Archive - Thursday, 6 June 2002


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History and beauty

NESTLING in the Yorkshire Wolds between Driffield and Malton lies Sledmere village. A lovely, peaceful hamlet, it is overflowing with history, from one of its churches' 14th century walls, to a 19th century cross and war memorial.

But perhaps the most famous monument in this picturesque village is Sledmere House. Since medieval times, there has always been a manor house in Sledmere. The current structure dates from 1751 when it was begun by Richard Sykes. The famous Yorkshire plasterer Joseph Rose was asked to decorate the house in 1790.

Today the house stands in the middle of tranquil acres of parkland. Sledmere House has many beautiful gardens, but though well groomed, none of them seem as 'manicured' as you might expect for so regal a place. Artist Lancelot Brown, who designed the layout, used a serpentine style.

This makes more use of the natural curving lines in the layout of woods and water than of man-made structures. Notice the lawn rising right up to the edge of the house, the snake-like form of the lake and the undulating layout of the trees.

After contemplating how the gardens are laid out, it is pleasant to take time to enjoy all they encompass, beyond just attractive flowers.

The 18th century walled rose garden wafts its heavenly scent across the vast lawns and down to the fish and fountain pond where sometimes you can spy deer grazing, unafraid, in the peaceful setting. A 1911 sculpture court and much more recent knot garden add to the majesty of the estate.

The interior of the house is as magnificent as its exterior, if not more so. A beautiful library, bright and spring-like in its blue and pale yellow decor, houses a collection of rare books, surrounded by antique furniture, pottery and paintings in adjacent rooms.

But make sure you look up as well as around! The ceiling, particularly that of the attached Roman Catholic chapel, boasts delicate artwork, inlaid with 22 carat gold. See if you can spot the different varieties of birds included in the design (among them are a swan and a heron).

Sledmere House is open Tuesday to Friday and Sundays between 11.30am and 4.30pm. Its cafe, shop and gardens are open from 11am to 5pm. The famed Sledmere pipe organ is played on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday afternoons in the Grand Hall, between 1.30pm and 3.30pm.

Admission to the house and gardens costs £4.50 for adults, £4 for concessions and £2 for children.

A ticket to just the gardens and park is £2 for adults and £1 concessions. Access for the disabled is provided by a lift.

Forthcoming events include a sheep dog trial on July 28 and Sledmere's annual flower show between August 24 and 27.

For more information, contact (01377) 236637.

Updated: 10:24 Thursday, June 06, 2002