The manor of West Matfen was owned in the 13th century by Philip de Ulcote and passed through his sisters to Felton, by marriage to Hastings and later to Lawson.

In 1625 the estate was bought by Lancelot Fenwick of a branch of the old-established local family.

The present house was built to replace the old manor, in 1832 for Sir William Blackett, 6th Baronet.

The impressive Jacobean-style mansion has a three-storey seven-bay entrance front.

The Blacketts now live at Halton Castle, a few miles west of Matfen.