The York House - Two Bedroom Cottage, Sleeps 8

Nestled along the meandering York River near the North end of Bancroft, The York House feels like stepping into a storybook. With a history of thoughtful renovation and a feature in House & Home, this cottage is a masterpiece of design and comfort, and the kitchen and dining room were featured in a web series for House and Home magazine.

From the moment you arrive, the seamless blend of style and functionality is evident, creating an inviting space that flows effortlessly from one room to the next. The homeowner is a Toronto based interior designer, and was the lead designer on 5 of the Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation grand prizes, and every detail of the cottage speaks of warmth and charm.

The journey begins as you approach from Highway 62. As you arrive, you’ll be greeted by a spacious driveway and a lush, park-like setting. Stepping inside, you’ll find the heart of the home: a kitchen that is both a chef’s dream and a work of art. The striking stone backsplash, hanstone countertops, and a large central island anchor the space, complemented by brand-new appliances that make cooking a pleasure. Just beyond, the dining room awaits with panoramic views of the York River, a perfect spot for family meals, lively conversations, or a friendly game of cards long into the evening.

From the dining room, you can step into the back sunroom, an airy retreat overlooking the yard and river. This serene space, available for additional guests in the summer months, is a haven for relaxation, with sunlight pouring in through wide windows. The living room, just off the dining area, offers a cozy sanctuary with plush couches, artistic touches, and statement chairs that invite you to unwind.

Upstairs, two beautifully appointed bedrooms await. The principal bedroom, with its queen bed and tranquil river views, is a restful retreat, while the twin room is ideal for little ones or companions. A well-lit workspace in the primary room and a modern four-piece bathroom complete the upper floor. Outside, a riverside bunkie echoes the thoughtful design of the main cottage and offers a private escape for one or two guests during summer.

The magic continues outdoors, where the expansive yard stretches down to the river’s edge. It’s a place where nature comes alive—deer grazing in the distance, foxes darting through the trees, and perhaps even a moose wandering by if fortune smiles on you. The York House is more than a cottage; it’s a place where every moment feels like a chapter in a cherished story, waiting to be written.

Inside the Cottage

• Sleeps 8 (max 6 adults) from Victoria Day to Thanksgiving; sleeps 4 during the winter months
• 2 bedrooms (1 with 2 twin, 1 with queen - available year-round), double futon in each sunroom, double futon in bunkie (from Victoria Day to Thanksgiving only)
• 2 bathrooms (1 4 piece with tub and shower, 1 3 piece with shower only)
• 1 55” smart TV with Netflix, Crave, Prime, Apple TV, Disney +Netflix access, for streaming only using your own accounts (there is no channel reception or DVD player), smart speaker
• Dedicated office space
• Exercise bike and full set of free weights
• Central A/C on the main floor, window unit and fans cool the upper floor
• Unlimited WiFi
• Fully equipped kitchen with dishwasher, washer (no dryer), extra fridge and freezer

Outside the Cottage

• BBQ
• Fire pit (firewood is not provided)
• 2 kayaks, 1 canoe, assorted life jackets

Things you need to know:

• Pets are welcome
• Bed linens and indoor towels are provided – please bring your own outdoor towels
• Rentals include a cleaning service; however, the departure checklist must be completed
• The waterfront has full sun from 11am until about 3pm in the summer
• Garbage and recycling disposal is required on Thursday afternoon . A limited amount of garbage and recycling will be disposed of following departure
• Electric vehicles: Not suitable
• The cottage has a smart TV that will allow you to sign into any of the streaming services you personally subscribe to. Please note, these services will require your personal login information and are not provided

Waterfront

The cottage has approximately 50’ of waterfront along the York River. Access to the river is easier from the public access property next door. The river water is clear, and there are some weeds, and water levels fluctuate, but it’s generally good for swimming. Floaties can be launched from the cottage waterfront and taken to the opposite side where the water is sandy and shallow.

The river is great for fishing, turtle watching, and tubing. You can tube from the property next door right into Bancroft if you arrange for someone to pick you up there. There is a great outfitter in Bancroft that rents tubes and takes you to the water, drops you off at the fire station and then you tube or canoe or kayak into town to their dock.

Close-By Attractions

Bancroft Village Playhouse: This lovely theatre in downtown Bancroft produces many musical shows and plays throughout the year. It’s a very good set up, with no bad seats to be found! Aside from hosting the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) circuit held each fall on the second Tuesday of each month, there are family friendly shows such as Pinocchio, musical entertainment, and shows such as Joseph’s Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. (15 mins)

Eagle’s Nest: Climb atop the Eagle’s Nest Bancroft for a breathtaking view of the York River Valley, and surrounding trails. Located above downtown Bancroft, off Hastings Street North, it’s not something you’ll want to miss. (note there is no access during the winter months) (10 mins)

Winter Activities: Snowmobile trails are nearby, and cross-country ski and snowshoe trails are available. Ice fishing is available on Baptiste Lake nearby.

Bancroft Mineral Museum & Skate Park: Located within a riverside park in Bancroft. Discover the history of the mining in the area, learn about mineral collecting, and explore over 400 local specimens, all on display in the 1200 square-foot showroom. The park also offers a playground and skatepark, and there’s a nice trail along the river, leading to Millennium Park and beyond. (15 mins)

At a Glance

• 2 bedrooms (1 with 2 twin, 1 with queen - available year-round), double futon in each sunroom, double futon in bunkie (from Victoria Day to Thanksgiving only)
• Pets are welcome
• Linens and towels are provided, but please bring your own outdoor towels
• Central A/C on the main floor, window A/C unit and fans cool the upper floor
• Unlimited WiFi
• Fully equipped kitchen with dishwasher, washer (no dryer), extra fridge and freezer
• 1 55” smart TV with Netflix, Crave, Prime, Apple TV, Disney +Netflix access, for streaming only using your own accounts (there is no channel reception or DVD player), smart speaker
• BBQ, fire pit (firewood is not provided)
• 2 kayaks, 1 canoe, assorted life jackets
• Dedicated office space
• Exercise bike and full set of free weights

House rules (must meet these to book):
Sleeps 8 (max 6 adults) from Victoria Day to Thanksgiving; sleeps 4 during the winter months
Lead guest must be 30+ years of age.
Bed linens and indoor towels are provided – please bring your own outdoor towels
The cottage has a smart TV that will allow you to sign into any of the streaming services you personally subscribe to. Please note, these services will require your personal login information and are not provided
No smoking and parties are allowed.
Electric vehicles: Not suitable
Departure checklist must be completed
Garbage and recycling disposal is required on Thursday afternoon. A limited amount of garbage and recycling will be disposed of following departure
A supplemental information form must be completed