Earlier Houses: The current house is on the site of the Medieval Augustinian Priory of St. Cuthbert.

House & Family History: In the mid-19th century Embsay Kirk was the seat of the Skipton mill owner John Sidgwick, who, at his previous home, Stone Gappe Hall, had employed Charlotte Brontë to be the governess for two of his children. In her most famous novel, 1847's "Jane Eyre" (considered one of the greatest novels in the English language), Charlotte very likely used John Sidgwick as the model for Mr. Rochester. In 2024 the house, together with eight acres, was listed for sale for £1.95 million.

House Listed: Grade II

Park Listed: Not Listed

Past Seat / Home of: John Benson Sidgwick, 19th century. John Edwards, 1976-2024.

Current Ownership Type: Individual / Family Trust

Primary Current Ownership Use: Private Home

House Open to Public: No

Historic Houses Member: No