NEW SKIPTON HOLIDAY LET SHOWCASES LOCAL HISTORY, ART AND STYLE.

Skipton’s medieval High Corn Mill has opened a luxury holiday let that showcases the ancient building’s history – and pays tribute to local art and style.

The Beck is a four-bed, three-bathroom, first floor holiday flat which sleeps up to 10 and follows a custom conversion of former office space within the ancient mill.

Owner Andrew Mear was determined to showcase local history, art and style within the recently completed apartment which features the work of window artist Jenny Trebillon in the spacious entrance area alongside part of the inner workings of the iconic mill wheel.

A large welcoming panel with an early sketch of the entrance arch to neighbouring Skipton castle details some of the history of the building, the roots of which stretch back to the 12^th Century. The lounge area features a large-scale graphic of a small waterfall from the mill dam, visible from the towpath bay the castle.

There is also a collage of images documenting the visit to High Corn Mill in 1988 of King Charles III. Gold footprints on the floor allow guests to stand exactly where the man who would be King once stood.

Said Andrew: “This is all part of the proud history of the mill and we sincerely hope King Charles may return to see what has changed in 35 years.”

The work of local Embsay artist Victoria Alderson can also be found in the apartment which offers 21^st Century facilities and technology – including three smart TVs and an electric car charging point – and has been furnished throughout by neighbouring mill business The Home Company.

 Said Andrew: “As the world changes, so the nature of the mill continues to evolve. It originally started out as a place to grind locally grown corn and since then has operated as a museum and, in more recent years, as a mix of office and independent retail business. We are now working towards opening a High Corn Mill Visitor Centre in Spring 2024

 “As more and more people take UK breaks, the demand for holiday accommodation has never been greater and the mill is perfectly positioned to offer short holidays in an amazing setting and location. We set out to create a contemporary vibe in an historic building and reflect the best of local artists and stylish living.”

 Conveniently positioned on the edge of Skipton Castle Woods but just around the corner from the town’s bustling High Street, the unique features of The Beck are evident from the moment of entry. A large reception area featuring a full wall mural by local artist Jenny Trebillon, shows a scene from Skipton’s canal basin area. Immediately in front of it, and encased in glass, is one of the ancient cog wheels that kept the water wheel turning.

A ’Welcome to The Beck’ panel also provides guests with a brief history of the building – ending with that millennial must-have, the WiFi code.

 A large, open plan living space with well-equipped kitchen, dining and sitting areas reflects contemporary living styles, the apartment having been furnished and accessorised throughout by another of Andrew Mear’s long-established businesses, The Home Company. Along with four bedrooms (one en-suite) and two further bathrooms, there is also a separate ‘quiet seat’ area by a window that looks up to the neighbouring castle ramparts.

 Bookings for The Beck are being managed by Sykes Cottages.