There’s something special about spending quality time with family and close friends, so why not make a trip of it to somewhere equally special?
There were six of us on the trip we were planning, all adult couples and we wanted to be somewhere in the Yorkshire Dales where we could indulge our love of walking, eating and discovering local tourist attractions. Finding Beckside at Ribba Hall Farm through Yorkshire Hideaways was a dream come true, we knew instantly this was the perfect retreat for us and couldn’t wait to get there.
Beckside at Ribba Hall Farm is a beautifully presented, Grade II listed three-bedroom cottage on a working farm. Bursting with character and boasting spectacular views across the valley, it is only a short drive from the picture postcard village of West Burton, making it the ideal location for family or friends wanting to experience the country life that the North Yorkshire Dales National Park is famous for.
On arrival, we were suitably impressed by our accommodation, the setting and the very warm welcome from the owners who live on the farm. They are on hand if you need them, otherwise you are left to enjoy your stay.
As we were to discover, Beckside cottage is huge, there’s definitely plenty of space for six people to live in without getting under each other’s feet. There was ample parking for our three large cars too which is always a bonus.
This is a place where you instantly feel relaxed and at home. There’s a stunning country kitchen, with a sociable farmhouse dining table (perfect for our family breakfasts), and cosy underfloor heating, not needed during our stay as we were blessed with some great weather which allowed us to make full use of the amazing outdoor space – more on that later!
The property has been lovingly restored and beautifully styled by the owner. The spacious sitting room with its impressive Yorkshire stone fireplace and wood burning stove is the perfect place to relax after a day out exploring the dales. It did get a bit chilly in the evenings and that wood burning stove was really appreciated.
On the ground floor there is a bedroom with a king-size bed and en-suite shower room, upstairs you will find the principle bedroom nestled in the eaves with a sumptuous king-size bed and en-suite bathroom; and a further spacious twin bedroom which also has its own en-suite shower room.
A cosy snug is located on the first floor with comfy seating, a Smart television and a small table and chairs. This was quickly claimed as ‘my office’ during our stay, although there is no mobile signal in the area, the WiFi was spot on and allowed me to keep on top of any urgent business while we were away.
Now to the outside
You can’t help but be impressed by the size of the garden, perfect for the swing ball, boules and other outdoor activities we brought. Then there’s the views that simply have you staring in admiration and breathing in that pure country air.
We spent hours admiring those views from the large raised covered terrace. On that terrace there’s a Weber gas barbecue and outdoor furniture, perfect for alfresco dining – which we did on two nights of the three we stayed. Afterwards, sitting back and relaxing with a glass of wine surrounded by nature; watching the sun set across the dale.
Beckside at a glance
- Sleeps six guests.
- Three bedrooms, all en-suite (one of which is on the ground floor).
- WiFi.
- Children aged four years and over are welcome.
- Sorry, no pets.
- Sorry, no group parties (including Hen or Stag).
- Covered outside raised terrace with a seating area including rattan table and chairs and steps leading down to the garden.
- Weber gas barbecue.
- Farmland views and a beck where you may get a glimpse of the otters or even a kingfisher.
- Please be mindful of the countryside code when walking around the surrounding fields, they will have sheep in them.
- Off-street parking for three cars.
- Electric Vehicle Charging Point.
Where we went
The Forbidden Corner is a unique labyrinth of tunnels, chambers, follies and surprises created within a four acre garden in the heart of Tupgill Park and the Yorkshire Dales. A tourist visitor attraction unlike anywhere that you have been before, ideal for the adventurers and those young at heart!
We spent a really enjoyable three hours here, finding our way out of the maze, discovering the temple of the underworld, the eye of the needle, a huge pyramid made of translucent glass, paths and passages that lead nowhere, extraordinary statues and at every turn there are decisions to make and tricks to avoid.
This is a day out with a difference which will challenge and delight adults and children of all ages. We certainly loved it.
We had a lovely afternoon at Aysgarth Falls, perfectly situated to on the River Ure, the National Park Visitor Centre Information Advisers can point you in the direction of other lovely walks in the area taking in the surrounding woods or heading up to the picturesque villages of Carperby or Aysgarth.
The centre is a great starting point for anyone wanting to make the most of this beautiful area. There are interesting displays about, guidebooks and leaflets and of course, friendly staff to help you enjoy the National Park.
There’s also Instagram opportunities at every turn! Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves and Lord of the Rings were both filmed at Aysgarth Falls and it’s easy to see why.
This magical little market town is one of England’s highest. Hawes was first recorded as a market place in 1307 and the lively Tuesday market still entices shoppers in. Unfortunately we missed this.
Home to the world famous Yorkshire Wensleydale Cheese and set amidst breath-taking scenery it’s no surprise Hawes is one of the honeypot tourist attractions of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. It is a very pretty village with quaint shops, many antique specialists and artisan food sellers. We wandered around just soaking it all in and making a purchase or two.
Middleham is an absolute hidden gem. If you love castle ruins, history, horses or horse racing, this is a place you HAVE to visit!
Nestled between two rivers, the magnificent castle of Middleham has the largest castle keep in the North of England and a royal heritage that once earned it the title of the ‘Windsor of the North’. Explore the town’s charming cobbled market squares, Georgian and Victorian tearooms and galleries, and rich horse racing heritage.
The day we were there it was a particularly hot day and we sat with a chilled beer (coffee for the drivers!), in the market square watching the lines of stunning race horses clip clopping their way to and from the gallops.
The busy racing centre of Middleham has been home to racehorses in training for more than 200 years. The town’s racing industry continues to thrive with 400 plus winners having been trained there each year for the past 38 years. There are currently 15 training yards located in and around the town. It’s a horse lovers dream.
Final thoughts
You really will feel you have reached your dream destination at Beckside at Ribba Hall Farm, the location is perfect for exploring the local area, to unwind and fully relax and spend quality time with your chosen few. This is a place great memories are made.
And with these views, you will never want to leave. We certainly didn’t!
For more information click HERE.
Some images courtesy of unsplash.com and pexels.com. Most images courtesy of Beckside at Ribba Hall Farm. Some images our own. The Forbidden Corner supplied own images.
