Work is underway to restore a historic house in the Yorkshire Dales that once served as a mountain retreat for a Victorian-era philanthropist.
Tarn House, located near Malham, is being renovated ahead of a new chapter as a base for youth outdoor activities.
The property, previously owned by Walter Morrison who was both a philanthropist and Member of Parliament, will be transferred to South Craven Scouts upon completion of the restoration project.
The scout district, which covers areas from Settle to Glusburn, encompassing Upper Wharfedale and Skipton, has secured a two-decade agreement with the National Trust for occupancy of both the main house and adjacent High Stables.
The combined facilities will function as a centre providing overnight accommodation for scouts and additional young people, offering opportunities to engage with natural environments and outdoor pursuits.
Tarn House holds Grade II listing and sits along the Pennine Way national trail.
Scaffolding currently surrounds the structure, with display boards sharing its backstory, tracing its roots to the 1780s when it began existence as a shooting lodge.
Following extensive use as a field studies centre for several decades, the property returned to direct National Trust management in 2023.
Following confirmation of the fresh tenancy arrangement in July, the conservation charity seized the chance to undertake necessary preservation work.
According to Craig Gillon, who manages facilities for the Malham Tarn Estate, the programme of work will address health and safety requirements while reviving ornamental details.
Collaborating with architects, the approach aims to protect original architectural elements while ensuring ongoing maintenance remains practical.
The schedule encompasses installation of new fire detection systems and associated safety improvements, alongside repairs to both exterior and interior fittings to meet the organisation’s exacting standards.
One particularly notable element involves refurbishment of the iron and glass canopies positioned at the front of the building, commanding views across to the tarn.
These well-regarded features will be brought back to their original condition, Mr Gillon stated.
Anticipation surrounds preparing the premises so that fresh experiences can be created and subsequent generations can develop connections with this distinctive landscape.
During Walter Morrison’s era in the nineteenth century, the estate hosted notable visitors including Charles Darwin and writer Charles Kingsley, who reportedly drew inspiration during his stay to pen The Water Babies.
In 1946, the property was donated to the National Trust by Mr Morrison’s niece after it did not find a buyer at auction.
The Field Studies Council operated it as an educational centre for more than seventy years until 2022.
Scouts anticipate first use of the High Stables during the Easter period the following year.
Andy Stronach, Lead Volunteer for South Craven District, described it as a significant development for local scouting, expressing gratitude to the National Trust for selecting them as tenants.
The facility will enable provision of a scout site within the Yorkshire Dales accessible to all, while playing a vital part in broadening access to nature-focused activities, aiding the growth and development of young people throughout the surrounding area and making full use of the natural surroundings at Malham Tarn.