History
Originally dating from 1703, this B-listed stone house lay unloved, empty and in a state of disrepair for a number of years until the current owner rescued it in 2012 and began the huge task of sympathetic restoration.
Today the Old Millhouse is testament to the owner’s sheer dedication and hard work, and now you can experience its’ unique blend of old and new design by reserving your own stay in this historic house.
Rescued from a state of dereliction a decade ago, the Old Millhouse has been transformed into an award-winning self-catering country house with swim spa. With its’ secluded setting by the River Esk, set within 3.5 acres of grounds, The Old Millhouse has had a unique restoration journey.
Architecture
The original house dates from 1703, with another level added in 1852 to provide some accommodation for those working at the Mill.
It was on the police danger list when the owners found it. The sandstone walls were in a terrible state, there was no roof and the heart of the house was open to the elements. There wasn’t much time before it would be beyond repairing. The owner saw the potential for a project, a business, and a home.
When it was built in 1703, it was a commercial building over two levels. In 1852, another level was added, and it became a residential property. The old plans showed two rooms on the ground floor, but Sally decided to open it up to let in more natural light so you can see and hear the river.
The Renovation
The restoration started in 2012 for the main building. The Orangery and garage were added later.
“When I first saw the house, even as “a burnt out wreck” I fell in love with it. I knew it was special. I knew it could be a wonderful space to chill out and share with others and it just went from there.”
Owner Sally de Waard gave up her job and project managed the restoration. She was often on-site to manage the different trades, all employed from the local area.
The renovation was all about the light. The rooms needed to be bright with as many big windows as planning would allow. The design is inventive in the darker spaces by using glass instead of wood such as the stunning staircase.
“We put in a custom-designed staircase, which was well worth it from a design point of view as it allows light to flow through the house. I also chose to give each of the five bedrooms their own bathroom and to leave the winter/evening sitting room on the first floor.”
The most unusual thing that was discovered during the renovation, was whilst 30ft up on the scaffold, it was noticed on the gable ends that some of the stone work looked different. The stonemasons chipped away to discover each gable had a tiny window!
Interior Design
Owner Sally De Waard is an interior designer and has carefully curated each room, from the aviation themed snug to the light filled Orangery. The interiors are tastefully themed with rich textiles, soft furnishings and an intriguing array of paintings and antiques.
All bedrooms are individually styled with beautiful views to the gardens. Sally passionately sourced second hand & vintage furniture and re-purposed it. No expense was spared on the fabrics – sourced from a friend in Dubai with a fabric shop – she knew the ‘look’ she wanted and the fabrics are divine.
Landscaping and gardens
I could have just installed a hot tub but the Old Millhouse is about luxury
so I decided to “take the plunge” and go for a high end spa. It
really is super and sets us apart from the crowd and I think guests do decide to book, in order to try something a little different.
A true luxury retreat
It’s an oasis, a welcome luxurious, tranquil space at a time when we need it most. A place to rest, rejuvenate and revel in all the Old Mill House has to offer.
We look after our guests really well and the house is just perfect for families to spend time together (and the grounds are large enough if they dont!)
