Refurbishment of Westwood Lodge Ilkley Moor

Upon closure in 1998 we were successful in acquiring the somewhat forlorn buildings, saving them from likely conversion. We were determined to both re-instate the original name and to undertake a much needed restoration throughout. Westwood Lodge had become a Grade II Listed Building of Historic Importance, but many of the Listed features had been hidden under concrete and carpets. We set about giving the house and cottages the face-lift they deserved.

Our aim was to bring back the original features and ambience, whilst providing high standard facilities and accommodation with modern amenities. For example, halfway up the main staircase is the magnificent stained glass window featuring Faith and Hope (left). Fireplaces were opened up and for the first time in years, roaring log fires have warmed the main lounge and Orchard Cottage, bringing back the cheer of a bygone era. Interestingly, the chimney sweep who opened them up, was the same man that had the job of bricking them up thirty years before!

After the first phase of the restoration, we went on to restore each of the cottages as well as to create the top floor apartments and The Old Gallery (the roof of which is pictured on the right). More recently, we’ve completely re-roofed the courtyard cottages using original materials and have been working on The Main House at Westwood Lodge, especially during the Coronavirus lockdown, when we were largely closed for several months. The last rooms (a former toilet and a linen store) have finally been refurbished into a dining kitchen and making a very comfortable first floor apartment.

We recognise that there is always going to be plenty to keep us busy. We’ve been here for nearly 25 years and have no plans to move on!  We have enjoyed sharing this splendid home with so many who appreciate solid walls and hand crafted architectural features giving a presence that so many modern buildings lack.