Transformed initially from a medieval farmhouse to a shooting lodge in the 1850s, Oughtershaw Hall sits amongst quiet woodlands, surrounded by sweeping valleys and dramatic open moorland. Its years and scale immediately transport you to a different age, and you could forgive one for quickly adopting the role of the landed gentry. Beautifully styled throughout, the impressive original features will come as no surprise. Intricate stained-glass windows, carved panelling and a set of servants' bells are all taken as read. But it would be a real cool customer who wasn't impressed by the original guestbook dating back to the mid-18th century. This rural retreat truly showcases all of Oughtershaw Hall's history, yet is still tastefully packed with all mod cons.
Entering the house through an impressive stone loggia, via the former servants' entrance, guests will find themselves following a fabulous stone-flagged labyrinth of winding passageways. Guided by the enticing whiff of woodsmoke (depending on the time of the year), take your pick from any one of four seating areas - each one an absolute haven of tranquillity. Curl up with a glass of red in front of a roaring fire in the drawing-room. Or perhaps swap stories beside the woodburning stove in the sitting room, where we'll be surprised if the conversation doesn't turn to the stunning stained-glass windows displaying the family's coat of arms. Then there's the historical oak table, inscribed with the initials of previous owner Charles Woodd, in 1876. Or the wooden panel in the wall which hides the original peephole. Why not help yourself to a real page-turner in the cosy library, while away a lazy afternoon to the sound of the babbling beck as it meanders past the house and down the valley. Perhaps unsurprisingly by now, another stove can be found in the snug off the kitchen - it's the perfect space to catch up with the rest of your party.
Oughtershaw Hall's well-equipped kitchen is vast. Open-plan and L-shaped, the spacious breakfast bar or an impressive dining table can seat your entire party. While in quieter moments, the built-in window seats provide restful views out to the garden.
Opposite the kitchen, where once stood an old pantry, now sits a contemporary, spacious utility room. A separate boot room also contains the inviting 8-seater sauna. And should the Yorkshire weather close in, there's a basement games room well-stocked with entertainment for kids and big kids alike.
If the downstairs is relaxing, then the seven impeccably designed bedrooms beckon tantalisingly from the first floor. Rumour has it that Charles I rested his head here - one suspects while it was still attached to his body. Many of the bedrooms have old character features, window seats and luxurious en-suites. A further downstairs bedroom has an en-suite shower room making it the perfect choice for anyone with limited mobility.
The pool, housed in an old farm building, is just a few steps from the main house. It's the perfect example of how the house manages to keep its integrity while offering modern-day facilities. Beautiful, bespoke, water-height windows and underwater lighting set the mood. And if the children haven't sprouted gills, perhaps you can snatch a quiet moment to float leisurely on your back. Gaze up to a lofty roof complete with characterful wooden beams.
The houses' original entrance - complete with ceiling rose, brass chandelier, and even more seating - is now the access to the gardens. Guests can follow the romantic ghyll through the verdant thicket as Oughtershaw Beck tumbles and turns to meet the River Wharf. There's more than one perfect picnic stop en route.
Back at the house, intrepid explorers or mooching meanderers can take to the patio and marvel at the extensive views. A stone inscription on the hall's wall proudly reads: "Welcome as the flowers in spring." Say no more.
