If you've ever dreamt of sleeping in Rapunzel's tower or living in a characterful woodland cottage like Hansel and Gretel (minus the evil witch, of course), then these enchanting properties are sure to delight. From turreted retreats to storybook homes that appear plucked from the pages of classic fables, turn the page to explore the best fairytale homes on the market right now. Click or scroll on for a little taste of magic...

It isn't often you see a detached property in London on the market for £350,000 ($425k), but The Mushroom House is no ordinary real estate listing. Located in the Wood Green area of north London, this adorable and unique home spans just 714 square feet but packs a punch when it comes to peculiar design.

Listed with the Unique Property Company, the aptly named residence resembles an organic mushroom and appears to be growing straight from the leafy plot on which it sits. However, the building was actually once a lodging house for the gatekeeper and staff of the Chilts House Estate, giving us an insight into what Georgian Wood Green would have looked like. It's now Grade II listed by Historic England, which described the building as having the appearance of a "19th-century Ornamental Dairy".

Built in the early 1800s, the property would have once been the entrance to the estate and all visitors would have passed it on their way to the manor, which was sadly demolished in 1895. Nestled on a huge plot – which is incredibly rare in London – the residence is bursting with character, both inside and out. Spread across three floors, the main living areas are built around a central, double-sided brick chimney, which decorates the middle of the ground floor.

The ground floor features a kitchen, a dining area and a lounge, as well as a front and back door that provide access from all sides of the house. Upstairs, there are two double bedrooms, one with the original brick fireplace taking centre stage. Other key period features include exposed ceiling beams, parquet floors and curving walls.

There’s also a unique bathroom that’s been stripped back to its beams and plastered in a really lovely way. There’s even a loft space that could be converted into additional accommodation – although the ceiling height could prove to be a challenge. Despite being historic, the house boasts underfloor heating that keeps it warm all year round.

As gorgeous as it is tiny, this ultra-cute cottage can be found in Calbourne on the UK's glitzy Isle of Wight and despite its size, is for sale with Fine & Country for £500,000 ($613k). 

With its partially circular exterior, arched thatched roof, stone walls with white brick window dressings, five-sided casement windows and a brick chimneystack, the house is bursting with kerb appeal! Nestled on around three and a half acres of woodland, the teeny Grade II Listed residence also boasts fairytale surroundings.

Oh, and it has a fascinating history. Known as Sweetwater Lodge, the chocolate box home was designed by the famous Regency architect, John Nash, who built his own home, East Cowes Castle, on the Isle of Wight. It was originally the lodge entrance to Westover House, which was also designed by Nash and once owned by Colonel Mouton-Barrett – a relative of the poet Elizabeth Barrett Browning. Inside, there’s a hallway, a rotund kitchen, a lounge-come-dining room, a family bathroom and two bedrooms.

There are plenty of added extras with this home, too, including a gorgeous she shed, where the new owner could curl up with a good fairytale book or even watch a magical movie or two during their downtime. The cosy shed comes complete with a dining area, a sitting area and enough space for WFH.

There's even a private on-site well, which feels very Rumpelstiltskin to us! With this home, the words ‘unique’, ‘adorable’ and ‘surprising’ all apply! Grab it before it’s gone…

Locked up behind a set of high gates, this imposing property looks as if it were the full-time home of Rapunzel. Located in the Berry region of France, the unique building dates back to the 15th century and is waiting for its next fairytale prince or princess to move in. 

For sale with Patrice Besse for €580,000, or £501,300 ($614k), the historic fortress was once one of the most important military hubs in the Berry province. According to the listing, it's "a fine example of the art of castle-building in the Middle Ages", and yet despite its age, it's in remarkably good condition and could even be considered move-in ready.

Jean de Villaines, the chateau’s former lord, redesigned the castle considerably in 1460, but these elements were demolished in 1569, during the French Wars of Religion. Originally, you would have entered the castle via a fortified entrance, complete with a moat and drawbridge. Inside, there was a courtyard protected by four corner towers, but sadly only one remains standing to this day. 

According to the listing, many historical figures have stayed in this chateau over the centuries, including the Prince of Asturias, who stayed in a space above the chapel while fleeing the English. King Louis XI of France stayed here in 1482 while on a pilgrimage, as did King Henry IV of France. It isn't difficult to imagine what these prominent figures saw when they stayed, because the house has been well preserved. From its beamed ceilings to its stone walls and fireplaces, every room is bursting with character.

With four floors, including a cellar, the house offers enough space for numerous bedrooms, a living room, a dining room and a kitchen. There's even a square chapel and round tower, which could be turned into an amazing master suite. The basement boasts an incredible vaulted ceiling, a wine cellar and a boiler room. Apparently, the spooky space was once used as a prison.

About as eccentric as homes get, this surreal residence is situated on an enchanting mountainside lot in the heart of Christina Lake, British Columbia. Available via Century 21 for just under CAD$1.7 million – that's £1 million ($1.3m) – the custom-built pad dates back to 1976 and boasts a storybook exterior like no other.

