The Property
Set within an elevated position on the edge of Melsonby, Saxum Bark is a substantial Georgian-style stone house, defined by its symmetry, proportion and far-reaching views across open countryside. The setting is a key part of its appeal, with a distinctly private, south-facing aspect and uninterrupted views that extend across surrounding fields towards St James’ Church, across the Cleveland Hills and, on clear days, as far as the Middlesbrough Transporter Bridge. Extending to over 5,400 sq ft, the accommodation is arranged across three floors, complemented by a triple garage and a separate outbuilding providing additional flexible space.

The approach is both private and composed, with a gravel driveway opening into a broad forecourt framed by stone walling and established planting. The façade presents with classical balance, tall sash-style windows and a central entrance reinforcing the Georgian influence referenced in its design.

Inside, a generous reception hall forms the centre of the house, where a full-height staircase with detailed timber balustrading rises to a galleried landing above, creating a strong sense of arrival and connection between floors. The scale of the space is immediately apparent, with soft natural light filtering down from the upper level and across the hall.

Glazed double doors lead through to the principal reception rooms, allowing the spaces to feel connected while retaining definition, and offering glimpses through the house that reinforce its symmetry and proportion. The hall itself is well sized to accommodate seating or display, giving it a presence beyond that of a simple circulation space, with the layout unfolding naturally from this central point into a series of well-proportioned reception rooms.

The living room is arranged as a principal space, with a dual aspect that brings in natural light and frames the surrounding landscape. A stone fireplace with an LPG stove forms a natural focal point, set against a more defined feature wall, while the proportions of the room allow for generous seating and a flexible layout. Soft, neutral finishes and well-balanced lighting create a comfortable and composed atmosphere, equally suited to everyday use and more relaxed entertaining.

A separate dining room provides a more formal setting, positioned for easy connection to both the kitchen and main hall. Well proportioned and centred around a large dining table, the room is framed by a pair of glazed doors opening onto the garden, allowing natural light to fall through the space and creating a strong link to the terrace. Decorative wall finishes, soft drapery and considered lighting introduce a more refined atmosphere, well suited to both formal dining and larger gatherings.

The library offers a quieter, more contained environment, with a more intimate feel. A fireplace with an electric stove forms a focal point, while a wide window draws in natural light and provides a pleasant outlook. Fitted storage and flexible floor space allow the room to function equally well as a study, reading room or additional sitting area, depending on requirements.

The kitchen and breakfast room is arranged as a generous and highly practical working space, fitted with sleek cabinetry and deep Corian work surfaces that provide both durability and a clean, contemporary finish. Integrated Bosch appliances are set neatly within the run of units, while a central peninsula introduces informal seating and a natural point for everyday use. An Alpha range is set within a recessed opening, contributing to the heating and hot water system while also providing additional cooking capability, and adding a more traditional note to the otherwise modern scheme. The layout is well considered, allowing for clear distinction between preparation, cooking and informal dining, with the adjoining utility room and cloakroom positioned conveniently to one side.

Beyond, the garden room introduces a lighter, more informal living space, where a vaulted ceiling and rooflights draw in natural light throughout the day. Glazed doors wrap around the room, opening directly onto the terrace and framing views across the gardens, creating a strong connection to the outside and a natural extension of the internal living space.

Upstairs, the first floor is arranged around a galleried landing, drawing the spaces together and maintaining a strong visual connection between levels. The principal bedroom suite is well positioned, offering generous proportions, a dressing area with fitted storage and an en suite bathroom. The room is presented in a calm, neutral palette, with soft natural light drawn in through well-placed windows and a pleasant outlook across the surrounding landscape. The en suite is well appointed, combining a free-standing bath and separate shower cubicle with traditional-style fittings, creating a space that feels both practical and considered.

The remaining bedrooms are arranged across both sides of the house, creating a well-balanced and flexible layout. Opposite the principal suite, a well-proportioned bedroom benefits from its own en suite bathroom and dressing area.

On the opposite side, two further bedrooms are positioned independently, one of which is served by an en suite shower room, allowing the floor to function equally well for family living or visiting guests. The bathrooms reflect a consistent standard, combining contemporary fittings with more traditional detailing.

The second floor provides a further layer of flexibility, with a series of attic rooms accessed from the galleried landing. These spaces are already boarded and fitted with services, offering clear potential for additional bedrooms, workspace or leisure use. With the option to introduce rooflights and further adapt the layout, this level presents scope for continued evolution of the accommodation.

In addition to the main house, a separate detached building provides further versatile accommodation. The first floor is arranged as a self-contained annexe, currently used as a gym, but readily adaptable as additional bedroom space if required. Exposed roof trusses add character and volume, while the layout allows for a variety of uses. The space is complemented by leisure facilities including a sauna and a separate shower room, creating a well-considered setting for both relaxation and everyday flexibility.

At ground level, the building incorporates a triple garage, providing secure parking and additional storage, with a broad gravelled forecourt allowing for further parking and ease of access.

Externally
The gardens are arranged to take full advantage of the south-facing aspect, with a series of stone terraces stepping down from the house into lawned areas bordered by planting and mature trees. The principal terrace sits directly to the rear, forming a natural extension of the living spaces and a well-positioned setting for outdoor dining and entertaining. Beyond, a 2.28 acre paddock extends the grounds, offering a more open and versatile expanse of land suited to a range of uses. From here, the land opens out to reveal sweeping, uninterrupted views across open countryside, with the elevated position ensuring both privacy and a strong visual connection to the surrounding landscape.