A new beginning

Angelo (center) being offered a cerimonial gift from the former owner, James Brown (left), including a bit of soil, crops and an ancient coin, in the presence of Nicholas Howie (right) of Lindsays, the Scottish law firm that took care, with Lockharts Law, of Baltersan sale.

In September 2024, Baltersan Castle entered a transformative chapter with the arrival of its new Laird, Angelo Ovidi. This moment marked not only a change in stewardship but also the beginning of a visionary plan to breathe new life into this 16th-century architectural gem near Maybole, Scotland. The castle, a Category A listed building with a rich historical tapestry, is set to reclaim its prominence as a cultural and communal beacon.

The new Laird has outlined an ambitious restoration project aimed at preserving Baltersan's historical integrity while repurposing it for modern cultural significance. Plans include transforming the site into a school of music and arts, fostering creativity and education in an area that stands to benefit greatly from such investment. The initiative also promises to involve the local community through job creation, training opportunities, and the revival of traditional crafts, including the restoration of the castle’s ancient orchards.

Through Angelo Ovidi’s leadership, Baltersan Castle stands as a symbol of resilience and renewal, ready to inspire a new generation of creators and historians.

Baltersan’s history is deeply intertwined with Scotland’s cultural and architectural heritage. Originally built in 1584 by John Kennedy of Pennyglen, it features distinctive quirks like its square staircase turret, setting it apart from typical L-plan tower houses. The new chapter builds on the castle’s storied past, with a vision that honors its legacy while ensuring it remains a living part of Scotland’s cultural landscape​.