Affectionately known as the Castle in the Forest, the fairytale home was constructed from multiple layers of steel mesh and reinforced concrete plaster, allowing it to take an organic and free-flowing shape. This is the same technique used to create the brilliant bubble homes that can be found around the world. It's a traditional building method and it means the property will last for centuries and is resistant to "fire, rot and insects," according to the listing.

Inside, the home boasts plenty of charm. From coloured concrete floors to impressive arched doors and windows, vaulted ceilings and stained-glass accents, there’s so much to fall in love with. The property offers five bathrooms, a snug lounge, a country-style kitchen, a music room and a mezzanine office. 

Perhaps the best feature is the home’s impressive three-storey tower, which houses all three bedrooms, connected via a stunning spiral staircase. We love the timber ceiling and gorgeous glass element that acts like an ultra-cool headboard. Other features include a wood-fired sauna and a 1,450-square-foot workshop, complete with an artist’s studio, both of which are said to be in a great state of repair.

Outside, the 22-acre estate is home to various patios for dining and relaxing, as well as a swimming pool, a greenhouse, numerous gardens and orchards. There’s even a standalone, three-bedroom cottage that could be turned into the ultimate holiday home.

Wonderfully named, Fantasy Glades Estate is positioned moments from Shelly Beach in the Australian city of Port Macquarie, New South Wales, and is far more than it might first seem. Yes, there's a modern castle built in the heart of the grounds, but that's really just the tip of the iceberg!

But let's start with the castle. The rustic-looking building features a spacious and light-filled interior with tiled floors, dark timber details and high ceilings. Considered an "iconic local landmark" by the listing agents, McGrath, the property was originally part of a fantasy theme park that was in operation from 1968 to 2002. The current owner purchased it in 2015 and undertook a thorough renovation, according to the Australian Daily Telegraph.

What's even better, is planning consent has already been given for further development. Essentially, the buyer has the go-ahead to build nine more self-contained cottages on the four-acre estate. There’s currently already an array of themed buildings in the backyard, so the new owner will be able to add more and create an amazing, fantasy-themed Airbnb retreat. This is a home with a job thrown in!

The estate also benefits from an adorable miniature church, which we think could be the crown jewel of the listing. Sadly, we can’t step inside the building, but from the looks of the outside, the interior will be brimming with character.

The estate is also home to pristine, park-like grounds, gentle streams, rustic bridges and bushland walks. Plus, it overlooks a beautiful native rainforest. The castle has also been granted approval to be turned into a café – so the buyer better bring their wallet as well as their imagination. For sale with McGrath Estate Agents for the guide price of AUD$2.4 million, which equates to £1.3 million ($1.6m), this estate is bursting with possibilities.

A truly spectacular piece of architecture, this neo-Moorish villa lies on the Goëlo coast in Brittany, France, overlooking the ocean. Regal and romantic in equal measure, the cool European castle will set you back £2.2 million ($2.6m), or €2.5 million in the local currency.

Available via Patrice Besse, the palatial property was built in around 1880, by the Count of La Lande de Calan and was enlarged in 1906. Currently adjoining a 4-star hotel, the buyer has the chance to create a dream home and a business opportunity in one. 

Designed in the Moorish architectural style, the castle is bursting with characterful details, like oriel windows, horseshoe-shaped arches, mosaiced floors and geometric decorations. The entrance hall alone is truly mesmerising!

Standing proud at 3,552 square feet, the residence has been split into numerous apartments, one of around 1,184 square feet. It has a comfortable living room and a fully equipped adjoining kitchen. There are two spacious bedrooms with fireplaces and private bathrooms – one of which overlooks Comtesse Island and Harbor Island lighthouse. 

The second floor provides a single octagonal room, glazed on five sides and in need of a total renovation. It boasts parquet floors, wooden window shutters and a private roof terrace, with panoramic views of the sea. There’s even a basement that could be turned into the ultimate man cave or hideout. But, with this amazing scenery right outside, it's unlikely the new owner will be spending much time indoors.

Authentic American castles don't crop up too often, especially all-white ones with a fake horse standing guard outside. So, if you're seeking a unique piece of real estate that is fit for a king or queen, then you're search might well be over. However, you'll need £2.4 million ($2.9m) in the bank to be in with a shot of buying the place.

Positioned on 40 acres of rolling hills in the city of Oakdale, California, the property was constructed in 1987 and is part-ranch, part-castle. Aptly named Castle Oaks Ranch, it's become somewhat of a local landmark due to its quirky exterior. Inside, it measures 3,381 square feet and comes complete with plenty of impressive living spaces, fit for a VIP.

The luxurious ranch is fresh and light-filled, but could definitely do with a bit of modernisation. Everywhere you look you'll spot castle characteristics, like wrought iron railings, but it also feels homely, making it perfect for someone who wants a castle without all the drama of taking on a historic building.

Of course, the property has everything you could need to live the life of luxury, including a double-height living room – perfect for welcoming visiting guests – a spacious kitchen with a dine-in island, a dining room, three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a library and a wine cellar.

