well-appointed en suite, the dual aspect configuration makes for a beautifully sunny room.

‘Laid to a wooden floor, a spiral staircase rises to the most fabulous roof terrace which provides unparalleled views of the town, the River Wye and the rolling Herefordshire countryside.’

The quaint market town of Ledbury is 13 miles away while trains to London Paddington take two hours.

In 2001, Herefordshire Council – the previous owners – put it up for sale.

At the time its first and only floor was only accessible by ladder.

It was put up for sale two years ago by then owner Tony Billingham who bought it after submitting a bid by post.

But would-be purchasers were confused – because there is a bath in the middle of the bedroom.

One said: ‘Where’s the bloody bed?! As far as I can see, the ‘bedroom’ has a bath sunk into the middle of the floor.’

‘I think you need to accept that you have, in fact, found the bed,’ another replied.

‘Rapunzel, Rapunzel, let down your bed!’ another joked.

And one added: ‘Getting furniture up and down would be an absolute nightmare. I won’t mention the sunken bath in the middle of the bedroom.’

And another added seriously: ‘I love Ross and I love this but my hips and knees say no.’