Both space and beauty in a loved family home

SOMETIMES finding your dream home is a case of serendipity, For instance, 31 years ago the current owner of this home, and his partner, were looking for land suitable for a new build when down a private road they came across Dove Hall.

“The owner said he was thinking of moving and because it had land and the space to build stables and our two daughter had ponies, my husband expressed interest in buying it,” says the owner’s wife. “And we did.”

The property was exceptional as it had stunning views and was secluded and private yet was in easy reach of Baildon village. “Although in need of extensive renovation it had everything we ever wanted in a house and in 1984 we moved in.

“It's like being on top of the world and has to be seen to be appreciated.”

As far as the owners know Dove hall was rebuilt in 1850. It originally had a barn attached but the owner at the time went bankrupt and sold off the barn which was converted over the years into what is now Dove Hall Cottage.

Dove Hall is probably the highest house in Baildon, hence the commanding views. “It must also be the only house that can boast views from the cellar windows !”

The hall has been the subject of a major renovation, including being re-roofed and the roof space fully insulated together with a new roof light. The exterior walls were re-pointed and new windows and doors installed.

New decking has been laid on the south facing balcony overlooking the valley and a new entrance porch was built to the rear elevation.

“About three years ago the kitchen/diner was totally refurbished and a multi-fuel stove installed.”

Outside, two stables and a garage were built in the grounds.

Today Dove Hall is a spacious and substantial hour bedroom family home over three floors. On the ground floor is a porch, entrance hall, stunning dining kitchen with a number of integrated appliances. The dining and lounge area has a feature wood burning and solid fueld stove set into the chimney breast wall, with French doors to the garden. The sitting room with its solid wood flooring is another fantastic space with feature stonework.

On the lower ground floor one of the cellar rooms has been converted to a home office with further potential for the other two rooms.

The owners have had some magical moment during their time in Dove Hall.

“The night of the new millennium was outstanding. We had a New Years Eve party and at midnight from the balcony watched the most magnificent fire work display ever!! (and it was free of charge ) The sky was totally lit with fireworks from miles around!

“I think one of our favourite rooms is the kitchen. It is light airy and modern with open views to three aspects. It also houses the multifuel stove which on a winter’s night is so welcoming and cosy.

“Another of our favourite rooms are the south facing bedrooms with their high ceilings. They overlook the valley and the views stretch as far as Pennistone to the south and to the east as far as Selby. To the west is Saltaire, Bingley, Eldwick and Haworth Moor with Shipley and Bradford in the middle. You never tire of the view and see something new every day.

“I love gardening and with my daughter over the years have enjoyed landscaping and planting the garden which has now resulted in a pleasant mature plot - a most enjoyable place to sit on a summers day or evening

“We will miss the lifestyle and freedom that living at Dove Hall has given us. It has been the perfect house for our family.”