Harmony House

Harmony House is a beautifully preserved 17th-Century retreat in handmade rustic red brick. It’s nestled in the tranquil village of Stillingfleet and is steeped in history. It is one of the oldest properties in our beautiful village.

Originally recorded in the Domesday Book, Harmony House began as three cottages (see map in the gallery below). The top layer being added in the 1800s by landowner Colonel Preston. Col. Preston of Moreby Hall in Naburn, built Moreby Chapel on the side of St Helen’s church and is lain entombed in there.

Over the years past, Harmony House has served many roles, including a staging Inn, village Post Office, Sunday School, the village Reading Room and headmaster’s residence. It’s even said that the organist from York Minster once visited regularly, inspiring the name Harmony House! It certainly still has a special peaceful feel to it, hundreds of years later. It was turned into a B&B in 2007.

With stabling provided for horses, while the landed gentry attended church, this house holds a unique place in the village’s rich history. In our attached 17th Century Coach House, Willow Cottage, where the coachemen awaited the return of their churchgoing employers. You can see the sloping mirror on the wall/ceiling, in which the coachmen ensured they were presentable to collect their employers from church. There’s still the remnants of the stalls and hayloft in our barn.

Our dining room still has the original inglenook fireplace behind our cosy stove.  In the colder months guests may have the opportunuity to breakfast in here.

All in all, Harmony House is a home like no other. Quirky, charming and altogether delightful!  We love her!