Westbourne House · Otley

A remarkable house with a story to tell.

At the heart of Freemasonry and community life in Otley for more than sixty years.

The story of Westbourne House

A House With History

Westbourne House has stood in Otley since the nineteenth century. Built around 1840, it was once the home of William Ackroyd, a prominent figure in the town's textile industry.

More than a century later, the house began another chapter in its history when it became the home of Freemasonry in Otley — a role it has continued to fulfil for more than sixty years.

Historic photograph of Westbourne House in Otley
Westbourne House · Built c.1840

From private home to Masonic home

A New Chapter Begins

In the 1960s, Westbourne House entered a new chapter in its long history when it was acquired to provide a permanent home for Freemasonry in Otley.

c.1840

Westbourne House is built

Built as the home of William Ackroyd, a prominent figure in Otley's textile industry.

1965–66

A new Masonic home

Westbourne House is acquired to provide a permanent home for Freemasonry in Otley.

Today

Part of Otley's community

Still home to Freemasonry, the house also welcomes people for meetings, celebrations and events.

Main dining room at Westbourne House in Otley

More than a Masonic hall

A House Full of Life

Westbourne House today is a place where tradition and community come together. Throughout the year it welcomes Freemasons, families, friends and local organisations for celebrations, charitable events, remembrance, weddings, funerals, community groups and social occasions.

◆A welcoming home for Freemasonry in Otley.
◆A venue for weddings, celebrations and community events.
◆Supporting charities and local organisations throughout Wharfedale.
◆Preserving a remarkable historic building for future generations.

Discover Westbourne House

Inside Westbourne House

From its traditional Masonic rooms to its welcoming dining and social spaces, Westbourne House is a building with many different sides to discover.

Masonic Temple at Westbourne House in Otley

Masonic heritage

Where Tradition Comes to Life

The Masonic rooms are at the heart of Westbourne House's original purpose as the home of Freemasonry in Otley. They provide the setting for Lodge and Chapter meetings and the ceremonies that form part of Masonic life.

A distinctive part of Westbourne House

Garden Room at Westbourne House in Otley

A more intimate setting

The Garden Room

A welcoming space for smaller gatherings, meetings and dining, the Garden Room offers a more intimate alternative to the Main Dining Room while retaining the character of Westbourne House.

An intimate space to meet and dine

Beyond the house

The Grounds

The grounds provide space to relax, gather and enjoy the setting of this historic Otley house — extending Westbourne House beyond its rooms and making it a welcoming place for community and social occasions.

Westbourne House · Otley

Come and Discover Westbourne House

Whether you are interested in Freemasonry, looking for a venue, or simply want to know more about this remarkable part of Otley's community, you are welcome to get in touch.

Get in touch Explore venue hire