When this historic English Grain Tower came up for auction in September 2023, it quickly went viral. The 19th-century defensive tower had a guide price of just £150,000 ($181k) – but there was a catch. Due to its position on the mouth of the River Medway, just off the coast of Kent's Isle of Grain, you can only reach the structure twice a day during low tide – or by boat the rest of the time. However, that didn't stop an American buyer from snapping it up. Let's find out more...

The mystery buyer is said to have paid £159,000 ($192k) for the former military building – that's £9,000 ($11k) more than the original asking price but is a steal compared to the £1.9 MILLION ($2.3m) price tag when it was listed in 2020 and the £500,000 ($610k) price when it was last bought in 2014. While we don't know who the buyer is, or what they intend to do with the tower, one thing’s for sure; they will need to spend a whole lot more money if they're planning on returning the structure to its former glory. So, what makes the Grain Tower so special?

Constructed as a small defensive fort, similar to the Martello towers built along the British and Irish coastlines in the early 19th century, the Grain Tower was created to protect the dockyards at Sheerness and Chatham from French naval forces. According to the auction agents, Savills, in the mid-19th century the tower became obsolete after improvements were made to artillery technology. However, by the end of the 19th century, the remarkable property was used to defend against torpedo boat raids.

The Grain Tower was later used during the First and Second World Wars and even had its layout altered to support new, quick-firing guns. It was decommissioned for good in 1956 and has sat vacant ever since. We don't know the tower's square footage or anything about its interior, but it's safe to say that due to its exposed waterside location, it has degraded significantly over the last few decades. As the last remaining example of this type of gun tower in the UK, it's likely the American buyer has an interest in history.

As you would expect, the tower's location makes it pretty hard to access. There's a route across a slippery brick causeway that's exposed at low tide, but when the water is high a boat (or helicopter) would be needed. The nearest train station is almost five miles away in Swale. However, the buyer has bagged themselves potentially the coolest address in all of Britain – Number 1 The Thames! We don't know about you, but we can't wait to see what they do with the place.

Fancy taking on a similar project? Click or scroll on to explore some amazing, extreme fixer-uppers that are for sale right now...

From crumbling castles and faded forts to abandoned mansions and decommissioned churches, there are thousands of palatial structures out there in need of restoration. We've scoured the world to bring you the most magnificent fixer-uppers on the market right now. Could you return these masterpieces back to their former glory?

Proving that you don't always need a bulging bank account in order to buy something really special, Roebuck Castle could be yours for a mere £165,700 ($200k). Situated in Birmingham, Alabama, the derelict building dates back to 1967 and is in need of a total overhaul, both inside and out.

The two-storey residence measures 5,470 square feet and is currently laid out with space for four bedrooms and three bathrooms, as well as numerous living rooms. However, the place is a total blank canvas, so the new owner could adjust the floorplan to suit their needs.

The brilliant American castle has bags of potential, but it's clear that this isn't a project for the faint-hearted. With missing windows, bare stud walls and an exterior that's slowly being overtaken by Mother Nature, the buyer will need to bring their imagination with them when planning the restoration.

However, it's not all doom and gloom. This property comes complete with a standalone garage that doubles as a pool house. Of course, the building is also in need of renovation works – as is the swimming pool itself – but doing so would provide the new owner with a holiday home to lease. How's that for bang for your buck?

Offering incredible space and bags of potential, this abandoned mansion is seriously well-priced at just under £331,100 ($400k). Built in 2002, the residence lies in Lake Panasoffkee, Florida, an area known for its nearly 10-acre nature reserve. What's even better, the building sits on five private acres of its own, making it perfect for lovers of the great outdoors.

For sale with All Florida Homes Realty, the historic residence stands proud at 7,844 square feet and features a shiplap exterior with a pretty front porch and plenty of sash windows. But, from the look of the façade, it's clear the building is in a serious state of decay.

Stretching up three storeys, the dilapidated dream home comes complete with numerous living rooms, two kitchens, six bedrooms and seven bathrooms. There's even a swimming pool outside, but this, like the rest of the property, needs a total overhaul. However, from vaulted ceilings to timber panelling and classic built-ins, there are plenty of lovely features that the buyer will want to retain.

For sale to cash buyers only, the property is available alongside two others in the area. This means the acquirer could bag 15 acres in total and create an incredible family compound. All of the buildings need extensive repairs, inside and out, so whoever takes them on will need imagination and deep pockets. Are you up to the challenge?