Yet the fanciest space in the house has to be this elaborate bedroom. With its impressive canopy bed, which looks like it might belong at Buckingham Palace, mirrored in-room bathtub and huge walk-in closet, it's a bedroom fit for royalty. There's also an amazing rooftop deck, located in the home's turret. It provides 360-degree views of the whole valley, all the way to the Sierra mountains. There's also a four-stall barn for horses, a six-car garage and plenty of land for rearing cattle.

With the perfect name to suit its style, The Thatch House is one of the most impressive homes we've ever seen. The listing agents, Christie's International Real Estate, seem to agree, calling the property "an extraordinary and unparalleled gem that seamlessly weaves captivating stories within every room." Located in Charlevoix, Michigan, it's up for grabs right now for a cool £3.7 million ($4.5m).

The property dates back to 1918 and was designed by the renowned visionary, Earl Young. However, it underwent a remarkable, three-year renovation in 2015, so now many of the rooms blend historic elements with contemporary touches. According to the listing, the renovation was completed with “meticulous attention to detail” and “recreated the enchanting essence of Young's storybook style”.

The house has plenty of dreamy living spaces, decorated with rough stone fireplaces, timber floors, ceiling beams and quirky alcoves. There’s a sitting room, a kitchen, a dining area, a media room, a wine cellar, a second-floor family room, seven bedrooms and seven bathrooms. 

There’s also a separate guest house that could be rented out as a cool holiday home. The crowning glory of the property, though, has to be its gently sloping natural reed roof. “A testament to true craftsmanship," it was crafted from the finest natural thatch, hand-reaped in Europe and carefully transported to the US.

Just a leisurely walk or bike ride away lies downtown Charlevoix, which is filled with independent shops and restaurants, and also has a picturesque marina and inviting beaches. What’s more, the sandy shores and blue waters of Lake Michigan are just moments away. How's that for perfect?

If you've got a bulging bank account, then this whimsical home could be within your grasp. Aptly named The Gingerbread House, the adorable residence lies in Bay Ridge, a neighbourhood in the southwest corner of Brooklyn, New York, and is on the market for an eye-popping £7.2 million ($8.8m). With its sweeping roofline, candy-like brickwork and chocolate box details, this is one sweet real estate opportunity. Let's take a closer look...

The quirky residence was designed by architect James Sarsfield Kennedy for shipping mogul, Howard Jones, in around 1918. The Arts and Crafts home was once described as "the most magnificent residence in all of New York City," and it isn’t at all hard to see why. Everywhere you look, you’ll spot amazing architectural elements that are truly one-of-a-kind – and we haven't even stepped inside yet!

Once inside the 12-room home, you'll find plenty of beautiful elements that have been wonderfully preserved over the years. Think hand-carved wainscotting, marble mantels, hand-painted coffered ceilings, stained-glass elements and mahogany and cherry floors. 

As for spaces, there’s a living room, a dining room, a music room, a kitchen, six bedrooms, five bathrooms and a luxe lower level equipped with a movie theatre and gym – so this fairytale home has very much been brought into the present day.

The spacious primary suite is one of the finest spaces in the house, thanks to its dual walk-in closets, dressing room, fireplace flanked by two balconies and sitting room. We love the unique curved walls and turret-like shapes of the room. Plus, outside there’s a gorgeous garden with plenty of characterful pathways created from stone, as well as a pool and a three-car garage. 

If you're after something even more luxurious – a place that Maleficent would call home, perhaps – then this unbelievable mansion is sure to pique your interest. Halcyon Hall can be found in the village of Radlett in Hertfordshire, between Elstree and St Albans, and is up for grabs for an eye-watering £15 million ($18.3m).

With its picture-perfect exterior, boasting decorative turrets, climbing ivy and pretty leaded windows, the house would make for the perfect villain's lair. Offering 15,000 square feet of flexible living space, the Elizabethan-style mansion was actually completed in 2006 and boasts an interior to match its dazzling façade. 

Step inside and you'll be greeted by seriously wow-factor spaces decked out with oak panelling, vaulted ceilings and lush marble. Glistening chandeliers hang from the ceilings while soaring columns and statement fireplaces draw the eye. As well as a double vaulted entrance hall, there’s also an open-plan kitchen with a dining and living area, a formal sitting room, a formal dining room with space for 14 people, a home office with doors leading outside and a spiral staircase that leads up to a library.

There are plenty of modern extras, too, including a recently constructed, octagonal-shaped gym with an impressive double-height vaulted ceiling. There’s also a lift to all four floors, as well as nine bedrooms and nine bathrooms – the pinnacle of which is the master suite... 

Located in the right wing of the incredible home, it has twin dressing rooms, a sitting area, an ensuite bathroom with dual showers and sinks, and a second bathroom with a steam room. Other luxe additions include the home’s 13-seat cinema room, which occupies the lower ground floor. Here, you’ll also find a bar, a kitchen and a wine vault capable of housing hundreds of bottles of the finest wines and champagnes.

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