Experience The Colour Makers House - Home of Magical Colour
About the Colour Makers House
The Colour Makers House, rebuilt initially in 1677 as a hostelry called the Black Boy, holds a significant place in history. Situated on the foundations of a medieval hall house, it is just a few steps away from the centre of what was once the county town (until 1974). The house is located on High Wiend, a side street that was part of the medieval town's defences, adding to its historical importance.
Appleby, with its reputation as one of the most picturesque towns in Northern England, is a sight to behold. The castle and the numerous fine historic stone houses that line the road create a unique charm, complemented by a town filled with independent shops and a riverside church.
Nestled in the sparsely populated Eden Valley, Appleby is a border town that lies beneath the highest fells of the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (ANOB). It is surrounded by the dramatic countryside of the Lake District to the west and the Yorkshire Dales to the south, offering a breathtaking backdrop that is sure to inspire.
At The Colour Makers, we passionately create and demonstrate the art of turning molehills, rocks, and metals into vibrant pigments, all within a charming, alchemist-inspired workshop. Meanwhile, The Restoration House captivates with its original features, from cosy open fireplaces and a vintage Victorian range to charming low beams. Don’t miss the majestic historic staircase that holds a fascinating secret, leading you to our artist's studio, where exquisite architectural portraits come to life!
Plan Your Visit Today
The house is open from 9 AM to 4 PM every day except Sunday.
We give Paint and pigment-making demonstrations at 11 AM to 1 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.
Discover The Colour MAKERS' House - Features
Renovations
Grand Staircase
Grand Staircase
The Colour Makers House is a small 'Restoration' Town House with three floors that has been used for over 250 years as a hostelry called the Black Boy (nickname for Charles II) and the more recently as a Steak House and Indian Restaurant. When we took over the listed grade 2 building it had been empty for twenty years. This project is expected to take around three years.
Grand Staircase
Grand Staircase
Grand Staircase
The stairs were dark and dingy, the beauty of the wooden treads hidden by a moth-eaten carpet. The stairwell walls were painted in dark blue, there was no lighting, and the wood handrail was covered in layers of paint, which hid the finely carved woodwork.
Today, visitors comment on the beautiful shallow stairs that are so easy to climb for elderly people
Fireplaces
Grand Staircase
Fireplaces
There are three working fireplaces within the house, although they all have challenges that we will be working on during the renovations.
The most challenging at the moment is the old Victorian range, which is likely to be a major renovation project in its own right.