Built on a plateau overlooking the River Aire, surrounded by fields and meadows this former agricultural property has foundations dating back to 973. The stone, locally sourced from the edge of Ilkley Moor, has been blackened by time and industry and is still just as rough to touch as it originally was. Over time the land has been sold off leaving the house enveloped by Riddlesden as we know it today.
This warm, friendly and intimate home has a chequered history spanning through the decades from Tudor times to the present day. Large mullioned windows and the two perfectly formed rose windows speak of wealth. Step through the 400 year old solid studded oak door and see the original locking mechanism which is still in use today.
Inside you're welcomed by a blend of deep rich panelling and intricate plaster work ceilings. Floorboards varying in width tell a story of the many stages of this wonderful jigsaw puzzle of a house. Each room offers up a taste of life in the past. Stone fireplaces vary in size and detail, apothecary jars would have been used for medicinal purposes and the delightful lantern clock announces its presence through its distinctive chime. These are just a few of the items which have stories just waiting to be told.
The house has seen many a family in residence; none of which were noble. Stories of the merchant class and tenant farmers unravel with scandal and intrigue. The most infamous names to dominate East Riddlesden Hall’s history are the Maudes, Paslew, Rishworths, Murgatrods and the Starkie family.
With the deeds being handed over to the National Trust in 1934 by the Briggs brothers of Keighley, the house was saved from demolition and thankfully continues to be a hive of activity, albeit in a slightly different capacity.
Come and contribute to the worn stone flooring and marvel at how generations before us dreamed of making a local house grand.
