The warm spring sunshine catches the gold lettering of “Bardney Hall” on the wrought iron gates that mark the entrance to this historic and beautiful house in Barton-upon-Humber writes Jo Marwood.  Bardney Hall is a Grade II listed Queen Anne house, and boasts a number of fine architectural features, frills and follies indicative of the town’s growing prosperity during the 18th century.

Originally built as a private residence for William Gildas in the early 1700s, Bardney Hall now offers boutique bed and breakfast accommodation.  It is partially concealed from Whitecross Street by evergreen shrubbery, but once inside the grounds it is hard not to be seduced by the spectacular facade, expertly-landscaped gardens and sumptuous decor on offer.

The Hall stands on the site of Bardney Abbey rectory, the Lincolnshire monastery that owned much of the town during the Middle Ages.  There is rumoured to be an existing secret passage to Thornton Abbey located somewhere here, an exciting prospect for those with an appetite for adventure, although wandering through the grounds has so far proved fruitless.  What does remain of the simpler monastic life is a peaceful silence once you step from the bustle of the Barton streets up the sweeping gravel driveway.

The luxurious decor and furnishings only serve to emphasise and celebrate the historical features inside Bardney Hall.  Sliding sash windows with original shutters and cushioned window seats overlook the gardener tending the fruit trees, whilst painted panelling, solid beams and fireplaces adorn almost every room.  The bedrooms boast four-poster beds with elaborate silk and velvet drapes, but the bathrooms are thankfully a far cry from those installed in the 18th century!  The property now intermingles an appreciation of its history with a welcome influx of ultra-modern and stylish interior design.

Taking a stroll through the grounds, the black and white timber structure of The Old Mill in the Market Place, originally known as Kings Garth Mill, is visible from the walled garden.  Although the original owners of Bardney Hall would not have benefitted from the view themselves, as the mill was not built until 1803, this glimpse of past industry effectively connects the grandeur of Bardney Hall to other important buildings that shape the heritage of Barton.

Unlike some listed buildings that sit unused and unappreciated in the English countryside, Bardney Hall has firmly established itself in the hearts of Barton residents and visitors.  Now a location for weddings and events, or simply a comfortable weekend retreat and base to explore the other treasures of the town, Bardney Hall is more than just a bed and breakfast.  It is a celebration of grandeur, of history, and of a residence that has been nurtured and loved for hundreds of years.