In 2017, after many years of admiring the property, Paul and Hilary made Westergate House their home. They offer the best of both worlds – easy access to York and the space of a countryside setting. They live on site in the rear part of the house, once the village doctor’s surgery. When not caring for the house, gardens, chickens, and fish, Paul takes part in off-road Land Rover events and restores classic cars, drawing on his career in the motor industry. Hilary brings years of hospitality experience, along with training as a Cordon Bleu cook. Together, they combine practical know-how with warm, friendly service. From home-cooked breakfasts to comfortable, well-kept rooms, every detail is thoughtfully managed. Whether you’re visiting for business, a short break, or a special occasion, you can expect a personal and welcoming stay at Westergate House.

Westergate House was built in 1937 by a local landowner and originally named Flers House, in memory of a family member lost in the Battle of Flers–Clementine during the Somme. Over the years, the house has seen many changes—becoming Grimston House in 1965, serving as a respite home for disabled children, then later Rutland House as the doctors’ surgery for Escrick. In 1986, it returned to the name Grimston House and began its life as a B&B. After substantial refurbishment in 2020, it was relaunched as Westergate House, named after a nearby field. Now holding an AA Four Star Gold Award and Breakfast Award, this charming small country house offers seven en-suite rooms of varying sizes and a large garden that sets it back from the road, while still providing easy access into York by bus or car. To the front, the open views across the fields towards the rising Yorkshire Wolds highlight our ideal rural yet convenient location—perfect for exploring York, the coast, and the wider Yorkshire countryside. It also makes a great stopover for longer journeys across the UK. We’re committed to meeting modern guest expectations and industry standards, with a strong focus on sustainability. Our efforts include a biomass boiler, solar panels, electric vehicle charging point, and dedicated recycling and composting facilities.

Westergate House is set back from the main road behind a sweeping horseshoe drive, with plenty of parking for cars and larger vehicles. A regular bus to York runs every 15 minutes from just 100 yards away, making travel into the city simple. The village of Escrick (1 mile) offers a Thai restaurant and a popular gastro pub. In nearby Riccall and Skipwith (4 miles), you’ll find Burro Italian restaurant and the award-winning Drovers Arms. A petrol station, SPAR shop and ATM are also available in Escrick. Local highlights include McArthur Glen Designer Outlet (2 miles), York city centre (15 minutes by car or 20 minutes by bus), the University of York (4 miles), and Elvington Air Museum (15 minutes). For activities, you’ll find golf courses nearby, horse riding at Escrick Park and Naburn, fishing ponds, Little Skipwith carriage rides, and easy access to Sustrans cycle routes. We’re well placed for exploring York, attending local events, or enjoying the surrounding countryside.