Change brings a desirable home

The name of the valley, which many believe is the town’s hidden gem, comes from “scepe dene”, meaning the valley of sheep. At one time, the area was heavily involved in wool production.

The mills have long gone, but many of the mill workers’ cottages have been transformed into desirable homes. Dam Head Cottage is one of them.

The picture-postcard character white cottage with beams, open fires, stunning views and sweeping garden is reputed to date from the 18th century. Formerly two cottages merged into one, it was extended not once, but twice, in the last century and for the last 30 years has been the family home of one of the town’s most eminent consultant physicians, Dr Philip Humberstone and his wife, Avril.

The couple, who have three sons and five grand-children, moved to Calderdale from Sheffield in the 1970s when Dr Humberstone, who retired five years ago, started work at the former Halifax General Hospital and Royal Halifax Infirmary. They lived near the two hospitals for 10 years before falling in love with Dam Head Cottage.

The valley has been a popular attraction for local people since Victorian times. It’s home to the popular 17th century Shibden Mill Inn and is a favourite with walkers.

Since 1970, it has had its own Shibden Valley Society, of which Avril is a member. It runs social events, keeps the valley tidy and uses its voice to oppose any developments which it considers detrimental to the area.

Dam Head Cottage, which has two sitting rooms, a kitchen, dining hall, utility room, cloakroom, four bedrooms and two bathrooms is unique in design. It’s split level with a sitting room upstairs as well as downstairs, one of which has stable doors which open out on to a delightful courtyard at the back.

The property also has a detached double garage and garden store, but it’s the sweeping lawns, beautiful gardens, sun terrace and patio area with its tranquil serenity that make it such a perfect spring and summer home. Having said that, Mrs Humberstone says it is a house for all seasons because the open fire means it is cosy in autumn and winter, too.

Only 100 yards from the Shibden Mill Inn, it’s tucked away up a private drive and according to Mrs Humberstone would be perfect for either a couple with a young family or a an older active couple who enjoy gardening and the outdoor life.

“The only reason we are moving is because we are both in our 70s and are down sizing. It will be a real wrench to leave because we brought our three sons up here, so it really is a family home full of happy memories,” she says.

What she loves most about the house is its position. “It’s tucked away in a beautiful part of the countryside but is only 10 minutes from Halifax town centre. The Shibden Valley is outstandingly beautiful.”

The couple now regard Halifax as their home and are moving back to where they first lived in the Skircoat Green area.

Dam Head Cottage is for sale with Brearley Greens, 12, Horton Street, Halifax, HX1 1PU. The asking price is £470,000. For more details ring 01422 330088 or visit www.brearley-greens.co.uk