Historic East Yorkshire manor house to be returned to former glory

03rd August 05

A historic manor house in East Yorkshire, which was once home to renowned 19th century politician Daniel Sykes, a close friend of William Wilberforce, has been bought by a local company, Quintor, who will ensure that this fine example of period architecture is preserved for generations to come.

Situated in 35 acres of beautiful Yorkshire countryside, Raywell Hall will once again stand proud in its superb grounds, thanks to the intervention of Hessle-based property developers, Quintor, who have purchased the property, rescuing it from its current industrial use. Quintor is currently looking at a number of options as to how to develop the property, but the company is determined to ensure its plans are sympathetic with a house built on the eve of the classic Regency period. Quintor has already been in close discussion with English Heritage to seek guidance about the important features on the stunning property.

Steeped in history, this elegant and impressive residence was built in 1803 by local Member of Parliament for both Hull and Beverley, Daniel Sykes. Sykes commissioned Marmaduke Pycock of Wakefield to design Raywell Hall, and ever since then this huge house has attracted the area's finest as its owners, from politicians to wealthy merchants and traders. The first owner, Daniel Sykes, was the house's most influential owner, despite his historic tag as "the private man of Raywell."

Philip Mackay, Project Director for Quintor commented: "Raywell Hall is an integral part of the history of East Yorkshire and we are delighted and privileged to have acquired it.

"We will be working closely with local historians and architects to ensure that many of the house's original features are fully restored. The house's current use is part office, part industrial so we are delighted to be able to step in to save an important part of Yorkshire's architectural history.

"Daniel Sykes, played a key part in 19th century life in both Beverley and Hull. As a friend of William Wilberforce, Sykes was passionate about using his influence and wealth to help and seek justice for those less fortunate or unable to fend for themselves. His statue still stands in the foyer of Hull's City Hall, and Raywell Street in Hull was named in Sykes's honour – which just shows the esteem in which he was held. It's fantastic to be involved in a project to which there is so much history attached."

The exact details of the property restoration and development have yet to be decided, however, it is hoped the house will be sympathetically converted into luxury apartments.

It's extensive grounds are being considered as an idyllic and exclusive short break retreat, with the possibility of a number of Nordic-style log cabins being erected to blend in with the woodland and rolling country that make up Raywell's estate. Log-cabins have long been valued by Scandinavians as the ideal solution to the competing needs of the environment and man; and their potential use at Raywell would help to restore the management of the grounds to levels of care that its forebears showed.

It is envisaged that work will begin on Raywell Hall later this year. For further information please call Quintor, 01482 300800. Details of the Log Cabin development will be on display at the Advent Homes stand, The Lawns Caravan/Holiday Home Show Cottingham, September 3 and 4.

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