A few years ago you had to be earning mega bonuses at one of the big banks to afford your own castle. Now anyone selling a simple two up, two down in London can bag their own stately pile.

Auctioneer Clive Emson is offering the chance to own Stone Castle, hidden away high above Bluewater shopping centre.

The fortification is thought to date back to the 12th century, reputedly on the site where William the Conqueror signed a treaty with the men of Kent in 1067.

“This lot is steeped in history,” said auctioneer John Stockey. “Thomas Beckett visited the castle in 1165 on his way to Canterbury. And the eldest son of Edward III, also called Edward, was said to have been knighted there.

“In the 20th century it was occupied by Sir Arthur Davis, managing director of Blue Circle, who held the post of High Sheriff of Kent in 1935/6 and of Lord Mayor of London in 1945. During the Second World War, when it was occupied by the RAF, an anti-aircraft gun was mounted in the grounds.

The Grade II listed building has some fine period features, including the original 40ft tower. It has, until recently, operated as the Stone Castle Heritage Conference and Wedding Centre.

It is now arranged to provide three large office suites, all let on commercial leases, together with a barn at the rear, again let, but offering potential for conversion.

And for those wanting to recreate the To the Manor Born experience, there is a two-bedroom, detached cottage, with private garden, let on an assured shorthold tenancy agreement.

The premises are let for just over £54,000 a year and go under the hammer on Thursday, November 5. For more details contact John Stockey on 0845 8500333.

Stone Castle and Cottage,

Price: £700,000 to £750,000 auction guide price

Agent: Clive Emson