In 2017, after many years of admiring the property, Paul and Hilary made Westergate House their home—combining the convenience of being close to York with the peace and privacy of a countryside setting. We live on site, in the rear part of the house where the village doctor’s surgery once was. When not caring for the house, the acre of garden, or the resident chickens and fish, Paul competes in off-road Land Rover events. With a lifelong career in the motor industry, his hobby is restoring classic cars. Together, Paul’s background as an engineer and garage owner, and Hilary’s lifetime in hospitality and training as a Cordon Bleu cook, bring a strong blend of practical skill and warm service. From home cooking to well-appointed facilities, we take pride in offering a friendly, personal experience. Whether you're staying for business or pleasure, joining us for a special occasion, or simply enjoying afternoon tea—we aim to meet your expectations with genuine, homely hospitality. We look forward to welcoming you to 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–Courcelette 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—ideal for cars, larger vehicles, and easy access. With a regular bus service to York running every 15 minutes from just 100 yards away, getting into the city and beyond is simple and stress-free. A refurbished cocktail bar/ pub is just a 2-minute walk, and the nearby village of Escrick (1 mile) is a pleasant evening stroll, offering a Thai restaurant and a popular gastro pub. A little further afield, in Riccall and Skipwith (both 4 miles away), you’ll find Burro, an Italian restaurant, and the award-winning Drovers Arms. We’re happy to send you links and more recommendations ahead of your stay. For essentials, there’s a SPAR shop and ATM at the Shell garage just a mile away in Escrick. Local attractions include: Elvington Airfield and Air Museum – 15 minutes by car McArthur Glen Designer Outlet – 2 miles away York city centre – 15 minutes by car or 20 minutes by bus University of York 4 miles away Nearby activities: Escrick Park Estate – cross-country horse riding routes, weddings, and events Deighton Lodge – wedding venue just half a mile away down an unmade road Queen Margaret’s School – 1 mile away in Escrick Swallow Hall Golf Course – nearby for golf lovers Fulford Golf Course 3 miles away LIttle Skipwith Carriage Rides - 2 miles Fishing ponds – 2 miles away Naburn Grange Riding Centre – 3 miles away Sustrans cycle route to York and Selby – accessible via a quiet country road half a mile from the house We’re ideally placed for exploring the city, attending local events, or simply enjoying the Yorkshire countryside.