About

Welcome to the Pink House

A lovingly restored, historic home close to Ripon’s historic centre and a stone’s throw away from Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal. We hope you find your stay with us to be peaceful, full of thoughtful touches and country charm.

Our Story

We bought The Pink House from John and Susie Wimpress who had owned it since 1983 and had run it as a B and B.

We have over the last few years lovingly restored it and tried to enhance its original features and quirks. Peter is a teacher of sciences to children with additional needs and Kirsten is a University lecturer specialising in child metal health. Having had a background in hospitality early on, a love for cooking, a passion for home produce and the bravery to keep bees. Kirsten and Peter, welcome guests to their home where they can enjoy home made produce, fresh honey from their hives, eggs from the hens that roam the garden and meet the horses that live in the fields opposite.

Their approach has a focus on peace, tranquility and nature, you will find luxury toiletries, home made cake and extra touches throughout the house.

Our property history

Bishopton Grove house sits on the site of a medieval farmstead mentioned in archival records in the 1400s. In excavations, the remains of a chantry chapel have been found in the front garden alongside evidence of a civil war skirmish, a ring from the 1200s, Tudor cloak clasps and roman trading weights.

From the late 1700s it was opened as a school for clergyman’s sons:

1818 Reverend Thomas Pickersgill resides as master at the school
1824 Reverend John Green takes the helm as head master
1833 An advert for the school is placed in national papers by Rev George Weidemann, now head master
1836 The house undergoes extensive renovations to convert it into the first Bishops palace, plans are underway to build a Bishops palace closer to the Masham road, however Charles Longley and his family live in the house for a number of years.
1838 The Right Honourable Sir Henry Parnell visits
1838 The Bishop leaves the house for a sojourn with the earl and Countess of Harewood
1839 The Bishop attends a weekend with the Viscount Harcourt at Swinton park
1841 The Bishop and his family move to the new palace and the house is vacant and to be let. A grey pony and phaeton carriage are also offered up for sale
1845 The house is advertised again, with coach house, stables, gardens and land
1862 Captain Oxley resides at the house
1862 Ripon’s first agricultural show is held on the field belonging to the house
1880 The house belongs to the Pollard family
1886 Isabella Pollard dies and the house is again to be sold
1887 House is advertised for sale with billiard room, library, smoking room, carriages and pleasure grounds
1898 Major Powell lives in the house, his son Guy Frederick Powell departs from the house to take part in the 7000K Cape to Cairo expedition funded by the Dailey telegraph. He will be accompanying Lionel Decle.
1901 Guy Frederick Powell is reported to have died of dysentery on the expedition having reached Uganda, his death is published in national newspapers
1909 The wedding reception of Captain De La Pryme and Kathleen margin is held on the lawn, Kathleen wears a dress of ivory silk brought up from Libertys. Major Edward Addison Mangin occupies the house, Kathleen is his daughter.
1918 Reuben Addison Mangin of the West Yorkshire Regiment, son of Major Mangin dies of his wounds in the first world war war
1932 The house is let to Master and the Misses Harrison who advertise for two boys needing outdoor work, offering them gardening and work with their hens.
1947 Beatrice Eliza Hammond of Buttershaw hall occupies the property
1983 The house is purchased by Commander Wimpress and his wife Suzie, they raise their family here until 2022
2022 Kirsten Antoncich Breckon and Peter Breckon fall in love with the house and purchase it to restore

Historic Architecture

Elegant architecture that reflects the character and heritage of the property.

Manicured Gardens

Beautifully maintained gardens offering a peaceful space to relax and enjoy nature.

Locally Breakfast

Fresh and delicious breakfast prepared with locally sourced ingredients.

Prime Countryside Location

A tranquil countryside setting, perfect for relaxation and exploring the surrounding area.

Our Mission

Where Every Guest Matters — The Heart of Our Mission

Our mission is to create a welcoming and comfortable space where every guest feels at home. We are committed to providing exceptional hospitality, thoughtful service, and a relaxing environment for all who visit.

By combining warm hospitality with attention to detail, we aim to ensure that each guest enjoys a stay that is both comfortable and memorable. Our goal is simple: to offer a place where visitors can relax, recharge, and leave with wonderful memories.

Our Atmosphere

Where Comfort Meets Quiet Elegance

At our guest house, the atmosphere is designed to offer peace, comfort, and a sense of timeless charm. From the moment you arrive, you are welcomed by warm hospitality, elegant surroundings, and a tranquil environment that allows you to truly relax and unwind.

Whether enjoying a quiet morning, a leisurely breakfast, or a peaceful evening, every moment here is meant to feel calm, comfortable, and memorable.

Experience the Charm for Yourself

Ready to enjoy a relaxing stay in a place where comfort, charm, and warm hospitality come together?