Fine & Country Feature Property - A Hammock in the Paddock
March 2007
FINE & COUNTRY FEATURE PROPERTY
Despite the fact that the house had not been built when the current owners first viewed Ashfield Paddock, they instinctively knew that this was the perfect spot for them. Nestling on the edge of the beautiful historic village of Boston Spa and a short stroll from the lovely River Wharfe, the plot had everything they wanted – and impressive plans for a stunning five-bedroom house.
“As soon as we saw the paddock – overlooking farmers’ fields and rolling hills – we knew it was what we were looking for,” explains Trish Bullock. “And because the house was still on the drawing board, we could influence the plans, and design the kind of home we wanted.”
That was six years ago. Trish, Gary and their two children rented accommodation while the ‘paddock’ was transformed into a luxurious home. They visited the site regularly and made a few big changes to the plans, such as moving the master bedroom to the sunny side of the house so they would get morning and evening sun streaming in through the three windows. They were also on hand to choose the fixtures and fittings – solid maple units and granite worktops in the kitchen, a steam shower in the en suite and an air bath in the family bathroom.
Six months later, they moved in. “On our first morning we were so excited that we woke up very early, and walked down to the river. It was incredibly special,” remembers Trish. Nowhere in Boston Spa is very far from the river, and there are lovely walks along its banks and over the Thorp Arch bridge. Local residents can also apply for fishing permits – something that greatly appeals to Trish’s husband Gary. “There’s no better way to unwind after work than to wander down to the Wharfe for a couple of hours of fishing through the angling club, which gives priority for membership to people who live locally”.
And the river is just one of many attractions in Boston. “The village has everything you could ever think of,” Trish adds, “including a supermarket, four restaurants, three takeaways and a wine bar – all within walking distance of the house. On top of that, there is a myriad of schools, lots of sports and social clubs and the Boston Spa Gala every June.”
The perfect antidote to busy village life is the Bullock’s peaceful garden. “My favourite spot,” says Trish “is at the far end where I’ve hung a hammock-seat from our big oak tree. There is nothing more tranquil than sitting here swaying gently, looking back at the house and out across the fields.”
The family make a great deal of use of their outside space. In summer the French doors in the kitchen, family room and conservatory are flung open, and the Yorkshire stone patio becomes an extension of the house. “We eat a lot of family meals out here, and it’s a great space for entertaining. I have many happy memories of barbecues and bonfire night parties!”
To the side of the house, there is also a blockpaved courtyard in front of the garages. When the double gates are shut, it is entirely safe, providing the Bullock children with another play area – improvising variously as a tennis court, basketball court or roller-blading arena. “It would also suit a family with young children or a family pet,” adds Trish, “as it’s perfect for bikes and trikes, and very secure.”
Inside the house, there is a real sense of space and light. Unusually for a modern house, the rooms are full of character. The décor is chic – subtle colours, creative lighting and every modern convenience including a hugely efficient heating system, and a gas-fired ‘wood burning’ stove in the family room. “It looks the part,” says Trish, “but it’s instant, efficient and you don’t get dirty!”
There is a distinct note of regret in Trish’s voice when she explains that they are leaving Boston Spa for Harrogate, where both children are at school and have burgeoning social lives. “We will really miss the house and the village. It’s such a perfect location in its own right, and very convenient for Leeds, York, and nearby Wetherby. But what I will miss most is the serenity of the garden, and those perfect moments in the hammock seat!”
