A CATEGORY B-listed Victorian mansion on the Rosneath peninsula has been removed for online viewing by a property agent - after hundreds of expressions of interest in just a few days.

The Linn, which is home to the renowned botanic gardens in Cove, went on the market last week for offers over £295,000, around a year after Helen and Ian Foulkes purchased the historic site for £275,000.

The three-acre gardens are known as a local treasure having been created and developed by former owner, Dr Jim Taggart, who died in June 2019 almost 50 years after he started work on the grounds.

READ MORE: Creator of Cove botanic garden, Dr Jim Taggart, dies aged 84

However, the villa is in need of substantial repair and restoration - a project which will require significantly more funds than the relatively modest asking price.

Marketed by Savills and listed on Rightmove, a description of the property states: "Built of stone and slate over two floors the floorplans depict a magnificent seven bedroom house with period features and huge character, waiting to be resurrected by a new owner.

"Wooden staircases, bow and bay windows, ornate cornicing and intricate stained glass windows can all be found intact within the house and form the basis of this outstanding property.

"Generous reception rooms and bright bedrooms are equally in abundance with a good balance of bedroom and bathrooms to form the perfect family home.

READ MORE: House broken into at Linn botanic gardens in Cove

"Within the grounds a further cottage can be found which has undergone some initial restorative work but equally is in need of a guiding hand to finish.

"In doing so the Linn estate could be restored not only to former splendour but be transformed into an exceptional and utterly unique home once again."

 

The property, which was listed on Thursday, October 15, is no longer available to view on the Rightmove website with a note saying it "may be sold or temporarily removed from the market".

All viewing slots were taken with new dates set to be released on Monday.

Several expressions of interest centred around preserving the site for future community use, with some social media users calling for a trust or charity to take control of the villa and gardens.