A ROUND of applause for Goddards in Dringhouses and the National Trust team responsible for its opening to the public. Now a cliché warning – another jewel in York’s crown. All clear!

Earlier this year a visit proved to be underwhelming, but Goddards has more than compensated for this disappointment.

Once the home of the Terry family, Goddards opened to the public last month. It’s really good. Although the fabulous Noel Terry collection of furniture, clocks and other treasures now resides in Fairfax House in Castlegate, by ingenious displays, images, artifice and deft touches, the Terry family, their company, employees and Terry’s role in York’s industrial heritage have been captured and depicted.

Cleverly contrived features include the photo bedspread serving as a family album. Intrigued? Go and see for yourself. A highlight in the Terry’s story was the 1937 visit by the new King and Queen, for which fascinating film footage is provided via the Yorkshire Film Archive.

Then there’s the splendid house itself, a slightly secluded Arts and Crafts-influence gem by “the Lutyens of the north”, Walter Brierley. The experience indoors is complemented by the attractive gardens.

Goddards stands shoulder-to-shoulder with Holgate Windmill in providing two more excellent reasons for exploring York.

Derek Reed, Middlethorpe Drive, York.