Schoolhouse, Altnabreac, Halkirk
Offers over £120,000
A wonderfully remote property in an incredible rural location
Wick 23 miles, Inverness 100 miles, Wick Airport 28 miles, Aberdeen Airport 193 miles (all distances are approximate)
• Wonderfully remote location
• Adaptable accommodation over two floors
• Stunning rural views
LOCATION
Altnabreac is a tiny settlement within the county of Caithness, in the north of Scotland and within the Highland council area. Allt nam Breac, from Scottish Gaelic, means “the stream of the trout”.
Located on Altnabreac Moss by the Sleach Water close to the Flow Country, 9 miles east of Forsinard and 23 miles west of Wick. The settlement, notable for its remoteness, consists of the former Altnabreac School which closed in 1986 and was converted into a private residence, the neighbouring station cottage and a railway station which serves the area of Altnabreac – the station itself being the main component of the settlement. The station is managed by Scotrail who operate all trains serving it. The station was temporarily closed between 12th November 2023 and re-opened on 6th April 2025.
The town of Thurso is situated 23 miles north of Altnabreac holding a unique geographical distinction as the northernmost town on the island of Great Britain. This northern latitude gives Thurso extended daylight hours in summer and shorter days in winter. The town has historical significance as a Norse settlement and remains a key location for access to the Orkney Islands via the nearby Scrabster ferry port. A few miles east of Thurso is the Castle of Mey, the former royal residence of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother and is open to visitors.
Caithness lies on the northeastern tip of Scotland, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the west and the North Sea to the east. To the north, the Pentland Firth separates it from the Orkney Islands. The region is characterized by a mix of rugged coastlines, rolling hills, and vast open moorlands. Caithness is also known for its long, sandy beaches and steep cliffs and is a haven for nature lovers, particularly those interested in birdwatching, marine life and hiking.
DESCRIPTION
Originally the schoolhouse for the local area the property now forms a fantastic rural home. Built of stone with a rendered brick extension under a slate roof the property sits handsomely in the surrounding landscape. The accommodation is laid out over two floors and provides adaptable accommodation which is now requiring a degree of refurbishment. The ground floor extends to a family room, bathroom, kitchen, rear hall and the former schoolroom complete with W/C. The former school room is particularly adaptable and could be used as a living room, studio or a number of other uses as required. The first floor extends to two bedrooms with useful storage cupboards from the upper hall.