If you'd rather buy in the glorious Spanish countryside, then this dreamy 16th-century fortress could well be your dream renovation project. Situated close to the historic city of Ourense, the pazo was built in the Baroque style and comes complete with a defensive tower and gorgeous exterior brickwork.

Marketed through Galician Country Homes for just £502,700 ($607k), which is €580,000 locally, the ancient fortress no doubt has a long and rich history, but sadly we don't know too much about why it was built or how it was used. However, at some point, it was converted into a manor house, which means it already features living spaces – although every room will need to be renovated before anyone can move in.

Nestled on an acre of land, the building soars up three floors and currently features three bedrooms, two living rooms, a bathroom and a kitchen. There’s also a large basement that’s waiting to be converted into additional accommodation. The entrance hall boasts a magnificent granite staircase and other amazing details include the fort’s stone balconies, iron balustrades, exposed timber ceilings and pretty tiled floors.

The tower still has the battlements from which archers would once have aimed their arrows – according to the listing – and there’s also an amazing wine cellar and a derelict barn that could easily be converted into an apartment or holiday home. Plus, with such gorgeous scenery all around, you'll want for nothing when living here.

Described as a "castle complex" in the listing, this particular renovation project dates back to the 13th century. Residing in western Upper Lusatia, in southern Brandenburg, this imposing building sits within an area known for its idyllic hilly and mountainous landscapes laced with thick, dense forests. The region hosts a proud history, with many settlements having existed for over a thousand years playing a vital role in the history of Saxony, Bohemia, Poland and Central Europe.

On the market for £693,400 ($838k), or €800,000 in the local currency, the Renaissance-era castle comes complete with its own moat. Originally the castle was built into a rectangular main building with outbuildings in front before being extended with short side wings and a tower in the Baroque period. 

While the rooms are impressive and expansive, with soaring ceilings and incredible cornicing, the property is in need of major refurbishments having last been renovated in 1975. As per the listing, the castle has been standing empty for many years and contains neither furniture nor sanitary facilities, while the existing electrical installation is said to be defective and will need replacing.

However, for those keen to breathe some new life into an exquisite 13th-century castle, you will be richly rewarded with 39 rooms, mountainous views and your very own tower in the historic surrounds of western Upper Lusatia. 

For a little more, you could pick up this grand European palace. This ancient castle can be found on almost 23 acres of land in the German state of Saxony-Anhalt, with the historic structure originating from the second half of the 18th century. 

The regal castle has already been partially refurbished, but there’s plenty more work to be done to render this palatial home liveable. It's laid out over three wings that cover a staggering 13,185 square feet. During the mid-2000s, two of the wings were turned into four apartments, which are fairly modern. The new owner could choose to keep them as they are or undertake a restoration project to return them to their former glory.

However, the main wing of the abandoned castle hasn’t been touched, so there are plenty of original 18th-century elements inside. From huge arched windows to stone floors, ornate woodwork, vintage light fixtures and pretty fireplaces, the main wing is overflowing with charm. Plus, the castle's reception rooms are incredibly large, offering plenty of scope for development.

There are also numerous outbuildings with plenty of additional space – perhaps these could be converted into characterful homes, or used as guest lodgings. There’s even an old stable block, too, making this an ideal property for equestrian fans. If you fancy your chances, it's currently on the market with Vermittlung Historischer Immobilien for £1.3 million ($1.6m), or €1.5 million in the local currency.

Are you looking to create your own heavenly home? This beautiful former church is sure to pique your interest. On the market with LoopNet and O'Connor for £1.5 million ($1.8m), the stunning structure was designed by prominent local architects, George Mason and Zachariah Rice. It was built between 1890 and 1892, for then-owner James E. Scripps, who founded the Detroit News. Today, it's ready to begin a new chapter.

Trinity Episcopal Church lies in the North Corktown neighbourhood of Detroit, Michigan, and is a fine example of English Gothic-style architecture. With its dramatic stone façade and dazzling interior details, the 23,318-square-foot building would make for one seriously cool home.

Simply divine, the abandoned church benefits from endless period elements that the buyer will no doubt want to preserve, from its thick limestone walls to its soaring cathedral ceiling, arched openings, stained-glass windows and paved floors. However, a lot of work is clearly needed to turn the former religious facility into a liveable residence.

