After retiring from the health service in February 2011, Clive and Janice Goldsmith decided that because their family was in Yorkshire, this was the place to be. “We visited several estate agents in West and North Yorkshire and arranged several viewings all in one week, this barn conversion being one of them,” says Clive.

“After seeing many, this barn shone far above all that we had seen. Just the approach to the property from the sweeping drive, with horses and sheep in fields, entrance via a private electric gate and the wonderful views. Once inside it was the open layout and quality of the modern and bespoke design that wowed us.”

Dating back to around 1725, this was still a working farm up until 2005, when it was re-built and the farm converted into three properties, West End Barn being the largest.

Since moving in the couple have carried out a lot of work.

Soft wood windows have been replaced with A-rated UPVC sash windows and the boiler replaced with a high efficiency Worcester Bosch condensing boiler. Then in the lounge a solid fuel burning stove was fitted, for the ultimate in ‘cosy’.

“In one of the bedrooms we had hand-made fitted oak wardrobes with matching dressing table built and a roof light fitted in the master bedroom. Finally we put in an oak effect log store under the stairs.”

West End Barn commands a very private location on the edge of Ilkley Moor, surrounded by fields, with total privacy and superb, long distance views.

It’s a lovely and welcoming combination of original features and modern conveniences.

There’s a beautifully presented dining kitchen, stylish bathroom and en-suite to the master bedroom.

Off the reception hallway, which is split level with stone flooring and feature walls, is a spacious lounge with access to the front gardens. There is also a dining kitchen, which has a lovely range of base and wall units, travertine floor, range cooker, integrated fridge and dishwasher, and lovely long distance views to enjoy.

There is also a third reception room which could be used as a snug or fifth bedroom. Also on the ground floor is a utility room and a cloakroom with travertine tiled floor.

On the first floor is the master bedroom with an en-suite shower room, three further bedrooms with roof windows and a family bathroom that is the last word in luxury.

The work didn’t stop inside. Drainage was installed in the half-acre field, which was then levelled and reseeded with young trees and hedging around the perimeter.

The field has certainly proved popular. “One of our grandchildren was staying with us the other week and woke us up telling us that there was a horse in the garden. We thought he was messing us about, but he was right, although we are not sure how the horse got in!

“Our favourite room depends on the time of the year. In summer months it’s the main lounge with the French doors wide open of an evening for the fantastic views. With the lights all twinkling in the distance, we have often said that it feels as if you are in a aeroplane and looking down. In the winter months the snug is nice as it is smaller than the main lounge and very cosy.

“We have three grandchildren and they love the garden, playing football and other games, and in the summer we get the swimming pool out.

“The best thing about living here that we can enjoy the countryside without compromising on villages and towns, and we’re not far from Eldwick which boasts an award winning primary school. We will certainly miss the superb views and the beautiful south-facing garden.”