A former youth hostel in Stainforth has reopened – as a family home and events venue.

Taitlands, a Grade II listed property, built in the 1830s and 40s, has undergone a four-year programme of restoration following 60 years’ occupation by the Youth Hostel Association.

Emma Milligan, owner of Taitlands and the vision behind the restoration project, said: “I fell in love with Taitlands and its location as soon as I saw the property advertised for sale.

“Then began a long struggle to gain planning permission to return Taitlands from a run-down youth hostel to a residential property – the battle was won and it was worth the fight. Not only have we been able to bring Taitlands back into use as a family home but also to open the doors for weddings, events and parties.

“Only local contractors and craftsmen were used during the project and the high quality results are all too evident.”

In the grounds, the walled garden has been reinstated, the semi-circular driveway has been reopened and the ha-ha has been cleared.

The final part of the project – the restoration of the Coach House – will be completed within the next few weeks. It will be used for weddings and other corporate and private events.