What's more, the church boasts over 200 carvings on its imposing exterior and even has a fairytale tower, complete with 10 working bells. It also sits on almost an acre of land. Are you willing to roll up your sleeves and rescue this beautiful building?

Who doesn’t need 20 bedrooms to sprawl out in? Should you fancy having a choice of chambers to retire to in the evening, this manor house in Southampton, UK, might just take your fancy. What’s more, you can have fun renovating each one to your specific style, or create 20 different themed rooms.

The New Forest manor house sits on grounds of approximately 3.8 acres and dates back to the early 19th century. According to the listing, however, a small area in the centre may have been a Tudor hunting lodge. We love the multi-panelled windows that proliferate throughout, throwing natural light into each room.

While it may look a little unloved and abandoned, the roof was recently replaced by the previous owners and planning permission has been granted to transform the expansive estate into multiple residences by The New Forest National Park Authority (NFNPA). You could become an innkeeper overnight, after some extensive renovations and the hefty £1.9 million ($2.3m), that is!

The manor house sits within the northeastern boundary of the National Park, which would be a draw for potential guests at your new luxury hotel. An extension was reportedly added in the 1980s when the so-called Tatchbury Manor was a nursing home until the early 2010s. The possibilities are endless for this extensive English abode.

Now, how about an Italian villa that comes with not one but two private beaches? Villa Castello Pellegrini is located in the resort town of Lake Maggiore and boasts stunning views out across the lake itself – the second-largest lake in the country. Alongside your very own beaches, you also get the castle itself, an annexe and a small cottage to boot.

Built in the late 19th century, the castle spans over 129,000 square feet of living space and boasts three levels, including service rooms and two cellars. A large foyer greets you upon entry with a sumptuous marble staircase, while an elevator can transport you from floor to floor if you were to tire of the castle's many stairs.

In need of major renovations throughout, Villa Castello Pellegrini was once owned by renowned fashion designer Gianfranco Ferrè, who passed away before completing renovations on the neoclassical estate. The epic job could now lie with you, should you have a spare £2.6 million ($3.1m) to hand.

With stunning views and plentiful festivals and music events occurring in the city, Stresa is one of the most beautiful cities in Italy and has been awarded as one of the best places to live in Europe. From your new pad, you could retire from the hustle and bustle, admiring the lake from a large wraparound balcony.

Listed for sale for £5.8 million ($7m), this incredible abandoned mansion can be found in the Palmer Woods neighbourhood of Detroit and is an important part of the area's architectural history. Nestled on two private acres, the 32,519-square-foot residence is just waiting to be given a second chance.

Built in 1925, The Bishop Mansion is part-way through a sensitive renovation, meaning some of the hard work has already been carried out. New elements include the home’s windows, tile roof and copper gutters. It also has brand-new electrical, plumbing and gas services. However, it’s clear that plenty of work is still needed to bring the mansion back from the brink – think missing walls, crumbling plasterwork and exposed ceiling structures.

The substantial home has four generous floors, with a total of 12 bedrooms and 14 bathrooms. There are plenty of previously lavish living spaces, too, including a marble-lined entrance foyer with towering columns and a grand staircase and several formal sitting rooms with decorative ceilings, panelled walls and elaborate stone fireplaces. Other key architectural gems include the home's glossy hardwood floors, stained-glass elements and gilded plasterwork.

The property even boasts a chapel-like space with an incredible vaulted ceiling decorated with beams. With its checkerboard floor, antique light fixtures and stained-glass windows, the room would make for one seriously amazing living room. The pad also benefits from a carriage house and a garage, which have already been restored. What's more, planning approval has been granted for a new outdoor pool. If you're in the position to rescue this gorgeous mansion, then what are you waiting for?

If you've got a much larger budget, then you could buy this incredible waterside citadel for sale with Patrice Besse. Located off the Morbihan coast on the French island of Belle-Île-en-Mer (which literally translates to “beautiful island in the sea”), this historic fortress sits right on the water’s edge, overlooking the Bay of Biscay. 

Now known as Vauban Citadel, the property originally dates back to the 11th century. In 1549, a small wooden fortification was built on the orders of Henry II and later, Charles IX commissioned a proper fort to be built. The Gondi family took charge of the works, laying the foundations for a citadel, surrounded by a star-shaped rampart. The castle was reconstructed in 1998, from a design by French combat engineer, Sébastien Le Prestre de Vauban, hence its name.

