ASOS billionaire buys historic Kinross estate and loch

A Danish billionaire has purchased a historic Kinross estate, including Loch Leven.

Anders Holch Povlsen’s WildLand has acquired Loch Leven as part of the multi-million-pound purchase of the historic Kinross House Estate on the western shore of the loch.

Also included in the sale is Lochleven Castle – where Mary Queen of Scots was imprisoned – situated on an island in the over 4,000-acres loch.

Billionaire Mr Povlsen already owns over 220,000 acres through a dozen estates, making him Scotland’s largest private landowner.

Danish billionaire and Asos tycoon buys Loch Leven

Kinross House, which has operated as a luxury retreat and exclusive wedding and events venue, has just over 100 acres of beautifully landscaped formal gardens, manicured lawns, and ancient woodlands on the western shores of Loch Leven.

It has been described as “perhaps the most lavish house in Scotland”, and is said to be Scotland’s first neo-classical Palladian mansion.

The purchase price has not been disclosed.

But WildLand has confirmed that the acquisition includes the whole of Loch Leven – a National Nature Reserve managed by NatureScot together with RSPB Scotland.

WildLand said the purchase reflects its ambition to provide “exceptional hospitality alongside a long-term commitment to protecting nature, land and architectural heritage”.

Built in 1685 as the home of architect Sir William Bruce, Kinross House is one of Scotland’s most significant historic houses.

“Kinross House and Loch Leven are extraordinary places, shaped by centuries of history and by people who have cared deeply for them. We are very conscious that becoming the owners of a special place like Kinross House Estate comes with a responsibility that reaches far beyond us,” said Joe Dunn from WildLand.

“Our ambition is not to put our own stamp on Kinross House Estate, but to be good custodians of what is already there – to protect its character, care for its people, buildings, landscapes and wildlife, and contribute to preserving all this for generations to come. An important part of that is also keeping Kinross House alive and welcoming, so that guests can continue to experience and enjoy this remarkable place.”

NatureScot describes Loch Leven as “one of Scotland’s top natural assets”, due to its rich ecosystem that supports many different species of plants, insects, fish and birds.

Mr Povlsen, whose fortune was recently estimated at £8.2bn, was credited with interest in purchasing a stake in Dundee United in 2024.

He has been buying up estates in Scotland since paying £8 million for the 42,000-acre Glenfeshie in the Cairngorms in 2006.

He also bought Aldourie Castle in 2014 for £15m.

Mr Povlsen runs the retail group Bestseller, founded by his father in 1975, which has brands such as Jack & Jones, Vero Moda and Selected Homme in its stable.

He is also the biggest shareholder in the online fashion firm Asos, as well as having stakes in Zalando, another online retailer, and Swedish payments firm Klarna.

In sports, he is the majority shareholder in the Danish football club Midtjylland.