The purchase and restoration of one of the most historic homes in the Dales inspired Sonia Wilkinson to research the story of the building and the community it stands in.

Mrs Wilkinson and her husband Tim have lovingly returned Kilnsey Old Hall to its former glory, retaining many of the original features.

As the work was carried out, Mrs Wilkinson grew increasingly fascinated with the history of the hall, which is hundreds of years old.

After undertaking detailed research into the building and its surroundings, she has produced a book, Kilnsey: A Dales Township, which goes on sale next month.

“The long history of the hall could not be fully told without including an explanation of the archaeologically important landscape in which it stands,” she said.

The book is an account of the landscape, the buildings and the people of the Kilnsey Township from the 12th century onwards.

During the mediaeval period, the Cistercian monks of Fountain’s Abbey were given extensive grazing land in Craven.

Kilnsey Old Hall formed the main administrative centre for the management of wool for the abbey. All flocks were driven to Kilnsey for their annual shearing. Some parts of the present hall date back to this period, such as the gatehouse, most of which was probably built in the 14th century.

The majority of the current hall was built in 1648 by Christopher Wade, a relative of Armagil Wade, an adventurer who was known as the Columbus of the North. Christopher had a son, Cuthbert, who was a captain in the Royalist forces of Charles I during the English Civil War. Lady Anne Clifford stayed as a guest of Cuthbert at the hall in 1663 and 1666.

The book will be on sale from November 14, from Kilnsey Park Farm Shop, The Dales Book Centre, Grassington, and Over and Under, Kettlewell.

Alternatively, it can be purchased by mail order, from Kilnsey Old Hall, Kilnsey, Skipton, BD23 5PS. Send a cheque for £12, made payable to Kilnsey Old Hall, together with your name, address and phone number.

The book will also be available at a pre-launch open day at Kilnsey Old Hall from 10am to 4pm on November 13, when the author will be available to answer any questions.

An informative tour looking at the history of Kilnsey, conducted by the author, is also being organised on a number of dates. Call 01756 753887 to confirm availability, and make a provisional booking. A charge of £2 per person will be made.