The structure boasts soaring defensive walls, a majestic keep gate, a large moat, former stables and a single watchtower. Covering an area of almost 25 acres, there are plenty of secret elements to this military castle, too. For starters, there’s an underground gunpowder magazine and dungeons from the 16th-century Gondi period. There's even a parade ground, an officers' lodge from the mid-17th century and blockhouses containing a museum. 

Amazingly, the former barracks extend 40,364 square feet, providing plenty of interior space for you to create the home of your dreams. The ground floor offers six lounges, two bedrooms, a spa, a cloakroom, a laundry room, a breakfast room and storage rooms, while the first floor is home to 56 bedrooms. There’s also a Governor's House and a Guard House, which could be converted into unusual homes. As for standout details, there are too many to name – think timber support beams, exposed stone walls and beamed ceilings.

If you happen to have €17 million, or £14.7 million ($17.8m), in the bank, then this spectacular Portuguese palace could soon be yours. Located in the Lisbon neighbourhood of Xabregas, the house was once a large farm belonging to the nobility. With more than five centuries of history, Xabregas Palace was first owned by the world-famous explorer, Tristão da Cunha.

Partially restored about 10 years ago, the historic home needs a little work to bring it up to scratch for modern living. However, there's no end of elegant period features and one-of-a-kind interior touches, from panelled ceilings to frescoes dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries.

Built in 1510, the house features 30 bedrooms, 10 bathrooms, a huge formal dining hall, a ballroom and almost an acre of surrounding land. Every room benefits from exquisite flooring, including stone, hardwood, and parquet, while some spaces boast towering barrel ceilings, oversized doors, dramatic chandeliers and decorative plasterwork.

For sale with Sotheby's International Realty, this opulent palace has lots of development potential – it could be broken down into multiple residences or even transformed into a five-star hotel.

If you've got £25 million ($30.1m) going spare, then you could snap up this detached Italianate villa for sale with Savills. Located in one of London's most prestigious neighbourhoods, Holland Park, the regal residence is Grade II listed and lies within a protected Conservation Area, so the buyer will need to adhere to strict planning rules during the renovation.

Spread out over five substantial floors, the mansion extends to approximately 9,542 square feet. Far from being an ordinary villa, the property has been an embassy for more than 40 years but hasn’t been actively used since 2011. Therefore, it’s in a somewhat sorry state and needs a thorough refurbishment to bring back its former splendour.

Inside, the grand property is overflowing with old-fashioned décor, but if you can see past the ugly carpets and peeling plasterwork, you'll spot plenty of period details that would be well worth saving. From pretty fireplaces and herringbone timber floors to crown mouldings and big bay windows, this villa is a real historic gem. 

What’s more, the mansion benefits from a south-facing garden and backs onto Holland Park Mews, with access to a private, gated garden – think Notting Hill! Plus, Holland Park itself is located moments away, where you'll find the famous Japanese Kyoto Garden and the Walled Spring Tulip Garden. If you're keen to take on this fine fixer-upper, then you better put in your offer before it's snapped up!

If you have the budget, the determination and the imagination, then this incredible tumbledown mansion in Lake County, Montana, could well be the home of your dreams. In need of more than just a coat of paint, the extreme fixer-upper is on the market for a whopping £60 million ($72m). While it may not be for the faint-hearted, it does have plenty of promise, plus it comes with its very own private island. 

Despite the hefty listing price, it's still fairly easy to imagine how impressive the home will be once it's completed. From the large windows to the double-height ceilings and twin, symmetrical suspended staircases, there's plenty to admire already. 

Inside, there are an abundance of living areas for entertaining and relaxing, and though it was originally designed to have four bedrooms and nine bathrooms, the floorplan is flexible and the new owner could choose to transform the rooms as they see fit. The house was built from concrete and reinforced with epoxy-coated rebar. According to the listing, the construction materials and methods used were chosen to ensure that the structure lasts over a thousand years.

Yet the main mansion isn't the only draw of this listing, as the price tag includes a second home, too. This characterful guest villa is positioned a short distance away from the main house and could be rented out as a holiday let, or even flipped and sold off. Luckily, this property is pretty much complete, but there are a few finishing touches still to be made. The listing also includes a custom-built barge from the 1960s, which could be turned into a luxurious houseboat for seafaring adventures. Sign us up!

Loved this? Like and follow us on Facebook for more amazing fixer-uppers