Waitby School was built on Waitby Fell in 1680 by James Highmore, a local to the area, for the children of Waitby and Smardale. About a mile and a half west of Kirkby Stephen, Waitby is said to have been an ancient market town, with a castle, chapel and cemetery, but no trace of either is now to be seen. However, the school remains, standing proud on the fellside and, having been purchased recently by another local family, has been lovingly restored, in conjunction with English Heritage, to offer luxurious holiday accommodation. The property stands alone and enjoys uninterrupted views over the surrounding countryside, dotted with livestock and the occasional farmer and tractor at "doin up time".
Many original features have been retained in the restoration of the School, including wood panelling, wooden double doors, the outside boys lavatory, complete with seat, and, of course, the school bell. After much careful planning, these characterful features have been successfully combined with state of the art fixtures and fittings to create and individual holiday home of great distinction, and a most unique holiday experience. |
