Georgian gatehouse for sale near Tadcaster is a brilliant example of small space living

Bijou is the best way of describing this amazing historic home, which has just come onto the market with Carter Jonas for £299,950.

Sunset Lodge sits in the grounds of Grimston Park, a Grade II* listed country house, near Tadcaster, and is a brilliant example of how to make the most out of a small and interesting space.

One of a pair of symmetrical Georgian gatehouses, that stand either side of the wrought iron gates that guard the original driveway, Sunset Lodge was converted without losing any of its impressive external features.

Built from ashlar limestone blocks, it features a number of architectural details, including a stepped roof topped by a kneeling figure of a knight, nicknamed ‘King Arthur’ by the owners.

It also offers more accommodation more than first meets the eye. The ground floor has a dressing room with a king-size bed above it on a mezzanine level.

The majority of the accommodation is on the lower ground floor where a surprisingly bright but cosy living area leads onto a glazed extension that houses a stylish kitchen with glass doors that open onto a sunken patio. The luxurious bathroom is built into the original barrel-ceilinged cellar.

Outside, there is parking and a large-lawned garden and views of Grimston Park and its parkland which stretches down to the River Wharfe.

The lodge is about half a mile from the A162 which provides access to Tadcaster and the A64 Leeds to York road leading to the A1.

Leaving this little gem is going to be tough for Rebecca and Tom Hallisey. The couple were serial movers and had done a number of barn conversions when they spotted Sunset Lodge 13 years ago. “It was in a poor state of repair but we fell in love with it and we could see it had potential,” says Rebecca.

The couple added the glazed extension while carrying out a sensitive renovation, adding a Morso stove, oak panelling and storage.

“We moved a lot before we came here but we have stayed because we love the building and it is such a beautiful, peaceful place to live,” says Rebecca, who adds there is a “great community” at Grimston Park, where the main house has been converted into apartments.

“We wish we could stay forever and we are only moving for health reasons as we need a single-storey home.”

For details, contact: Carter Jonas, York, tel: 01904 558200, www.carterjonas.co.uk