Allow me to paint a picture of a charming countryside retreat that is the Manor House. Nestled in the picturesque village of Kirkby Malham, near Skipton in North Yorkshire, this property offers a delightful blend of history, charm, and convenience. It's an ideal destination for those yearning to immerse themselves in the serene beauty of the Yorkshire Dales while still having access to the daily amenities offered by nearby towns.
First, a touch of the local magic. Kirkby Malham stands proudly within the Yorkshire Dales National Park, an area renowned for its stunning landscapes. Just nearby, Malham beckons hikers and outdoor enthusiasts alike with its mesmerizing features like The Cove and Gordale Scar. Skipton, a short drive away, is a vibrant market town known for its quaint streets, historic castle, and bustling weekly markets. Settle and Gargrave also lie close at hand, offering convenient access to shopping, dining, and a variety of community activities.
Now, let's delve into The Manor House itself. This stone-built country home oozes historical charm, with sections of the property dating back to the 17th Century. It's not just any country home, but one with a story, once owned by renowned American author Bill Bryson. With its original stone floors and exposed beams, the Manor House tells tales of days gone by while offering all the necessities of modern living.
As a family home, it ticks all the boxes for comfortable living. The property unfolds over two floors, providing ample space for family members of all ages. The heart of the home is the open-plan kitchen and dining room, which is perfect for family gatherings, Sunday roast diners, or quiet breakfasts. This country home's features create coziness:
- Detached structure with historical charm
- Beautifully crafted stone construction
- South-facing with fantastic countryside views
- Original inglenook fireplace in the dining room
- Spacious open-plan kitchen and dining area
- Original stone floors and exposed beams
- 4 generously sized bedrooms
- 3 bathrooms, including two en suites
- Utility room for added convenience
- Family room/snug for relaxation
Upstairs, the principal bedroom stands out with its en suite shower room, offering a private retreat for parents or guests. The house also boasts a guest bedroom with another en suite shower room, plus two additional bedrooms and a house bathroom that provide sufficient comfort and privacy for the entire family. This arrangement maximizes both space and privacy, perfect for family living or hosting guests.
Outside, The Manor House continues to enchant. It is approached through a gated entrance leading to a spacious front drive, providing ample parking for multiple vehicles. A valuable addition to the property is a stone outbuilding/store—ideal for storing outdoor equipment or converting into a workshop space.
The gardens will appeal to any green-thumbed enthusiasts. Landscaped and bordered by traditional dry stone walling, they offer a peaceful escape from the stresses of daily life. A sun terrace at the rear presents the perfect spot for summer entertaining or simply basking in the breathtaking vistas of the softly rolling countryside.
Living in this area is truly about embracing a lifestyle. The climate in the Yorkshire Dales is tempered, offering cool summers and mild winters, creating picturesque changes in the landscape across the seasons. Families moving into Kirkby Malham will find exceptional schooling options, like Kirkby Malham Primary School and Ermysted’s Grammar School.
The village and its surrounds encourage an active, outdoor lifestyle. Beyond the draws of the natural park, Skipton and nearby Gargrave provide excellent road and rail networks, making commuting to Leeds, and even as far as Manchester, relatively convenient—perfect for expats who crave the countryside yet need to stay connected to bigger city centers.
In sum, the Manor House is not just a property; it's an invitation to a way of life steeped in natural beauty, history, and community warmth. While the home is in good condition and largely devoid of renovation needs, it holds the promise of becoming a personal sanctuary tailored to its new owners' desires. Whether you are looking to relocate for a quieter life or are an expat returning to the scenic countryside, The Manor House offers an irrefutable blend of past and present, countryside living, and city connectivity.
