It looks like a splendid place to book a retreat – a handsome property in a beautiful part of North Yorkshire.
But many of the people who had short breaks here in the past weren’t there voluntarily.
That’s because this property – just named as an holiday accommodation award winner – used to house prisoners.
The Cells, in Ingleton, dates back to the 1600s and was formerly part on an old courthouse.
It has just taken gold in the historic section of the Sykes 2025 Gems Awards.
The holiday rental offers every comfort, including two bedrooms, a wood burning stove and an outdoor rear sundeck with views over the Yorkshire Dales.
But there are reminders of its past, including the authentic prison door and the original cell window in the main bedroom.
The Cells has certainly captured the hearts of holidaymakers, with several five-star reviews.
One said: “You still feel the history of this building – the owners have done a good job with that.”
Another said: “Very comfortable and we enjoyed the original features they have kept. Was our first stay here but won’t be our last.”
You can take a look here.
It wasn’t the only Yorkshire property to be commended for its history. High Hall in Appletreewick won silver.
