An oAsis of cAlm

Beyond Helmsley Castle’s western wall is the 300-acre Duncombe Park. Its gateway lies at the southern edge of the town centre. Looking back down the drive, the castle’s current nature as romantic ruin becomes obvious. Then around the corner at the top, the grand manor house reveals itself. The original house was completed in 1713. It was the work of an amateur architect, William Wakefield, with advice from John Vanbrugh, who was working on nearby Castle Howard. From 1914 to 1980, it housed a girls’ school. Peter Duncombe, the sixth Lord Feversham, and father of current owner Jake, moved the family back into the house in 1985. “The key thing about the estate is the way it relates to the town,” says Jake Duncombe. “They are connected by one driveway which starts right in the town centre, with the castle sitting in between. So there is continuity. Also, the park and the town complement each other. In the summer, Duncombe Park tends to be an oasis of tranquillity while Helmsley is busy and bustling. It’s an instant escape when you need it.”

Restoration and woodlands

The house itself is not open to the public, but the estate gardens are open six days a week through summer. Formal 18th century footpaths lead through woodlands to three classically-styled architectural features. These are an Ionic temple dating from 1722, a Doric temple from 1745, and the Nelson Gate of 1807. All three have been restored to their original glory in the past five years. Last year, the park became home to the National Centre for Birds of Prey. The grounds also play host to the Duncombe Park Steam Rally on the first weekend in July. Although it is one of Britain’s largest steam events, Jake says it has stayed very true to its roots. “It remains a club event, so it always has a great sense of community,” he explains. “It’s about people and their passion. The smell of steam in the air over that weekend is absolutely wonderful.” Jake is proud of the estate’s recent development, but says he feels he is just passing through a much bigger story. “I don’t really own Duncombe Park,” he says fondly. “I’m just the curator.”