43 Gowthorpe
Selby
North Yorkshire
YO8 4HE
Formerly a gate lodge to the illustrious Womersley Hall, West Lodge Farm is a striking 19th-century detached home steeped in history and full of character. Significantly extended and lovingly restored by its current owners, the property now blends period charm with refined, contemporary country living - offering four bedrooms, versatile reception space, and around 16.5 acres of idyllic grounds.
Set within the peaceful and picturesque village of Womersley - surrounded by rolling hills, green pastures and meandering streams - this beautiful home lies in the heart of what was once the 4,688-acre Womersley Park Estate. Its rich heritage dates back to 1680 when the estate was first established by London barrister Tobiah Harvey, and the village remains home to the exquisite 12th-century Church of St Martin.
Approached through a gated entrance and framed by mature trees and stone boundary walls, West Lodge Farm stands proudly with twin tall apex elevations, stone mullioned windows and original diamond leaded panes - all hinting at the architectural elegance within. A generous front door opens to reveal interiors that have been meticulously reconfigured and refurbished, with no stone left unturned in restoring the home’s period features and timeless character.
Since acquiring the home in 2015, the current owners have undertaken a comprehensive programme of restoration. From a new central heating system and complete replastering, to a handcrafted kitchen and luxurious new bathrooms, every detail has been considered. The works continued outside with the creation of fenced paddocks, a newly constructed stable block, and a carefully designed bridge connecting the southern paddock - all while preserving and encouraging the local wildlife within the property’s woodland margins.
A welcoming central hallway sets the tone for the home, featuring a beautifully restored, handcrafted oak staircase rising to a split-level landing and the bedroom accommodation beyond. This fine architectural detail is a centrepiece in its own right, reflecting the care and craftsmanship evident throughout the house.
To the right of the hallway lies a charming yet spacious lounge - a room designed for comfort and quiet elegance. A graceful bay window to the front elevation, paired with a smaller window to the side, bathes the space in natural light throughout the day. At its heart sits a wood-burning stove, nestled within an oak-framed fireplace - a perfect focal point - set against the warmth of wide-planked oak flooring underfoot. The result is a room equally suited to relaxed evenings or refined entertaining, blending heritage features with an inviting atmosphere.
To the opposing side of the hallway lies a refined formal dining room - a versatile space that lends itself to be occupied for a range of purposes depending on the individual(s) requirements.
Beyond, discreetly positioned to provide peace and privacy, is a dedicated home office. Whether used for focused work, creative pursuits or as a reading retreat, this space benefits from tranquil views and a sense of calm - ideal for today’s flexible living needs.
The kitchen, thoughtfully chosen by the present owners, reflects a perfect harmony between period character and contemporary function. A tasteful selection of cream wall and base units is arranged across three sides, complemented by oak effect work surfaces and a classic ceramic Belfast sink. A Rangemaster-style electric cooker adds a timeless country touch, while a breakfast bar creates a relaxed and sociable focal point. From the kitchen window, panoramic views stretch out across open countryside, a truly enchanting outlook, and without doubt the finest view in the house.
The kitchen flows seamlessly into a generous dining and informal living area, offering ample space for a large dining table or comfortable seating arrangement. This welcoming space is framed by further windows that invite in natural light and showcase views over neighboring farmland and the property’s own private land. A second wood-burning stove adds warmth and character, while a pair of elegant French doors open directly onto the gardens, inviting the outdoors in and enhancing the home’s natural connection to its surroundings.
Completing the ground floor arrangement is a generously proportioned utility and wc, thoughtfully designed with practicality and rural living in mind. Intended to serve as a functional boot room, it offers direct access to the rear of the property, ideal for country walks or tending to the land.
Fitted with a range of units and provisions for laundry appliances, the space is both hardworking and well-appointed, with a large Belfast sink, convenient for everyday family life.
Ascending to the first floor, the split-level landing offers an immediate sense of space and flow. The first level reveals a well-appointed house bathroom, perfectly positioned to serve the secondary bedrooms and guests alike. Just a few steps further lead to the main landing, from which all four bedrooms are accessed.
The principal bedroom lies to the rear of the property and is, without doubt, the most desirable of the four. Elevated and private, it enjoys far-reaching views across open countryside, a truly tranquil outlook that changes with the seasons. This beautifully proportioned room is adorned with elegant décor and features charming exposed timber beams that hint at the property’s historic roots. It is further complemented by a stylish en suite bathroom, creating a peaceful retreat within the home.
There are three additional bedrooms, each thoughtfully presented with a continuity of graceful interior styling. All benefit from characterful diamond leaded pane windows, central heating radiators, and an abundance of natural light — offering flexible spaces suited to family living, guest accommodation, or additional study areas as desired.
The house bathroom completes the internal accommodation and is styled with a refined yet timeless aesthetic. It features a contrasting vanity unit with hand wash basin, a low flush WC, and an inset bath with shower attachment above — all thoughtfully arranged beneath a window that frames a serene view of the private woodland beyond.
Externally, West Lodge Farm enjoys an exceptional rural setting within its own private land, extending to approximately 16.5 acres in total. This expansive holding is made up of around 13 acres of well-maintained grass paddocks and a further 3 acres of enchanting woodland - all contributing to the property’s peaceful seclusion and natural charm.
The woodland forms a particularly captivating feature, with thoughtfully created tracks meandering through its leafy canopy, offering both access and opportunity for quiet exploration. Two separate vehicular entrances serve the land: the principal access leads directly to the house and woodland, while a secondary entrance, accessed from Bank Wood Road to the east, provides additional convenience. This entrance also serves a public footpath which runs alongside the eastern boundary of the property; for privacy, the current owners have sympathetically fenced this section to preserve the sense of seclusion.
The land is ideally suited to those with equestrian interests. The current owners have constructed a timber-framed stable block, complete with power, lighting and water, feed room and rug store, thoughtfully positioned on a solid concrete pad, creating a practical and well-appointed facility for horse care and grazing.
Immediately surrounding the house, private gardens provide a further sense of tranquility and space. Raised composite decking wraps around the rear elevation, offering breathtaking views over the neighboring countryside, an ideal setting for outdoor dining, morning coffee, or simply appreciating the beauty of the landscape. A charming stone-built pond adds to the garden’s appeal, while a generous parking area ensures functionality is not overlooked.
To the rear of the property stands a brick-built garage, which offers excellent potential for conversion subject to the necessary planning consents.
Tenure: Freehold
Services/Utilities: Oil central heating, Electricity and Water are understood to be connected. A septic tank serves the foul drainage.
EPC Rating: 44 (E)
Council Tax: North Yorkshire County Council (band F)
Current Planning Permission: No current valid planning permissions
Viewings: Strictly via the selling agent – Stephensons Estate Agents – 01757 706707
*Download speeds vary by broadband providers so please check with them before purchasing.
Although these particulars are thought to be materially correct their accuracy cannot be guaranteed and they do not form part of any contract.
Property data and search facilities supplied by www.vebra.com