It’s the season for celebrations, a brilliant excuse to gather family and friends in a stunning staycation spot. Share the love – and the chores – on a festive or new year break in some of Yorkshire’s big houses in lovely settings, available to rent.
Bilberry Farm, Norwood, Otley
This is the kind of house that brings the outdoors in as guests can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding woodland and moorland from the property’s beautifully manicured gardens. This magnificent country house nestled in the Nidderdale valley near Harrogate is a wonderful spot for celebrating in style with family and friends. Sleeping 10 across five beautiful bedrooms, the house has been done to a hotel-style standard where no detail has been spared. There’s no need to think of ways to entertain the family with a fabulous bar, games room, hot tub and tennis court you’ll be spoilt for choice!
House highlight: movie night won’t be the same again with a dedicated cinema room
Londesborough Hall, Pocklington, East Riding
There’s nothing like renting a hall to live out your Bridgerton fantasies and this one just 18 miles from York ticks all the boxes. Sleeping 20 guests, the nine-bedroom hideaway is the perfect place to gather with your nearest and dearest for that special celebration. Situated in award-winning gardens, 5.5 miles from Pocklington, the dog-friendly former hunting lodge provides a historical backdrop in a unique setting. Vast reception rooms, beautifully big bedrooms and grounds large enough if you need to escape a family member or two.
House highlight: the pretty summerhouse with sumptuous sofas to snuggle up in.
Healey House, Holmfirth
Lying in a secluded valley within 30 acres of woodland and meadows, no one is going to gatecrash your party here! This beautifully restored Georgian house is the perfect setting to gather family and friends for a grand old celebration. Expect chic country décor complemented by intricate original details such as a sweeping staircase, ornate fireplaces and beautiful bay windows. With eight bedrooms, a games room, summerhouse, and six bathrooms, it’s the kind of place that pleases the whole family.
House highlight: afternoon tea out on the patio feasting table overlooking the woodland.
Moss Foot, Sedbergh, Yorkshire Dales
If you’re the one responsible for booking the accommodation on the family getaway – this is the one that’s going to impress! And where do we even start? From the expansive views over the Yorkshire Dales, to the luxurious furnishings, games room, cinema room, and even a sauna! A spectacular space to entertain; this mighty cottage offers an endless array of high-spec features and modern touches to appeal to a total of 20 guests across six impressive bedrooms.
House highlight: it’s hard to choose, but we love the twin hot tubs overlooking the rolling hills of The Dales.
Elgar House, Settle, Yorkshire Dales
Full of fun and flair, this is a magnificent holiday home with sumptuous interiors which blends luxury design with homely touches. Set on the fringes of the Yorkshire Dales in Giggleswick, you’re in a perfect spot to get out and about to explore. Little ones can discover the entertaining delights of the 'Naughty Corner' play space while grown-ups can enjoy a drink or two in the wonderfully sociable kitchen/diner. While away sunny afternoons playing on the stretch of grassy lawn, stroll through the wildflower garden, or get competitive in the “Old Barn Games Room” before slipping into the bubbling hot tub beneath the night sky.
House highlight: We love the freestanding copper bathtub in the Lynx bedroom.
Farmstead Barn at Bland Close Farm, Ripon, North Yorkshire
This stylish eco-friendly barn, positioned in the gorgeous North Yorkshire countryside on a working farm is the perfect pet friendly retreat. Of course, humans are welcome too, but when there’s a secure dog paddock where you can let your four-legged friend run free, you know you’ll be bringing the pack to stay. Recently renovated, the house is all about embracing rural life as you find yourself surrounded by sheep, cattle, and even alpacas. The farm is situated on the old Studley Estate with numerous enchanting walks including Fountains Abbey just next door. There’s seven ensuite bedrooms, a games room, and even a den for the kids.
House highlight: the giant chessboard and fire pit outside.
The Turrets, Bridlington, East Riding
Make the delightful seaside town of Bridlington your home for a few days with a stay at this luxurious holiday home with room for up to 14 guests across seven bedrooms. This large house has a calming feel to it and is perfectly placed in the centre of Bridlington to enjoy a range of activities the whole family can take part in. With locally sourced seafood restaurants just a mere 300 metres away it saves any arguments over who’s doing the cooking, leaving you to just cosy up in front of the log burner once home.
House highlight: the eight-seater hot tub in the garden is a great spot for alfresco drinks.
All properties can be viewed and booked at yorkshireholidaycottages.co.uk
