Many Holme Valley people will have fond memories about this Holmbridge house as it was converted into a residential property from the former Fernleigh Restaurant. and is a home with a surprise around every corner.

Converted after Fernleigh The Bank Lane building was turned into two semi-detached houses in the year 2000, after the restaurant closed.becoming the building became properties on which were created from the former restaurant which was a hugely popular local place to eat and celebrate landmark family occasions.

Since then it has been the home of Tom and Linda Fraser and has several unique features including a well with running water and an inner courtyard.

Now the retired couple are looking to downsize to a smaller property but stay within the Holme Valley.

Linda said: “If this house could talk, it would have a really interesting story to tell as it has had various uses over the years. Fernleigh was built around the 1840s, originally as an early Victorian gentleman’s residence and it is believed was originally a mill manager’s house. Later the house was the home of the local school master but in 1947 it passed into the ownership of Jack Stacey who initially used it as a family home until opening as Fernleigh Restaurant in 1965.”

During the 1970s and 80s Fernleigh became the place to go for celebrations like weddings, parties and family outings, turning itself into a local institution.

Today this week’s Our House is a fabulous family home with a real unique feel.

Walk in at the front door and it still feels quite traditional, using the original Fernleigh entrance. The grand staircase is still a feature and Linda has been told that the late Huddersfield actor James Mason enquired about buying the ornate original bannister.

The main living space is on the first-floor and comprises of a lounge area with dining room, which has been created into the roof space of the building and features exposed beams. Leading off this main living area is a contemporary dining kitchen and also a sun room which has doors out onto the decked patio area.

Stairs lead from the sun room down to what is a really unusual feature of the building: an inner courtyard which is used as a garden room with a glass roof, exposed stone walls, flagged flooring and a private well. This is a great entertaining area and a really unique feature.

All three bedrooms (two double and one single) are on the ground-floor. The master bedroom benefits from an en-suite bathroom looking out onto the private courtyard. The house bathroom has a spa-type bath with a separate step-in shower.

Linda said: “The inner courtyard is really unusual and we understand the well is about 10ft deep. The water comes out of the rocks and flows under the house. Whenever we have visitors, it’s a great talking point.’’

Outside there is a decked patio area, ideal for outdoor dining. Underneath this area is a double garage with electric doors and a driveway.

Across the road is a detached garden which includes a flagged patio looking out over woodland and a waterfall, along with a stone-built shed for storage.

This is a unique property with a fascinating history and is ideal for a home owner looking for something a little different.

The property is being marketed by Yorkshire’s Finest on 01484 689880.

PRICE: £425,000