The popular phrase “a man’s home is his castle” was first coined by English judge and jurist Sir Edward Coke (not related to the beverage) in 1604, as an early legal basis for greater leniency for self-defense when a crime is committed in one’s home. Subsequently, the phrase came to mean having exclusive authority in one’s own home. Nowadays, any misguided notion of being “king” of one’s castle is quickly dispelled when the credit card and utility bills are due.
It isn’t every day that you come across a classified ad seeking a king, but a remote island off the coast of England is looking to hire a custodian, whose traditional responsibilities include being its king.
Piel Island is located in Cumbria, in North West England, not far from the beautiful and idyllic lake district. This past January, the local Barrow Borough Council, which owns the island, announced that it was looking for a new caretaker for the 50-acre island after the previous “king” resigned from his post. The Council is offering a ten-year lease to the right candidate. Applicants must be aware of the island’s remoteness, isolated winters, limited crossing options and scarce resources. The grounds include a medieval castle and an ancient pub, in addition to ample campgrounds. Only one other resident currently lives on the island.
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