Converting a country estate: Marske Hall in Yorkshire

If period dramas have you lusting after a grand country estate, as with many dreams the reality often paints a different picture. Such substantial historic homes require equally large care and attention to maintain, an undertaking that while worthy does not suit everyone’s lifestyles. What if, however, there was a way to call such a place home without the upkeep it demands? Marske Hall Country Estate, nestled on the edge of the picturesque Yorkshire Dales National Park, might just be the answer. 

A rich history

Its remarkable history can be traced back to 1596, when it was acquired by Matthew Hutton, the Archbishop of York. The centrepiece of the estate, Marske Hall, was constructed by his son Timothy in the late 16th or early 17th centuries. Remaining in the same family for more than 400 years, the house underwent remodelling and extensions that laid the groundwork for the grand property it is today. 

Its beautiful location and expansive grounds made it a prominent place to stay among the English gentry, the estate known in part for its notable stableyard, built in 1742 by esteemed racehorse breeder John Hutton. The 20th century brought more challenging times, however. During World War II Marske Hall was threatened with requisition by the army, instead being repurposed as a refuge for pupils from Scarborough College. This tumultuous period sparked the start of a decline, eventually requiring a meticulous restoration to preserve its legacy. 

Contemporary living with period charm

The results are extraordinary. The stables have been converted into 10 holiday cottages, offering a luxurious and tranquil escape against the backdrop of this Area of Outstanding 

Natural Beauty. The true scale of the project comes to life when you step through the doors of Marske Hall itself, which has been converted into 11 apartments. Now on the market with Knight Frank, each brings its own character, carefully blending the best of modern living while retaining the building's charm. 

“It’s quite unique,” describes Melissa Lines, Head of Sales for Yorkshire at Knight Frank. “I have only sold another development like this once in the last 20 years. These historic buildings don’t often get converted into apartments.” Ranging from one to four bedrooms, each apartment is fitted with all the mod cons one could desire, including impeccably finished contemporary kitchens and bathrooms, and underfloor heating. What makes it so special is how these conveniences have been seamlessly incorporated with the period features, to the extent that each apartment has its own distinct look and feel informed by where it is in the building and inspired by Marske Hall’s storied past. 

An idyllic country retreat

Future residents will benefit from the peaceful pace of life afforded by its location surrounded by nature. Lines knows the area well, her grandfather having lived in the quaint village of Marske. A few miles away lies the historic market town of Richmond, its cobbled streets lined with independent shops, pubs, museums, a cinema and more. Meanwhile nearby Darlington or Northallerton gives easy access to the East Coast Main Line that connects to London and Edinburgh. “There’s lovely walks, and it’s perfect for walkers, cyclists or anyone who likes an active lifestyle,” says Lines. The strong sense of community is also a big draw. “People who move there tend to stay a long time. You don’t get a huge turnover of property.”

Perhaps the biggest appeal, however, is the opportunity to live in a property of this scale and importance without the worries of looking after it. “Not everyone wants the responsibility of a building like this,” says Lines. “This development is keeping the building alive, but also offers something for those people who did come from big country houses who want to feel like they still live somewhere grand and peaceful.” All that’s left to do, then, is relax. “There’s gardeners that look after the grounds, and communal maintenance. There’s plenty of parking, with electric charging points. So it’s set up for modern living, while retaining all that period charm.”