Saintoft Lodge on North York Moors given Grade II listed status

Saintoft Lodge in Newton-on-Rawcliffe near Pickering has been listed at Grade II following a recommendation by Historic England.

The 19th century gatehouse on a former shooting estate on the North York Moors was built by Bradford industrialist and philanthropist Frederick Priestman.

The house is an excellent example of the cottage-orné Arts and Crafts style which became popular shortly afterwards, and uses local materials and high-quality craftmanship. It was built to a design by Bradford architect WH Herbert Marten in 1888.

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Buildings of this type usually only have one or two well-designed public facing elevations in order to save money, however Saintoft Lodge has detail on all sides including leaded stained-glass panels, a fish-scaled tiled roof covered in decorative ridge tiles and ornamental terracotta balls.

Unusually for a building of its type, Saintoft Lodge has ornate detailing on all sides. (Image: Historic England)

Saintoft Lodge is also unique for its size, being much larger than the types of dwellings built by landowners for their staff in this period.

Frederick Priestman was considered to have progressive views towards his employees - the mill owner used his wealth for philanthropic purposes and promoting universal education and improved living conditions.

Sarah Charlesworth, Listing Team Leader for the North at Historic England, said: “Saintoft Lodge is a beautifully designed house that wasn’t simply built to display the wealth of its owner but also to provide good quality and comfortable accommodation for the gatekeeper on the estate. The house is a testament to the fact that Priestman cared about the wellbeing of all his employees, not just those working in his mills.”

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Heritage Minister Lord Parkinson of Whitley Bay said: "The lodge serves as a reminder of the generosity of Frederick Priestman towards his employees and his commitment to using his wealth to improve their lives.

"I am delighted that, thanks to this listing, it will be well preserved for future generations to enjoy."